Banff National Park is one of those rare places where every trail feels like a reward. With turquoise lakes, canyon boardwalks, glacier‑carved valleys, and wildlife that wanders as freely as the wind, it’s no surprise that Banff is a bucket‑list destination for hikers. It had been on our list for a while, and we finally made it a reality. Banff National Park did NOT disappoint.

If you’re planning to visit Canada and explore this scenic park, late June through early October is best. It’s when snow has melted from most trails, wildflowers are blooming, and access to popular areas like Lake Louise are fully open.

Here are six standout hikes our family enjoyed during our visit. Each trail offers something different, from canyon waterfalls to sweeping alpine panoramas.

1. Plain of Six Glaciers (at Lake Louise)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9 miles round trip (14.6 km) – if you choose to do the whole hike
Trailhead: Lake Louise Lakeshore

This hike begins with one of the most iconic views in the Canadian Rockies. Sunrise at Lake Louise, with its glowing turquoise waters beneath towering peaks, is a great way to start the day. The first 2.5 km hike follows the flat lakeshore trail, offering postcard‑worthy views at every turn. If you want more of an adventure, here are two additional destinations you can access if you keep hiking.

RELATED TRAVEL TIP: Explore Craters of the Moon National Monument

The Trail to the Tea House

As the trail leaves the lakeshore, it climbs gradually into a glacial valley. Along the way, you’ll pass a wooden boardwalk and may spot rock climbers on the cliffs above.

The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House sits tucked into the mountainside, offering tea, biscuits, and light snacks. It’s cash only, but it makes for a delightful mid‑hike treat. There are some benches in the area as well, so you can get off your feet and enjoy a wonderful view of the surrounding peaks.

The End of the Trail

Beyond the tea house, the trail becomes rockier and more rugged as it approaches the viewpoint beneath Mount Victoria and its massive glaciers. The amphitheater of ice and rock is one of Banff’s most dramatic landscapes. While there, we could hear ice breaking off the cliffs across the valley and crashing – with loud echoes – on the ground below.

2. Sulphur Mountain

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.3 miles round trip (10.1 km)
Trailhead: Banff Gondola Parking Area
What You’ll See: Forested switchbacks, Bow Valley views, boardwalks, summit amenities

Sulphur Mountain is one of Banff’s most popular hikes. While many visitors ride the Banff Gondola to the top, the hike itself is far more rewarding and scenic. We chose to hike rather than ride to the top – partly because of the cost per person to take the ride to the top. We misread a map and thought the roundtrip hike was 12 miles. When we arrived at the top after three miles, our kids were a little disappointed. They were geared up and ready for something much longer. Haha!

The trail climbs steadily through a series of gentle switchbacks, offering occasional views of the Goat Valley and Mount Rundle.

RELATED TRAVEL TIP: Best hikes for kids in Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah

At the summit, hikers and gondola riders meet at a modern visitor center featuring multiple restaurants, a gift shop, interpretive exhibits, and panoramic viewing decks. A wooden boardwalk extends to Sanson’s Peak, where you can explore the historic meteorological observatory.

If you’re physically able, hiking up makes the summit experience feel earned, and the views are even sweeter.

3. Johnston Canyon

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trailhead: Johnston Canyon Parking Lot on Bow Valley Parkway
What You’ll See: Catwalks, canyon walls, waterfalls, bridges, forest, wildlife

Johnston Canyon is one of Banff’s most iconic and accessible hikes, famous for its steel catwalks bolted into canyon walls and its series of waterfalls. Because it’s so popular, arriving early or late in the day helps avoid crowds. We’re glad we got an early start, because by the time we returned to our vehicle, the parking lot was pretty full.

RELATED TRAVEL TIP: Best hikes in Crater Lake National Park in Oregon

Lower Falls

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip (2.4 km)

The trail begins gently through the forest before entering the canyon, where catwalks carry you above rushing water. At the Lower Falls, a short tunnel leads to a close‑up viewpoint. Expect mist on your face and a great photo opportunity.

Upper Falls

Distance: 3.1 miles round trip (5.0 km)

Continue past the Lower Falls for more canyon views and elevated walkways. The Upper Falls are taller and more dramatic, with two viewpoints: one at the base and one perched above the drop.

The Ink Pots

Distance: 7.2 miles round trip (11.6 km)

Beyond the Upper Falls, the trail climbs into a peaceful meadow where the Ink Pots (vibrant blue‑green mineral springs) bubble quietly. It’s a rewarding extension for hikers seeking a quieter, more serene experience. We’re so glad we continued the hike up to the Ink Pots. It was fascinating to watch the sand on the bottom of the Ink Pots dance around.

4. Hoodoos Trailhead (Surprise Corner to Hoodoos Trail)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4.8 km one way
Trailhead: Surprise Corner

This trail connects two of Banff’s best viewpoints: Surprise Corner and the Hoodoos. Starting at Surprise Corner, the trail descends toward the Bow River, weaving through evergreen forest with views of Mount Rundle and the cliffs of Tunnel Mountain.

RELATED TRAVEL TIP: Best hikes in Badlands National Park in South Dakota

The Hoodoos themselves are tall, slender rock spires formed by centuries of erosion. The unique formations rise dramatically above the valley floor.

5. Bow Falls Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.2 km one way
Trailhead: Central Park, Banff

This short, family‑friendly trail follows the Bow River from downtown Banff to the roaring Bow Falls. The path winds through a shaded forest before climbing a wooden staircase to a viewpoint overlooking the falls. It’s a perfect warm‑up hike or a scenic stroll after dinner.

6. Lake Minnewanka Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Up to 30 km round trip (choose your distance)
Trailhead: Lake Minnewanka Day Use Area

Lake Minnewanka is Banff’s largest lake, and the shoreline trail offers endless opportunities for scenic exploration. The first section is paved and busy with visitors enjoying the lakefront, but the crowds thin quickly as you enter the forested trail along the water’s edge.

RELATED TRAVEL TIP: 4 Easy Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

We headed clockwise around the lake and turned around shortly after reaching the Stewart Canyon Bridge. We decided to spend more time skipping rocks into the lake and enjoying the views Banff National Park has to offer.

Highlights include:

• Views of Mt. Inglismaldie and Mt. Rundle across the lake
• A wooden bridge over Stewart Canyon
• Rocky beaches perfect for a snack break
• Wildflowers, mossy forest, and occasional waterfalls

Because this trail enters core grizzly habitat, seasonal restrictions require hikers to travel in groups of four or more between July 10 and September 15.

General Hiking Safety in Banff National Park

Banff’s beauty comes with rugged terrain and rapidly changing mountain weather. A safe hike is a great hike, so please keep these essentials in mind:

• Wear Proper Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction make rocky or wet terrain much safer.
• Know Your Limits: Mountain distances and elevation gain can be deceiving. Choose trails that match your fitness and experience.
• Bring Water & Salty Snacks: Hydration is key at higher elevations. Pack more water than you think you’ll need.
• Check Trail Conditions: Weather, wildlife activity, and seasonal closures can affect access.
• Carry Bear Spray: Banff is home to both grizzly and black bears. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
• Dress in Layers: Mountain weather can shift quickly. Always pack a warm layer and rain shell.
• Respect Wildlife: Give animals plenty of space and never feed them.

Park Admissions, Camping & Fees in Banff National Park

Visiting Banff National Park requires a valid Parks Canada entry pass. Daily admission fees apply to adults, seniors, and families, while youth 17 and under are free. Travelers staying multiple days (or visiting several national parks) often save money with the annual Discovery Pass, which covers entry to all Parks Canada sites for a full year.

If you’re planning to camp, Banff offers a wide range of options, from unserviced tent sites to fully equipped campgrounds with showers and electrical hookups. Popular campgrounds include Two Jack Lakeside, Tunnel Mountain, Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, and Waterfowl Lakes, each with its own nightly rate depending on amenities. Backcountry camping is also available with a per‑person nightly fee and requires advance reservationsBanff.com.

Keep in mind that some services (like fire permits, shuttle reservations, or parking at Lake Louise) carry additional fees. Because pricing can change due to seasonal adjustments or inflation updates, Parks Canada recommends checking the most current rates before your trip.

PIN THIS