The 49 best walking spots in Banff National Park

Late May 2025. Lucky day on the trail. Turned around about 2 km from the end, but the views all around were incredible. There’s practically no elevation until you get more than halfway through. My non-hiking family loved it.

Gorgeous views, avalanches happening as we hiked, great tea, and flags from the base camp of Everest. Highly recommended but not for amateurs.

The length of this hike as advertised (nearly 14km round trip) was a little daunting but the effort was absolutely worth it for close-up views of numerous glaciers and observing the slow moving river of ice carving its away through the valley toward (and forming) Lake Louise in the distance. You get both great views of the glaciers on approach and of Lake Louise shimmering in the distance on the descent. Strongly recommend as long as one is able bodied.

Challenging hike, with long steep sections. We hiked from Lake Louise Inn and back, which took 5.5 hours. Equally stunning views from the top of the hike, as well as next to Lake Louise

Hiked this trail Saturday June 28,2025. Moderate difficulty. Saw hikers of all ages and abilities giving it a try. It’s a classic out and back trail with beautiful vistas and views all along, so just get started and go as far as you like. That being said it’s worth it to go the final 2k past the tea house to the ridge gazing up at the glaciers above you. Majestic!

Amazing hike! If you go early in the morning (we went a little after 7am) there is practically no one and it is so peaceful!

One of the best moderate difficulty hikes we've ever done. The views are spectacular from the start at the chateau all the way past the tea house to the very end. Then, you get to experience it all again with a different point of view when you go back down. If you only get as far as the tea house, that is ok, but you do miss out on some more great views hiking to the end. You can do it with running shoes, but you will be much happier in hiking shoes or boots. Trail is well marked with two options of hike only and hike/horse at some points. Bring some cash if you want to treat yourself at the tea house on the way back. Come very early to get parking, like 7-8 am early.

My hike through Johnston Canyon was simply fantastic. The route is exceptionally well-maintained, with sturdy catwalks and bridges that allow you to get up close to the incredible scenery without feeling unsafe. The views along the way are spectacular, with the waterfalls thundering through the narrow canyon. ​The real gems of the hike are the fabulous Upper Falls and, for those who continue on, the beautiful Ink Pots. Reaching the Ink Pots is a bit more of a challenge, but the serene, naturally colored pools are a truly unique reward that makes the extra effort completely worth it. ​This hike offers a great physical challenge that is both fun and rewarding, even for those who might not be experienced hikers. It's accessible enough for most, but challenging enough to feel like a real accomplishment. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a memorable and beautiful experience in Banff National Park.

We did the hike from Johnston Canyon all the way to the Inkpots, and it was an unforgettable experience. The trail through the canyon is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and dramatic rock formations. The catwalks built into the canyon walls make for a unique hiking experience. Once you pass the Upper Falls, the trail becomes quieter and more natural, leading to the serene Inkpots — beautiful turquoise pools bubbling from underground springs, surrounded by open meadows and mountain views. It’s a peaceful spot to rest and soak in the scenery before heading back. The full hike took us about 4–5 hours round trip at a relaxed pace with plenty of photo stops. Highly recommend starting early to beat the crowds at the canyon and enjoy the tranquility of the Inkpots.

It was very nice trail for family walking together. There are a few Fall to see. If you have enough time to climb to top (around 4000m) to ink pot. The view will be beautiful. The parking lot is free. Before you start to climb, make sure you to washroom beside the parking lot.

This trail is such a lovely way to spend a few hours outdoors. The path winds through the canyon with the sound of rushing water always nearby, making it a peaceful and refreshing walk. There are two beautiful waterfalls along the way — one lower and one upper. The full route through the canyon is about 5.5 - 6 km, you may choose to visit just the lower falls for a shorter 2–5 km hike. The upper falls are absolutely worth the extra effort — a rewarding finish to a scenic and relaxing adventure in nature.

This hike was amazing! The parking lot was pretty packed but there were open spots in each row and the bathrooms were clean. We came at around 4 and there were still a LOT of people. The trip has 3 main destinations- lower falls, upper falls, and the ink pods. We went all the way to the I’ll pods and the trip was about 12km(7.5 miles) there and back. The views were breathtaking and even some postcard worthy pictures. Highly recommend

Cycled from Banff to Johnston Canyon. A great ride on an Ebike. Great facilities for parking up your bikes. Excellent toilets at the start. And a cafe and ice cream cart at the start of the track. All important stuff 😄 The walk to lower and upper falls were spectacular. An absolute must do if you're in the area. Walked the Inkpot trail as well. A few good climbs so wear some good footwear and take water. Great forest to walk through, good walking trail and a great place to stop for lunch for your efforts. Well worth walking on to the Inkpots if you have the time, energy, water, and food, to sit and eat once you get there 👍👍 Photos at the Inkpots only. Go see the Lower and Upper Falls for yourself 😊

A good hike especially if weather is cool. Takes about 2 hours return. Slight elevation. Hiked all the way up to the upper falls. Good negative ion with the water fall and river flowing through. (See google map for more info on lower and upper falls)

We hiked Tunnel Mountain Summit for the first time and were truly amazed! The views are stunning, and the trail is well-maintained with a pleasant mix of rock and soft pine needles. It’s an easy, enjoyable hike—perfect for burning some calories while soaking in the scenery. The trail can get busy, as it draws visitors from all over, but it’s absolutely worth it. A real hidden gem in Banff, and so conveniently close to the trailer court. We’ll definitely be back. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area!

This was a terrific hike. We stayed at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge, and walked 15 minutes down the road to the trailhead. The trail is basically a switch back, going back and forth with gentle inclines. This is great for beginners and those who are a little more challenged. Do make sure that you wear decent hiking shoes as there are plenty of loose rocks heading up the hills.

Great hike today to the Tunnel Mountain summit. Beautiful views of the Bow River Valley looking one way and the town of Banff in the other direction. Only 40 minutes to the summit from the upper parking lot.

Great hike up this mountain. There's a bit of unstable ground (rocks and tree roots) that you'll need to look out for. Make sure you have good hiking shoes (no Crocs/sandals). Lots of active people running up and down the mountain. Parking is limited at the mid-point. Lots of cyclists riding though, so ensure you drive carefully.

Lovely family-friendly hike that would have been a great warm-up hike for us at the start of our trip (as opposed to Ha Ling Peak, which was a harrowing endeavor in contrast). We had some issues with parking as Tunnel Mountain Drive was closed for Melissa’s Road Race on the day we did our climb but ultimately figured it out and easily made it to the top for sweeping views of the Banff area, Mount Rundle and the Cascade Mountain.

Tunnel Mountain is one of my favorite spots in Banff! The hike to the summit is relatively easy, making it perfect for all skill levels, including families and casual hikers. The trail winds through beautiful forested areas before opening up to stunning panoramic views of Banff, the Bow Valley, and surrounding peaks like Mount Rundle. I love sitting at the top and just taking in the scenery—it’s peaceful and rejuvenating. The location is very convenient, just a short walk from downtown Banff, so you can enjoy nature without venturing far from town.

Absolutely beautiful hike that overlooks Banff. Relatively easy depending on fitness. Took about 40mins from the bottom of the hike. However you can start about 1/4 of the way through if you have a car there is a parking spot that misses the first 400metres. Overall it was stunning here and a great free activity to do 🏔️

The Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail is one of the most breathtaking spots in the Canadian Rockies. From the moment you start the trail, you’re greeted with stunning views of the turquoise waters of Moraine Lake and the towering peaks that surround it. The trail itself is fairly easy to navigate, but be prepared for several stairs and a steady incline—it’s a bit of a workout, but absolutely worth it. Sunrise is truly magical here. The way the early light hits the mountains and reflects off the lake creates colors that are almost surreal, making it a dream spot for photographers and nature lovers. The summit can get crowded, especially during peak season, but there are still plenty of vantage points where you can capture incredible photos without too many people in the shot. For a different perspective, you can carefully make your way down to the base of the peak. This allows you to touch the pristine lake water and take photos from a unique angle, with the towering rockpile as a dramatic backdrop. Keep in mind that heading back up from this lower section can be a bit challenging, so wear proper footwear and take your time. Tips for visitors: Arrive early in the morning to catch the sunrise and avoid the largest crowds. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially if you plan to descend to the lower part of the trail. Don’t rush—take your time to enjoy the views and capture photos from multiple angles. If visiting in peak season, consider weekdays for a slightly quieter experience.

⭐ Must climb to see the beautiful view of the Moraine Lake and ten peaks! Not a steep climb. There’s proper walking path. The view is stunning! One of the most beautiful views in the rockies. Moraine Lake area is not accessible via vehicle unless staying at the lodge. Only way is to take a bus shuttle here.

Super easy “hike”, really just about 15 min of walking + stairs. The view of Moraine lake from the top of the rock pile truly is spectacular, as others have mentioned, pictures don’t do it justice. If you come to Moraine lake you absolutely have to do this trail. Only reason I took a star off is due to the insane amount of foot traffic along the trail. Even on a weekday it’s insane. People waiting in short lines to take pictures. Lots of people going off trail to take pictures which isn’t supposed to be allowed as it damages the flora. But I get it, people who go through the trouble of coming here aren’t gonna leave without a good picture! I would definitely recommend doing the other legitimate hikes here for a more peaceful nature experience. The consolation lake hike was easy and very enjoyable.

Insanely busy. There are not very many trails, so everyone is in the same area. We found it busier than Lake Louise when we went. Lake is gorgeous though. Amazing views and an easy hike to see them.

Easy to trail. However, when you reach the top, it is breathtaking. So beautiful place. Very limited restrooms. Parking lot is closed for public. It is better to take shuttle bus, only cost around 90 CD for both lakes. Book in advance.

The view of Moraine Lake from the Rockpile is stunning, but be prepared for heavy crowds. The popular shot is somewhat shadowed by dense trees. The true highlight for nature lovers is the wildlife. Pay close attention to the rocks for pikas; you can often locate them by their unique, squeaking chirps.

Lake Moraine’s color is truly unbelievable—an intense turquoise that changes with the sun and clouds. The Rockpile is one of the best viewpoints. Though it may look crowded, there’s plenty of space for great photos. It’s just 450 meters from the lake with steps and benches—take your time, the view is spectacular!

If you can manage to get yourself a bus ticket here then sentinel pass is a must. The hike from Moraine Lake to about the 1/2 way point is pretty lame but once you pass the dense tree line it is an absolute marvel. I felt like I passed through a teleporter 4 times before I reached the top of this hike with all the different types of scenery. Truly a special place

Sentinel Pass via Larch Valley is one of the best hikes you can do in Moraine Lake. The steep challenge was the best part of the day. We became part of the view from the top of the mountains.

We timed our visit just right to coincide with the beginning of larch season and it was mesmerising. While a long and steep trek up the first half of the hike yields fairly little in the way of views, once you pass the little junction at the halfway point the walk transforms into something utterly magical and doesn’t stop producing wonders until you reach the end at Minnetsima lake. The walk back is similarly lovely as you can take in all the golden larches (in the correct season) framing the ten peaks and the massive overhanging glacier. I’d only avoid the hike if you have people with serious physical issues as it is rather steep and can be long. We also managed to complete larch valley (up to but not including the hike up to Sentinel Pass) it in about 3.5 hours inclusive of lengthy stops for photographs and lingering at the top.

It's absolutely stunning. This is the best trail I've hiked in the area. Unlike other trails that go straight up for the view, this one is unique with the Larch Valley section and the zigzag path near Moraine Lake. It reminded me of Patagonia. It took us 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete, including 30 minutes at the top and a 10-minute rest on the way up. We're not fast hikers.

One of the best 8-mile hikes in Banff National Park with stunning views is the Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass. Generally it seems it takes about 5-6 hours to complete, it took us just over 4 hours. Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass Hike **Distance:** About 8 miles (round trip) **Elevation Gain:** Approximately 2,625 feet **Trailhead:** Moraine Lake Highlights: 1. **Larch Trees:** In the fall, the larch trees turn a brilliant golden color, offering some of the most picturesque fall scenery in the Rockies. 2. **Moraine Lake Views:** The hike starts at Moraine Lake, which itself is one of the most photographed spots in Banff. 3. **Alpine Meadows:** As you ascend, you'll pass through beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers (in summer) and expansive views. 4. **Sentinel Pass:** The final ascent to Sentinel Pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Tips: - **Timing:** This hike is very popular, so start early to avoid crowds, especially if you're hiking during peak season (late June to early September) or fall larch season. - **Gear:** Bring layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Also, consider bringing trekking poles for the steep sections. - **Wildlife:** Be aware of wildlife, including bears, and carry bear spray.

Stunning views! The hike from giant steps up to here was very hard. The last section was a boulder field. Still snow to walk through. The final climb I lost the trail and ended up in a lose rock scramble. Thankfully I was able to get back to the trail because of cairns. It is a MUCH better trail coming from Moraine Lake as it is just well defined switchbacks.

Super fun hiking lol the way to the Sentinel Pass. Although we could not finish the very last and the most difficult part to reach the pass, the rest of the trail was super fun also. The lerch valley was in full fall colors and it was crowded. This is one must do hike in the Lake Moraine area in the Fall. Lots of places to stop and take photographs. Beautiful hike and vista all around.

Bow Glacier Falls is an amazing hike!!! The trail 9km takes you through Bow Lake and Bow Valley with beautiful views of surrounding mountains!! One can take the upper trail to the top of the glacier and see everything from a different angle!!!

Definitely worth it! We started around 930am and took us about more than 2 hours out and back. Heads up, there's a very steep incline in the middle of the trail. It's recommended to wear a good hiking shoes as there are segment with flowing water and for safety.

The most beautiful hike we have ever done anywhere. What we initially thought was a hard to pass area during our hike opened up to these amazing views when we opt to push through despite seeing others turn back. I think it’s a moderate to difficult hike but if you do it with caution and a slower pace, definitely more the former. Once you are pass the cliff area where you need to zig zag all the way down, you will need to push further ahead, and then lone behold the photos here. We will never forget how amazing it felt and look.

We really wanted to do this hike but had read that much of the trail was closed due to rockfall. However, we found that it was mostly open. The trail starts alongside the beautiful lake, mostly flattish before weaving through and around a couple of small forested areas them alongside the glacial stream. Get ready for the big push up the mountside as it's steep! There are steps but the incline is tough, especially on the way back, where it was also a bit skiddy. My husband did go flying for a split second, be careful! When you think you're at the top, walk a little further around until you can see the falls. You can't see Bow Glacier anymore, but other glaciers are visible. We stopped and had lunch here. From there, you can continue on to the base of the falls, assuming that part is open. We decided not to as we'd already done a couple of shorter walks that day and our legs were tired. It's a lovely, relatively easy walk, and the lake and high valley are stunning. Well worth it for a couple of hours! Only downside is the parking. There's nowhere near enough in high season and no nearby alternatives. We hovered in the car park until someone left, as we'd cone a long way to do this walk.

So we wanted to do this hike to completion and go up to the portal summit but it turns out that the closure is part of that trail so we decided to do the bow hut trail instead. The overall hike was easy to moderate go steep. We hike often so for us it was more of a easy to moderate hike. We took our dog with us and there are plenty of stops for water along the way. If you decide to go to the falls you can get close but don't go past the sign. In Banff there is a posting about a 25,000 dollar fine if you go past it and I'm not sure what Canada does to enforce that. We decided to not take the risk. It's beautiful and get there early so you aren't fighting for a parking spot.

Bow Glacier Falls is an incredible hike with stunning rewards at the end. The trail starts at Bow Lake and takes you along turquoise waters with breathtaking mountain views the whole way. The hike is moderately challenging but very manageable, and each turn brings a new perspective of the lake, river, and rugged peaks. The falls themselves are powerful and beautiful, cascading down from the glacier—it feels like standing at the source of nature itself. It can get windy and chilly near the falls, so bring a jacket. Overall, this is one of the most scenic hikes in the Icefields Parkway area and definitely worth the effort.

This is a major commitment! 3+ hours depending on your abilities. The walk along the lake is stunning. The staircase is notable. Can be super tough for short people. The boulder field of rocks moved by the glacier is 300-400yd slog. The fall is truly unbelievable. A MUST DO if you are in the area and have a half day.

The Helen Lake trail starts with a climb through the forest. As you climb there is always a great view of the Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake. Eventually, the hike opens up to a flat meadow. Once you are in the meadows you have grand views of the mountains that surround the area.

Very rewarding hike! As someone who enjoys moderate hikes, this one was on the harder side for me, mainly for the steepness of first 4km or so. Once you get to the top of the ridge where it starts to flatten out, the views are absolutely breathtaking. As I've seen others say, while the lake is the focal point of the destination, it is not the rewarding prize of the hike. It is a nice place to sit and have lunch, However we were underwhelmed when we finally saw it lol. Once you turn around and start heading back down tho is when we found the views to be the most spectacular. The meadow you walk through is such a beautiful area. We left at noon and it was sunset just as we arrived back at the parking lot, and we took our time (late september). So if youre going for the beautiful views of the mountains and alpine meadows definitely recommend! If youre searching for a lake with the glacier blue waters like many of the lakes around here, this isnt it. Would recommend this hike while you're in the area, if you want to go farther there is the option to continue on above the ridge behind the lake and said to be Lake Katherine not far after that, we didn't make it that far tho. Happy Hiking!

Trail is really wonderful. Trail was good but avoid when it’s rainy.

One of the best hikes we did in Jasper so far!

An incredible trail that leads you out of the tree line within 3.5 km. Although Helen Lake is beautiful, the real prize is the headwall above it and beyond (either scrambling Cirque Peak or heading to Dolomite Pass via Katharine Lake). Marmots and views a plenty!

What a great view from the top of the ridge! Seems to usually have a massive, cold wind coming over the top. Being from Saskatchewan, I've always wanted to see the beginning of the Saskatchewan river.

This hike is a must! The parking lot has little space maybe about 20-30 cars but almost never full with lots of spaces full. Their hotel nearby trip up was great especially since it snowed the other night which made for a great snowball fight. At the top of the ridge it’s a little windy so bring some layers. You can go to either the glacier viewpoint or the Mountain View. Their hotel nearby glacier viewpoint is about 1.5km (1 mile) from the intersection. Their hotel nearby view is gorgeous in which being able to see the Columbia ice field, a glacier, lake, and a river. The last 10 minutes of the trail is a little sketchy so be careful. The whole trip we didn’t see any wildlife so it was so amazing to finally see a pack of about 10 mountain goats! The Mountain View trail was covered in snow so had to do some trail finding and at the top were some wind blockers for tents and cooking. The views were great! Even some fossils on the trail. You can see the parking lot form the top of the ridge and be cautious because on the way down it is slippery.

In my opinion the best hiking trail in the BANFF area, it isn’t too hard for a great range of people to complete and the view is awesome. There’s also several places you can go by walking along Parker’s ridge that have equally good viewpoints with some even being better.

This place is so surreal, easily the best in Banff & Jasper that I've been.

Visited late Sep. IMO here is the best place to hike for the best view considering the elevation and difficulty. About 90 minutes to hike up at a comfortable pace. Recommend to allocate at least 30 minutes to take in the view from each end of the ridge.

Amazing trail with little work so the view is definitely worth it.

Whether you're walking on a valley slope or a plain, you can hear the howling wind. It's the echo of the centuries, coming from the past, unceasing...

Absolutely amazing trail. Recommend wearing hiking boots as well as using poles. Lots of uphill and quite the workout. It’s about 9.5 km up and back down if you do the whole trail. The views during the hike are amazing and beautiful. Lots of little patches of running water. The view at the top is gorgeous. It is a lot colder at the top, so be sure to dress warm! Takes about 3-4 hours for the whole hike, depending on how many breaks you take.

What a wonderful view of the Athabasca glacier from the Wilcox Pass Trail! It’s a moderate hike with sweeping views of the glacier throughout. Highly recommend doing this trail instead of paying to take the bus that parks on the toe of the glacier….seems like the worst way to view a glacier while destroying it at the same time!!

Stunning view!!!! Worth hiking all the way up!

great views of the glaciers at the end of the trail. It's around 5 km one way to the end. Steep sections. I would recommend proper footwear and trekking poles.

Easy and pleasant hike. Family friendly. Be careful to dress warmly for the peak. It’s very windy!

Walked this after hiking Parker Ridge and only hiked up to the red chairs. View of the Athabasca Glacier and surrounding areas were superb.

By far one of the most amazing trails I've ever done,make sure you dress well and are prepared for a few hour hike.Once you finish switchbacks you are quickly above the treeline and looking at the sheer beauty of the icefields parkway and all the glaciers and the highway way down below.I would say 10 years old and up should have no issues at all keeping in mind there are some places you would not want to fall off of if too curious,this is a hikers,nature lovers and photographers paradise.Once you hit the red chairs keep going the views improve all the way!!

Summer activity located within the sunshine ski area inside Banff national park. Beautiful high alpine meadow with expansive views and well maintained hiking trails. Visited in early July, taking the gondolas up and an additional chairlift. You get to walk and view a high alpine meadow at around 8000' ASL without having to hike up. The views are expansive and spectacular, it wasn't crowded at all like other nearby attractions at Banff. Do bring a jacket as it can be windy and much colder at the top. Expect to spend about 3 hours here to enjoy the sights and walk around. The gondola and lift takes 30 minute each way and you will want to walk around for 2 hours. There is a basic cafe and washroom at the upper gondolas station. But do not come here for fancy service, come here for the view of high alpine meadow and light hiking. There is a fee for the gondolas ride but you can buy on the spot or online.

This gondola was fantastic! Much better than the Banff one in my opinion. This experience was longer, included the chair/ski lift, and the gondolas were more spacious as they are actually used for skiing. The views were phenomenal and there were lots of hiking trails at the top. Highly recommend checking this gondola out!

Me and my step son went here for a fun outing this summer. I am pregnant and wanted something that would still captivate us like a hike but not make me carry anything!!! We were not disappointed. A lot of cute chipmunk and pikas. Great views and many trails to take at your own pace.

Gondola ride was so nice and long I really love how everything is preserved and taken cake of surrounding the trails. Although the camera in the deck didnt have enough instructions for us to have a proper photo.

The visitors center recommend this area. It did not disappoint. The views are great. Really vast, with so many wildflowers (August) and views of peaks far off, not to forget the 3 lakes. It takes a Gondola ride and an open chairlift to get to the viewing deck. At this time (Aug. 12th 2023) it was $65 CAD. Worth every penny. The hike down from the viewing deck is not bad. In a turn of events we could not hike back up to the viewing deck because they were working on the chair lift. So we had to take the other route to the East down to the top of the Gondola. It's much less uphill which is nice after hiking around.

Absolutely beautiful!! My daughter and I did the grizzly, Laryx loop hike today and we both really enjoyed the whole trip, the gondola and chair lift rides up were fun and the hike was beautiful. Perfect weather and abundant wildflowers and pretty lakes made the hike unforgettable. Easy hike around the lakes and some up hill hiking on the return but nothing too strenuous if reasonably fit. I would not hesitate to recommend sunshine meadows and I will return. Bring bug spray.

By far my favorite place in Banff. The gondola ride to the village and chairlift to the top is the way to go. Plenty of hiking and amazing views all around. Wide open range right on the border of Alberta and BC.

One of the most special, magical and incredible places in the world. The view is just magic. You feel a connection with the place that is hard to explain. The pictures are not great enough to capture the amazing view. About the place: You can explore different trails there to get to know the place. In order to get to the lake you need to take the Oficial shuttle of the park.

My favourite lake in all of Canada, nothing compares to this incredible shade of blue! It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. This place feels truly special and simply being there is a beautiful reminder of how amazing it is to be alive.

⭐ Spectacular! Moraine lake and the ten peaks. So beautiful it is a MUST visit. No regrets! Some said the view on the morning is stunning with the sun shining on the peaks. Am happy to be there in the late afternoon as it is less crowded. Can walk on the beach but lots of pebbles and stones. Will need to book and take a shuttle to Moraine Lake as it is off limits to vehicles unless staying in the lodge.

Decided to walk along the road of Morraine Lake today , weather is sunny and not too cold .The view is stunning ,has flowing river and small water fall ,12 KM walk ,it took us 3 hours to the lake and 4 hours back due to issue related to hiking shoes.

Very pretty lake, beautiful views, you can soak in the nature, breathe in and take nice pictures. The parking lot is decent,there’s washrooms and short walk so definitely must try! Top tourist spot so it does get busy, there’s a cute bakery shop and yes it does sell samosas! Also, the bathroom’s smell super bad so please be careful!

One of the rare places on earth that actually looks better in person than in the millions of photos that have been taken. Unreal colours, truly spectacular location that should be (and clearly is) on everyone’s bucket list. Worth any amount of hassle and crowds to get a glimpse of one of the most beautiful places on the entire planet!!

Absolutely stunning lake with crystal clear blue waters. Arriving early is going to give you the best views and allow you to enjoy the scenery without the crowds. Can be a little difficult to figure out the Park Canada Shuttle but recommend Moraine Lake first in the morning. The 2 day advance shuttle tickets are a great way for late planners to join the fun.

Came in late April when the grounds still mostly frozen so crampons are a must. The hike was moderately challenging but made the view more worth it. The tea house is closed at this time of year, so we just admired the mountains and snowy lake.

Tea house is the most popular point. You can buy a drink and sit beside the lakeshore to consider hiking to Big or Little beehive.

Beautiful lake. It’s about 3 miles to reach, we started at 5:30 AM so it was perfectly empty. We met some people at the lake. Yea house is open 8:30am-4 pm. I recommend walking around the lake . A lot of people on way back. But I think this is one of the most popular short hikes.

Take the trail from lake louise to mirror lake and agnes tea house to get to this lake next to agnes tea house. It is a pretty easy hike thatvis mostly uphill. Remember if you want to get anything from the tea house expect to wait 30 minutes or longer and that they only accept cash.

I cannot speak about the hike here because I booked a horse ride that reaches this lake, which I recommend for those on the lazier side like me!

Awesome lake! Tea house opens at 8 and a line on Tuesday. About an hour uphill walk for our crew of 8. A bit muddy after the rain 🌧️ 57 stairs at the end at the tea house by the small waterfall 💦 Helicopter is taking out the outhouse barrels for the first 30 minutes of the day 🚁 Parking is $37 and need to be at lake louise by 6am 🅿️ Thank you from your Arizona friends 😎😇🙏

Hiking level of difficulty is medium/moderate. You will pass by Mirror Lake before reaching Lake Agnes. There’s a Tea House beside it & a waterfall. It feels rewarding to have a place to sit down & rest and have a snack & drink after about an hour of hiking. I found it very surprising to have a cell phone signal. You have to hike a little bit up to go to washrooms. The path going up past the washrooms will lead you to Little Beehive. Hike for another 30 minutes & you’ll reach the top with even more spectacular views! If you walk toward northwest along the path on right side of lake it will lead you to either the Big Beehive that has a great view of Lake Louise below or to the Plain of 6 Glaciers.

Lake louise is indeed a tip of our best holiday. The mountain range, the clear blue water, and super nice weather on september will be memorable

Amazing view! If you visit Lake Louise you must go to this place since the view from here is amazing and distance from the lake is not that much, around 20 minutes one way. The color of the lake is better from 11am to 2pm since the sunlight makes the lake appear a deep turquoise color.

This is a breathtaking viewpoint that demands a visit! Just be aware that despite the "easy" rating, the trail is steep and relentlessly uphill, requiring a bit of exertion. The true highlight of our visit, though, was an absolutely amazing and rare sighting of a Lynx right along the path! The views and the wildlife make this stop unforgettable.

I’m so glad we decided to go ahead with our plan, even though there was a light snow forecast (30%) the night before. The Fairview Lookout hike is short and easy, especially with proper shoes or boots, and using cleats and trekking poles during the snowy weather. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top, and around an hour total for the round trip. Once you reach the lookout, you’re rewarded with a magical panoramic view of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and the turquoise lake below.. absolutely breathtaking!

Quite a steep walk up, but the view of Lake Louise from above is beautiful. Need some stamina and some climbing through uneven footpath. The lake looks very turquoise and huge from above.

The Fairview Lookout is about a 90 minute return easy hike, from the end of the lake by the Hotel to a viewpoint of the lake and hotel. Going is mostly uphill, so it can be a challenge for persons without a moderate to good level of fitness. As an older couple we required a few pauses. When we arrived at the loookout we noticed young women still carrying their starbusck coffeees, and a mother carrying a 6 week old baby. I use the word “easy" with them in mind. It was a good option in October, since the original plan to the Old tea House was a no-good as the tea house had already closed for the season.

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Lookout in Banff National Park, Alberta, offers one of the most famous viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies. From the hotel’s grounds or nearby trails, you get a breathtaking view of turquoise Lake Louise framed by the Victoria Glacier and surrounding peaks. Many visitors take the short Fairview Lookout Trail (about 2 km round trip) for an elevated perspective of the lake and the Fairmont itself.

A beautifully wooded hike leading up the mountain towards a great open expanse. It's a relatively difficult hike with about 800m of elevation with many switchbacks but it's totally worth it for the view at the end.

The amphitheater itself is breathtaking! A moderate grind of switchbacks make up about half of the ascent, without much view due to forest cover (the lack of reinforcement during this stretch is my only reason for a -1 star); however, once in the last couple of km the terrain opens up into the back of the ‘crown’ and it is worth the trip... undoubtedly.

Great walk , long trail through the Forrest if you're doing the whole cascade mountain trail but beautiful walk

Challengingly long hike and only recommended in a bit of cooler weather, but overall worth it. Did this for the second time

Really underrated hike. I encountered maybe 5 groups on the trail, and most of them were campers and backpackers. It is really hard, but definitely worth it. Prepare for lots of incline and extreme wind at the top. It took me about 7 hours to complete the 15 miles. There is possibility of seeing bears on the trail so be prepared with bear spray. Overall definitely worth it, but very grueling so you must be fit and experienced. It is a beautiful lookout of Lake Minnewanka that I was able to capture with the 0.5 feature on my phone. Additionally, I came to Banff in late June, so this hike was the most difficult hike in Banff National Park that was safe to hike (no avalanche danger). It is 15 miles and 3,500ft of elevation gain, although my apple watch recording said the round trip was only 3,000ft of elevation gain.

After 7.5 miles. I need to say this is the most beautiful hike I did in my life. Worth it each foot you walk. 100% recommend.

Straight uphill for what feels like forever with no views except the trees on both sides. As if the maintainers have no concept of what a switch-back is. The top has a lovely view, but you literally get the same view from the lake far below. I wish I hadn't wasted the time (and knee pain) on this one.

Long hiking, but the lookout has the best view.

Great hike for anyone wanting a relatively easy hike,

One of the best Hiking Trail. Checked out my pictures.

Beautiful, cascading falls close to the Banff Springs Hotel. Easy walk from anywhere in town along the Bow River Trail. I highly recommend walking the entire Bow River Trail when you go. It has spectacular scenery of all the surrounding mountains with well done art walk along the way.

It's nice and neat to see the rock under the water and hotel. You can get good photos from either side of the falls. There are better falls though but good to see if your in Banff for the day.

Bow Falls is a beautiful and powerful waterfall located just a short walk from downtown Banff. It's an easy and accessible spot, perfect for a quick visit or a peaceful stroll along the nearby trails. The surrounding mountain views add to the charm, especially during sunrise or sunset. While not a very tall waterfall, its width and force make it a must-see attraction in Banff.

So cool to walk along the art walk on our way to the falls! There were tons of people around but nothing ever felt crowded because there’s so much space. A beautiful place you gotta see!

Great parking space. It got chilly and windy but the falls was so far the widest though shortest I’ve seen. The sound of the falls just couldn’t be beat regardless! Great stop!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bow Falls is an absolute gem that showcases the natural beauty of Banff without requiring a strenuous hike. Located just a short walk from the Banff Springs Hotel, these cascading falls offer stunning views year-round, though they're particularly impressive during spring runoff when the water volume is at its peak. The paved pathway makes it accessible for visitors of all ages and mobility levels, which is wonderful for families. The viewing areas provide excellent photo opportunities, especially with the iconic Banff Springs Hotel creating a dramatic backdrop. The sound of rushing water creates a peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for a moment of reflection. While not as towering as some of the region's other waterfalls, Bow Falls has a charm all its own. The wide, multi-tiered cascade creates beautiful patterns in the rock, and the surrounding forest adds to the scenic appeal. It's an ideal spot for a quick nature break if you're staying in town or exploring the Bow River area. The only minor drawback is that it can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be more peaceful. Despite the crowds, it remains a must-see attraction that captures the essence of the Canadian Rockies in an easily accessible setting.

Easy enough walk from & back to Banff Centre. Lovely outdoor art installations by local Bow Valley artists, part of the 'Art in Nature Trail' on display along the trail.

Really nice and simple hike. Do you need poles? Not unless you have bad knees. I have a few pictures that show a really smooth trail except for a few parts. It’s cardiovascular challenge but not a technical hike at all. The tea house on top is wonderful. It took us about 1.2 hours to get to the tea house and 45 min to get down from there. Highly recommend it!

This little surprise at the top by beehive mountain was great! They had a huge selection of teas maybe around 30 different ones. The food menu itself was okay having no items contains meat on the menu but still had some great soup and yummy nachos. The views from the top were fantastic being able to see the lake and the mountains as well as the whole valley with a little waterfall at the top! Only downside is that the bathrooms are a little hike up and there only 2 so there’s a line.

one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. great hike up to the tea house (just over 2 miles/3km) starting down by the real touristy area of Lake Louise meandering its way up to Mirror Lake (which splits off into other, longer hikes for those who are more prepared) people riding horses, lots of mountains and snowy peaks (even in the summer) low lying fog/clouds. what I would most recommend for the hike up is to go as early as possible (like be there by 8:30am) the trail gets super busy, so the earlier you get there, the less it will feel like your in an outdoor checkout line and the more it will feel like an amazing hike. The tea house is great. The food lovely, the views even better. Definitely a recommend from me, and one of the neatest places I’ve ever been.

Great experience at the end of a beautiful hike! Tea biscuits and jam were great. The Lake Agnes Breakfast Tea was good too. They were accepting cards when I was there. Save the staff some trouble and offer to carry down a (small) bag of trash when you leave!

The hike up to Lake Agnes Tea House is fantastic; the tea house itself, however, leaves a bit to be desired. Luke-warm tea and everything else served at room temperature, which is quite cold. Granted, it’s in the middle of a mountain, but surely a hot cup of tea isn’t too much to ask for, nor warm scones/biskets. Service was more patchy than consistent. Considering the location and the view, I can see so much potential to turn this tea house into something special. Maybe it was because we were nearing the end of the season and it was closed inside. Not sure.

🍵 Must go tea house!!!! Just finished the gorgeous 6km hike up from Lake Louise and this place is the perfect reward. The tea house is incredibly cozy and has such a unique, almost Himalayan feel to it. It's like a little piece of the Alps or Tibet tucked away in the mountains. The baked goods are fantastic, we had a chocolate loaf and a cinnamon loaf, both were super fresh and delicious. The tea (we tried the maple black and Long Island strawberry green) was the perfect thing to warm up with. For the quality and the fact they haul everything up by foot or horses, the prices are totally fair and reasonable. And huge bonus points, they take credit/debit cards! No need to stress about carrying cash up the trail. So convenient. This spot is a true Canadian gem. If you make the trek to Lake Louise, you gotta hike up to this tea house. It's an unforgettable experience. Pro Tip: The hike is a good workout, so bring water and layers. But knowing a pot of amazing tea and a treat are waiting for you at the top makes it all worthwhile

After a rewarding 3.5 km hike from Lake Louise, we stopped at the Lake Agnes Tea House and it was absolutely worth it! They have an amazing selection of teas, and the view from the top is just breathtaking. A perfect spot to relax, sip, and soak in the beauty around.

Amazing spot with interesting history. Feels like going to a fairy godmother's house. Love the spot and the experience, but there definitely were some negatives. Staff was great, pleasant, and they provided excellent service. Between both of our sandwiches and chili we found 3 long hairs in the food. I guess when you are eating food in the middle of nowhere and it is prepared by people lodging for 5 days at a time you can't be too picky. Unfortunately we also may have heard from a little woodland birdie that management may not be too kind... I would love to give 5 stars for the experience, but that doesn't feel right. Come and enjoy the grounds, but maybe consider packing your own lunch to eat on the benches nearby.

Lovely tea house. Our server was very friendly. The chili and corn chips were great. Hot chocolate was hot which is good in near freezing temperature in October. We sat upstairs and saw a chunk of snow fell of the glacier with a thunderous sound. Price is reasonable.

Lovely little teahouse near the end of the Plain of the Six Glaciers trail. Prices are a little high but given the location I take no issue with this, and having a hot bowl of soup and some hot chocolate after a long hike is always a glorious experience. Staff were warm and efficient. I was certainly a lot happy giving this locally-run enterprise our tourist dollars than the snooty hotel café down below.

Bring Canadian cash/currency! They do not take credit card saw some people make the mistake of not bringing any. This tea house was amazing. The tea selection was okay, but the atmosphere was great. Also the food was delicious - make sure to get the chocolate cake!

Hiking to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse was an unforgettable experience! The trail offers stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding glaciers, making the hike well worth the effort. The teahouse itself is charming and welcoming. The staff were incredibly friendly, and we even enjoyed meeting the staff dog who was there that day. We enjoyed a sweet baked good and lemonade, which were both delicious. We had brought cash based on prior reviews and recommendations, but when we were there they had a card reader working, though I’d still suggest bringing cash just in case of connectivity issues. This is a must-visit for anyone in the area, combining beautiful scenery, a cozy teahouse, and wonderful staff.

This place was so magical. I love this concept! We went up to the viewpoint before coming back to the teahouse because we wanted to get the hard part done first. Everyone was so friendly and warm. The food was very good! We especially loved the cinnamon streusel cake. Will be dreaming of that forever. We are glad we didn’t stop at the other teahouse on our nearly 12 mile hike. This one seemed a little less crowded and less chaotic. Highly recommend. Thank you to the staff that makes this possible. It was a very welcome sight for us tired hikers.

Stopped by for break, cinnamon loaf and maple tea were wonderful. Spectacular views too! However, it was rather concerning to see a manager acting aggressively towards one of the staff . Completely interrupted the peaceful atmosphere and it was very uncomfortable for us to witness. If the managers act like this in front of customers, I can only imagine what it’s like behind closed doors. I do hope the server was okay and that this was a one-off, as otherwise it was a delightful cafe to visit

A gorgeous lake with stunning views year round. Each season offers something different. Quite peaceful and serene in the winter, vibrant in the summer. Atmosphere is beautiful, definitely worth a stop.

Beautiful lake that perhaps has a less dramatic viewpoint than Peyto Lake but still worth a visit. Do note that it is more difficult to get out to the lakeshore when it’s wet as the foreshore area turns into mud.

It's a really nice lake, even if it's not as well-known as Louise or Moraine. Definitely worth checking out, but the parking and facilities weren't great.

Alberta has many big and beautiful lakes. Lake Bow is also a great lake! It gives me relaxation and comfort. I recommend you to go if you have a chance.

Personally, I prefer Bow Lake to Lake Louise. Bow Lake has fewer people, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere amidst beautiful natural surroundings. It’s only about a 30-minute drive from Lake Louise to Bow Lake, making it a worthwhile destination. If you enjouy hiking, there are several impressive trails, such as my favorite trails, The Onion and Iceberg Lake.

Bow Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park. Laying at the base of Bow Summit, you can observe beautiful mountain scales set with this gorgeous lake. Bow lodge, once a private residence and sold in 1996, has a “Provisions” area and small patio where you can enjoy a sandwich, coffee or dessert. They have a parking lot and it’s a very short walk to the lake.

Easily reached by car with roadside parking and a viewing platform Bow Lake is a must-stop for any Icefields Parkway journey. Its striking glacial colors, peaceful atmosphere, and accessibility make it ideal for both brief visits and extended exploration. Whether you’re snapping a quick photo, paddling the turquoise water, or hiking toward the glacier, it’s a highlight that outshines its roadside appearance.

Prefect for a half day hike with breathtaking views of lake Minnewanka, and C-Level Cirque. Trail is easy to follow, well maintained, and fairly steep. The last mile up is the steepest part of the climb. Trail wasn’t too busy for a Wednesday morning. Plenty of parking in the lot. Pit toilets available at trailhead. We saw chunky marmots sunning themselves on boulders, Pikas scurrying with mouthfuls of fodder for their winter storage, BigHorn Sheep, and plenty of birds. Came across a group of ladies from Calgary who do Wednesday weekly organized hikes, one was celebrating her 84tb birthday. If that doesn’t inspire you, I don’t know what would! They were fabulous! Bring plenty of water as you are above treeline when you get above the alpine.

Despite what the trailhead signs and maps say, this is a 10 km round-trip out and back hike. Easy parking at the trailhead with bathrooms on site. Hike itself starts off easy with a constant but gradual incline through the trees in an old mine. Did not see any wildlife all day, but have heard some were seen previously on the trail. Once you get to the cirque, which is probably about an hour in, it’s a huge clearing right beside cascade mountain, providing expensive views of the valley and lake. From here on out, it’s a pretty steep and strenuous climb. Take your time, do not rush this part. Definitely worth it in the end. I would say there is not that much in the way of seat options at the summit, but you can find places to rest. Easier coming down obviously, go slow as the incline is pretty steep. We definitely recommend hiking poles as it can make your life way easier. The descent is definitely tough on the legs and knees.

Moderately challenging hike, steady uphill from the start with some tough bits, and a steep rocky scramble for the last km or so, but the views are well worth the climb. Can see the trans-canada stretching out through the valley as well as Lake Minnewanka below. Trail is clear to follow, albeit eroded quite a bit in some places. Bathrooms at the parking lot which was large with plenty of open spaces on the sunday morning we went.

A steep climb from the beginning. Could see old mining pits that are not in use. Better if you can use walking sticks. The trail was well maintained and no way to loose the trail. You can hike further after the cirque point. That part is pretty hard as you have to climb through loose rocks and very steep.

Great hike. Moderate in the beginning and end, easy in between. About 750 meters incline . It took us about four hours to climb up and return. 13 kms in total. We took breaks. It isn't one of the best trail I have been to but it was ok. Two viewpoints on the way and a good view from top. There was a small bear that went it's way.

Great hike with a perfect view to Lake Minnewanka. I would recommend bringing poles for the upper part and also BRING BUG SPRAY!

The hike took us about an hour and a half. The view is spectacular at the top. Near the top there was a part looked like you were staring at a big super HDTV screen. There was so much details all in one view. It was so cool and trippy at the same time. There was some mosquitoes but it was not bad. I didn't get bit. Through majority of the hike we very covered by tall trees. There were plenty of shade. Near the top we fond a small glacier pond. Pretty neat. The difficulty level of this trail is average.

If you are physically fit and rather not pay $$ to ride the gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain, then you may want to consider spending 1.5 hr hiking up this trail to this popular tourist attraction. The hike is continuous gradual climb but the terrain is friendly and relatively even. Endurance is the key for this hike and the reward at the end is well worth the effort.

Breathtaking views on the way and up there. The best is when a nice sunny weather to see whole valley beneath. The option of taking the Gondola one way down is available, depending on availability. Some loops are steep but clearly marked and sign posted. Absolutely loved it.

We decided do this trail on our first full day in Canada, and hired some trekking poles. We started very early, about 7.30am and only saw two others on the trail up. It was very overcast and foggy so visibility was poor to non existent all the way up and at the top. Walking was generally not too bad, steep at the switchbacks and then an unrelenting section nearer the top, then the elevation started to pinch and become noticeable. We are moderately fit, and it was perfectly doable. Very, very busy at the top because of the gondola. Queued for ages for a hot drink. Saw a marmot and lots of chipmunks. Walk down was quicker but harder on the knees. Fog lifted so there were some views but not the best. Passed lots of people coming up as we descended, so I imagine it's a busy trail later in the day. A worthwhile hike it you like mountains!

As a total beginner hiker, this hike was hard for a few reasons. 1. Steepness - it gets your heart rate up fast. 2. Height - It gets really high up and I have a fear of heights so I had to really focus and stay calm at some parts of the hike. 3. Length - the hike was long. We took about 2.5hr because I had to stop every 10 steps or so at some parts of it. But it was worth it in the end! Beautiful views and quite a few things to do up at the summit - cute gift shop with lots of beautiful and good valued goodies, there’s an exhibition to get to know the mountain/banff more, some boardwalk that goes further out, a free musical performance, and more. It was pretty cold and windy at the summit so you’ll want to bring gloves, hat and a good jacket to keep yourself warm.

I took the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain and then hiked along the summit trails — it was an amazing experience. The walk took around 2–3 hours round trip, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys at every step. At the top, there are restaurants, restrooms, and gift shops, making it a very comfortable place to spend time and enjoy the scenery. The combination of the gondola ride and the hike made this one of the highlights of my Banff trip. Highly recommend!

It is a mighty hike. If you're fit and well it is very do-able. Switch back trail so easy enough if you have stamina. Pleasant walk and well worth it to have said "I walked to the top"... you can always take the gondola down...

The Sulphur Mountain Trail is a rewarding hike with incredible views over Banff and the surrounding Rockies. It’s a steady climb with lots of switchbacks, but very doable if you take your time. At the top, you’re treated to sweeping panoramas, boardwalks to explore, and the Cosmic Ray Station site. You can hike up and ride the gondola down if you want to save your knees. A must-do adventure in Banff!

It was my first time hiking and it was tough but worth the effort to reach the top.

The trail above treeline was pretty dry, dusty, and slippery, but all walking (no scramble) and well worth the summit! The views are uncannily impressive, look like a theater backdrop, etc. I had the top to myself around 6pm on a weeknight and would gladly go sit up there again

The name of Mount Fairview speaks for itself. The view from the summit, which is 2744 m high, is fairly spectacular. Winning location between Paradise Valley and The Plain of Six Glaciers, together with open views to Bow Valley, Skoki Valley and Icefield Parkway provides a unique opportunity to see the vast area of Banff National Park from a single spot. The proximity of the hanging glaciers of Mount Aberdeen, Lefroy and Victoria is mesmerizing. Azure Lake Louise, emerald Mirror Lake, pure blue Lake Agnes, deep blue Hector Lake, and greyish blue Bow River add aqua splashes and ribbons to this picturesque mountains scenery. The 4.9 km one way with 1012 m elevation gain, mostly hiking, trail to Mount Fairview starts from Lake Louise upper parking lot, leads to Saddleback Pass and from there clumbs to summit. It is very popular whole year round, but especially during the golden larches weeks: middle-end of September - beginning of October.

Such a great hike!! I've done it a few different times of the year and it's always amazing! Parking can be an issue given the access is from the Fairmont Lake Louise parking lot. But this is also a plus after the hike if you're craving a beverage and snack. It has its somewhat steep parts, but the alpine flowers can be incredible!

I will rate this hike as moderate the trail is well maintained just watch out for bears if you do it early in the morning. The ascent to the summit is well worth it. You will be have an HD view of Lake Louise and the surrounding majestic mountains of the Rockies.

Beautiful hike during larch season! Mt Fairview is a great hike, there is a trail right to the top, no scrambling required!

Ascent to Fairview Mountain I would put among the short list of the best hikes in Lake Louise area of Banff National Park. About 4 first kilometers of cool forest trail brings you to the Saddle Pass with astounding views of Mt. Temple, Paradise Valley and other surrounding peaks. Final part is steep and strenuous. But you will be reworded for all tough job - gorgeous panorama of all Lake Louise beauties.

Beautiful and fairly easy hike, about an hour each way. Definitely recommended if you want to get away from the insane crowds at the main entry area of Moraine. Not many people on the trail and super peaceful. A bit of a rocky scramble at the end if you want to get close to the lake. We had a peaceful lunch on a big rock on the lake. Not many mosquitoes when we went (mid July).

If you're looking for a serene hike with stunning views, Consolation Lakes is a great choice. The trail is relatively easy, and the scenery is breathtaking. The lakes are surrounded by towering mountains, making for some amazing photo ops. A must-visit if you're already in the Moraine Lake area

Very few people on this trail so this easy hike was awesome! Too bad there are too many mosquitos. The trail ends and getting to the actual lake is challenging.

Great experience. We walk the rock path and saw the amazing view. The water is a beautiful blue color. 5-10 minute walk up the stairs for group photos. Definetly the best place for photos. The chipmunks are the top of the rock area are fun to watch. Bathrooms are locked near the front of the area.

About 2 to 3 hours for the hike from Moraine Lake. Relatively easy hike. No steep slopes and clear marked path. Well worth the final viewpoint

Great hike, not difficult, some rock scrambling required once you get to the lakes

Consolation Lakes is a very underrated part of Banff as the lakes rival the beauty of any other lake in Banff. Consolation Lakes is never that busy either and it's located right next to Moraine Lake. The trail is about 6 km round trip if you only go to the first lake. The second lake is quite hard to reach as you would have to climb over boulders for about a km. The elevation is gradual as the hike only has about 122 metres of elevation which is nothing over 3 km and near the first lake you do need to climb some boulders, but is not too technical in any way. Bear spray is also recommended as you do leave the main areas behind. You are practically guaranteed to see Marmots as well. Overall Consolation Lakes is practically heaven for anyone wanting to see a glacier lake in Banff with minimal people and it's not even that hard of a hike to get there, Consolation Lakes is amazing.

We started the hike at 10:30 AM. The first 4 km through the forest had a lot of mosquitoes, so insect repellent is highly recommended. The trail up to Helen Lake is relatively easy and scenic, with steady elevation gain and beautiful views. From Helen Lake onward, the stretch to Cirque Peak becomes much more challenging, with steep elevation and loose scree. Be prepared for strong winds and colder temperatures at the summit—an extra layer is definitely recommended. Overall, a rewarding hike with stunning alpine scenery, but come prepared for bugs, wind, and a tough final climb.

Total around 20 km up and down . 6 km to the Helen lake easy trail not much elevation gain . Hard part is after Helen lake . Easy scramble and peak is very steep . We complete in 6.5 hours . We start around 5:30 am and took us 3 and half hour to the peak with breaks . We saw bear on the trail so be prepared with ur bear spray or whistle . Over all great hike with amazing views on the peak

One of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done. Made it about 100m short of the peak due to weather and the fact I was the last one back. Clocked 10 miles. It started with forest, then subalpine, then alpine starting on the ascent. I went in early July with a late start to spring, so blooms were exploding everywhere. My favorite parts were witnessing a porcupine crossing the road, seeing bow lake from above, and catching a glimpse of iceberg lake from the peak. The most difficult part of the hike was mental - trudging through sometimes thigh high snow, sinking my shoe in false snow steps ending up in completely soaked shoes (3 times!), and the ascent up the peak with unrelenting wind whipping any loose strand of hair on my face. All worth it though!

Awesome hike! Come prepared for a difficult trail and variable weather. It’s worth every step, I promise.

After a slightly monotonous uphill climb, you find yourself walking along a breathtaking trail with the Dolomites rising dramatically on your right, as if you’re strolling through a garden made for the gods on the way to Helen Lake. The path feels almost magical. Along the way, marmots whistle and greet hikers with their fluffy, chubby little bodies, making the journey even more delightful. Once you take a short break at Helen Lake, the real ascent to Cirque Peak begins. The climb is steep and covered in loose gravel, making every step a challenge, but when you finally reach the summit, the view is nothing short of spectacular. The sight of The Onion from above, along with the sweeping glaciers stretching out behind, is an unforgettable scene that makes all the effort worthwhile. Winter is just around the corner, and soon this trail will be covered in snow, so it feels even more special to get out there while you still can. Truly one of the most beautiful hikes you can do — absolutely worth every step.

The view from the top was AWESOME! The hike was brutal, especially the scramble up loose rock, but the view at the end was worth all the work. Did this as a 12 year old, so it wasn't easy, but I think anyone could do this if they trained a bit and set their mind to it. The trail could be better, hopefully it will improve, as the descent felt sketchy. I'll try to summit Mount Temple this year, we'll see how that goes.....

This is an easy hike going to lake helen but it's a different story if your attempting Cirque Peak the ascent is just brutal if you're a beginner. At the summit the climb was all worth it incredible 360 views from Bow Peak to Crowfoot glacier. And dolomite pass.

Lake Minnewanka is so beautiful, with this fantastic water color, and this scenic Rockies view. We are paddle board lovers, so my pictures are most taken during paddling. It has a good parking lot, but you should get there early, because it gets full pretty easy. Next time we go there, we will explore the trails.

Beautiful lake with amazing colorful mountains surrounding the lake. Wildlife are often seen near or around the lake. This is a huge tourist attraction as there is a boat launch where you can take boat rides around the lake. The drive up to Lake Minnewanka is stunning in the fall when all the leaves are in full color. There are trails for walking, rocks for sitting and soaking in the beauty. One of the must visits when in the Banff area.

Very pretty lake, beautiful views, you can soak in the nature, breathe in and take nice pictures. The parking lot is decent,there’s washrooms and short walk so definitely must try!

Spending a day at the lake was a refreshing escape from the rush of daily life. The calm water mirrored the blue sky like glass, creating a picture so serene it almost didn’t feel real. Gentle waves lapped against the wooden dock, and every sound — from birds calling across the water to the rustling trees — blended into a natural symphony that melted away stress. What stood out most was the feeling of balance: moments of silence followed by laughter as families paddled by in canoes or kids skipped stones near the shore. The air felt cleaner, cooler, and full of life. Sitting close to the edge, I could see tiny fish darting through the shallows, while sunlight flickered on the surface like silver sparks. Whether walking along the path, taking photos of the sunset, or simply sitting still, the lake offered something rare — genuine stillness. As the evening came, golden light touched the treetops and the reflection deepened into shades of amber and blue. It was the kind of view that made you pause and breathe differently, aware of how healing simple beauty can be. Overall, my visit to the lake felt like a quiet reset button for the mind and soul. It reminded me that peace doesn’t always require distance — sometimes it’s waiting beside the water, asking only that you stop long enough to notice.

So pretty!! The amenities were also very nice. I do wish they had a better parking system for the actual boat portion, but we also went on Labor Day weekend so it was very busy. Overall though, it was really well maintained and beautiful!

Wow!! Boat ride worth the travel and price! We were there the last weekend (11-13 oct 25) the boat was not pack like summer, it snowed the day before so was a little chilly but fine. Poor girls ( captain and guide) they told us that on the last day, they have to jump in the lake, its a tradition !! We also did one of the trail, amazing view, please bring bear spray and have at least a group of 4 for some trail.. we did not encounter any but with the snow the urgency of finding food become an obsession.. be aware

I went on a stargazing tour and visited this lake, and it was absolutely stunning at night! You could see so many stars! It was one of those once in a lifetime opportunities for me, and I was greatful to be able to grab a few beautiful pictures of the night sky! I also went on a boat tour, and was able to capture the beauty of the lake as well!

One of our best hikes so far - the elevation was just right (267 as per the All Trails app), and at the peak we had the best view of Banff (both in the golf side and then the town side). The full length of the trail is about 2.4 km, but today we started on the upper end of the hike so we were only able to cover the last 2 kilometers hike (one way). Once at the top, there is a very good place where you can just sit down and relax (we were able to eat our packed sandwiches). While eating and relaxing, we also had a very nice view of Banff (town side). TIP : The parking lots tends to get full so make sure to arrive at the trail as early as possible.

Straightforward and fairly easy trail, great views of the surrounding valley and mountains.

Nice trail for all abilities. Busy during peak times but a nice walk

The beginning was a little steep but it got easier. The view was worth it in the end. 🏔

Perfect weather for a short hike. Packed snow so microspikes were helpful.

Moderate, must have trail. Highly recommended.

Beautiful view.

July 2025 5* This is top point on the mountain connected by Banff Gandola. There is view deck and walkway at the top. You can enjoy the view from the top. There is coffee shop and washroom facility. Also there are different decks if you would like to view the town of Banff and amazing landscape. Don’t forget to take pic with Canadian flag.

Stunning views that you just can't go wrong viewing anytime. The gondola makes it a breeze to get up and down but the trail seems like fun as well and seemed well marked. Recommend visiting near sunset for the golden hour for best pictures.

A great view at the top of the mountain. Unfortunately it was cloudy that day due to wildfire but the cable ride was a great experience. The longest I have ever taken.

Last summer, my wife and I visited the breathtaking Sulphur Mountain in Banff, and it was an amazing experience. We started the day by taking the Banff Gondola, the ride itself was incredibly scenic, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. As we ascended, the anticipation grew—knowing we were about to witness something truly remarkable. Once we reached the summit, the views were nothing short of surreal. The 360-degree panoramic vistas of the Bow Valley, Lake Minnewanka, and the surrounding peaks were awe-inspiring. The observation deck and interpretive center provided some much-needed respite, but we were eager to explore further, so we decided to embark on the Sulphur Mountain Summit Trail. The trek itself was a challenge, especially as the air grew thinner the higher we went. The trail is somewhat precarious, with a steep incline and a few narrow sections. After reaching about two-thirds of the way up, we decided to turn back for safety reasons, but even so, the journey was totally worth it. Along the way, we encountered some incredible wildlife, including a marmot that made an unexpected appearance, adding to the charm of the hike. All in all, Sulphur Mountain was an unforgettable adventure, combining a scenic gondola ride with the challenge and reward of a mountain trek. Whether you're looking for a relaxing visit to take in the views or an active outdoor experience, Sulphur Mountain offers something for everyone

A place as beautiful as paradise, surrounded by majestic mountains. With a reservation in advance, you can take the gondola in an orderly manner. After hiking and enjoying the breathtaking scenery on the mountain, you can dine at a restaurant nestled among the peaks — and enjoy a buffet for just $45!

Sulphur Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding Rockies from its summit. You can reach the top by hiking the scenic trail or taking the Banff Gondola for a quicker ride. At the summit, you’ll find a boardwalk, observatory, and interactive exhibits that enhance the experience. It’s best to visit on a clear, sunny day to fully enjoy the stunning scenery.

You get to Sulphur Mountain by taking the gondola ride. It's worth the cost and time to go up and see the sights. Lots of interesting things to check on in the building and the accompanying boardwalk to the weather station.

Beautiful spot! Johnson Lake is a stunning place to visit, surrounded by forest with amazing mountain views. There’s a small sandy area for kids to play, and the water is shallow near the shore, gradually getting deeper, perfect for families. There are picnic tables around the lake, and it’s a great place for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, or just relaxing. Highly recommend arriving early, especially on sunny days. A peaceful, scenic gem!

Nice lake with some picnic benches, some parking, bathrooms, and a bit of a walking trail. Short distance from the parking lot. You can see the lake from the top of the lot.

Beautiful spot,not to far form Calgary,it was a really nice trail an hour and half hike and it's dog friendly, would definitely recommend 👌

Went on a Sunday afternoon in June. Not too crowded. Locals having a picnic or canoeing. Beautiful lake away from the hustle and bustle. Mount Rundle in the background.

Beautiful lake! The water is so clear and the colors are stunning. We were lucky to have sunny and clear sky day. The trail around the lake is well maintained and never boring. There’s a beach as you enter from the parking lot. It was busy, we saw paddle board, small raft and other small floatables. The trail is a loop. We started from the left of parking lot and as we went along we saw many spots you can sit on blankets, good place to use your hammocks, and could enter into the lake as well with paddle boards or swim. We also saw a rope that you could swing and jump into the lake. This is easier to get to once you pass the beach and take the trail. If you take the trail closest to parking lot to reach the rope you would have to do the loop and it’s towards the end of the loop. There’s two ropes one is higher, you have to be in the tree trunk to catch it and swing, the other is lower rope good for you get kids. There has to be a group of people to help out each other. We saw that there were people with paddle boards in the lake and the jumpers on the tree trunk, and one person with a stick and hook in the end to bring the rope back. To climb back up from water looked a bit tricky but doable if planned well. There’s picnic tables too and pit toilet. I would recommend bringing beach umbrellas, towels, picnic snacks, hammocks, swim suits, beach chair, water floaties. Come early in the morning to get good spots. To use washroom with water we drove to lake minnewanka where there’s good washrooms.

Beautiful! It was a gentle hike that anyone can do. The path was in great condition and I especially appreciated the benches set up in ideal locations to appreciate the lake/mountain views

Johnson Lake is a hidden gem in Banff National Park. The surrounding mountains and forests offer endless opportunities for hiking and exploration. I recommend bringing bear spray. The lake's calm atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for a peaceful day out with family or friends. The lake's serene waters and stunning mountain backdrop make it a perfect spot for nature photography. Bathrooms are located in the parking lot and the trails were great for walking and the little bridge was a beautiful place just to stop and admire the babbling creek.

Beautiful views when we went this past August, with the fireweeds (the pink flowers) and iconic turquoise water. Recommend going up to the Beehive Hikes if you have time and energy, but even just the view at the lakeside is still very beautiful! The bus shuttle system was fair but difficult to book, so make sure to book in advance and get there early!

A beautiful glacial lake with a hotel and a walking path that goes partially around the lake. It’s a hugely popular place to visit, so expect some crowds of tourists. There’s very limited parking here, and the parking lot is almost always full by 6 AM or so. Just make it easy on yourself and take the shuttle to the lake. You can book free shuttle tickets online 2 days before, but tickets are hard to get. Another option is to pay for a shuttle through a local tour company. Plan on an hour or two here to get some good photos, and have time to hike around the lake.

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous view… Did we say gorgeous? Everything you read or hear about Lake Louise is true. This place should be on your short list of must do’s. Similar to many areas in Switzerland, the water is so incredibly blue at Lake Louise. Seeing is believing of just how pristine the water is. ***Tip*** We came in mid-October and avoided the crowds and the parking hassle. We visited on two separate occasions and had no issues parking at the lake.

It is worth seeing indeed🤩😍! However, Emerald Pond in Jasper is more spectacular for me🤩🤩🤩😍😍😍!!! The trail along the lake is flat and easy to hike. The water is so clear and the colors are deep blue, light blue, turquoise and light green depending on where you view it from. Standing at the top step of the wooden stairs on the right past the Chateau makes a difference in the color of the lake which is better. Reserving shuttle tickets was not easy. I had gone into the Parks Canada website on the 60th day before we would be in Lake Louise. The earliest shuttle available was from 3-4 p.m. I found out later that only 40% of the seats are released at that time. Two days before the date you plan to visit, 60% of the seats are released but the popular times are taken quickly. I was able to secure seats only for the 7-8 a.m. instead of my preferred 9-10 a.m. While I was on the phone with Parks Canada staff, the remaining four seats during the 9-10 a.m. shuttles disappeared. It’s by luck. The advantage of our shuttle hour was that the trail was not mobbed from 8-10 a.m. On our way out, it was congested. There is a cancellation fee $C6 or a bit more when changing the hour slot.

Absolutely beautiful lake! In my opinion, it is better than Moraine lake because there seems to be more to do and see. Highly recommend, lake Agnes tea house, the beehive, and devils thumb. All boast spectacular views of Lake Louise except the tea house. The views of the lake from up high, really show off its beautiful color. If you don't end up hiking to the top of the devil's thumb, at least hike around the mountain until you hit the steep portion because there are incredible views of the 6 glaciers. The beehive hike is on the harder side of moderate but manageable with a consistent pace.

Lake Louise is a breathtaking destination that truly captures the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. The turquoise waters of the lake, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, create an awe-inspiring view that feels almost surreal. The color of the water, fed by glacial melt, is one of the lake’s most unique and mesmerizing features, especially on a clear, sunny day when it reflects the surrounding peaks. A visit to Lake Louise offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, you can kayak, canoe, or hike the numerous trails around the lake, such as the popular Lake Agnes Trail. The trails offer panoramic views and bring you closer to nature. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for ice skating on the lake or skiing at the nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort. Despite being a popular spot that can get crowded, the natural beauty and serenity make it worth the visit. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be quieter and offer the best lighting for photos. Lake Louise is a must-visit for anyone exploring Banff National Park, offering both adventure and tranquility in one of Canada’s most iconic landscapes.

Lake Louise is a really beautiful lake, second only to Moraine Lake, slightly further up. The water is astounding, especially with the sun fully on it. Getting here was easy, but you really do need to book a long way in advance or stay at Lake Louise Chateau or Morain Lake Lodge. The walk along the side of the lake is lovely, giving some fantastic views of both the lake and surrounding mountains. At the far end of the lake you can see right across the valley behind the Chateau. It is work walking, not only to the end of the lake, but up to the Plain of Six teahouse. The views walking back from here are amazing. This is probably the primary place people visit in Banff. I would recommend noon to late afternoon.

Such a beautiful area! The trail is all on a wooden boardwalk which makes it easy to walk and it isn’t very long but so peaceful with amazing views!

Great place and great history. The hiking trail is very short but really worth doing it. As you walk along the boardwalk, you feel peaceful. You can smell the trees, see streams, and the marsh full of tiny fish. The cave is amazing. A must see if you're in the area

A nice short little hike to stretch your legs in Banff. I've never seen a hot springs marsh and just loved the moss growing under the frost. We were told we would see lots of birds, but we saw/heard none. You could see all the minnows swimming in the flowing warm waters though! Very neat!

Views of the river are beautiful. But this trail is used as a toilet for horses. It’s not easy to finish the walk with clean shoes. And the smell at all the loop is very unpleasant

Probably our favourite spot to come when we’re in Banff. The loop is easy for all and the views are gorgeous. We love hearing the water trickle down the mountain all the way to the lake. The water is so warm, it never freezes. There are lookouts for birds and spots to see the small fish that call the marsh home. Peaceful spot just to relax. Check it out next time you’re in Banff. It’s just below the Cave and Basin.

Easy walk with amazing mountain view along the river. Note: Your shoes may get dirty from portion of muddy path and horses manure

Just 400 meters ahead of Marsh loop trailhead is Sundance Trail. It is fully paved. Wheelchair and stroller friendly. Kid safe. Easy trail. Round trip of 5.5 km.

What a great trail! Perfect for families with strollers. Beautiful views! It was still a lot of ice around the falls, so we didn't get a closer look.

Sundance Canyon, located just a few kilometers from the Cave and Basin National Historic Site in Banff, is a serene and visually rewarding destination for photographers seeking a balance of tranquility and dramatic scenery. The trail leading to the canyon begins with a wide, paved path that winds gently through lush forests and meadows, offering views of the Bow Valley and surrounding mountain peaks. This approach is ideal for capturing wildlife, wildflowers, and the changing play of light across the landscape. Once inside the canyon, the scene transforms dramatically. A wooden bridge marks the transition into a narrow gorge where the Sundance Creek tumbles through sculpted rock walls. The sound of rushing water, moss-covered boulders, and filtered sunlight create an almost mystical atmosphere. Photographers will appreciate the opportunities for long exposures, capturing the movement of the water against the contrasting textures of stone and vegetation. The loop trail continues beyond the canyon, leading into quieter forested sections with occasional lookouts over the valley. In early summer, melting snow feeds the creek, creating a powerful flow, while autumn brings warm colors that contrast beautifully with the cool tones of the canyon rock. Because Sundance Canyon is less crowded than other Banff attractions, it’s an excellent place for thoughtful, unhurried photography. Whether focusing on the intimate details of moss and water patterns or framing the grandeur of mountain landscapes, this location offers a rewarding mix of subjects and moods. Peaceful yet dramatic, accessible yet wild, Sundance Canyon embodies the quiet beauty that defines Banff’s backcountry — a hidden gem for photographers seeking authenticity and atmosphere.

Sundance Canyon is an amazing place... Everything about the hike is great... Unbelievable nature and wildlife!

Easy trail with minimal elevation. Close to Bow River and meadows. We got to see and hear elk throughout the backend of our hike.

There a trail that leads to Sundance & Canyon next to Cave & Basin. You can avoid the crowd, while enjoying the chill walk along Bow River with beautiful reflection of trees and mountains

Great place to bike/ebike and hike to a waterfall at any fitness level. More hiking after the water fall but will need to be more physically fit to continue. Highly recommend it.

Lovely hike and with the access road fairly easy for all the family. The upper canyon was closed due to bridge repairs but it looked great from what we could see.

9.5 miles out and back to the lake. The hardest part was the last mile as there was the most elevation gain. The trail was nice, but not my favorite hike in the area.

Its a beautiful place to visit and to relax with a magnificent view. 7.2 kilometers of ascending hike mostly to reach the lake and its worth every step.

Nice for easy half day hike or run.

Amazing place!!! Second to none views

Nice hiking trail and trailhead just beside the Highway 1, but the parking lots is small. Up the Bourgeau Lake, there're also three small lakes, they look beautiful. This trail is not very hard.

Great hike. 💪

Nice hiking trail.

Peyto Lake is an absolutely mesmerizing lake, with a brilliant turquoise colour that looks beautiful in any season. The main viewpoint is a very short hike from the parking lot. You can also hike down to the lake, but is harder than the viewpoint. The atmosphere is unforgettable whether it’s foggy, snowing, raining, or sunny.

Beautiful view. Easy short hike. For best view, go there in the late morning or early afternoon before the sun goes behind the mountain and shadow the mountain covers the lake.

The trail was a very steep trail but easy very short hike, its a bit challenging for new trailblazers so recommend support or slow route option. Definitely worth the view, look is so blue and pretty and shaped like a wolf.

This is without a doubt one of the most beautiful lakes in Alberta and in all of Canada. The short hike to the viewpoint is absolutely worth it, offering stunning scenery and photo opportunities. It can get quite busy, so it’s best to arrive early to fully enjoy the experience in peace.

I loved Peyto more than Lake Louise. Blue water surrounded by mountains was breathtaking. Pretty normal hike (<1km) that leads to the deck to view this beauty. Parking available.

Peyto Lake was one of the most beautiful lakes I visited during my trip to Banff and Jasper. The short hike up to the viewpoint was absolutely worth it — the turquoise color of the lake is breathtaking and looks almost unreal. A must-see stop if you’re exploring the Icefields Parkway!

Peyto you have my heart ❤️. Around 700m hike from parking lot. Its hidden gem. Peyto lake looks very beautiful. Parking lot is big, washrooms on site. Observing Deck is great spot to enjoy this beautiful turquoise lake. Family friendly environment. If you are travelling to Columbian Icefield or Jasper its a quick scenic stop.

Easy loop trail that goes through woods and alongside a beautiful creek and numerous marshy areas. Lots of great birds including Sora, Swainson's Thrush, Townsend's Warbler and Oregon Juncos.

Took a nice relaxing morning walk here. Level trails are easy to follow. Worth some time

Let’s see…yesterday, rain, snow, slick everywhere. Today, fresh and the perfect hike before a 3Bear lunch followed by Espresso Excellence and Pastry Perfection

Wonderful level hike with plenty of parking, restrooms, and just a block from the Banff sign if you want to take a picture.

Great 20 to 30 minutes walk as you come in from the West entrance to Banff. A few picnic tables at the trail head. Nicely sheltered from winds. Never disappoints.

Perfect path if you have kids. It's a nice flat trail, definitely not stroller friendly as other reviews have stated, there are many exposed roots. It takes about 45 min to an hour, depending on your pace. With plenty of beautiful scenery along the way. There isn't much parking at the trailhead, but you can drive up the street and park in the arena lot

Nice, easy, flat walk in the woods, good for nearly everyone. Not much for scenery, but the creek and ice is nice. We did a little extra and recorded 5KM an 26M of elevation gain. We did not use cleats, but there were a few slippery spots.

On our drive home from Golden yesterday, we stopped at Two Jack Lake for a late lunch and it was the perfect decision. The views of Mount Rundle in the late afternoon light were absolutely breathtaking.

Perfect Place to watch sunrise and sunset with view of Mount Rundle and its reflection in the lake. Perfect for a picknick or a little stroll along the lakeshore. Also a great spot for kayaking and canoeing 😃

Two Jack Lake is an absolute gem in Banff National Park! The lake is peaceful, with stunning turquoise water and a beautiful mountain backdrop. It’s perfect for a picnic, paddleboarding, or just relaxing by the shore. There’s a calm, quiet vibe here that makes it a great alternative to some of the busier spots in the park. We especially loved catching the sunrise — magical reflections on the water! Easy to access and truly breathtaking. Highly recommended for nature lovers!

Two Jack Lake is one of those places that feels straight out of a postcard. The water has that classic turquoise glow you find in Banff, but it’s usually much quieter than the bigger, more famous lakes like Louise or Moraine. It’s perfect if you want peaceful views without the crowds. The area is great for a picnic, an easy stroll along the shoreline, or even just sitting with a coffee and soaking in the mountain reflections. If you’re into photography, sunrise and sunset here are absolutely stunning. You’ll often see kayakers or paddleboarders gliding across the calm water, which adds to the beauty. There’s also a campground nearby, so it’s a good spot if you want to stay close to nature but not too far from Banff town. Facilities are simple but convenient. Overall, Two Jack Lake is a hidden gem—calm, scenic, and a perfect place to slow down and enjoy the Rockies.

It is a serene, emerald-green lake just a short drive from Banff, offering stunning reflections of Mount Rundle. It's perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or enjoying a peaceful lakeside picnic away from the crowds. Arrive early in summer, as parking fills up quickly, but the quiet views are worth it.

Quaint little lake to stop by when you’re driving into Banff. Some parking, some bathrooms, picnic benches, and of course gorgeous views.

Just so you know, the lake is "warm" by Albertan standards, which means you won't freeze in it. But the water feels cold. That said, it's still beautiful spot for photos, a picnic or to hang out.

What a view! The short 12-minute walk to the top is totally worth it whether you take the easy trail or push through the steeper uphill path, the reward is incredible. The observation deck offers stunning panoramic views, but if you’re feeling a little bold, you can venture off the path to get even closer (just watch your footing!). It’s the kind of spot that makes you pause and soak it all in. Highly recommend coming early, it gets busy fast.

Peyto Lake is absolutely breathtaking! The moment you reach the viewpoint, the vivid turquoise color of the lake takes your breath away. It truly looks like a wolf’s head from above — a view that feels almost unreal. The short, well-maintained trail from the parking area makes it accessible for most visitors, and the lookout platform offers incredible panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies. We went early in the morning to avoid the crowds and it was worth it — peaceful, crisp mountain air and a picture-perfect landscape. Even during the busier hours, the beauty of Peyto Lake makes the visit unforgettable. A must-stop along the Icefields Parkway! Perfect for photos, quick hikes, or just soaking in one of the most stunning natural sights in Alberta. Don’t miss it if you’re exploring Banff or Jasper National Park.

Peyto Lake is a postcard-perfect gem! The view from the lookout is surreal, with the lake's wolf-like shape and vibrant turquoise color that's hard to believe is real. The short, well-marked trail from the parking lot makes it easily accessible, and the scenic payoff is huge. It's a photographer's dream, a reflection enthusiast's paradise, and a humbling experience that makes you feel small in the best way. Even with crowds, the viewpoint is spacious, and the 15-20 minute walk makes it achievable for almost anyone. A must-see in the Rockies!

Beautiful lake unfortunately crammed with tourists on the lookout. Quite a few tourists go off-piste to get a better unobstructed view, however causing damage to the natural surroundings. If you can, go for a walk to the Bow Summit - worth getting away from the crowd and access from the same car park.

Pictures can't do this place justice. It's an experience. Wonderful spots to really take in the view and for pictures. Hiking: there are 2 very steep hills going towards here. The path to the overlook is paved. It's a good workout for those that are not familiar with walking or hiking. Some of the trails have snow on it.

It is a beautiful view from the viewpoint. It is a 750 meter walk on a paved trail so it is stroller from. However it is a steep incline in a few places. There is a cut before the steepest incline that will take extra 50 meter walk but wont be too steep. Overall its a very quick walk though. There is parking higher up for disabled people and buses which cuts the walk by half just follow the sign on the road.

Peyto Lake Viewpoint is an absolute must-see! The view from the top is breathtaking — one of the most iconic in the Canadian Rockies. The hike to the viewpoint takes about 30 minutes, and while it’s mostly manageable, there are some steep sections that can be challenging, especially if the trail is icy. We visited when conditions were a bit slippery, so good footwear and a bit of caution are definitely needed. The lake itself, with its bright turquoise color (once thawed), and the wolf-head shape from above, is something you really have to see in person to fully appreciate. Even with some snow still on the ground, the views were unforgettable. There’s plenty of parking available, which makes access easy. However, the washroom facilities could be better — they’re basic and not very clean, so plan accordingly. Despite the uphill trail and icy patches, the effort is totally worth it. The views at the top are simply amazing, and it’s clear a lot of thought has gone into maintaining this beautiful spot. I’d definitely recommend this stop if you’re traveling along the Icefields Parkway — it’s a highlight of the trip!

Tackled Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots back in Feb 2025. Was a decent Hike, bring poles and studs (crampons). Very well shaded, once you pass upper falls, the railings and support disappear and you are on your own up hill, if you attempt it when it’s icy, take your time and ensure proper foot wear is worn! I would do this hike again, preferably in the summer to see the difference! Use all trials app on your phone to record the hike!

Trail is very easy to follow and well maintained. The crowds thin out a lot after the upper falls. The trail has some ups and downs so the total elevation gain is minimal after the falls. We did this in the winter, so spikes were helpful. Generally not that scenic after the canyon, but the Ink Pots are cool.

Quite a hike to get to there but It's really nice there, the trail is a bit difficult with many rocks and some tree roots but is ok, there aren't that many people who go there so there is a maybe some people you may pass by, the ink pots area is quite nice, from the parking lot to there is around 6km and back is another 6km so 12km total. Make sure to go before it rains. I feel like it's worth it if you can handle the trail to there.

Trail for the canyon is easy peasy, went at 5pm during the week so not busy. The path is roughly paved to the top waterfall. The ink pots trail is another 2.7 past that. Most of the tourist crowd will have thinned out by this point, you know, the ones wearing those sparkly white runners! Ink pots trail goes up, then down, then up then down again. Felt longer than it was. Coming back way faster! Haha

We tackled this hike all the way to the ink pots, and I have to say for someone who doesn't regularly hike, it was quite a challenge with so many inclines. As other reviewers mentioned, it was no problem up to the upper falls of Johnston Canyon but the 3 kms to the pots were much tougher. The scenery was spectacular, though, and ended up being quite the accomplishment that I made it all the way. Thank goodness it was mostly downhill to get back.

It's definitely a hike before getting from Junction Canyon Upper Fall. The distance isn't far, just need to prepare for the walk up. It is worth it at the end. The colours are mesmerizing.

Beautiful hike. We hiked this in early May, and despite the ranger station having warned us to bring cleats or crampons, we made it through just fine with just our hiking shoes. There were a few small patches of ice, but we managed to navigate those with no slips or falls.

Nice little hike to a very quiet secluded lake (in November). Trail is fairly easy. It’s about a 5km hike to the lake. 10 round trip. Spent some time watching the birds and listening to the wind. Great place.

4-5 km one way trail. Easy hiking views are fantastic once you reach final point. Nice lake, if you like straight nice hike, kids friendly this is the one.

Great hike with an awesome view at the end. Not much to see until you reach the end as the trees obscure most views but they are beautiful in their own way.

Easy hike with a reward a beautiful lake with great background. And when the winter starts to paint the rocks with “white” it amplify your impression (this was on 4th Oct)

Fantastic hike. It's a bit longer than the posted distance (more like 12 km rather than 10). Absolutely beautiful scenery and the hike is worth the view at the end.

We loved this hike , quite easy going and you are in the wilderness. We picked this one on Canada Day as wanted to stay away from the crowded place in Banff national park but want to spend our time in the nature .

Absolutely beautiful lake at the end of a super nice easy hike. The hike only takes about 2.5-3hrs round trip and the lake is beautiful. Super clear alpine waters that are quite cold to the touch! Great place to stop for lunch or just kick back and relax in nature. There are also many stunning views to be had along the rocky shoreline. I would highly recommend coming here.

this trail can be connected with other trail and village destination. Enjoy!! But No parking lot here. I walked from my hotel.

We walked the trail, crossed. Number of foot bridges, saw the electrified fence that protects the tenters, saw a number of kayakers who were going to do a 2 day paddle down to Canmore, was the fly fisherman from Alaska, stopped off at the Station Restrauent for lunch and watched the train , then continued on the loop back to our hard sided campground! Weather was great!

The Bow River Loop Trail in Lake Louise is a peaceful and scenic escape that offers a more intimate perspective of the area’s stunning alpine environment. Unlike the dramatic grandeur of the lake itself, this trail reveals the quieter side of the Rockies — meandering rivers, reflective water surfaces, and dense spruce forests alive with the scent of mountain air. The loop begins near the village of Lake Louise and follows the gentle curves of the Bow River. It’s an easy, well-maintained path suitable for all levels of hikers, and it provides excellent opportunities for photographers who enjoy capturing texture, light, and natural details. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal times to visit, when low-angle sunlight enhances the river’s blue-green tones and creates soft reflections of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, small wooden bridges and open meadows frame the river beautifully against the backdrop of Mount Temple and other towering summits. The calm sections of the Bow River often mirror the forest and sky, offering a chance for minimalist landscape compositions. In spring and summer, wildflowers add vibrant splashes of color along the trail, while autumn transforms the scenery with golden larches and aspen leaves. Wildlife sightings are common — elk, deer, and occasionally bears can be seen in the distance, particularly during early or late hours. For photographers, this means a chance to blend wildlife and landscape imagery in a single, balanced composition.

Went cross country skiing here. Amazing scenery

Beautiful trail wide and safe for kids. Lots of people here so you won't see wildlife but Beautiful views.

A great loop bit a part of it is closed in the campsite

Beautiful walk at the end of buffalo road nice walk parking available

Really easy to navigate. There’s a section of incline and then it’s pretty much flat the whole way. Very muddy and wet I would recommend boots. One of the prettiest lakes I’ve seen

We hiked this trail on October 12th, 2021. From what we read in other reviews it seems we hit the sweet spot for this trail. There was NO mud because it was frozen and most roots were covered by snow! If it hadn’t been frozen, the mud would have made this trail not so fun.

Easy hike, can be muddy but we didn't experience this. Well worth the effort which is minimal. Kid friendly.

"The lake is stunning and the hike is easy, covering a distance of about 8 km."

Can get pretty muddy. Takes about 2h +. Get a nice view of the lake

Beautiful lake! Nice intermediate-level hike, not too long. Can combine it with a double hike to nearby Cirque Lake. Not overly crowded.

Stunningly beautiful. Easy hike, fit for most people.

We hiked this trail after the rain, so the first 4 miles were wet and muddy, with no views—just forest. But once you reach the valley and river area, the scenery becomes beautiful. It mostly flat up to Sentinel pass, about 1,000 ft elevation gain for 4 miles. We did it as part of a Lake Louise to Lake Moraine route, totaling 12 miles. We had our bus booked in advance and took the bus from Lake Moraine back to the Lake Louise parking lot.

Amazing hike in Lake Louise! 5 stars for the hike however a 2 star review for the difficulties with parcs Canada staff that made this hike more difficult and stressful than it ever needed to be. Lake Louise is absolute chaos to start, feels like entering Disneyland. we booked the hike the morning of as it's only reservable up to 24hrs in advance through the visitor center. We had no problems here and were told there's always reserved spaces on the shuttles for people signing up for this hike. Once at park and ride the shuttle service told us there was no way we could be allowed to be picked up by a shuttle at moraine lake so we'd have to change our hike around and to never trust the visitor center employees. Even though the back country office told us the same info and the back of our shuttle ticket also said that we could be picked up at either paradise creek or moraine lake parking. Then we were charged a reservation service fee on the shuttle ticket even though we hadn't pre reserved with any service. In the end both shuttles we were on that were sold out were more than half empty. Canada parks should really be including these chargers in their advertised pricing if there's no way that you won't be paying it - no need to pretend things in the parks are cheap when they aren't it feels like trickery. Some better communication between departments would also be nice.

We rode the highline trail from Moraine Road to the Lake.

Great spot for the day, lots of parking, great river spots, easy access to Lake and shaded in areas.

Serene, peaceful and breathtaking

What a beautiful walk up to Lake Annette

No crowds, what can be better?

Parkings spots are only few. But the place, the place is so good. Lucky enough you can see the wildlife coming into lake for a bathe. What a place and views.

Nice lake that’s about 3.6 miles in on the Paradise Valley trail.

We were able to see 4 elk driving into the lake! There are two parking lots. The lake itself is gorgeous, quiet, and calming. The walk around the lake is flat and has plenty of benches so you can just take in the scenery. Throughly recommend

Stunning lake, very scenic and well worth the visit. Clean and well maintained. Easy access to the lake from the parking lot. We had a stroller and no access issues.

Amazing blue lake with mount temple right above it

A glacier fed lake at the base of Temple Mountain which makes a great rest stop on way to Paradise Valley.

Great hike that was pretty easy paced. Some steep bursts at the beginning and end, but they dont last long. Really enjoyed this trail. The water is high right now and there are some wet parts that are best with waterproof hikers if you have them.

Fantastic views of Hugabee, Niblock, and Make Louise. About 10 miles up and back, with 3000 ft of elevation gain. Lots of casual hikers with you for the first half, up to the Lake Louise tea house, but more serene thereafter. Great summit experience.

amazing hike. do the out and back route because the loop down is very challenging.

Spectacular view. Tough but manageable hike. So beautiful. Damn.

(Translated by Google) Excellent hiking even in winter, about 3.5 hours there and back if you walk at a good pace. If you go in winter, take a shoe mount to prevent slipping. The total distance to this place is 9 km (Original) Отличный хайкинг даже зимой , туда и обратно где то 3.5 часа если идти в хорошем темпе . Если идете зимой берите на обувь крепление чтобы не скользить. Общее расстояние до этого места 9 км