Easy Sightseeing Walks and Hikes in Banff

Pause. Take a deep breath. You’ve arrived in the mountains.

The air is fresh, the weather is beautiful, and the great outdoors beckons you to join it. Explore Banff National Park’s natural wonders by foot on these easy walks and hikes.

For a joyful experience, comfortable shoes with a sturdy grip, like hiking boots, are ideal. Remember to pack layers and rain gear and prepare for any weather. Don't forget to pack the important life essentials of water and food.

Fenland Trail

Similar to the Bow River Trail, the Fenland Trail can also begin in the town at the canoe docks or you can drive and park at the Fenlands Recreation Centre as you head north towards Vermilion Lakes. Along the rivers and lakes, you’ll see canoers in the summer or skaters in the winter and wildlife most of the year.

Bow River Trail

Located right off the heart of downtown, this trail system will take you south towards Bow Falls and the Fairmont Banff Springs where you can reward your efforts with an afternoon tea or a hand-crafted meal. On the way, make sure you walk across the pedestrian bridge over the Bow River for a great photo opportunity with Rundle and Cascade Mountains. If you're not up for the walk back into town, you can catch Roam bus #2 back to town.

Cave & Basin National Historic Site & the Marsh Loop

If you’re into history, this is the walk for you! From downtown, follow signs across the river for the Cave & Basin. You’ll pass by Banff Park Museum where you’ll see Rocky Mountain wildlife and Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum where you can learn about Banff National Park’s relationship with the First Nations in the area.

From there, you’ll arrive at the Cave & Basin where you’ll learn about the birth of the Canadian National Park systems. Then, take a walk around the Marsh Loop to fully disconnect and tune in to nature.

On your way back wander through the Cascade of Time Gardens which is located at the end of Banff Avenue. Parks Canada staff maintain these stunning gardens that are often visited by resident deer.

Stewart Canyon

This is a great option for families to step away from the shore and discover more around Lake Minnewanka. After a short bus ride or drive from downtown, walk the shoreline and then wander through the forest towards Stewart Canyon. You will begin to hear the raging waters of the Cascade River as you approach the canyon and bridge. Once you have reached the bridge, admire the rushing water below as it runs towards Lake Minnewanka. You can continue along a trail to the left after the bridge. Be aware of hiking restrictions from July - September if you continue straight, and along Lake Minnewanka.

Moderate but scenic Tunnel Mountain

If you prefer to give your legs a little more of a stretch, depart from downtown Banff and complete the entire Tunnel Mountain trail, which takes about 2 hours round trip.

While you're in the area of the Banff Centre, head down to Surprise Corner or access it directly from downtown by following Buffalo St up towards Tunnel Mountain Dr. This lookout offers one of the most iconic views of the Fairmont Banff Springs.