7 Winter Hikes near Banff National Park under 7km

Tucked in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is home to a winter wonderland full of outdoor adventure unlike anything else. Banff and its surrounding areas have quite the reputation for incredible hiking opportunities, but when most people think of hiking in a National Park, they think of summer. The hiking opportunities available in summer are much more readily available however, winter trails have a unique charm that is unmatched.

Winter in Banff National Park is full of snow-covered landscapes and crisp mountain air. People from all over the world visit to experience the magic of a white Christmas or the world class skiing and some even come to embrace the allure of winter hiking. Imagine navigating trails surrounded by shimmering frost, delicate snowfall and frozen features.

Let's explore 7 hikes near Banff National Park that are worth your consideration this winter!

Fairview Lookout (Easy)

Fairview Lookout is one of the most popular Lake Louise viewpoints for those willing to venture away from the lakeshore and gain a different perspective. Lake Louise is a beautiful location but there is so much more to discover than the initial view of the lake when you first arrive. The Fairview Lookout trail offers a short but sweet hike and delivers stunning views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

This trail is only 2.3km return with 156m of elevation gain. The hike takes approximately 20 minutes one way and will deliver you to the lookout at the base of Fairview Mountain. This hike is one of the most accessible hikes at Lake Louise making it perfect for anyone short on time or new to hiking!

During the peak of winter, the lake will freeze completely and you will be able to watch ice skaters from the lookout point!

Blackshale Suspension Bridge (Easy)

This hidden suspension bridge is one of Kananaskis’s best kept secrets. With no signage and very little attention, this hike is one I had lived by for years without knowing existed!

The 20 minute trek will ascend through a small area of forest and before you know it you will be standing at the suspension bridge. As you cross over the canyon, you have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and a suspension bridge always makes for a great photo stop! The hike loops back down to the roadside, making the perfect short hike. I last visited in spring and we had the whole trail completely to ourselves! With the added snow of winter, this would be a beautiful spot worth checking out!

There are a few versions of this trail that can make your hike to the suspension bridge shorter or longer depending on goals. This version of the trail is the shortest hike, taking only 1km and with 58m of elevation gain. Given the short nature, this hike is the perfect stop when you are passing by after a day in Kananaskis or worthy of its own stop if the suspension bridge has caught your eye!

Troll Falls (Moderate)

Tucked away in the beautiful Kananaskis Country, Troll Falls is a natural gem which offers a new perspective on frozen waterfalls. Just an hour from Banff, this scenic hike gradually climbs through towering pine trees and a snowy landscape to arrive at the first of three waterfalls.

Troll Falls derive their name from the mythical trolls that folklore suggests inhabit the lush surroundings, adding an element of whimsy to the experience. In winter, the frozen falls cascade transforms into a magical ice sculpture and you may even see ice climbers on your next visit!

As you progress along the trail, you will witness all three waterfalls, located close together. The second waterfall is the highlight of this trail. The unique landscape allows you to walk 360 degrees around the frozen waterfall, touch the frozen sculpture and get a photo behind it! The frozen formation here is just breathtaking.

This trail is a 4.7km round trip and has 227m of elevation gain. Troll Falls guarantees a memorable experience in the heart of Kananaskis.

Grotto Canyon (Moderate)

If you're interested in frozen landscapes, Grotto Canyon is another amazing hike that is only a short distance from Banff. Located in Bow Valley Provincial Park, this trail is accessible year round but the real allure of Grotto Canyon unfolds in winter when the creek transforms into a magical ice walkway.

As you hike along and across the frozen river and through limestone canyons, you will arrive at some impressive frozen waterfalls. There are no area closures here so you can go right up to the waterfalls, touch them and even try your hand at ice climbing, if you have the equipment and knowledge to do so safely.

The 7.1km trail is a great half day hike with only 342m of elevation gain. This is a perfect hike for a nearby adventure!

Johnston Canyon (Moderate)

Located in Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon is a beautiful location. Renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, suspended catwalks, waterfalls and turquoise waters. In winter, the canyon truly transforms into a magical, frozen landscape worthy of exploration.

Just 30 minutes from the town of Banff, Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular destinations in Banff National Park. This trail sees almost a million visitors each year and for a good reason. As you weave your way through towering limestone walls, you will find two main waterfalls that boast significantly different features.

The 5.3km version of this hike will take you to both the lower and upper waterfalls which is the best option when visiting the area. If you are short on time or not up for a huge hike, it's worth just visiting the lower falls as well. This version of the hike is only 2.3km return making it perfect for a quick stop.

This hike can be done on a guided tour if that is of interest to you! Check out the options here and here (affiliate links).

Tunnel Mountain (Moderate)

Tunnel Mountain is one of Banff's most accessible summits. The trailhead starts right in the town of Banff so you can either drive to the parking lot or simply walk from your accommodation to start this trail. This trail is a great, year-round option and at 4.3km return with 262m of elevation gain, it's the perfect way to see Banff from above.

When you start hiking, the steepest part of the trail will come first. As you persevere through this section and cross over a road, the trail mellows out and it's not too far to the top. You’ll hike up through the trees, getting views of surrounding mountains and the town as you go. Once you reach the summit the iconic red chairs are there to greet you. This is the perfect spot for some photos, a picnic or just a moment to rest before heading back down.

This hike is a great way to see Banff from above and summit a mountain in your time here!

*View from the backside of Tunnel Mountain - Banff Springs Golf Course*

Rawson Lake (Moderate - Hard)

High in the Kananaskis Country of Alberta, Rawson Lake is a tranquil spot, tucked away behind the towering mountains. Another year-round beauty, this hike begins by following the Upper Kananaskis Lake then climbing through the dense forest. As you hike you will cross a small waterfall and may even get the occasional glimpse of wildlife.

Once you reach Rawson Lake itself, it is a small hidden sanctuary, surrounded by rugged mountain slopes. In winter the lake will freeze and instead you will be treated to the snow blanketed landscape. This hike is a rewarding escape for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity. On my last visit, I hiked up with a group of friends and once we made it to the lake we ate our picnic lunches and sat with the place completely to ourselves!

The trail is 6.8km with 423m of elevation gain. Allow 2.5 - 3h to complete the out and back trail.

REMEMBER

If you are hiking in winter, ensure you are well prepared. Make sure you have enough layers, traction devices such as spikes or crampons, poles, bear spray (yes they may still be awake) and enough food for the day! It’s also worth packing backup hand warmers and extra layers just in case!

Happy Hiking :)