Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is one of the most spectacular places on Earth for trail running. With its rugged mountain peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, Banff offers trail runners an unparalleled connection to nature. Whether you're seeking a short, scenic run or a challenging mountain adventure, Banff’s trails deliver breathtaking views and rewarding challenges.
Here’s a list of the best trail running locations in Banff National Park, perfect for runners looking to explore this alpine wonderland.
1. Tunnel Mountain Trail
Distance: 2.7 miles (round trip)Difficulty: ModerateHighlights: Panoramic views of Banff townsite and the surrounding peaks
Tunnel Mountain is one of the most popular and accessible trails in Banff, making it a great choice for a quick trail run. The trail begins just outside of Banff town and features a steady climb to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Bow Valley, Banff townsite, and nearby peaks.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Quick and manageable climb with stunning views at the summit.
Close to Banff town, making it ideal for an early morning or evening run.
A mix of dirt paths and switchbacks for a moderate challenge.
2. Bow River Trail
Distance: 4.4 miles (round trip)Difficulty: EasyHighlights: Scenic views of the Bow River, forested paths, and tranquil surroundings
The Bow River Trail is a flat and scenic route that runs along the Bow River, starting near downtown Banff. This peaceful trail offers a relaxing running experience with plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of the river, mountain views, and wildlife.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Beginner-friendly with little to no elevation gain.
Stunning river views and shaded forest sections.
Perfect for an easy recovery run or a relaxing scenic jog.
3. Johnston Canyon Trail
Distance: 3.7 miles (round trip to Upper Falls)Difficulty: Easy to moderateHighlights: Gorgeous waterfalls, narrow canyons, and scenic bridges
The Johnston Canyon Trail is one of Banff’s most famous trails and a must-visit for trail runners. This well-maintained route features boardwalks and bridges that take you alongside a dramatic canyon with cascading waterfalls. The trail to the Upper Falls provides stunning views and is runnable, although it can get crowded during peak hours.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Unique terrain with waterfalls and canyon views.
Suitable for runners of all levels.
A great mix of paved and dirt trails for a smooth, enjoyable run.
Pro Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and have the canyon to yourself.
4. Sulphur Mountain Trail
Distance: 6.8 miles (round trip)Difficulty: ChallengingHighlights: Panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding mountains
For runners looking for a steep challenge, the Sulphur Mountain Trail is a must. The trail climbs from the Banff Gondola parking lot to the summit, offering switchbacks and stunning viewpoints along the way. At the summit, you’ll find the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station and incredible 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
A rewarding workout with a significant elevation gain of 2,450 feet.
Stunning views of Banff and the Bow Valley at the summit.
Option to take the gondola back down if you want to avoid the descent.
5. Lake Minnewanka Trail
Distance: 8 miles (out and back) or up to 16 miles for a longer runDifficulty: ModerateHighlights: Scenic views of Lake Minnewanka, forests, and wildlife
The Lake Minnewanka Trail is a stunning route that hugs the shoreline of one of Banff’s largest and most beautiful lakes. This trail is relatively flat, making it perfect for long-distance trail running. It’s a great spot to experience Banff’s wilderness and take in the serene beauty of the lake.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Long, runnable trail with minimal elevation gain.
Peaceful lakeside views and opportunities to see wildlife.
Perfect for long runs or ultramarathon training.
Pro Tip: Keep bear spray handy, as the area is known for wildlife activity.
6. Larch Valley Trail
Distance: 6.8 miles (round trip)Difficulty: Moderate to challengingHighlights: Stunning views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, golden larches (in fall), and alpine scenery
The Larch Valley Trail is a bucket-list trail for runners visiting Banff. Starting at Moraine Lake, the trail ascends steep switchbacks before opening up to breathtaking views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks and vibrant larch trees (especially beautiful in autumn).
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
A mix of steep climbs and runnable alpine meadows.
Breathtaking views of Moraine Lake and surrounding peaks.
Ideal for runners looking for a challenging but rewarding trail.
Pro Tip: Arrive early, as parking at Moraine Lake fills up quickly.
7. Plain of Six Glaciers Trail
Distance: 8.6 miles (round trip)Difficulty: Moderate to challengingHighlights: Stunning glaciers, alpine views, and a tea house stop
Starting near Lake Louise, the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a trail runner’s dream. The route climbs steadily along the lake before opening up to jaw-dropping views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. A charming tea house at the end of the trail offers a perfect spot to refuel before heading back.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
A mix of runnable terrain and steep sections.
Stunning glacier views and alpine landscapes.
Opportunity to enjoy a mid-run snack at the tea house.
8. Cascade Amphitheatre Trail
Distance: 9.3 miles (round trip)Difficulty: Moderate to challengingHighlights: Dense forests, cascading streams, and an amphitheater-like alpine meadow
This hidden gem starts near the Mount Norquay ski area and climbs through a beautiful forest to a large alpine amphitheater surrounded by dramatic peaks. The Cascade Amphitheatre Trail is less crowded than some of Banff’s more popular trails, making it perfect for trail runners looking for solitude.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Quiet and serene trail with stunning alpine views.
A great mix of forested singletrack and open meadows.
Challenging but rewarding elevation gain.
9. Healy Pass Trail
Distance: 12.4 miles (round trip)Difficulty: ModerateHighlights: Wildflowers, mountain vistas, and incredible views of Egypt Lake
The Healy Pass Trail, located near Sunshine Village, is a long but runnable trail that takes you through lush meadows, colorful wildflowers, and stunning mountain passes. The trail culminates at Healy Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Gentle grades make it runnable despite the distance.
Stunning views of alpine meadows and Egypt Lake.
A peaceful and less-trafficked trail.
10. Sunshine Meadows Trails
Distance: Varies (4 to 10+ miles depending on the route)Difficulty: Easy to moderateHighlights: High-alpine meadows, wildflowers, and panoramic mountain views
For an unforgettable high-alpine running experience, head to the Sunshine Meadows. Accessible via the Sunshine Village gondola, this network of trails offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, pristine meadows, and alpine lakes. Trails like the Rock Isle Lake Loop provide relatively flat and runnable terrain for trail runners of all levels.
Why It’s Great for Trail Running:
Incredible high-alpine scenery with minimal effort.
Plenty of trail options for different distances and abilities.
Cooler temperatures in summer make it ideal for mid-day runs.
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