This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Imagine a quintessentially Canadian landscape and you’re probably picturing the Rockies. These jagged peaks stretch 3,000 miles across the continent of North America, but some of the most soul-stirring sections straddle the border of British Columbia and Alberta. Whether you plan on a peaceful meander around a glacial lake or an expedition across dramatic mountain ridges, there’s a trail for every explorer. Nature-lovers will delight in glimpsing elk, bighorn sheep and deer along the way, but remember this is bear country – so brush up on wildlife safety before you set off.
Beginner: Emerald Lake Loop
Start & finish: Emerald Lake trailhead
Distance: 3.2 miles
Yoho National Park is full of scene-stealing glacial pools, yet none dazzle quite like Emerald Lake, its turquoise waters surrounded by whispering pines. Immerse yourself in the view while strolling this well-maintained footpath around the shoreline, which takes around 90 minutes to complete and is open year-round. The lake is at its most enchanting at dawn, when mist rises over its glassy surface like a soft veil. Parking can be a challenge, as the 50 spots in the Emerald Lake lot tend to fill up before 9am, so arrive early or park on nearby Emerald Lake Road and walk to the lake. For a different perspective, rent a canoe from the trailhead’s little boathouse.
Intermediate: Takakkaw Falls Loop
Start & finish: Takakkaw Falls trailhead
Distance: 1 mile
Though doable in as little as 30 minutes, this trail delivers a lavish return. A half-mile walk brings you face-to-face with a waterfall — by some measures, Canada’s second-tallest — where melting snow and ice cascade down a sheer rock face, creating rainbows in the mist. The route starts off flat and easy enough, meandering through towering pine forests rich in scent. After the halfway point the challenge ramps up, with tight switchbacks and a steeper, rockier path — so be sure to wear sturdy footwear with a good grip. Located in Yoho National Park, near Field, this well-kept corridor is open from June to October.
Beginner: Upper Grassi Lakes Loop Trail, Alberta
Start & finish: Upper Grassi Lakes trailhead
Distance: 1.1 miles Grassi Lake Upper / 1.7 miles Grassi Lake Interpretive Trail
Part amble, part history lesson, this leisurely jaunt celebrates the life of Lawrence Grassi, an Italian miner and outdoorsman who helped build the Canadian Pacific Railway. Along the way, interpretive signs trace his journey from immigrant labourer to local legend. Early on, a fork splits the trail into two – the gentler route, open year-round, takes an hour or so and wanders along an old road to Grassi Lake Upper. The more challenging route, marked as the Grassi Lake Interpretive Trail, features a steep ascent that rewards hikers with breathtaking views over the ski town of Canmore. Due to icy conditions, this path is closed during the winter months.
Medium: The Sentinel Pass, Alberta
Start: Moraine Lake trailhead
Finish: Sentinel Pass
Distance: 7.5 mile
This showstopper hike in Banff National Park features two of its most iconic sights: the turquoise Moraine Lake and the towering Valley of the Ten Peaks range. Starting at the lake’s shore, the trek winds through Larch Valley’s golden meadows – so-called because its namesake trees turn rich yellow each Autumn – before climbing to the giddy heights of Paradise Valley. Bring hiking poles and a sense of adventure, as the going can get tough during this two-to-four-hour journey.
Advanced: The Skyline Trail, Alberta
Start: Maligne Lake
Finish: Signal Mountain
Distance: 27 miles
Lofty in its elevation, this is Jasper National Park’s most popular backcountry trek for good reason. With more than half the walk above the treeline, hikers are rewarded with unparalleled views of the area’s flora and fauna, including vibrant wildflowers like the red paintbrush and the endangered whitebark pine. This inspiring terrain is shared with local wildlife: elk, bighorn sheep, even the occasional wolf. Be sure to pack plenty of layers and waterproof gear, as the weather in the park can shift unexpectedly with sudden temperature drops and downpours. It takes two to three days to complete the journey, and overnight stays at the campsites in Snowbowl and Tekarra should be booked well in advance.
Advanced: Kindersley Pass and Sinclair Creek Loop
Start: Sinclair Creek trailhead
Finish: Kindersley Pass trailhead
Distance: 11 miles
The beauty of this demanding trek through Kootenay National Park lies in its diverse landscapes: wildflower meadows, craggy peaks and expansive skylines. Set off at sunrise for an all-day excursion through hardscrabble terrain that requires stamina and sure footing. As the trail winds upward, you’ll navigate rocky ridgelines and dense alpine forests; keep an eye out for black and grizzly bears along the way. Be prepared for altitude — the summit at Kindersley-Sinclair Col sits at 7,855ft. Though the ascent is challenging, it’s well worth it; the top offers a breathtaking panorama over vibrant mountain heather and red cedar woodlands.
Published in May 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
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