Johnston Canyon Trail
Located in Banff National Park, the Johnston Canyon trail is one of the most popular and accessible hikes in the Rockies. It's an excellent choice for families and those new to hiking. The trail features a series of catwalks built into the canyon walls,
allowing you to walk directly above the rushing turquoise waters of Johnston Creek. The hike to the Lower Falls is a relatively easy 2.4 km round trip. For those seeking more, continuing another 2.7 km will bring you to the more dramatic Upper Falls. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of waterfalls carving through the limestone canyon. Due to its popularity, it's best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds that gather during the day.
Plain of Six Glaciers
For a classic Lake Louise experience that takes you beyond the crowded shoreline, the Plain of Six Glaciers trail is a must-do. This moderate hike covers approximately 14.6 km round-trip with an elevation gain of around 595 metres. The journey begins with a flat walk along the iconic lakeshore before climbing steadily into a valley with breathtaking views of Mount Lefroy, Mount Victoria, and the glaciers that give the trail its name. A major highlight is the historic Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, a rustic cabin built in 1927 where you can rest and purchase refreshments. Many hikers stop here, but pushing on for another 1.5 km leads to a stunning viewpoint at the base of the glaciers, offering a raw and powerful encounter with the alpine landscape.
Lake Agnes Teahouse Trail
Another beloved Lake Louise hike, the trail to the Lake Agnes Teahouse is a shorter but steeper alternative to the Plain of Six Glaciers. This 7 km round-trip hike climbs through a dense forest, passing the serene Mirror Lake before arriving at Lake Agnes, which is nestled in a stunning hanging valley. The trail ends at another charming, family-run teahouse perched on the shore of the lake, offering a welcome reward for your efforts. From Lake Agnes, more ambitious hikers can continue on to other destinations like the Little Beehive or the Big Beehive for even more expansive views of the area. It's a quintessential Rockies experience, combining a good workout with a unique cultural stop.
Valley of the Five Lakes
Located in Jasper National Park, the Valley of the Five Lakes offers a spectacular and relatively easy hike perfect for an afternoon. The 4.5 km loop trail takes you past five small lakes, each with its own distinct and brilliant shade of blue and green. With minimal elevation gain, it's a family-friendly option that delivers incredible scenic value. The trail winds through a lodgepole pine forest before opening up to the series of stunning lakes. Well-placed benches offer spots to relax and soak in the vibrant colours and peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of the best short hikes in Jasper, providing a high reward for modest effort.
Wilcox Pass
Situated along the magnificent Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park, the Wilcox Pass hike is a moderate trail that provides some of the best views of the Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield. The trail is roughly 8 km round-trip and climbs above the treeline into a vast alpine meadow. This open tundra is often dotted with wildflowers in the summer and is a prime habitat for bighorn sheep. The reward for the steady climb is an unparalleled panoramic view of the icefields and surrounding peaks, making you feel like you are on top of the world. It's considered one of the best value hikes on the parkway for its incredible scenery over a manageable distance.
Sulphur Skyline Trail
For those seeking a challenging hike with a massive payoff, the Sulphur Skyline Trail near Jasper is an excellent choice. This steep 8 km round-trip hike involves a relentless climb with an elevation gain of around 700 metres. The effort is forgotten once you reach the summit, which offers a stunning 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountain ranges. The trail begins near the Miette Hot Springs, providing the perfect opportunity to soak your tired muscles in the warm mineral waters after your descent. While the ascent is tough, the incredible views make it one of the most rewarding and memorable hikes in Jasper National Park.
