Banff is one of the most beautiful places to hike in the summer. With green forests, clear lakes, and stunning mountain views, it’s a dream for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for everyone.
As locals and shuttle service experts at Ten Peaks Shuttle, we’ve helped hundreds of travelers explore Banff the right way on foot! We’ve seen which trails bring smiles and which ones offer those jaw-dropping views. Let us share some of the best summer hikes in Banff so you can plan an unforgettable adventure.
Best Summer Hikes in Banff
1. Tunnel Mountain
Perfect for first-timers and families, Tunnel Mountain is one of the most accessible hikes in Banff. It’s only about 4.8 km (3 miles) round trip and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The trailhead starts right near downtown Banff, making it super easy to get to. Especially if you’re using a shuttle service like ours at Ten Peaks Shuttle.
Even though it’s called a “mountain,” this trail is more like a long, steady hill. It’s not too steep, and there are lots of switchbacks that make the climb easier. Along the way, you’ll walk through peaceful pine forests, spot wildflowers in summer, and maybe even see wildlife like chipmunks or mountain goats.
But the real magic happens at the top. Once you reach the summit, you’ll get panoramic views of the Bow River Valley, Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, and the town of Banff below. It’s one of those views that feels like a reward for your effort, even if the hike itself wasn’t too hard!
We recommend this trail to those arriving mid-day or with limited time. It’s a great way to stretch your legs, enjoy nature, and snap some amazing photos before dinner in town.
2. Johnston Canyon
If you’re looking for one of the most fun and family-friendly hikes in Banff, Johnston Canyon should be high on your list. As shuttle and tour experts who’ve guided many visitors here, we can confidently say this trail is unforgettable.
Johnston Canyon isn’t your usual forest hike. This trail takes you deep into a narrow canyon with roaring waterfalls, smooth limestone walls, and cool river sounds all around. What makes it even more exciting is the catwalks, metal pathways attached to the canyon walls that let you walk right above the water.
It’s a mix of natural beauty and clever design that lets you explore safely while getting super close to the action.
- Lower Falls: This is a short and easy 1.2 km (0.75 mile) walk one way. You’ll reach a pretty waterfall with a small cave tunnel that leads to a close-up view. Kids love this part!
- Upper Falls: If you’re feeling up for a little more adventure, keep going another 1.3 km (0.8 miles) to the Upper Falls. You’ll see a tall waterfall that drops into a stunning blue pool.
- The Ink Pots: Want to go even further? Keep hiking to the Ink Pots, bubbling mineral springs in a quiet meadow. It’s about 5.8 km (3.6 miles) one way from the trailhead.
We often recommend this hike to families, couples, and even first-time hikers. It’s a well-maintained trail, and the steel catwalks make the whole experience feel like an outdoor adventure park, without needing to be super fit.
Try to go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the busiest times. It’s a popular trail, and parking fills up quickly, another reason why our shuttle service can save you the stress! Even though the hike is fairly easy, the catwalks can get slippery when wet, especially after a rain. Wear good hiking shoes with grip, bring a light rain jacket just in case, and keep young kids close on the narrow sections.
3. Lake Agnes Tea House Trail
If you’re looking for a hike that combines natural beauty, peaceful moments, and a unique reward at the top, the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail is one you won’t want to miss. This is one of the most loved hikes in the Lake Louise area, and for good reason.
The trail is about 7.5 km (4.6 miles) round trip, starting right from Lake Louise. It’s considered a moderate hike, with a steady uphill climb that most people with basic fitness can manage. It usually takes around 2 to 3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you relax at the top.
From the start, you’ll follow a well-maintained path that winds up through a peaceful pine forest. The air smells fresh and earthy, and the sound of birdsong adds to the calm. Partway up, you’ll reach Mirror Lake, a small but beautiful lake that gives you your first big view of Mount St. Piran and the Big Beehive.
Many hikers pause here for a breather and some photos, it’s a perfect halfway break. The trail continues up with a few more switchbacks until you reach Lake Agnes, a stunning alpine lake nestled in a cirque of rocky mountains.
At the edge of Lake Agnes sits the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, which has been serving hikers since 1905. Run by a local family and staff who carry up supplies by foot, the tea house is only open in summer and offers over 100 types of loose-leaf tea, fresh baked goods, and simple homemade lunches. We always recommend this hike for first-time visitors looking for something that feels adventurous, but still manageable. It’s perfect for couples, families with older kids, or solo travelers seeking peaceful moments away from the crowds at the Lake Louise shoreline.
4. Sulphur Mountain
Sulphur Mountain is one of the most iconic hikes in Banff, perfect if you’re looking for a mix of physical activity, incredible views, and a fun gondola ride to finish it off. The trail to the top of Sulphur Mountain is about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) one way, with around 700 meters (2,300 feet) of elevation gain. It’s a well-maintained switchback trail that steadily climbs through the forest. As you go higher, you’ll catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains and the Bow Valley. Even though it’s uphill most of the way, the path is wide and smooth, making it doable for most hikers with moderate fitness.
Many guests who use our shuttle service tell us they love this hike because it gives a sense of real accomplishment, without needing expert-level hiking skills. You start in the forest, but as you get closer to the summit, the views open up and you feel like you’re walking above the clouds.
Once you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of Banff, the Bow Valley, and six different mountain ranges. There’s a skywalk boardwalk at the top that takes you to the historic Sanson’s Peak Meteorological Station. It’s a short walk from the main building and offers even more epic photo opportunities.
There’s also a restaurant, coffee shop, gift shop, and indoor observation deck if you’d like to relax and enjoy the view a little longer.
5. Sunshine Meadows
Sunshine Meadows is often called one of the most beautiful hikes in all of Banff. It’s located at Sunshine Village, and in summer, the area bursts with wildflowers and open mountain views. Tucked high up in the Canadian Rockies, this area is part of the Sunshine Village ski resort, but in the summer, the snow melts away to reveal wide open alpine meadows covered in colorful wildflowers.
From late June to early August, Sunshine Meadows turns into a living painting of purples, yellows, and reds. You’ll spot alpine buttercups, Indian paintbrush, fireweed, and more. All blooming against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. It’s a paradise for flower lovers and photographers.
One of the best things about Sunshine Meadows is the flexibility of the trails. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a short loop or an experienced hiker wanting a longer day hike, you’ll find something that fits:
- Rock Isle Lake Loop (3.6 km): A beginner-friendly trail with lake views and plenty of flowers. Great for families or a relaxed morning hike.
- Grizzly-Larix Lakes (7–9 km round trip): A bit more challenging, but rewards you with two beautiful alpine lakes and fewer crowds.
- Citadel Pass (for experienced hikers): A longer, more intense day hike with breathtaking scenery around every turn.
Since Sunshine Meadows is located at a higher elevation (over 2,000 meters), you’ll need to take a gondola or shuttle bus from the Sunshine Village base to reach the trailhead. The ride itself is an experience, with panoramic views of the Rockies opening up the higher you go.
Aside from flowers, Sunshine Meadows is a great place to spot wildlife like marmots, ground squirrels, and even the occasional mountain goat. Because of its high elevation and protected location, it’s usually less crowded than other Banff trails. If you love Sunshine Meadows, you’ll definitely enjoy other gentle trails around town. Check out our list of easy hikes near Banff to find your next scenic stroll.
That peaceful feeling, away from traffic, tour buses, and noise, makes it a favorite among nature lovers and seasoned hikers. Weather can change fast in the mountains. Even in summer, mornings can be chilly. Bring layers, sunscreen, and water. And don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to capture these views!
Conclusion: Hike Smart, Hike Happy
The best summer hikes in Banff are more than just paths, they’re adventures waiting to happen. Whether you want a short stroll or a full-day climb, there’s a trail that will match your mood and skill level. From waterfall-filled canyons to tea house trails and wildflower meadows, Banff has it all.
Hiking in Banff during the summer is an experience you’ll never forget. But getting to some of these trailheads can be tricky, especially with limited parking or early morning starts. That’s where we come in. Make your hiking trip simple and stress-free by booking your ride with Ten Peaks Shuttle. Let us handle the travel so you can focus on enjoying the views, breathing in the fresh air, and creating unforgettable memories.
