5 Best Hikes in Canmore
Hiking around Canmore offers a distinct blend of rugged mountain beauty and easy access to both beginner and advanced trails. The towering peaks of the Three Sisters, combined with the quieter, less touristy atmosphere compared to nearby Banff, give Canmore a truly authentic alpine charm. Plus, the proximity to wildlife corridors means you might just spot elk or even a grizzly in their natural habitat, making every hike a unique experience.
Grassi Lakes
3.4km / 166m
Grassi Lakes is a scenic hike just outside Canmore, known for its emerald-green waters and views of the Bow Valley. The trail is named after Lawrence Grassi, a local climbing legend and Italian immigrant who helped build many of the region's trails in the early 20th century. Along the hike, you’ll also spot ancient Indigenous pictographs, offering a glimpse into the area's cultural history.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Snacks & Water
Bow River
6km / 129m
The Bow River Trail is a peaceful, mostly flat route that follows the Bow River as it winds through Banff. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or family outing, the trail offers serene views of the surrounding mountains and abundant wildlife sightings. Historically, the Bow River has been an essential waterway for the Indigenous peoples of the area, making it a historically rich and culturally significant route.
Check out some of our local shops while you're at it.
Ha Ling
7.4km / 755m
Ha Ling is a popular, steep hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Canmore and the Bow Valley. Named after a Chinese cook who climbed the peak in 1896 to win a bet, Ha Ling’s history is as captivating as the challenging ascent. Reaching the summit allows hikers to feel connected with the long history of mountain climbing in the area, and it’s a perfect introduction to scrambling in the Rockies.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, First Aid, Navigation, Extra Layers, Water & Food
East End of Runder (EEOR)
5km / 838m
The East End of Rundle (EEOR) is a challenging scramble that offers breathtaking views of Ha Ling Peak and the entire Bow Valley. This hike, known for its steep incline and rocky terrain, is a favorite among experienced hikers. Rundle itself is named after Reverend Robert Rundle, a Methodist missionary who explored the area in the mid-1800s, adding a layer of historical depth to your climb.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, First Aid, Navigation, Extra Layers, Water & Food
Mt. Lady Macdonald
10.3km / 1271m
Mount Lady Macdonald is a demanding hike that leads to the remnants of a long-abandoned teahouse site, offering sweeping views of Canmore. Named after Susan Agnes Macdonald, wife of Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, this trail carries a historical link to the country’s early political leaders. The summit ridge is airy and exciting, perfect for those seeking a challenge and a taste of history in the Rockies.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, First Aid, Navigation, Extra Layers, Water & Food
5 Best Hikes in Banff
Hiking around Banff provides unparalleled access to some of Canada’s most iconic mountain landscapes. Whether you're taking a leisurely walk around the Bow River or tackling more challenging routes like the Sulphur Mountain summit, Banff's diverse trail network offers something for every adventurer. Plus, with its rich history as Canada's first national park, each step feels like you're walking through a piece of wilderness conservation heritage.
Tunnel Mountain
4.3km / 262m
(6.7km 337m from Banff Springs)
Tunnel Mountain is one of Banff’s most accessible hikes, offering stunning views of the townsite and surrounding valleys despite its relatively short distance. Originally called "Sleeping Buffalo" by the local Stoney Nakoda people due to its shape, the mountain was later renamed when a tunnel was proposed (but never built) through it during railway construction. Its central location and easy ascent make it a favourite for visitors and locals alike.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks, Bear Spray & Extra Layers
Hoodoos
10km / 280m
(11.5km / 280m from Banff Springs)
The Hoodoos Trail offers a scenic walk along the Bow River, with fascinating views of the towering, natural sandstone spires called hoodoos. These geological formations, shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion, have spiritual significance for the Indigenous peoples of the area. The trail combines unique natural wonders with panoramic views of Mt. Rundle and the Bow Valley, making it a perfect blend of geology and history.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks, Bear Spray & Extra Layers
Sundance Canyon
8.7km / 309m
(11.8km / 356m from Banff Springs)
Sundance Canyon is a relatively easy hike that takes you through forests and along the Bow River before entering a narrow, dramatic canyon. Historically, the area was used by Indigenous peoples for hunting and gathering, and the name "Sundance" refers to an important cultural ceremony. The trail provides a peaceful nature experience with a mix of riverside tranquility and canyon adventure.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks, Bear Spray & Extra Layers
Mt. Sulphur
10.8km / 755m
(12.8km / 900m from Banff Springs)
Sulphur Mountain offers one of Banff’s most iconic hikes, with a trail leading to the summit’s historic Cosmic Ray Station, a UNESCO World Heritage Site used for scientific research in the mid-1900s. The summit is also home to a modern observation deck, where visitors can take in panoramic views of six surrounding mountain ranges. The hike is moderately steep, but you can also take the Banff Gondola for an easier trip up to enjoy the scenery and history.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks, Bear Spray & Extra Layers
Mt. Rundle
15km / 1706m
(16.3km / 1706m from Banff Springs)
Mount Rundle is an iconic, strenuous hike that dominates the skyline above Banff and Canmore, with a dramatic ascent leading to stunning summit views. Named after Reverend Robert Rundle, a missionary who traveled through the area in the 1840s, the mountain has long been a symbol of exploration and spiritual connection. The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering an unforgettable experience for advanced hikers ready to tackle its steep switchbacks and rugged terrain.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks, Bear Spray & Extra Layers
5 Best Hikes in Lake Louise
Hiking in Lake Louise immerses you in breathtaking, world-renowned scenery, with towering peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and lush alpine meadows around every turn. Trails like the Plain of Six Glaciers or the Lake Agnes Teahouse offer a perfect mix of natural beauty and rewarding destinations, where you can rest and take in the stunning surroundings. The serene, reflective waters of Lake Louise itself serve as the ultimate backdrop, making every hike feel like a journey through a pristine, postcard-worthy landscape.
Fairview Lookout
2.3km / 156m
The Fairview Lookout is a short but rewarding hike that provides a panoramic view over Lake Louise, with the historic Fairmont Chateau framed perfectly against the turquoise water. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for most visitors, while the viewpoint offers one of the best vantage points to appreciate the lake's vibrant colours and surrounding peaks. It’s a great option for a quick yet breathtaking outing.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water & Bear Spray
Lakeshore Trail
4.6km / 0m
The Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail is a gentle walk that follows the iconic lake’s shoreline, offering postcard-worthy views of the glacier-fed waters and surrounding peaks. This flat trail is ideal for all levels and immerses you in the natural beauty of Lake Louise without the need for a strenuous climb. It’s a peaceful way to experience the majesty of the area, with the towering Victoria Glacier always in sight.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water & Bear Spray
Lake Agnes
7.4km / 384m
The Lake Agnes Teahouse hike is a beloved Lake Louise classic, leading to a charming alpine teahouse set beside a picturesque mountain lake. Built in 1901 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the teahouse has been serving hikers for over a century, offering tea and treats with a breathtaking view. The trail offers a moderate climb through forested switchbacks, rewarding hikers with stunning scenery and a slice of local history.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks & Bear Spray
Saddleback
8.4km / 716m
The hike to Saddleback Mountain is a moderate but rewarding trail that leads to a scenic saddle between Fairview Mountain and Saddle Peak. Known for its vibrant fall colors when the larch trees turn golden, the trail offers stunning views of Lake Louise, Mount Temple, and surrounding peaks. The steady climb through alpine forests opens up to expansive views at the saddle, making it a perfect hike for those looking to experience the beauty of the high Rockies without the intensity of a summit push.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks & Bear Spray
Mt. Fairview
9.5km / 1025m
Mount Fairview is a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with 360-degree views from its lofty summit, including the glaciers, valleys, and lakes that define the Lake Louise area. This trail is steep but relatively short, making it a great option for those wanting a strenuous workout with immense visual rewards. The name "Fairview" couldn’t be more fitting, as the summit offers one of the best vantage points in the region.
We recommend: Proper Footwear, Water, Snacks, Bear Spray, Extra Layers & First aid
