Skip to main content
Person mountain biking on the Minnewanka Trail with the lake and mountains in the background
Biking

Mountain Biking at Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is known as a top spot to visit, but the majority of folks who come here don’t go past the boat docks and picnic area. Beyond thisis some of Banff’s best mountain biking singletrack. After the initial uphill pedal, the trail rolls up and down along the side of the lake with the occasional exposed rocky section. The Lake Minnewanka trail extends a full 15 km down the lake, and it’s possible to go even further on the more technical trail that follows.

Good To Know

Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
1-3 hrs
When
May - Jul & Sep - Oct

Location

Distance from Banff:
14km
Distance from Lake Louise:
70km

When to go

Operating Dates

MonthOperating Status
JanClosed
FebClosed
MarClosed
AprClosed
MayOpen
JunOpen
JulOpen
AugClosed
SepOpen
OctOpen
NovClosed
DecClosed

A seasonal trail closure is in place from mid July - mid Sep to reduce disruptions to wildlife in the area.

Local Tips

  • We recommend an early morning ride, when the trail is quieter, and the lake is serene.

  • Share the trail - the closer you are to the main lakeshore area, the more likely there will be hikers on the path.

  • There’s an important seasonal wildlife closure on this trail between mid-July and mid-September.

  • New to mountain biking? Take a guided mountain biking tour for the best experience.

Let's do this

Bikescape Mountain Bike & Winter Adventures

Activity & Tour Providers
See details about Bikescape Mountain Bike & Winter Adventures

Banff Adventures

Activity & Tour Providers
See details about Banff Adventures

Snowtips-Bactrax Ski & Bike Rental

Equipment Rentals
Location
Banff Town Area
See details about Snowtips-Bactrax Ski & Bike Rental

Ultimate Sports

Sporting Goods & Apparel
Location
Banff Town Area
See details about Ultimate Sports

Wilson Mountain Sports

Equipment Rentals
See details about Wilson Mountain Sports