From the crazy blue waters of Lake Louise to the rugged and powerful mountain peaks punctuated by glaciers, these 10 hikes are awe-inspiring. These trails are perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Although it is the shortest walk on this list, there are still many impressive views. The Rundle Mountains and Sunburst Mountains are visible from this trail, which winds through three alpine spruce-forests and alpine spruce lakes.
1. Peyto Lookout
Peyto is known for its glacial blue lake, which has a turquoise hue. It also offers sweeping mountain views. There is another, less-known view and trail a few kilometres away.
Observation Peak provides incredible views over Peyto Lake. This moderately difficult hike starts from the same parking lot as the main Peyto Lake lookout. An elevated viewing platform overlooks both of the lakes from a rocky trail. It’s especially magical at sunset and twilight.
2. Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon boasts a lush, green forest as well as enchanting waterfalls. This is why it’s one of Banff’s top hiking trails. Experience this serene hike in the summer and get swept up in nature’s symphony of rustling leaves, the gentle river, and birdsong, or trek through this breathtaking destination during winter for a truly unique adventure.
If you’re looking for an extra-special winter adventure, join a guided tour of Johnston Canyon Icewalk from Lake Louise or Banff and see the waterfalls in all their frozen glory! This tour can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
3. Moraine Lake Lakeshore
Lakeshore Trail is an easy (and beautiful) trail that runs alongside Moraine Lake. While the crowds will always be present here, this hike gives you new perspectives of this iconic mountain view without having to go very far.
The hike is suitable for those families with young children that don’t enjoy strenuous hiking. This trail is steep at certain points.
More ambitious hikers can continue on to the Rockpile and the Consolation Lakes for even more beautiful scenery. Rockpile provides a nice backdrop for pictures of the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
4. Tunnel Mountain
Tunnel Mountain, a very short but rewarding hike in the Rocky Mountains offers stunning views with little effort. It’s also a good introduction to alpine ridge hiking in Banff National Park.
Named after surveyors who worked on the Canadian Pacific Railway, in 1882, planned to blast through the small peak a tunnel of 275m. This was deemed a “most extraordinary blunder” and the name stuck.
You can save a kilometer and gain some altitude by starting the trail at the upper parking area. Here you can walk on a ridge and see the Banff Springs Hotel as well as Bow Valley and Mount Rundle.
5. Parker Ridge Trail
Parker Ridge Trail has become one of the more popular hikes on the Icefields Parkway. You can enjoy the incredible views of mountains and glaciers on this trail without the need to hike steeper terrain.
This hike starts in a forest and gradually switchbacks upward. As you ascend the hill, through Engelmann spruce into the alpine area, the views will open up.
On the top, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Saskatchewan Glacier. It is surrounded by dramatic snow-drenched peaks. Mount Athabasca and Hilda Peak can also be seen from the ridgetop.
6. Iceline Trail
Beginners and families will enjoy this easy, scenic hike. It skirts turquoise glacial-flour colored alpine waters and provides a wide variety of stunning views. Another rocky spur leads up to Iceline’s summit, with more beautiful views.
A 20-kilometer trail, which can be cut to just 14-kilometres long, is the perfect way to experience breathtaking waterfalls and expansive glacier-covered fields. You’ll also get to enjoy teal-colored alpine lakes. It’s like being in the pages of National Geographic.
7. Berg Lake Trail
The trail becomes flat for 3 km to Berg Lake after the 5km uphill challenge. This is a gorgeous walk along the beautiful blue lake.
Glacial sediments have given the water a lovely light blue color. From here, you can view the huge Emperor Falls.
Berg Lake Campground has a beautiful view of Mount Robson. This is a great place to see the Berg Glacier. A grueling trek to get here is definitely worth it.
8. Crypt Lake Trail
The trail climbs steeply to the top of the valley, where it offers a spectacular view of Crypt Falls. This trail is crowded as many hikers are moving up and back down.
A narrow, rocky ledge is reached via a ladder. This part of hike is nerve-wracking for anyone with a heights fear. It’s actually not that scary if you just focus on moving one foot forward.
9. Valley of the Five Lakes
The hike, which is suitable for beginners, features crystal-blue lakes set like gems in the crisp green of the spruces. In the summer, when it is sunny and warm, these crystal blue lakes sparkle.
Make sure you pack a backpack for comfort, some snacks, and extra clothing layers in case of cold weather. Bring insect repellents, binoculars, and insect repellent. There are some short, steep sections that have loose dirt and rocks.
10. Glacier Lake
Enjoy the tranquility of this lake and its beautiful views. Although the trail is easy to follow, it can become steeper at certain points. The hike can take you to lakes or creeks nearby.
The trail gets rave reviews and is less trafficked than other Glacier National Park trails. This trail is in the Many Glacier area, one of most stunning sections of Glacier National Park. You can also spot wildlife there! It’s important to spend time in nature. You must try this activity.
