East Kootenay G, British Columbia

Views in the Lake O'Hara area are unique from the “sea of mountains” look that defines many excellent weekend hikes in the Rockies. With Odoray, Yukness, Huber, Wiwaxy, Schaffer, Biddle, and Lefroy in such close proximity to each other, it is easy to imagine you are in Pakistan, Nepal, or Argenti...

First things first: prior to August 15, there are only 4 groups of people allowed in this area per day, and after August 15, only 2 groups are allowed in. Start early!Starting at Lake O'Hara, head towards the Elizabeth Parker ACC Hut. Continue past the hut and meander through meadows and forests....

Every year, over 5 million visitors make their way through Banff National Park to soak in the surrounding peaks, bountiful wildlife, and turquoise-colored lakes. With this many visitors, it's hard to find yourself alone, especially during the peak seasons of summer and fall. Right next door to Ba...

This is a micro adventure in one of the world’s most desired National Parks. The common excuse for those who tend to skip the great outdoors is lack of time. This one day adventure is an example that you can cram a lot into a day! Dawn: Sunrise hike up to South Ridge in Banff. Start at the famous...

This moderate-graded backcountry hike or ski in the winter can take 5-8 hours (one way). Most people hike or ski in from the Mt. Shark parking lot in Kananaskis Country, a 30 min. drive from Canmore, Alberta. From Mt. Shark Parking Lot (off the Smith-Dorrien Road), take the Watridge Lake Trail t...

Vermillion Lakes is one of the best spot's in Banff to catch a sunrise or sunset depending on the season. Although it's one of the most popular locations for photographers, there are so many different areas around the lakes that you'll never feel like it's too crowded. Mount Rundle can be photogr...

Showing up at Moraine Lake before dawn is a must as to avoid the multitude of tours busses. The morning sun is subtle and magical. The lake, being glacially fed, does not reach its crest until mid to late June. When it is full, it reflects a distinct shade of blue. The color is due to the refract...

The beginning of this hike is easily accessed from the town center of Banff by the Bow river. Perfect for those without a car! Follow the trail on the side closest to town as it leads up the Bow River and into the forest following the signs for Hoodoos Loop.The hike is 4.8km one way, leading arou...

From Banff:Take the shuttle from the town lot to Mt. Norquay Ski Lodge, it is $10 CAD one way or $15 roundtrip, but you may want to walk back. If you decide to walk back there are two options; the road or the beautiful mountain trail. The trail head can be easily picked up in the parking lot, hik...

The trailhead is is located at the first left after the bridge past Engandine Lodge in Kananaskis. The trail forks after a while and you need to take a right which takes you into Smuts Pass. This trail is actually really cool and fun to walk - undulating, narrow, rooted, and right along the edge ...

The "Green Spot" is a beautiful grassy slope that opens up to sweeping views of downtown Banff and the surrounding area.  It's a great spot for photography, especially capturing the peak of Mt. Rundle.  There's also a set of chairs conveniently placed on the slope so you can kick back and enjoy t...

The trailhead to Rummel Lake/Pass is off of Kananaskis Trail (Smith Dorrien Trail) directly across from the turn to Mt. Shark at the south end of Spray Lakes - it will likely be marked by cars attempting the same trail. The trail is well packed and snowshoes aren't even necessary until after Rumm...

Whether you are traveling north or south on the Trans-Canada Highway in Yoho National Park you will see a sign that directs you west to travel on Emerald Lake Road. When you turn west you will travel about one mile, or 1.6 km, and then you will see the parking area for the Natural Bridge. After p...

Start at the Goat Creek parking lot and cross the road towards Ha Ling. There is an access road with a gate on the other side. Walk up the road and across the bridge. From there the trail is obvious and will lead you to the summit. Overall it's a fairly easy hike with switchbacksOnce above tree l...

This well marked, fun hike that has a bit of everything, from easy forest walking, to steep slabs, minor hands on scrambling, and a scree slope to the summit.From the parking lot, head north up the hill, where the trail begins around the power poles. There a few different paths to start, so it's ...

The trialhead is found on West Side Road on the west side of Spray Lakes Resevoir. In winter, West Side Road is closed to vehicles due to dogsled tours, but is still open to walking - it's a pretty neat experience to get passed by a dozen sled dog teams. Since the road is closed, it adds an extra...