Banff National Park offers various spots that are perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. As you keep proceeding above the treeline, the terrain becomes more complex. And finally, you enter the avalanche region. Today, we have collated a list of some moderate and challenging Banff hikes that advanced hikers equipped with the requisite gear can try out in Banff.
Moderate Banff Hikes…
Johnston Canyon
The Johnston Canyon ice walk is one of the busiest Banff hikes especially in winters, which can be completed within a time span of 2-4 hours. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the beauty of the frozen waterfall and dramatic canyons as you hike to the end of this trail. The well-maintained trail offers an elevation gain of 200 meters. Keep microspikes handy as the path remains extremely icy during winter.
You will be in for a real treat if you can time your visit following a fresh snowfall. Beginners can easily hike to the Lower Falls. A high level of fitness is required for reaching the Upper Falls.
Tunnel Mountain
Tunnel Mountain, located in the heart of Banff, is a hit among locals for its superb accessibility. You can either hike to the peak during winter months or go snowshoeing. Despite being one of the smallest mountains of Banff National Park, it delivers outstanding views of the surrounding valley and Mount Rundle. You can easily complete this 4.5 km long hike within 1-2 hours with an elevation gain of 266 meters.
There are various viewpoints along the way from which you can marvel at the beauty of Spray and Bow Valleys. Reach there during sunrise or sunset to get the best photographs. After a fresh snowfall, it takes between one and two days for a well-trodden trail to be packed. As a result, you can hike on most winter days without snowshoes.
Mirror Lake
The 9 km long Mirror Lake hike is ideal for snowshoers who wish to experience alpine beauty from up close. The trail begins from the Lake Louise lakeshore near the Fairmont Chateau. Next you will have to head northwest along the frozen shore. Finally, it branches right uphill towards Lake Agnes. You can complete this Banff hike in 2-4 hours, which offers an elevation gain of 433 meters.
The path takes you through snow-covered forests towards a frozen tarn at the base of the Big Beehive. During winter months, it transforms into an icy wonderland offering stellar views of Victoria Glacier and Lake Louise. It receives fewer footfalls than the Tunnel Mountain or Johnston Canyon. This makes it the perfect choice for tourists who wish to enjoy solitude.
Sulphur Mountain
Visitors can’t stop raving about the astonishing views they can enjoy from hiking Sulphur Mountain. You can marvel at the beauty of Spray Valley and Bow Valley while hiking up Sulphur Mountain. The hiking trail starts from the Banff Hot Springs or Banff Gondola parking lot. You will have to travel through multiple switchbacks up Sulphur Mountain before reaching the gondola station. On reaching the summit of Sulphur Mountain, keep traveling along the ridge till Sanson Peak.
From here you can enjoy the magnificent views of the Cascade Mountain and surrounding valleys. While you can wear boots on your hiking trip, it’s recommended to get your snowshoes out for making the most of the winter terrain. Sulphur Mountain is located in close vicinity to Banff Town. As a result, you can take the Banff Gondola to reach the peak easily. The 10.1 km long hike with an elevation gain of 744 meters can be completed in 2-4 hours.
Advanced Banff Hikes…
Boom Lake
Want to experience a snow-covered lake in its peak beauty? Plan your upcoming trip to Boom Lake, which can be completed following a 10.2 km round trip. Boom Lake is located near the Kootenay border, offering a magnificent skiing and snowshoeing experience. There is an elevation gain of 175-200 meters along the way as you proceed through dense evergreens.
It requires between 3 and 4 hours completing the entire hike. Despite being ungroomed, the terrain is pretty easy to traverse. Boom Lake receives fewer footfalls than Johnston Canyon, helping travelers enjoy solitude in the lap of nature.
Taylor Lake
This is one of the most bold Banff hikes you can tackle in the winter. Prepare to climb approximately 600 meters as you hike to Taylor Lake during winter. The 7 km one-way hike will take you through beautiful evergreens before reaching a stunning turquoise lake under Mt. Bell. This spot is a hit amongst tourists for backcountry ski tours and snowshoeing. Keep proceeding on the trail and you will reach Panorama Meadows. It is recommended to wear snowshoes for hiking through Taylor Lake during winter. Make sure not to go too near the runout, as the surrounding slopes are prone to avalanche.
