Top 13 Hikes for Fun and Fitness in Alberta

Photo: Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park.

As the mercury rises, so do the number of overcrowded swimming pools, overzealous tourists and screaming children. With their city besotted with noise and commotion, citizens often yearn to get away from it all. The good news is that there’s no need to fly across the globe to achieve that coveted tranquility, as nestled within Alberta is an abundance of nature trails that twist through the province’s spectacular scenery.

So whether you’ve got a heart-pumping passion for trekking, or are just looking to enjoy and explore the spoils of nature, lace up your hiking boots, pack your bug spray, and plan your path to one of these incredible trails!

1. Johnston Canyon

A mossy forest frames the entrance of the most visited canyon in the Canadian Rockies; therein lies lofty limestone walls that house seven astounding waterfalls. Novice trekkers often end their excursion at the first cascade, though those daring enough to continue on will be treated to the sight of the famous jade-green Ink Pots.

Location: Banff

2. Grotto Canyon

Its beginner level and unique attractions make this trail one of Canmore’s most popular hikes. Enter the mouth of the canyon to discover cliffside caves, delicate waterfalls and ancient native pictographs etched in the polished limestone walls.

Location: Canmore and Kananaskis Country

3. Edith Cavell Hike

Discover roaring waterfalls, colourful alpine flowers, breathtaking glaciers, a stunning green lake and more in a place that’s hailed as one of the most interesting sites in the Canadian Rockies. Edith Cavell’s fascinating topography is available for all to see, as the trail is regarded as an easy walk with only a moderate elevation gain.

Location: Jasper

4. Maligne Canyon

Plunging multicoloured canyon walls provide the framework for this fascinating gorge. Walk along the canyon from above and be refreshed by the spray of the roaring Maligne River and gaze into its mossy depths.

Location: Jasper

5. Banff Hoodoos

The classic hoodoos have long since been objects of inspiration and awe; thin spires of rock carved by wind and water that stand guard over the Bow River and Valley. This attraction caters to both novice and experienced trekkers, with several trails ranging from easy to difficult to choose from.

Location: Banff

6. Skogan Pass

This moderate hike is idyllic for wilderness wanderers, as it is a trail that offers its visitors multiple opportunities to explore the surrounding nature. It is a long trek to the summit, but the views are rewarding: the town of Banff, Kananaskis Valley, and the ski slopes of Nakiska are all clearly visible.

Location: Canmore and Kananaskis Country

7. Athabasca Falls

A short hike to the pedestrian bridge gives the explorer a prime view of one of the most powerful falls to be found in the national park. Though be conscious that the falls are as beautiful as they are treacherous; assure your safety by staying behind the railing and on the trails.

Location: Jasper

8. Cave and Basin Trail

A boardwalk paves the way for visitors who wish to witness its surrounding splendors, among which are marshes and streams fed by Sulfur Mountain’s hot springs. This excellent – and easy – path is a bird watcher’s paradise; blue jays, yellowthroats, blackbirds and teals are among the broad number of species that inhabit the area.

Location: Banff

9. Heart Creek Trail

This quiet course offers prime views of slow streams and steep limestone walls and is ideal for beginners or individuals looking for an unchallenging trek. The creek trail features seven easy crossings, all of which lead to a small waterfall at the end of the canyon.

Location: Canmore and Kananaskis Country

10. Heart Mountain

An unrelenting and unforgiving climb to the summit of Heart Mountain, this perilous trail is for the brave among us and for expert hikers only. Visitors who endure the tricky ascent up the precipitous ridge will be in awe as Bow Valley unfolds beneath their feet.

Location: Canmore and Kananaskis Country

11. Bow Falls Trail

Bow Falls Trail is a hike that has no shortage of magnificent scenery and is easy enough to allow the explorer to savour every minute of the scenic walk. Located near the famous Banff Springs Hotel, following the river from Banff Bridge leads the trekker to the tumbling Bow Falls and offers them a fine view of Rundle Mountain.

Location: Banff

12. Horseshoe Lake Hike

While short and simple, this gem of a hike is no less rewarding than its more difficult Jasper-based counterparts. Picturesque mountains and rocky cliffs surround a horseshoe-shaped lake.

Location: Jasper

13. Goat Creek and Spray River

The location’s smooth paths and easily accessible views of rivers and wildlife make this trail popular with trekkers looking for a moderate day-long hike. Beginning at the summit of Whiteman Pass, hikers can stop and catch their breath at the hike’s end point – the luxurious Banff Springs Hotel.

Location: Canmore and Kananaskis Country