r/lists • Posted by Mark Jensen🏕️ Outdoors

Most Scenic Hiking Trails around Banff

Most Scenic Hiking Trails around BanffBanff National Park is an absolute hiker's paradise, and I've spent countless hours exploring its stunning trails. From easy strolls to challenging ascents, these are my top picks for the most scenic hikes that offer breathtaking views of turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and incredible glaciers. Lace up your boots, you won't be disappointed!
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  1. 1

    Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots

    Johnston Canyon, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2, Canada
    alltrails.com
    This iconic trail takes you through a dramatic canyon on suspended catwalks, past stunning waterfalls, and ultimately to the magical, colorful Ink Pots. It's truly a unique experience you can't miss in Banff!
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    Lake Agnes Teahouse Trail

    111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    alltrails.com
    Hike up through a beautiful forest to a charming teahouse overlooking the serene Lake Agnes. The views are rewarding, and a cup of tea at the top just makes it perfect.
  3. 3

    Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse Trail

    111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    alltrails.com
    This moderate hike from Lake Louise leads you deep into the mountains, offering incredible close-up views of glaciers and a historic teahouse built in 1924. It's an unforgettable journey into alpine scenery.
  4. 4

    Big Beehive Hike

    111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    alltrails.com
    A fantastic extension from the Lake Agnes trail, the Big Beehive rewards you with panoramic vistas of Lake Louise, the Fairmont Chateau, and the surrounding Bow River Valley. It's a bit of a climb, but so worth it!
  5. 5

    Larch Valley & Sentinel Pass

    Moraine Lake Rd, Lake Louise, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    Absolutely stunning, especially in the fall when the larch trees turn golden! This trail from Moraine Lake offers some of the most spectacular views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
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    Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail

    Moraine Lake Rd, Lake Louise, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    For an easy but incredibly iconic view, scramble up the Rockpile at Moraine Lake. The turquoise water against the Ten Peaks is a sight you've probably seen on postcards, and it's even better in person!
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    Sulphur Mountain Trail

    Banff Gondola, 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B2, Canada
    Hike up this well-maintained switchback trail right from Banff townsite for sweeping views of the Bow Valley and Banff. You can hike down or take the gondola for a different perspective.
  8. 8

    Tunnel Mountain Trail

    Tunnel Mountain Trailhead, St Julien Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1C1, Canada
    This is a local favorite right in Banff, offering an accessible summit with great views over the town and surrounding peaks like Mount Rundle. It's a perfect shorter hike for any time of day.
  9. 9

    Bow Glacier Falls Trail

    Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, Icefields Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
    Starting near the historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, this scenic trail follows the edges of Bow Lake before leading you to the impressive Bow Glacier Falls, tumbling off a rugged rock face.
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    Helen Lake Trail

    Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, Icefields Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
    This hike truly delivers, with stunning meadows leading to the serene Helen Lake, and then continuing to a headwall with breathtaking views of the Bow Valley and Wapta Icefields. Keep an eye out for alpine wildlife!
  11. 11

    Consolation Lakes Trail

    Moraine Lake Rd, Lake Louise, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    A less strenuous but incredibly rewarding hike from Moraine Lake, this trail offers fantastic views of alpine meadows, enormous talus slopes, and the Quadra Glacier.
  12. 12

    Cory Pass / Mount Edith Circuit

    Fireside Day Use Area, Bow Valley Pkwy, Banff, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
    For the more experienced hiker looking for a challenge, this circuit offers a serious workout with absolutely spectacular views from Cory Pass, looking out to towering Mount Louis.
  13. 13

    Peyto Lake Viewpoint Trail

    Peyto Lake Upper Viewpoint Trail, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
    While short, the walk to the Peyto Lake viewpoint offers one of Banff's most iconic scenes: the brilliant turquoise, fox-shaped lake nestled amidst mountain peaks. It's a must-see!

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