Top 10 Hiking Trails in the Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most spectacular hiking opportunities in the world, with trails that wind through pristine wilderness, past turquoise lakes, and along majestic mountain ridges. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a newcomer seeking accessible beauty, these ten trails showcase the best that the Canadian Rockies have to offer.
1. Plain of Six Glaciers (Lake Louise, Alberta)
This moderate 14-kilometer round-trip trail begins at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and takes hikers along the shoreline of the turquoise Lake Louise before climbing to a historic tea house nestled in the mountains. From there, hikers are treated to breathtaking views of six glaciers tumbling down from the surrounding peaks.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 14 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 365 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Arrive early (before 8 AM) to secure parking at Lake Louise, which fills up quickly during summer months.
2. Sentinel Pass via Larch Valley (Moraine Lake, Alberta)
Beginning at the equally stunning Moraine Lake, this trail climbs steadily through a forest before opening up to spectacular views of the Ten Peaks. In late September, the larch trees turn a brilliant gold, creating one of the most iconic autumn scenes in the Rockies. Continuing beyond Larch Valley takes hikers to Sentinel Pass, where panoramic views await.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance: 11.6 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 792 meters
Best Time to Visit: Late September for golden larches
This is grizzly bear territory - hike in groups of four or more during the summer months when restrictions are in place.
3. Berg Lake Trail (Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia)
This world-renowned multi-day trail takes hikers past series of waterfalls, through diverse ecosystems, and ultimately to the turquoise Berg Lake, which sits at the base of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. The trail can be done as a challenging day hike to Kinney Lake and back, or as a multi-day backpacking adventure.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance: 42 km round trip to Berg Lake
Elevation Gain: 800 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Reservations for campsites along the trail are essential and can be made through BC Parks starting in January.
4. Skyline Trail (Jasper National Park, Alberta)
As the name suggests, this 44-kilometer trail spends much of its length above the treeline, offering continuous panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It's typically done as a 2-3 day backpacking trip, traversing three mountain passes and providing opportunities to spot wildlife like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears.
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 44 km one way
Elevation Gain: 1,380 meters
Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to mid-September
The trail is typically hiked from Maligne Lake to the Maligne Canyon, as this direction has less overall elevation gain.
5. Iceline Trail (Yoho National Park, British Columbia)
This spectacular trail climbs quickly above the treeline to provide sweeping views of the Yoho Valley, Takakkaw Falls, and several glaciers. The route can be done as a day hike or as part of a multi-day loop incorporating other trails in the area.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance: 12.8 km loop
Elevation Gain: 690 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the Rockies during summer months.
6. Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots (Banff National Park, Alberta)
This popular trail begins on elevated walkways through Johnston Canyon, passing by two stunning waterfalls before continuing through a forest to the Ink Pots - a collection of seven mineral springs that bubble up in pools of varying blue-green colors.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 11.7 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 335 meters
Best Time to Visit: Year-round (the canyon portion is particularly magical in winter)
Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds, especially during summer months.
7. Cory Pass Loop (Banff National Park, Alberta)
One of the most challenging day hikes in Banff National Park, this loop takes hikers through Cory Pass, offering spectacular views of Mount Louis, before descending through the Edith Pass. The trail provides a diverse experience, from dense forest to rocky alpine terrain.
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 13 km loop
Elevation Gain: 915 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
The loop is best hiked clockwise to tackle the steepest section as an ascent rather than a treacherous descent.
8. Lake Agnes Tea House Trail (Lake Louise, Alberta)
This popular, family-friendly trail takes hikers from Lake Louise to the charming Lake Agnes Tea House, which has been serving tea to hikers since 1905. The trail passes Mirror Lake before arriving at Lake Agnes, nestled in a glacial cirque surrounded by mountains.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.4 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 385 meters
Best Time to Visit: June to October
Bring cash for the tea house, as they don't accept credit cards and there's no cellular service for digital payments.
9. Parker Ridge (Banff National Park, Alberta)
This short but steep trail on the Icefields Parkway rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Saskatchewan Glacier and the wide valley below. It's one of the best effort-to-reward ratios in the Rockies, making it perfect for those with limited time.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.4 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 250 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Stay on the trail to protect the fragile alpine environment, which takes decades to recover from damage.
10. Wilcox Pass (Jasper National Park, Alberta)
Another gem along the Icefields Parkway, this trail offers spectacular views of the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier. The trail climbs through subalpine forest before opening up to a vast alpine meadow that's home to bighorn sheep and stunning mountain vistas.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 390 meters
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Pack warm layers even in summer - the pass is exposed and can be significantly colder and windier than the trailhead.
Essential Hiking Tips for the Canadian Rockies
- Be Bear Aware: Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife.
- Pack Layers: Mountain weather can change rapidly - bring waterproof layers and warm clothing even on sunny days.
- Start Early: Popular trails get crowded, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all garbage, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife and other hikers.
- Check Trail Conditions: Visit park visitor centers or websites for current conditions before setting out.
- Bring Sufficient Water: Many trails don't have reliable water sources along the way.
The Canadian Rockies offer a lifetime of hiking adventures, from gentle strolls along turquoise lakes to challenging alpine traverses. These ten trails provide just a sample of the incredible landscapes waiting to be explored. Whether you're visiting for a week or a season, lacing up your hiking boots and hitting the trails is one of the best ways to experience the majesty of this mountain wilderness.
Remember to check trail conditions before you go, respect wildlife closures, and come prepared with the necessary gear and knowledge for a safe adventure. Happy hiking!