Top Hikes In Banff And Area

As a local Calgarian, one of the questions I most often get asked is which hikes are the best. Although it depends on skill level, view and any number of other factors there are a few hikes I would consistently recommend. For a more in-depth explanation of what to expect, consider downloading and referencing All Trails before planning your trip.

1.Yates Mountain

In my opinion, Yates Mountain is one of the top hikes in the Kananaskis area. Yates Mountain is considered moderate and for a moderate hike the view is one of the best I’ve seen. The best part is the good view isn’t at the top of the mountain so you don’t even have to finish it for good photos.

2. Grizzly Peak

On the challenging side, Grizzly Peak is probably the best hike in Kananaskis area although the steepest I had ever done. The best part is that before summiting, you arrive in a beautiful green field with local plants with views almost all around. There is significant sun exposure, especially in the afternoon. Therefore sunscreen is a MUST!

3. King’s Creek

Next on the list is very comparable to Grizzly Peak (as it is a neighbouring mountain). Although steep, there was little to no scrambling, making the views well worth the trek. This hike is probably the easier version of Grizzly Peak, although if you have the opportunity to both you should.

4. Pocaterra Ridge

It’s worth noting that if you want to do an out and back hike you can do just the one ridge, however there is also an option to cross the ridge and end at a second parking lot.

5. Rae Glacier

For a moderate hike, Mount Rae is also a leading contender. The only caveat is that compared to other moderate hikes there is a lot of gravel.

According to All Trails the hike is 8.2-km out-and-back trail that takes about 3 hours to complete.