Best Hikes in Banff National Park

Sentinel Pass

Distance: 7.0 miles (Round Trip)

The trail to Sentinel Pass features exceptional views of the jagged summits of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, set against an ever evolving foreground of larches, meadows and rugged slopes. At the pass the views expand, extending north to stunning Paradise Valley.

Paradise Valley to Moraine Lake via Sentinel Pass

Distance: 7.0 - 10.4 miles (One Way)

This challenging hike crossing Sentinel Pass rewards hikers with breathtaking, panoramic views of Paradise Valley and Valley of the Ten Peaks, two of these most beautiful areas in Banff National Park. The hike is for experienced parties comfortable with route finding and climbing extremely steep scree covered slopes.

Helen Lake and Dolomite Pass

Distance: 7.2 - 11.0 miles (Round Trip)

Vast meadows, pretty lakes, stunning scenery and a choice of destinations are the highlights of this popular hike to Helen Lake. Beyond the lake the trail climbs a panoramic ridge, visit Katherine Lake and Dolomite Pass and/or climbs Cirque Peak for breath-taking views.

Lake Agnes and Plain of the Six Glaciers

Distance: 11.2 miles (Loop)

Amazing views of Mount Lefroy, Mount Victoria and six glaciers along with a trip to scenic Lake Agnes and the Big Beehive are the highlights of this terrific loop hike in the Lake Louise Valley.

Plain of the Six Glaciers

Distance: 8.7 miles (Round Trip)

Lake Louise and its massive cirque are the stars of this hike highlighting the jaw-dropping scenery of the Lake Louise Valley. The awe inspiring overlook at the end of the hike is surrounded by impressive peaks and glaciers displaying Mother Nature’s raw beauty and power.

Nigel Pass

Distance: 9.8 miles (Round Trip)

This moderately-easy trail ascends the scenic Nigel Creek valley to Nigel Pass (7,200-ft.) and a panoramic ridge with awesome views of Nigel Peak, the Brazeau River Valley and the high peaks rising beyond Parker Ridge at the northern end of Banff National Park.

Bow Glacier Falls

Distance: 5.6 miles (Round Trip)

This lovely hike traverses the shores of Bow Lake, travels through an interesting gorge and then ascends an outwash plain to the base of stunning Bow Falls tumbling down a rugged cliff.

Paradise Valley / Giant Steps

Distance: 7.0 - 12.6 miles (Round Trip)

The stunningly beautiful Paradise Valley has all the components of a perfect hike with glorious views of cascading streams, waterfalls, pretty meadows, a lovely lake and a magnificent cirque. Shorten the hike by visiting Lake Annette or walking to the overlook near the head of the valley.

North Molar Pass

Distance: 14.4 miles (Round Trip)

This scenic hike travels up beautiful Mosquito creek, ascends sprawling alpine meadows filled with wildflower and then climbs rocky slope to North Molar Pass where terrific views extend to the Bow Valley, Dolomite Peak massif, the Fish Lake valley and beyond.

Parker Ridge

Distance: 2.8 miles (Round Trip)

This terrific short hike ascends to the treeless tundra atop windswept Park Ridge where you will enjoy exceptional views of the Saskatchewan Glacier flowing out from the Columbia Icefield.

Lake Agnes and the Big Beehive

Distance: 4.5 - 8.0 miles (Round Trip)

This popular hike leads to lovely Lake Agnes set at the foot of a scenic cirque. Extend the hike by climbing to panoramic viewpoints atop the Big and/or Little Beehives. Optional return via the Highline features fabulous views of Mount Victoria and the Victoria Glacier.