Best Hikes in Banff: The Ultimate Guide for 2025

Alright, let’s talk about why you’re here: to find the absolute best hikes in Banff. If you’re anything like me, just seeing a picture of those crazy blue lakes and giant mountains makes you want to pack your bags immediately. But where do you even start when looking for the best hikes in Banff? There are SO many trails!

That’s where I come in. I’ve spent a ton of time exploring, and I’m here to give you the real scoop. This isn’t just another list; it’s your ultimate guide to the best hikes in Banff for 2025. Think of me as your personal trail guide, pointing you to the most incredible experiences this park has to offer.

We’ll cover the big-name trails you’ve seen all over Instagram, some awesome hidden gems, and even those easy hikes in Banff for beginners that are perfect for getting your mountain legs. Let’s get you ready for an unforgettable adventure on some of the best hikes in Banff!

Read more: The Best Walks in Vancouver: A Local’s Insider Perspective

🏞️ Part 1: The Must-Know Stuff for the Best Hikes in Banff

Planning is everything in Banff, trust me. A little prep work now means less stress and more time enjoying the trails. Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know to tackle the best hikes in Banff.

When’s the Best Time to Go?

• The Sweet Spot (July to Mid-October): Honestly, this is when you’ll find perfect conditions for the best hikes in Banff. The weather’s great, the lakes are at their most turquoise, and pretty much all the scenic trails in Banff National Park are open. The only catch? Everyone else knows it too, so it gets busy.
• The Magical Larch Season (Late Sept/Early Oct): For a few weeks, a bunch of trees called larches turn a crazy bright yellow. It’s unreal. Hikes like Larch Valley become arguably the best hikes in Banff during this short, magical window.
• Fewer Crowds, But… (Spring & Fall): You’ll find some peace and quiet in May, June, or late October. The downside is the weather’s a total wildcard. You might get sun, you might get snow, making some of the best hikes in Banff inaccessible.
• Wildfire Smoke Check: Summer can mean smoky skies. It’s a good idea to check a site like IQAir before you head out.

You Gotta Pay to Play: The Park Pass

First things first, you need a Parks Canada Pass to get in. You can grab a daily one, but if you’re staying for more than a week, just get the annual Discovery Pass. It’s way cheaper in the long run. The easiest way? Buy it online before you even leave home.

What “Easy” Really Means in the Rockies

Okay, real talk. When a trail guide says a hike is “easy,” it’s not a flat walk in the park. Expect to go uphill. Most of the best hikes in Banff involve some climbing. So just know your limits, take lots of breaks, and you’ll be totally fine.

How to Ditch the Crowds

• The Golden Rule: GET THERE EARLY. I can’t say this enough. For the big-name spots that are considered the best hikes in Banff, like Johnston Canyon or Lake Louise, if you’re not in the parking lot by 8 AM, you’re late.
• My Other Trick: Hike Late! An evening hike can be magical. Just pack a headlamp!

Getting Around: Shuttles are Your BFF

Parking can be a total nightmare. Honestly, embrace the transit system—it’s your ticket to some of the best hikes in Banff.

• Moraine Lake: You literally can’t drive there anymore. Your only way in is the Parks Canada shuttle, Roam Transit, or a tour bus. Book your shuttle tickets the second they go on sale.
• Lake Louise: The parking lot here costs a fortune. Save your money and sanity. Park for free at the Lake Louise Ski Resort and hop on the shuttle.

Don’t Poke the Bear (Or Other Critters)

• Bear spray is NOT optional. Buy it or rent it from a shop like GearUp. Carry it where you can grab it fast. This is a non-negotiable for doing any of the best hikes in Banff.
• Make some noise! You don’t want to surprise a bear.
• Don’t be that tourist. Give all wildlife tons of space.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Camping Spots in Canada 2025

📋 Part 2: Your “Don’t Forget This!” Packing List

Having the right gear is key for tackling the best hikes in Banff safely and comfortably. Here’s my can’t-live-without-it list:

• Good hiking boots: The trails are rocky. This is a must.
• Layers, layers, layers: A t-shirt, a fleece, and a rain jacket.
• A Puffy Jacket: Yep, even in August. It gets chilly at the top.
• More water and snacks than you think you need.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Bear Spray: See above. NON-NEGOTIABLE.
• Trekking Poles: They will save your knees on the way down.
• Your phone with the AllTrails app: Get the paid version so you can download maps. Cell service is a myth on most of the best hikes in Banff.

Read more: Canada Road Trip 2025: How to plan the perfect tour

🎒 Part 3: What to Pack for Your Banff Adventure: The Comprehensive Gear Guide

Packing correctly is fundamental to your safety and comfort on even the easiest of the best hikes in Banff.

Category	Day Hiking Essentials	For Car Camping & Overnight Trips
Footwear	✅ Hiking boots/shoes, quality socks, crampons (early season)	✅ Sandals/camp shoes
Clothing	✅ Moisture-wicking base, fleece, puffy jacket, rain jacket, hiking pants	✅ Extra layers, comfy camp clothes
Navigation	✅ AllTrails app (premium), physical map	✅ Printed camping reservations
Safety	✅ Bear spray, first aid kit, headlamp, Garmin Inreach (optional)	✅ Same as day hiking
Hydration	✅ Water bladder/bottles (2L+ per person)	✅ Large water cube for campsite
Fuel	✅ Energy bars, jerky, nuts, dried fruit	✅ Cooler, portable stove, cookware, coffee maker
Sun Protection	✅ Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses	✅ Same as day hiking
Comfort/Extras	✅ Trekking poles, packable hammock, camera gear	✅ Tent, sleeping bag/pad, pillow, spork, toiletries

🥾 Part 4: My Personal List of the Absolute Best Hikes in Banff

Okay, the moment you’ve been waiting for! Here are my top picks, broken down by area. This is my curated list of what I truly believe are the best hikes in Banff.

Hikes Near Banff Town (The Quick & Easy Wins)

1. Johnston Canyon: This one’s super popular, and for good reason. It’s a great family-friendly hike for 2025 and definitely one of the best hikes in Banff for its unique catwalks. My advice: Go super early, and walk the extra mile to the Ink Pots for more peace and quiet.
2. Tunnel Mountain: Want an epic view without an epic climb? This is your hike. It’s a quick trip up for a killer view of Banff town, and a perfect introduction to what makes this area home to some of the best hikes in Banff.
3. Sulphur Mountain (The “Cheat” Version): Wanna cheat a little? Take the Banff Gondola up. The views are just ridiculous, and you’ll see why this perspective is essential for appreciating the scale of the best hikes in Banff.

The Lake Louise Area (Yeah, They’re THAT Blue)

1. Lake Louise Lakeshore: An absolute classic and one of the best hikes in Banff for beginners. It’s a flat, simple walk along the most famous blue lake in the world.
2. Lake Agnes Teahouse: You can HIKE to a TEAHOUSE! This journey is consistently ranked among the best hikes in Banff for a reason. Pro tip: Bring cash! If you’ve still got energy, push on to the Big Beehive for a view that will absolutely blow your mind.
3. Plain of Six Glaciers: I might like this one even more than Lake Agnes. You end up in this massive valley surrounded by glaciers. It just feels so wild and epic, solidifying its place among the best hikes in Banff.

The Moraine Lake Area (The Postcard Views)

1. Moraine Lake Rockpile: This is THE photo. It’s a super short walk for the most iconic view in the Rockies. It might be short, but for sheer visual impact, it’s one of the best hikes in Banff.
2. Larch Valley & Sentinel Pass: My personal favorite hike, hands down. Many people consider this the single best hike in Banff, and I might just agree, especially in the fall. It’s tough, but the payoff is unreal.
3. Consolation Lakes: This is a fantastic trail if you’re looking for one of the quieter, best hikes in Banff. You get stunning lakes without the crowds of the main viewpoint.

Icefields Parkway Hikes (The Best Road Trip Ever)

1. Peyto Lake Viewpoint: The lake is shaped like a wolf and is a color of blue that doesn’t even look real. It’s a must-see along this scenic drive.
2. Parker Ridge: This hike is all about bang for your buck. A short, steep climb rewards you with a jaw-dropping view of the Saskatchewan Glacier. This is why Parker Ridge is on my list of the best hikes in Banff: maximum reward for moderate effort.

Read more: Best Time to See Northern Lights in Canada: Your Ultimate Guide to Chasing the Aurora Borealis

🏕️ Part 5: Where to Crash After a Long Day

You’ll need a comfy place to rest after a long day enjoying the best hikes in Banff.

• Wanna Splurge? The Fairmont Banff Springs is a literal castle. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is right on the lake.
• Something Nice (But Not That Pricey): The Moose Hotel and Suites is awesome.
• On a Budget: The hostels in Banff are fantastic for meeting other hikers.
• Pro Tip: Staying in Canmore can often save you some serious cash.

Read more: 15 Hidden Gems in Canadian Rockies You Must Visit in 2025

🐾 Part 6: One Last Thing… Your New Best Friend

Your new trail buddy is the AllTrails app. Seriously, download it. You’ll need this app for navigating the best hikes in Banff, as having that little blue dot showing you where you are on the map is a total lifesaver.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

There you have it! My personal list of the absolute best hikes in Banff. It’s such a magical place, and honestly, you can’t go wrong. From a family-friendly hike in Banff 2025 to heart-pounding summits, there is an adventure for everyone. Armed with this guide to the best hikes in Banff, you are now ready to plan, prepare, and have an amazing, unforgettable time.

The mountains are calling. Go answer them.

Have a question about the best hikes in Banff? Drop it in the comments below!