We’ve compiled our top 6 winter hikes in Banff, these are either in the townsite or just outside. All these winter hikes in Banff can be accessed on foot if you are staying in town or by taking a short trip on public transport.
Banff is predominantly known as a skiing destination over winter however there is so much more to see and do during the peaceful winter season. Most of these winter hikes in Banff would be heavily trafficked in the summer but in winter you may not encounter another person during winter. It is always important to check trail conditions with Parks Canada before heading out.
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Top 6 Winter Hikes In Banff
1. Tunnel Mountain
The Tunnel Mountain hike is popular year round with visitors and locals alike. This is one of the smallest summits in Banff but gives incredible views over the town and Mount Rundle. This hike is short but there are definitely some steeper sections and you should expect plenty of good switchbacks.
2. Sundance Canyon
In winter you can expect to share the Sundance Canyon trail with cross country skiers and fat bikers, but this really is one of the premier winter hikes in Banff, so you’ll soon understand why it is so popular. As the trail reaches the river it provides gorgeous mountain views and then once at the canyon there is the frozen waterfall to enjoy.
3. Sulphur Mountain
Sulphur mountain is the biggest leg burner on this list of winter hikes in Banff, it is around a 5.5km hike to the top with 655m of elevation gain. This makes for a great workout! The trail heads up the front side of the mountain, under the gondola path, gaining elevation through a series of switchbacks. Once at the summit, enjoy the incredible views over the town of Banff.
4. Fenlands Trail And Vermillion Lakes
The Fenlands trail loops through the forest beside the Norquay Road entrance into Banff, the closest trail entrance to town is just across the train tracks. This pretty forested walk has almost no elevation gain and is a perfect walk to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. You can also add on a trip to Vermillion Lakes as the trail has an offshoot which will take you up to Vermillion drive and from there is a short walk to the first lake, a picture perfect spot.
5. Surprise Corner To The Hoodoos
This trail is often one of the most overlooked winter hikes in Banff, starting at Surprise Corner which offers a gorgeous view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel across the valley. It then follows the river through the valley before getting to the Hoodoos viewpoint. From here is it possible to cut back into town through Tunnel Mountain
6. Upper Stoney Lookout
The Upper Stoney Lookout trail is just outside of the town of Banff. This is one of the more popular winter hikes in Banff due to its shorter length, however there is still a fair amount of elevation gain. There is a viewpoint when the trees open up which looks down through the valley. The joy of this trail is that it is also a loop so it’s ideal for those who don’t enjoy an out and back trail.
What You Might Need To Hike In Banff In Winter
If you are planning on doing some winter hikes in Banff, you’ll need to make sure you are prepared for any weather, one day it could be sunny and warm, the next day a chilly negative 20 and snowing. Layers are key when completing any winter hikes in Banff. I typically start with a good set of moisture wicking base layers and then a fleece, and a down jacket on top.
If it’s really cold or I know I’ll be working hard. I’ll bring a jacket but I’ll wear a down vest instead. On my lower half I’ll wear a pair of hiking pants over my thermal tights or if it’s warm I’ll just wear a single pair of winter tights. I also always pack a pair of gloves and a toque, these can be very handy if the wind starts to blow!
For footwear I typically find my summer hiking boots more than adequate for keeping my feet warm and dry while I’m doing any winter hikes in Banff. My favorite are the La Sportiva Raptor 2 hiking boots. The Gore-tex is perfect for keeping feet warm and dry.
Many of the winter hikes in Banff can get icy at certain times throughout the winter season. I never leave home without a pair of ice spikes in my bag. I love my Yaktrax, they are easy to take on and off, not too heavy or bulky and work perfectly for most trails.
Some of the hikes are on the steeper side, especially the Sulphur Mountain trail; it may be worth taking poles on some of these hikes. They will help keep you balanced if it’s icy, especially on the descent.
Other Amazing Winter Hikes Nearby
The above list of winter hikes in Banff covers the main trails in the town itself. A short drive in any direction and you’ll find a large number of other worthwhile hiking trails. The most popular hike in Banff National Park year round is the Johnston Canyon hike. This fun hike is rewarding with two frozen waterfalls to enjoy and for the brave who wish to continue further along the trail, you’ll get to the Ink Pots.
On the outskirts of Canmore, a 20 minute drive from Banff, you’ll find the Grassi Lakes trail, this is another popular and gorgeous hike year round, with a short hike leading to a number of small pools which look great surrounded by a fresh layer of snow.
