An Ideal 5 Day Banff Hiking Itinerary
Banff National Park offers some of the best hiking in the world. While you could spend a lifetime exploring the trails, most visitors only have a few days to pack in the sights and summits. We’ve crafted an ideal itinerary for those keen to explore Banff on foot. From alpine meadows to azure lakes to glacial vistas, this itinerary combines a selection of Banff’s most popular trails with some of its most beautiful scenes.
Given the amount of ground to cover, we recommend dedicating at least five days to your Banff explorations. While some hikes are possible year-round, this itinerary is best suited to those traveling between July and September, when most mountain trails are open and clear of snow.
The hiking focus of this Banff itinerary means that the days are fairly strenuous, but alternatives are offered to help you adjust the intensity to suit your preferences and experience.
Banff Hiking Itinerary
Day 1: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
You’ve woken up in Banff National Park after a restful night, eager and energized to hit the trails. Get an early start because this day is packed with mesmerizing glacier lakes and over 6 hours of trail time covering over 18 km. Don’t let these statistics scare you. The routes are well-maintained and make for an epic day that checks off many highlights.
Research and reserve transportation on the Parks Canada Shuttles before setting out. While there are various ways to access these famous lakes, the public shuttles offer the most flexibility for hikers wishing to spend long hours exploring the surrounding trails.
- Morning at Moraine Lake
- Hike to Lake Agnes Teahouse
- Continue hiking up to the Big Beehive
- Traverse to Plain of Six Glaciers
- Overnight in Lake Louise
Morning at Moraine Lake
Start your trip at one of Canada’s most iconic places and Banff’s must-see attraction, Moraine Lake. The turquoise water encircled by ten towering peaks is a breathtaking scene and highlight of any trip to the Rockies.
The only road into Moraine Lake is open from June 1 to October 14th, coinciding with Banff’s hiking season. To visit the lake, you’ll need to book a shuttle or private tour, as private vehicle access is restricted to those with an accessible parking permit. Advance planning and ticket reservations are always essential.
If seeing the sunrise is high on your wish list, book the Parks Canada Alpine Start Shuttle or one of these Moraine Lake tours. Otherwise, buses set out from the Park & Ride at the Lake Louise Ski Resort starting at 6:30 a.m. No matter when you arrive at Moraine Lake, you’ll want to follow the short trail from the parking lot to the top of the Rockpile for the classic postcard picture.
Rockpile Trail
- Trailhead: End of the parking lot and over the bridge
- Distance: 350 meters
- Elevation: 30 meters
- Time: 20 – 40 minutes (return)
More Guides to Visiting Moraine Lake
- Moraine Lake Parking Changes You Need To Know
- 12 Moraine Lake Hikes with Amazing Views
- How to Visit Moraine Lake at Sunrise
Hike to Lake Agnes Teahouse
Once you’ve filled your camera roll with shots of Moraine Lake, take Parks Canada’s Lake Connector Shuttle, or the Hop On Hop Off, to nearby Lake Louise. There are many exceptional hiking trails from Lake Louise, but a classic beloved by visitors is the Lake Agnes Teahouse trail.
Hikers have traveled this route for over a century to reach the rustic teahouse cabin overlooking Lake Agnes. From Lake Louise’s shore, the gentle trail winds uphill through the forest to Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes. It’s a mellow, well-marked segment that will give your legs a good warm-up for the trip to come.
Try to start hiking early to beat the crowds. The historic teahouse serves baked goods and, of course, tea starting at 8 a.m., and long lines form soon after.
Lake Agnes Teahouse Trail
- Trailhead: Begins at the shore of Lake Louise
- Distance: 3.4 km (one way)
- Elevation: 385 meters
- Time: 1 – 2 hours (one way)
- Full Guide: Lake Agnes Teahouse Hike
Continue up to the Big Beehive
Enthusiastic hikers will probably want to keep moving beyond Lake Agnes and can find some of the most stunning views by continuing up to the Big Beehive. This imposing rock feature rises above Lake Agnes and is easily distinguished from the shores of Lake Louise.
After a break by the teahouse, follow the well-worn trail that wraps around the northwest side of Lake Agnes and continue up the switchbacks. When the trail levels out at the top, take the fork to the left, which follows the ridge along the top of the Big Beehive. There are many viewpoints along the way, culminating with a historic gazebo at the end.
Big Beehive Trail
- Distance: 2 km (one way)
- Elevation: 240 meters
- Time: 1 – 2 hours (one way)
- Full Guide: Beehive Circuit Hike
Traverse to the Plain of Six Glaciers
Instead of returning along the Lake Agnes trail, drop down the other side of the Big Beehive and descend the switchbacks to the Lake Louise Highline Trail, following the signs that provide directions to the Plain of Six Glaciers. This spectacular extension brings you into the glacial valley beyond Lake Louise, where you can glimpse the glaciers that bestow its signature blue hue.
The trail traverses along the mountainside, eventually joining the extension of the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail. You’ll have to climb uphill to reach another backcountry teahouse serving baked goods, lunch, and beverages.
If you have the energy, continue along the unmaintained 1 km extension leading further into the valley and rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the namesake six glaciers. To return to Lake Louise, hike back the same way but keep to the lower trail that leads to the Lakeshore.
The full circuit to Lake Agnes, the Big Beehive, and the Plain of Six Glaciers covers a distance of about 18 km and is manageable for those with some hiking experience and endurance. With many incredible sights along the way, you’ll have plenty of occasions to take a break. Considering move time, photo stops, and snack breaks, hikers can expect to spend about 7 hours completing the loop.
Plain of Six Glaciers Extension
- Distance: 4 km to teahouse + 7 km back to the trailhead
- Elevation: 220 meters
- Time: 2 – 3 hours
- Full Guide: Plain of Six Glaciers Hike
Dinner and Overnight in Lake Louise
You’re probably hungry after so much leg work, so enjoy a nourishing dinner at one of Lake Louise’s restaurants then crawl into bed at one of these comfortable hotels nearby.
Alternatives
- Looking to get off the beaten path? Hike to Saddle Mountain via Saddleback Pass from the trailhead behind the boathouse. Or, for a challenge, summit Mount St Piran after Lake Agnes.
- Prefer a shorter hike? Pick only one teahouse hike then work your arms with a canoe rental.
- Have the stamina for a longer day? Hike the 20km Paradise Valley Trail from Moraine Lake to Lake Louise. This route traverses some of the most stunning scenery in the Rockies but is best attempted by seasoned hikers who are comfortable navigating variable trails in the remote backcountry.
Day 2: Icefields Parkway
Staying around Lake Louise means you’re that much closer to the Icefields Parkway, the scenic stretch of Highway 93 North that extends from Banff to Jasper in Jasper National Park. Even though you’ll save some driving time, it’s best to get another early start as there is much to see and hike on this day.
Food and gas options are limited along the Parkway, so stock up and fuel up before leaving Lake Louise. Trailhead Cafe and Laggan’s Bakery in the village both open at 7 a.m. and offer delicious takeaway options. Otherwise, you can rely on the cafeteria and Starbucks at the Columbia Icefield Visitor Centre.
While this 5-day Banff hiking itinerary only includes an out-and-back day trip along the Icefields Parkway, those with more time and flexibility could continue driving north and spend a few days in Jasper to hike its stunning trails before returning to Banff.
- Drive the Icefields Parkway
- Hike Parker Ridge
- Athabasca Glacier
- Overnight in Lake Louise
Drive the Icefields Parkway
Buckle up for what is considered the most beautiful drive in the world. With many scenic viewpoints and pull-offs along the way, you can choose your own adventure, making stops on the drive up in the morning or checking off the viewpoints on the return journey later in the afternoon. Some of the best stops between Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield include:
- Bow Lake (pull-off lookout)
- Peyto Lake (easy path to viewpoint)
- Waterfowl Lakes (pull-off lookout)
- Mistaya Canyon (easy path to viewpoint)
- Weeping Wall (pull-off lookout)
- Panther Falls (pull-off lookout or short hike)
I’d recommend a morning hike, lunch at the Athabasca Glacier, and stops on the return drive, as Peyto Lake is one of Banff’s best sunset spots.
Hike Parker Ridge
Parker Ridge Trail punches well above its weight when it comes to reward for effort. The dramatic views of the Saskatchewan Glacier from the ridge are stunning and a lovely surprise after only 2.5 km of uphill hiking. It’s easily one of the best hikes on the Icefields Parkway and leaves time to enjoy many other enriching stops in a day.
The high elevation and northern aspect keep snow on the trail well into the summer, so check the conditions posted by Parks Canada before setting out. If the snow has all melted, you’re in for an extra treat as the hill bursts into color when the wildflowers bloom. To protect these delicate ecosystems, staying on the well-marked trail is essential.
Parker Ridge Trail
- Trailhead: Parker Ridge Trailhead
- Distance: 5.1 km
- Elevation: 250 meters
- Time: 2 -3 hours
- Full Guide: Parker Ridge Hike
Athabasca Glacier
The Columbia Icefield marks the turnaround point on this day trip, and you’ll be glad you made it far enough to marvel at the Rockies’ largest icefield. The Athabasca Glacier is just one toe of this impressive ice cap, which stretches along the Continental Divide and covers some 230 square kilometers.
You can hike 1 km from the parking lot to the glacier’s toe, but avoid traveling on the ice, as crevasses pose a serious and potentially fatal risk to those without proper gear and training. If you want to get up close and personal with the Athabasca Glacier, book a guided ice walk. These small-group tours run for about 3 hours and travel about 5 km over the otherworldly landscape.
During this stop, you can also take advantage of the Icefield Discovery Centre’s facilities, such as WiFi, washrooms, visitor information, and food services, before driving back to spend another night around Lake Louise.
Day 3: Yoho
This day highlights the beauty of Yoho National Park, just a stone’s throw from Lake Louise across the provincial border. Small but exceptionally stunning, Yoho features alpine lakes of every shade of blue, roaring waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and some of the world’s oldest and best-preserved fossils! A serious contender for my favourite mountain park, spending a day in Yoho leaves no question why its Cree name means ‘awe and wonder.’
- Takakkaw Falls
- Hike the Iceline Trail Summit (out-and-back)
- Lunch at Truffle Pig
- Natural Bridge
- Emerald Lake
- Overnight in Lake Louise or Banff
Takakkaw Falls
Drive to the end of the scenic Yoho Valley Road and to the thunderous Takakkaw Falls. At 373 meters, it is the highest waterfall in the Canadian Rockies and the second highest in Canada!
You only need to walk a few minutes from the parking lot to feel the mist and might of Tak Falls. Like many other popular attractions in the Rockies, this one can become quite busy, and there will likely be more people around when you return from your hike.
Hike the Iceline Trail Summit
By admiring Tak Falls, you’ve already completed the first segment of one of Yoho’s best hikes. A Rockies classic, the full Iceline Trail involves a 22 km loop and a full day of hiking, but a shorter, out-and-back option featuring the most compelling scenery can be hiked in about 4 to 5 hours.
This variation starts the same way as the full loop, with Tak Falls, a road crossing, then a steady climb up the other side of the valley. Only the ever changing views back towards Tak Falls redeem these 3 kilometers of ascending switchbacks.
All the effort pays off once you reach the top. Here, the trail opens up to hanging glaciers above a rocky expanse that looks out over the Continental Divide and Waputik Icefield, flowing into Takakkaw Falls.
The trail also becomes easier, passing tarns and crossing glacial streams. You can turn around at any point, but continuing to the 7 km mark will take you to the “summit” of the hike overlooking alpine lakes and the Little Yoho Valley below.
Iceline Trail
- Trailhead: Takkakaw Falls Parking
- Length: 14 km
- Duration: 4 – 6 hours
- Elevation Gain: 810 meters
- Full Guide: Iceline Trail
Lunch at Truffle Pigs
After a full morning of hiking, you’ll crave a hearty meal, so head to the quaint hamlet of Field. With only a small collection of houses and 200 residents, there is little to do in town, but it boasts the best restaurant in the mountains.
Truffle Pigs serves up mouthwatering meals to suit every taste. They only run on a first-come-first-serve basis in the summers, so simply show up and wait to be seated.
Alternatively, you can drive straight to Emerald Lake and try to snag a seat on Cilantro’s patio.
Stop at Natural Bridge
After lunch, drive the Emerald Lake Road and stop at the first turn off, the viewpoint for Natural Bridge. This attraction is exactly what it claims to be, a natural rock bridge spanning the Kicking Horse River, carved over time by the rushing waters. The lookout is a short walk from the parking lot so you can easily enjoy a few minutes at this stop before continuing to Emerald Lake.
Emerald Lake
Yoho’s crown jewel, Emerald Lake, is one of the most brilliant glacier lakes in the Rockies. On a sunny day, the turquoise colours are especially vibrant. Nestled in a natural amphitheater, the soaring peaks surrounding the lake provide an equally mesmerizing backdrop. The lake creates a unique microclimate, so the flora on the mellow trail encircling the lake is uniquely lush.
Emerald Lake is also one of the best places to rent a canoe as the rates are much cheaper than Moraine or Lake Louise. If you do make it out on the waters, you’ll be awed every time you dip your paddle into the water.
The lake’s beauty is no secret, and competition for limited parking can be intense during the summer. Visiting in the morning or later in the day is usually calmer. If you are completely captivated by Emerald Lake and want to extend your stay, book a night at the Emerald Lake Lodge. Otherwise, you can end your day by going back around Lake Louise or switch hotels to stay in downtown Banff.
Alternatives
- Prefer a less strenuous day? Start your day with a stroll along the shores of Emerald Lake and then spend 1-2 hours in the afternoon hiking the 5km Wapta Falls trail.
Day 4: Banff & Johnston Canyon
Today, you’ll explore closer to downtown Banff. There are so many things to do around Banff, and this itinerary only scratches the surface.
- Early start at Johnston Canyon
- Lunch in downtown Banff
- Summit Sulphur Mountain
- Soak at Upper Hot Springs
- Overnight in Banff
Morning at Johnson Canyon
If you had Johnston Canyon on your wish list, now is the day to check it off. Get an early start to beat the crowds as this is Banff’s most popular trail. We recommend a start before 7 am in the summer. There are several different ways to get from Banff to Johnston Canyon, but driving will allow you to start hiking early.
Johnston Canyon is a marvel of nature, sculpted by countless years of erosion. A comfortable walkway winds along the canyon wall above the rushing glacial waters, and seasoned hikers will find this an easy excursion. It’s only about 1 km to the Lower Falls, but continuing to the impressive Upper Falls is worth the extra effort.
Johnston Canyon Trail
- Trailhead: Johnston Canyon Parking
- Length: 5 km
- Duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Elevation Gain: 215 meters
- Full Guide: Johnston Canyon Hike
Lunch in Downtown Banff
Return to Banff and enjoy lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants. If the weather is cooperating, try to snag a seat on a patio. Some of the best Banff patios are at Three Bears Brewery, Touloulous, and Anejo!
Summit Sulphur Mountain
While the summit of Sulphur Mountain can be reached in a few minutes with the Banff Gondola, the trail offers a highly rewarding free alternative for those willing to work for views. With sweeping panoramas over the town of Banff and surrounding peaks, Sulphur Mountain is an excellent hike for first time visitors. The hub of activity at the summit may not appeal to all hikers, but the amenities can offer some welcome comforts after an uphill trek.
From the well-marked trailhead, a dirt track winds up the mountain below the gondola in a series of mellow switchbacks. Once at the top, hikers can grab a bite or drink at one of the eateries and wander down the boardwalk to the historic Cosmic Ray Station.
If your legs are too worn out from the ascent, you can always purchase a ticket to download on the gondola. Parking is limited at the Sulphur Mountain trailhead in the summer so board ROAM Bus Route 1 (“Sulphur Mountain”) from downtown Banff and ride to the Banff Upper Hot Springs stop.
Sulphur Mountain Trail
- Trailhead: Banff Gondola Parking Area
- Distance: 10.1 km
- Duration: 3 – 5 hours
- Elevation: 744 meters
- Full Guide: Sulphur Mountain Hike
Soak at Banff Upper Hot Springs
Unless your Banff hotel has a hot tub, soothe your legs with an evening soak at Banff Upper Hot Springs (last entry at 9:30 p.m.). These mineral-rich springs spurred Banff’s tourism in the 19th century, with many visitors seeking to be cured by the natural waters. It’s an inviting and especially convenient stop if you’ve just come off the Sulphur Mountain trail.
Alternatives
- Looking to get off the beaten path? Head to Marble Canyon instead of Johnston or book a tour on Mt. Norquay’s Via Ferrata, a unique assisted climbing experience that takes visitors along various mountainside routes with ladders, cables, and suspension bridges.
- Prefer a shorter hike? Summit the classic Tunnel Mountain in downtown Banff instead of Sulphur.
Day 5: Explore Kananaskis
By now, you’ve seen many of Banff’s highlights on foot. While exceptionally beautiful, these places and trails can also be crowded. To escape to more wilderness and quieter trails head to Kananaskis Country. A provincial park south of Banff that surrounds the popular resort town of Canmore.
Kananaskis Country offers wilder, less trafficked trails compared to its National Park neighbours, yet also boasts incredible views. Driving through Kananaskis is simply astounding, and wildlife sightings are fairly common.
The National Parks Pass is not valid in Kananaskis, and you’ll need a separate parks pass (Kananaskis Conservation Pass) to visit these trails managed by Alberta Parks.
There are so many beautiful trails to explore in Kananaskis. Some of our favourites would provide a challenging, yet rewarding, grand finale to your Banff hiking trip:
- Tent Ridge Horseshoe (10 km, 3-5 hours)
- Windtower (10 km, 4-6 hours)
- Sarrail Ridge via Rawson Lake (11.5 km, 4-6 hours)
Bears are common throughout the Rockies, but especially in Kananaskis. I’ve personally spotted bears while hiking two out of the three above trails, so make sure to hike safely in bear country by carrying bear spray and ideally traveling in groups of four or more people.
Kananaskis offers various ways to unwind after your hike. You could spend your last night at Mount Engadine Lodge, or make a reservation for their afternoon tea service. Otherwise, stop in the town of Canmore to enjoy one of the scenic patios, refreshing breweries, or scrumptious restaurants.
Hiking Advice for the Canadian Rockies
- If it’s your first time hiking in the mountains, take a conservative approach – read our post for beginner hikers in the Canadian Rockies. Plan for your fitness, pack water and food, and don’t be afraid to turn around. If you want to learn more about what to wear hiking, we have a great article.
- Pack sturdy footwear that’s well-worn before your trip. Nothing ruins a hiking holiday quite like blisters.
- Check conditions and trail status before leaving. Trails may be closed on occasion due to wildlife or poor conditions.
- Respect wildlife and the environment by obeying all signs, staying on trail, packing out all waste, and giving animals lots of space.
- Remember that you’re in bear country. Always hike with bear spray and know how to use it.
Things to Keep in Mind
You Need a Parks Pass
You need a National Park Pass to visit Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, and Jasper National Park. If you venture into Kananaskis, you need a separate pass, the Kananaskis Conservation Pass.
A Car is Ideal for This Itinerary
Although you could manage Days 1 and 4 without a vehicle, you’ll be best served by renting a car for this itinerary. In fact, you’ll need your own transportation to visit Yoho National Park and to hike along the Icefields Parkway. Check out these resources if you are planning to visit Banff without a car:
- How to Visit Banff Without a Car
- An Ideal Banff Itinerary For Those Without a Car
- Amazing Banff Hikes You Can Tackle Without a Car
Make Reservations in Advance
Banff welcomes over 4 million visitors a year, with many traveling during the summer months, leading to strong competition for hotel and shuttle bookings. Where possible, secure reservations early.
This is a Summer Focused Itinerary
The hiking season in Banff is short but sweet, limited to a few summer months. Many trails at higher elevations remain snow-covered well into June. July, August, and September usually offer the most reliable conditions for hiking. While you can hike in other months, you’ll have to navigate more variable conditions, road closures, and avalanche risks.
Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies
- Recommended Experiences: There are many things to do in the Rockies, but our top recommendation is the Banff Gondola – a must do experience!
- Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. For a campervan trip, you can check prices and compare on Outdoorsy.
- We can help you plan your 2025 trip to Western Canada! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by planning we can assist! We’ll personally go over your itinerary, hop on a 1 on 1 phone call, or create a bespoke itinerary just for you! See our services here.