Alberta is a western Canadian province renowned for its stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes, vast prairies, and vibrant cities. Home to Banff and Jasper national parks, it offers world-class outdoor adventures alongside dynamic urban centers in Calgary and Edmonton.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Johnston Canyon Lower and Upper Falls
Banff's most popular trail follows suspended catwalks through a dramatic limestone canyon to stunning Lower Falls (1.1km) and Upper Falls (2.6km). Ink Pots extension adds 3km more to vivid cold springs in a mountain meadow.
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2
Plain of Six Glaciers
Starting from Lake Louise, this stunning trail passes the iconic Chateau Lake Louise and follows the shoreline before ascending to the Plain of Six Glaciers teahouse (open late June to mid-September). Incredible views of the Victoria Glacier throughout.
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3
Sulphur Mountain
A well-maintained switchback trail rising 655m to the summit of Sulphur Mountain at 2,281m. The summit has a boardwalk connecting to the Banff Gondola station, and incredible 360-degree views of the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks. Descend by gondola ($49) or hike back.
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4
Parker Ridge Trail
One of the finest short hikes in the Canadian Rockies, climbing through alpine meadows to a ridge with stunning views of the Saskatchewan Glacier (part of the Columbia Icefield). The highest accessible viewpoint along the Icefields Parkway. Wildflowers spectacular in late July.
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5
Sentinel Pass via Larch Valley
Starting from Moraine Lake, this trail climbs through the famous Larch Valley (golden larches in late September) to Sentinel Pass at 2,611m - the highest trail-accessible pass in Banff. The 360-degree panorama is breathtaking, including the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
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6
Crypt Lake Trail
Often called one of Canada's best day hikes, reaching Crypt Lake requires a boat ferry, trail, tunnel crawl through the rock, and vertical ladders. The remote alpine lake at the end feels like a true adventure. The tunnel section (must crawl through on hands and knees) makes this unique.
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7
Skyline Trail
One of North America's finest backpacking trails, spending the majority of its length above treeline on rocky ridges with spectacular views of Jasper National Park's wilderness. The Section between Curator and Signal campgrounds travels the famous 'Shovel Pass' ridge above 2,400m.
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8
Wilcox Pass
A spectacular trail starting directly across from the Columbia Icefield Visitor Centre, climbing to a plateau with extraordinary close-up views of the Athabasca Glacier and surrounding icefields. Big horn sheep are commonly seen. Historic site - first recorded route through here.
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9
Maligne Canyon Hike
One of Canada's deepest canyons (55m) accessible by a series of bridges over the Maligne River. As you walk down canyon, the walls narrow dramatically and waterfalls cascade from side canyons. Wonderful ice formations in winter when guided ice walks are available.
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10
Ha Ling Peak
Canmore's iconic summit hike offering panoramic views of the Bow Valley, Three Sisters, and surrounding peaks. Named for a Chinese railroad worker who climbed it in 1896. One of the most rewarding viewpoints accessible by day hike near Canmore.
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11
Mount Rundle East End
The iconic mountain visible from Banff townsite offers a challenging trail to its eastern summit. Involves sustained steep climbing and some scrambling near the top. The views of Banff and the Bow Valley from the summit are exceptional.
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12
Prairie View Trail
A quieter alternative to Banff park trails offering stunning views of the Kananaskis Valley and Rockies. Unique in offering views both east to the prairies and west to the mountains - hence the name. Wildlife including bears and elk common.
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13
Elk Island National Park Trails
Flat to rolling wooded trails through aspen parkland with near-guaranteed bison sightings. Multiple trail options from easy nature walks to longer loops. The Hayburger Trail passes through prime bison habitat.
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14
Lake Agnes Tea House Trail
Starting at the stunning Lake Louise, this trail climbs through forest and past Mirror Lake to the beloved Lake Agnes Tea House, serving tea and baked goods since 1901. The lake itself is set in a dramatic cirque. An optional extension to the Big Beehive adds 2km.
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15
Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail
A short but rewarding hike accessible right from Banff townsite, climbing to a viewpoint on Tunnel Mountain (1,692m) with excellent views of the Bow River, Banff, and surrounding mountains. The most accessible summit hike in Banff National Park.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.