The Canadian Rockies are one of the most amazing places in the world, known for their beautiful blue lakes like Lake Louise and Peyto Lake, and tall, jagged mountain peaks covered in shiny glaciers. Below the mountains, you’ll find slopes of loose rocks, thick forests of fir and spruce trees, and colorful fields of wildflowers. Animals like marmots, moose, and even bears live here, and you might see them while hiking. The best hikes in the Canadian Rockies show off all this beauty.

The Canadian Rockies are also home to famous national parks. Banff National Park is the oldest, and Jasper National Park is the largest. They are connected by the Icefields Parkway, a 232 km road known for being one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Other amazing parks include Yoho, Kootenay, and Glacier National Parks. With so many great parks, you might wonder where to start hiking!

We’ve picked 5 great trails around the Canadian Rockies for you to try. Some are popular, while others are less well-known. 

Remember, these descriptions are just to inspire you! You’ll need to get detailed maps or a local guide to hike these trails safely. Planning is important!

 

 

1. The Plain of the Six Glaciers, Banff National Park

The Plain of the Six Glaciers hiking trail in Banff National Park has something for everyone! You’ll get an amazing view of Lake Louise from above, and there’s even a teahouse where you can stop for a snack before continuing your hike.

This trail is 8.5 miles (13.5 km) long, but the effort is totally worth it! At the end, you’ll reach a natural “amphitheater” with stunning views of huge glaciers resting on snowy slopes.

Keep your eyes peeled—you might even see mountain goats along the way, which is pretty exciting!

Trip Details

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 8.5 miles
• Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation: 1,500 feet
• Type: Out and back
• Highlight: Awesome views of Lake Louise

 

2. Maligne Canyon Loop, Jasper National Park

The Maligne Canyon Loop is known by many as the most exciting canyon in the Rockies, even though it’s a short trail. This hike has it all—a fast-moving river, hidden springs where water flows beneath the ground, towering waterfalls, deep canyon walls, and a series of scenic bridges. The views get even more amazing as the canyon gets narrower!

Even though it’s a popular spot, hiking with a local guide can help you find secret viewpoints, like a quick 2-minute detour that shows one of Jasper’s best-hidden scenes. If you visit in winter, you’ll see the frozen waterfalls and get to explore natural ice sculptures safely with special cleats for walking on ice.

Trip Details

• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
• Distance: 2.3 miles
• Time: 1-2 hours
• Elevation: 400 feet
• Type: Loop
• Highlight: Stunning waterfalls

 

3. The Iceline Trail, Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park gets its name from the Cree word for ‘awe’ and ‘wonder,’ which perfectly describes the feeling you’ll get while hiking the Iceline Trail in the park’s north. This trail offers incredible views of glaciers and one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls, Takakkaw, giving you a front-row seat to some of the most amazing sights in nature.

As you walk the 11-mile (18 km) trail, you’ll see a mix of landscapes, from thick forests to sparkling emerald lakes, all of which will keep you mesmerized along the way.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk or something more challenging, the Canadian Rockies have hikes for everyone. 

Trip Details

• Difficulty: Hard
• Distance: 11 miles
• Time: 7+ hours
• Elevation: 3,100 feet
• Type: Loop
• Highlight: Waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine lakes

 

 

4. Valley of the Ten Peaks, Banff National Park

This hike might remind you of a magical world from “The Lord of the Rings,” but it’s actually a real trail in the Canadian Rockies! As you walk through this stunning stretch of wilderness, you’ll be surrounded by tall Douglas Fir trees that smell amazing and hear birds flying from branch to branch while you hike along the rocky path.

But the best part? Once you leave the peaceful forest, you’ll come face-to-face with the towering ten peaks. These snow-covered mountain tops seem to touch the clouds in winter and stand tall against the bright blue sky in summer.

These incredible peaks will be the perfect backdrop for your 5-mile (8 km) hike, and they might just become your favorite part of nature.

Trip Details

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 5 miles
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Elevation: 1,700 feet
• Type: Out and Back
• Highlight: Stunning mountain views

 

5. Emerald Lake Loop, Yoho National Park

Are you looking for a scenic and relaxing hike? The Emerald Lake Loop is perfect if you have some extra time before meeting up with your group and want to enjoy one last trail in the Rockies. This flat, easy trail takes you around the edge of a stunning turquoise lake that reflects the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and forests.

Along the way, you’ll cross wooden bridges over streams and see the views change from towering mountains to sparkling glaciers. There’s even a peaceful section through the woods to mix things up. You’ll pass an avalanche path, but don’t worry—your guide will keep you safe!

Trip Details

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 3.2 miles
• Time: 1.5 hours
• Elevation: 400 feet
• Type: Loop
• Highlight: Close-up views of the turquoise lake