Banff National Park is a dream destination for backpackers and one of the most breathtaking places in the Canadian Rockies. With its turquoise alpine lakes, towering mountain peaks, wildflower meadows in summer, and golden larches in the fall, Banff offers an unforgettable experience for both seasoned hikers and beginners alike.
This guide covers over 10 of the best backpacking trips in Banff, from short overnight hikes to challenging multi-day expeditions. You’ll find everything from iconic routes like the Skoki Loop to lesser-known gems like Sunset Pass. Whether you’re looking for a scenic escape or a demanding backcountry adventure, this guide has you covered.
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Backpacking in Banff: Essential Information
Permits & Reservations
- National Park Pass: Required to enter Banff. Purchase online or at park entry points.
- Backcountry Permits: Reservations open January 27, 2025, at 8:00 AM MT. Book online or call:
- North America: 1-877-737-3783
- International: 1-519-826-5391
Backpacking Rules & Safety
- Dogs: Allowed on most trails on a leash, unless otherwise noted.
- Trail Conditions: Check Parks Canada for updates; campsites may close due to bear activity.
- Campfires: Permitted only at designated campsites with fire rings.
- Bears: Carry bear spray and store food properly. Rent bear spray at Wilson Mountain Sports (Lake Louise).
- Porcupines: Store boots and hiking poles inside your tent—they love to chew gear!
Best Time to Go Backpacking in Banff
- June: Early-season hikes like Glacier Lake and Lake Minnewanka open as snow melts.
- July – August: Prime season with wildflowers at peak bloom, but also the buggiest months (bring insect repellent!).
- September: Larch season—stunning golden forests and fewer crowds, but be prepared for cold nights and possible snow.
Top 10+ Backpacking Trips in Banff National Park
1. Glacier Lake – Best Early-Season Backpacking Trip
- Distance: 9 km (one way)
- Elevation Gain: 475 m
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Time to Go: Mid-June to late September
- Campground: G19 (5 tent pads, food hang required)
Why Go? Glacier Lake is one of Banff’s easiest backpacking trips, making it a great warm-up for the season. The trail features views of the North Saskatchewan River, Howse River Overlook, and Glacier Lake itself.
2. Baker Lake – A Classic Alpine Backpacking Experience
- Distance: 13.2 km (one way)
- Elevation Gain: ~700 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Fish Creek (near Lake Louise Ski Area)
- Campgrounds:
- Hidden Lake (SK5): 10 sites (shortens first day’s hike)
- Baker Lake (SK11): 10 sites (porcupines present—store gear properly!)
- Red Deer Lakes (SK19): 10 sites (allows campfires)
Why Go? One of the most scenic hikes in Banff, passing Boulder Pass, Ptarmigan Lake, and stunning alpine meadows. Beware of deer flies in July—bring bug spray!
3. Egypt Lake – A Stunning Multi-Day Trek
- Distance: 24.8 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 990 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campgrounds:
- Egypt Lake (E13): 15 sites, bear lockers
- Alternative Routes: Via Twin Lakes Trail, Redearth & Pharaoh Creek, or Hawk Creek Trail
Why Go? A scenic, high-alpine hike crossing Healy Pass with incredible wildflowers and mountain views.
4. Fish Lakes & North Molar Pass – A Remote Wilderness Adventure
- Distance: 29.6 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,128 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campgrounds:
- Mosquito Creek (Mo5): 5 sites
- Fish Lakes (Mo18): 5 sites
Why Go? Less crowded than other hikes, with stunning views from North Molar Pass. Great wildflowers and remote mountain scenery.
5. Giant Steps & Paradise Valley – A Short but Stunning Backpacking Trip
- Distance: 20.4 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 400 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campground: Paradise Valley (Pa10) – 10 sites, bear lockers
Why Go? Short but rewarding, with alpine lakes, wildflowers, and the Giant Steps waterfall.
6. Lake Minnewanka – A Flexible Multi-Day Trip
- Distance: 15.6 – 59 km round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Campgrounds: Several options, all with bear lockers and fire pits
Why Go? Easily accessible from Banff, this route offers beautiful lakeshore hiking and multiple campsite choices.
7. Skoki Loop – One of Banff’s Best Multi-Day Hikes
- Distance: 31.4 km
- Elevation Gain: 1,110 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campgrounds:
- Merlin Meadows (Sk18): 10 sites, fire pits
- Red Deer Lakes (Sk19): 10 sites, fire pits
Why Go? Famous for alpine lakes, meadows, and breathtaking mountain views. Option to stay at Skoki Lodge for a more comfortable experience!
8. Sunset Pass – A Hidden Gem in Banff
- Distance: 4.2 km to Norman Lake, 4 km to Sunset Pass
- Elevation Gain: 725 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campground: Norman Lake (No5) – 5 sites, campfires allowed
Why Go? Less crowded than other hikes, with dramatic alpine scenery and a great side trip to Sunset Lookout.
9. Sunshine Meadows to Mt. Assiniboine – A Bucket List Trek
- Distance: 55 km loop
- Elevation Gain: 622 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Campgrounds:
- Magog Lake (40 sites)
- Og Lake & Porcupine (10 sites each)
Why Go? One of the most stunning hikes in the Canadian Rockies, featuring glaciers, alpine lakes, and the iconic Mt. Assiniboine.
10. Taylor Lake – Best for Larch Season
- Distance: 12.6 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 595 m
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Campground: Taylor Lake (Ta6) – 5 sites, bear lockers
Why Go? One of the best places to see golden larches in late September, plus side hikes to O’Brien Lake and Panorama Ridge Meadows.
Packing Essentials for Backpacking in Banff
- Bear Spray & Holster – Must-have for all hikers
- Bug Spray & Head Net – Crucial in July
- Water Filtration System – Streams are your water source
- Layered Clothing – Weather changes quickly in the mountains
- Camp Pillow & Sleeping Bag – A good night’s rest is key
Stay Connected with GePanda eSIM
While Banff’s backcountry is remote, you’ll likely regain mobile coverage when returning to the main roads or towns. Instead of dealing with expensive roaming fees, use a GePanda eSIM to stay connected. Whether you need to navigate, book accommodations, or share your adventure, having reliable mobile data makes your trip smoother.
Explore GePanda’s Canada eSIM plans before your trip!
Final Thoughts
Backpacking in Banff National Park is an unforgettable experience, offering some of the most breathtaking wilderness in Canada. Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a seasoned hiker, there’s a trail in Banff waiting for you.
Lace up your boots and get ready for adventure! 🚶♂️🏕️
