Western Canada is a land of immense beauty, where jagged peaks pierce the sky, turquoise lakes reflect mountain walls, and alpine meadows burst into color beneath the summer sun. Stretching across British Columbia and Alberta, the Canadian Rockies and surrounding regions offer some of the planet’s most iconic and awe-inspiring hiking trails.
Whether navigating through the craggy ridges of Banff National Park, wandering into the serene forests of Yoho, or braving the backcountry of British Columbia’s vast wilderness, Western Canada and the Rockies provide a playground for hikers of all levels. With well-maintained trail systems, abundant wildlife, and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s no surprise this region ranks among the world’s top hiking destinations.
Banff National Park: Canada’s Hiking Crown Jewel
Established in 1885, Banff is Canada’s first national park and perhaps its most famous. Its vast trail network in Alberta weaves through dramatic mountain ranges, turquoise lakes, and dense evergreen forests.
Plain of Six Glaciers Trail
One of Banff’s most iconic hikes, this 14-kilometer round-trip trek begins at the stunning Lake Louise and climbs steadily into a glacial amphitheater. Along the way, hikers pass by hanging glaciers, rocky outcrops, and a historic teahouse nestled in the mountains. The final viewpoint offers jaw-dropping vistas of the Victoria Glacier and Mount Lefroy.
Sulphur Mountain Trail
For those looking to earn panoramic views of the town of Banff and its surrounding peaks, this moderate 11-kilometer trail climbs 700 meters to a summit boardwalk. Although a gondola is available, hiking the switchbacks delivers a deeper appreciation of the elevation gain and breathtaking scenery.
Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots
A favorite among families and casual hikers, this trail follows a catwalk through narrow limestone cliffs alongside cascading waterfalls. Continue past the Upper Falls for a quieter, more rewarding finish at the Ink Pots—mineral springs bubbling up in vibrant hues from the forest floor.
Jasper National Park: Rugged and Remote
Located just north of Banff, Jasper National Park is less developed, wilder, and just as beautiful. It’s a haven for those seeking more profound solitude and remote adventures.
Sulphur Skyline Trail
This challenging hike climbs over 700 meters in less than 4 kilometers to reach a summit that rewards with 360-degree views of the Fiddle Range and surrounding valleys. After the hike, you can soothe your muscles at the nearby Miette Hot Springs.
Edith Cavell Meadows
A moderate 8-kilometer loop showcasing the towering Mount Edith Cavell, this trail passes by the Angel Glacier and offers views of moraine fields, glacial meltwater pools, and wildflower-filled alpine meadows. It’s a quieter alternative to Banff’s busier trails, with just as much visual drama.
Bald Hills Trail
Overlooking Maligne Lake—famous for its ethereal Spirit Island—the Bald Hills Trail climbs into high alpine ridgelines. The summit offers spectacular views of glaciated peaks and the shimmering lake below.
Yoho and Kootenay National Parks: Underrated Gems
Often overshadowed by Banff and Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks (located in British Columbia) offer some of the best hiking in the Rockies, without the heavy foot traffic.
Iceline Trail (Yoho)
This 20-kilometer loop is a bucket-list hike for seasoned trekkers. Starting at the dramatic Takakkaw Falls, the trail climbs above the treeline to traverse beneath a series of ancient glaciers. Panoramic views, turquoise lakes, and jagged ridges make this one of the Rockies’ most spectacular alpine routes.
Paget Lookout (Yoho)
Short but steep, this 7-kilometer out-and-back trail leads to a historic fire lookout. It provides sweeping views of Sherbrooke Lake and the Wapta Icefield—perfect for a half-day adventure.
Paint Pots Trail (Kootenay)
This short, family-friendly loop hike passes through ochre-colored mineral springs once used by Indigenous peoples to create paint. While not as dramatic in elevation, it’s rich in color, culture, and geological curiosity.
British Columbia’s Backcountry Treasures
Beyond the Rockies, British Columbia has lesser-known trails through coastal ranges, deep valleys, and glacier-fed lakes. These hikes offer wild beauty far from crowds.
Garibaldi Lake Trail
Located near Whistler, this 18-kilometer round-trip hike climbs through lush forest to a brilliant blue lake surrounded by volcanic peaks. In summer, wildflowers carpet the meadows around the water, and the towering Black Tusk in the background adds drama to the skyline.
Panorama Ridge
Also within Garibaldi Provincial Park, this demanding 30-kilometer trek is often done overnight. Those who reach the summit are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in Canada—Garibaldi Lake shimmering below, framed by snow-capped peaks and massive glaciers.
Joffre Lakes Trail
A relatively short but stunning 10-kilometer trail leads to three glacier-fed lakes, each more turquoise than the last. With views of Matier Glacier and cascading waterfalls, Joffre Lakes is a favorite among photographers and casual hikers.
Seasonal Considerations and Safety
Hiking in Western Canada and the Rockies offers unmatched beauty but demands preparation and respect for nature. Snow can linger well into late spring, especially at higher elevations. Peak hiking season generally runs from June to September, with July and August offering the most trail access and the least snow cover.
Bear safety is essential. Hikers should carry bear spray, make noise, and hike in groups whenever possible. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly—sunny mornings can turn to snow or storms by afternoon—so layers, waterproof gear, and emergency supplies are crucial.
Trailhead parking can be limited during peak hours, especially in Lake Louise and Joffre Lakes. Arriving early or using shuttle systems can help avoid crowds and delays.
Why These Trails Matter
What makes hiking in Western Canada and the Rockies unforgettable isn’t just the scenery—it’s the sense of vastness and wildness and of encountering nature on its terms. These mountains aren’t just beautiful; they’re alive with glaciers carving valleys, wildlife moving silently through forests, and rivers that begin as snowmelt and end in faraway seas.
Each hike tells a story of the land, the people who’ve walked it before, and the hikers who return changed. Whether you’re summiting a peak, resting beside a mountain lake, or walking through a wildflower-strewn meadow, hiking here is not just an activity. It’s a way to reconnect with something timeless and authentic.
Trails That Elevate the Spirit
The hikes of Western Canada and the Rockies are more than bucket-list experiences. They’re invitations to challenge yourself, disconnect from daily life’s noise, and witness the untouched beauty of one of Earth’s most extraordinary landscapes. Whether walking along the edge of a glacier or standing atop a wind-swept ridge, one thing becomes clear: in the vastness of these mountains, you find something much bigger than just a view—you find yourself.