Photo Credit
Banff National Park, straddling the line between the USA and Canada, has a lot more to offer than beautiful white snow-capped mountains and slopes for skiing. When the snow has mostly melted away in the summer, this park becomes the best place possible to hike and enjoy nature. Here are the top spots in and around Banff to take in beautiful views and enjoy the outdoors.
Cory Pass – Mt. Edith Circuit
If you’re not scared of heights and don’t mind being a little daring, the Cory Pass is worth the trouble. Not only is the ridge that you cross beautiful as it stretches on beneath you, but the surrounding mountains feel even larger and more of a challenge at this distance. This is for more experienced hikers, don’t attempt this for the first time without a guide.
Cascade Amphitheatre
This nearly eight-mile trek is one that not only newbies should try, but every hiker should eventually get under their belt. Serene nature views surround you as you get to unwind and hike. There’s less of a struggle with this hike, but it will wear you down all the same.
Bourgeau Lake & Harvey Pass
Another full-day hike, this one is seen as tricky by many hikers. The most incredible part of this hike is how crystal clear and reflective the lake is the entire time you pass around it. Reflecting on the sky and the mountains around you, it feels cinematic as you approach it and then again as you leave.
Lake Agnes Teahouse/Big Beehive
Less than five miles long but a steep incline, the Lake Agnes Teahouse/Big Beehive trail can wear you out before you realize it. After hiking eight-mile troubles like the Cascade Amphitheatre, you may think you can handle anything, but this trek is challenging on both your thighs and your lower back. Take it slow, correct your posture, and enjoy the gorgeous trees as you traverse between them.
Plain of Six Glaciers
The longest on this list, this nearly ten-mile-long trek is also the most beautiful. More stunningly reflective and bright water reflects the mountains, but it also reflects the gigantic glaciers that are the starting points for freshwater springs and rivers. You’ll want to take endless pictures of this area, but make sure you also take time to set the electronics down and drink in the view.
Saddleback Pass/Mt. Fairview
A comfortable six-mile trek, this walk will make you want to abandon wherever you’re vacationing from and start looking for Banff homes for sale. Another ridge climb, like Cory Pass, this trek allows you to be on a level with the mountains to some degree. It can bring you back down to earth and make you consider why you are where you are in life. What’s a good hike without some self-questioning?
Hiking is one of the best sports out there; you get to enjoy nature while also getting solid exercise. There’s nothing better than that.