Alberta is home to some of the most spectacular hiking in the world. From the iconic turquoise lakes of Banff National Park to the wild valleys of Jasper and the hidden gems of Waterton, the province offers trails for every ability level – from leisurely lakeshore strolls to full-day alpine adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned scrambler or lacing up your boots for the first time, this guide covers the best hiking trails in Alberta to help you make the most of your time outdoors.
With over 3,800 mapped trails across the province, planning can feel overwhelming. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to – here are the standout hikes organized by region and difficulty.
Banff National Park
Banff is Alberta’s crown jewel for hikers, a world-class destination that draws millions with its stunning Rocky Mountain scenery. The park offers over 1,600 kilometers of trails that wind through dramatic glacial valleys, past iconic emerald and turquoise lakes, and up to breathtaking alpine summits and ridgelines. From easy lakeside walks suitable for all ages to challenging day hikes and multi-day backcountry adventures, there’s something for every skill level.
Highlights include the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, the thundering waterfalls of Johnston Canyon, the flower-filled meadows of Larch Valley, and panoramic views from spots like the Plain of Six Glaciers or Sulphur Mountain. Wildlife sightings – elk, bears, mountain goats, and more – are common, adding to the magic.
Plain of Six Glaciers Trail
- Distance: 9 km return
- Elevation Gain: 370 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlight: Historic teahouse with sweeping views of Victoria Glacier and Abbott Pass
Starting at the shores of Lake Louise, this trail offers incredible glacier views almost from the very beginning. The path climbs steadily to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse – a well-earned reward with stunning panoramas all around. It’s one of the most beloved hikes in all of Canada and earns its reputation every time.
Little Beehive via Lake Agnes Trail
- Distance: 7.4 km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlight: Lake Agnes Tea House (built 1901) and sweeping views over Lake Louise
This trail is consistently rated one of Alberta’s finest, combining accessible terrain with truly spectacular rewards. The historic Lake Agnes Tea House, perched above the valley, makes a perfect mid-hike stop. Don’t miss the Big Beehive lookout on your way up – the view of Lake Louise from above is unforgettable.
Healy Pass
- Distance: 18 km return
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
- Best Season: Summer (wildflowers) and Fall (golden larch trees)
One of Banff’s best-maintained trails, Healy Pass rewards the long approach through shaded forest with a breathtaking alpine meadow at the top. In summer it’s carpeted with wildflowers; in fall, golden larch trees transform the landscape. On a clear day you can see all the way to Mount Assiniboine. This one is a repeat-visit trail.
Jasper National Park
Jasper’s wider valleys and colourful peaks create a different, wilder hiking experience than Banff. Wildlife sightings are more frequent here, and trails like The Skyline are considered among the greatest multi-day hikes on earth.
Angel Glacier & Cavell Meadows
- Distance: 8.5 km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlight: Angel Glacier hanging above Cavell Pond; wildflower season peaks in mid-July
Few hikes in Alberta are as visually dramatic as this one. The trail begins with a paved path to a viewpoint of Cavell Pond and the towering north face of Mount Edith Cavell, then continues up through forest into wildflower-filled meadows. When wildflower season is in full swing around mid-July, spending a day indoors feels like a crime.
The Skyline Trail
- Distance: 44 km one way (2–3 days)
- Difficulty: Hard / Multi-day
- Highlight: Nearly 25 km of the route runs above treeline – Jasper’s highest trail
The Skyline Trail is Jasper’s most celebrated multi-day hike, and for good reason: it spends most of its length above the treeline, providing uninterrupted panoramic views across vast alpine meadows and remote mountain terrain. If you can only do one backcountry trail in Alberta, make it this one.
Waterton Lakes National Park
Waterton sits at the convergence of the Rocky Mountains and the prairies, creating a dramatic and unique landscape. Trails here tend to be quieter than Banff, and some — like the Crypt Lake Trail — are legendary.
Crypt Lake Trail
- Distance: 17.2 km return
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlight: Rated by National Geographic as one of the world’s 20 most thrilling hikes; includes a ferry ride, waterfalls, a tunnel, and a cable traverse
The adventure starts before you even reach the trailhead – you take a ferry across Waterton Lake. The trail then delivers four waterfalls, a narrow 60-foot tunnel you crawl through, and a cable-assisted traverse on a cliff face. It’s genuinely thrilling and unlike any other hike in the province.
New in 2026: Rocky to Nordegg Trail
Alberta just earned a spot on the BBC’s list of the world’s most anticipated new hiking trails for 2026. The Rocky to Nordegg Trail follows a historic abandoned railway east of Banff and Jasper, running over 100 km through dense forests, valleys, and lakes that were previously largely inaccessible.
As of early 2026, 50 km of the trail from Nordegg to Jackfish Creek is open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. New sections will open throughout the year, and the trail is designed for year-round use including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Once complete, it’s expected to take around six days to traverse end-to-end.
Essential Tips Before You Hit the Trail
- Parks Canada Pass: You’ll need a valid pass to access trails in Banff, Jasper, and Waterton national parks.
- Bear Safety: Carry bear spray, hike in groups of 4+ when possible, and make noise on the trail.
- Layers Always: Mountain weather changes fast. Even on sunny days, bring a warm layer and a rain jacket.
- Start Early: Popular trailhead parking fills up fast, especially at Lake Louise. Aim for first light or use park shuttles.
- AllTrails App: Download offline maps before you go — cell service in the backcountry is unreliable.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all waste, stay on marked trails, and respect wildlife distances.
Final Thoughts
Alberta’s trails are among the finest anywhere in the world. Whether you’re spending a week in the Rockies or have just one afternoon free, there’s a hike that fits. Start with the classics if you’re new to the area — the Plain of Six Glaciers and Lake Agnes trails earn their reputations — and work your way up to the multi-day adventures like The Skyline when you’re ready for something unforgettable.
Happy trails, Alberta Insiders.
