A long time local favorite in Banff is the Tunnel Mountain hike. Located a short walk from downtown Banff, the trailhead is easy to get to either on foot or by car. The hike is fairly short with some steep sections making it a great year round hike which offers beautiful views of town and Mount Rundle.
You likely won’t find yourself alone on this trail which makes it a great option for solo hikers who prefer trails with others for wildlife safety.
Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission on any purchase made, at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the blog running, so thank you for your support!
The Tunnel Mountain Hike
Distance: 2.4km one way
Elevation gain: 260m
The first part of the Tunnel Mountain hike is, in my opinion, some of the steepest climbing you have to do. Straight from the trailhead sign it climbs steeply beside the parking lot before flattening out. It winds its way through the trees, gaining elevation before reaching the road once again. In winter this road is closed, however in summer it is possible to park here too, although parking is very limited at this spot.
Once across the road, there is a second trailhead sign, past it the Tunnel Mountain hike starts to zig zag in mostly long switchbacks as it climbs up the mountain. Stop and enjoy the views of town in the openings of the trees. At times the trail is steep while other switchbacks offer some relief and are fairly flat allowing for your legs to recover.
As you near the top, the top of Mount Rundle starts to pop into view ahead. Here the wind in winter was quite brutal and had me reaching to throw a layer on. As the trail switches back one last time, a steep step down is aided with a metal railing.
From here the trail climbs again, with plenty of viewpoints of the valley and Mount Rundle, stop to enjoy the views, they are worth it! As you continue the final climb there is an opening on the left which is where the two red Parks Canada chairs. A great place to stop, sit and enjoy the view.
If you continue along the trail for a few minutes, you reach the summit of the Tunnel Mountain hike. Marked with two signs welcoming you to the top. Follow the trail around to another opening which looks directly over town. When I did the Tunnel Mountain hike it was so windy at the top I didn’t spend much time up here. However on a sunny day it’s a great spot for a picnic!
To.complete the hike, you return back the way you came but since it’s all gradual downhill you’ll probably find this goes a lot faster than the hike up!
Where Is The Trailhead
The Tunnel Mountain hike trailhead is easy to find. Located on St Julien Road, the parking lot is on the left hand side of the road as you are driving or walking up the hill. It’s approximately one kilometer from downtown Banff and an easy walk of no more than 15 minutes or you can take a five minute drive.
What You’ll Need
Even though this trail is very close to downtown and highly popular with hikers, there have still been bears spotted on the Tunnel Mountain hike so always make sure to carry bear spray and know how to use it.
If you plan on doing this trail in winter, some kind of traction device will be handy. I did the Tunnel Mountain hike in winter and used my Yaktrax, these were the perfect option, giving me great grip, especially on the downhill. Parks Canada also recommends the use of poles when completing the Tunnel Mountain hike. I personally didn’t use them but if you are new to winter hiking they will likely be handy especially on icy days.
For winter hiking I’d suggest wearing Gore-Tex hiking boots, these will keep your feet warm and dry. I went with my favorite hiking boots, La Sportiva Raptor 2 boots. In summer I’ll do the Tunnel Mountain hike in trail runners as they are lighter and more breathable, my go to’s are the On Running Cloud Venture shoes.
In Winter I would take a foam sit pad like the Thermarest Z Seat, this would allow you to sit in a little more warmth and comfort when you reach the summit. It’s so light and makes a great addition to any day hike.
Where To Stay In Banff
Banff has lots of options for accommodation. If you are looking for a campground, check out Tunnel Mountain Village campground, this is open year round for the brave! Otherwise we always love camping at Two Jack Lakeside.
If you are looking for something a bit more comfortable there are plenty of hotels to choose from. I love The Fox Hotel, it has cozy rooms with a great cave hot tub. Or in the middle of downtown Banff you’ll find the Mount Royal Hotel, renovated a few years ago. It has clean bright rooms with a rooftop hot tub and can’t be beat for its central location.
