Top 5 Hikes in Banff National Park This Summer

Summer in the Canadian Rockies makes for the perfect time to explore the trails and adventure the unbeaten path!

There are so many incredible summer activities in Lake Louise. Canoeing on glacier-fed lakes, scenic drives, patio hopping from Lakeview Lounge to Louiza, the list goes on. But hiking has to top the list as the most rewarding and enjoyable summer activities in the Rockies. Waking up with the sun, grabbing your mountain-top lunch from Guide’s Pantry, and hitting the heal-toe express straight to the peak of a mountain or wandering through a valley that has views for days.

Lake Louise is the perfect base camp for your hiking adventures because there are so many trails right at our doorstep. Looking for a new peak to conquer? I don’t know if you’ve seen our backyard… but we have a few of those! Interested in a hike up to an alpine tea house? We have two! Would you rather take a peaceful walk into a valley with minimal elevation gain? Lake Louise has got you covered.

What to Wear in Lake Louise Summer

Summer in Lake Louise means a mix of sunny skies, fresh mountain breezes, and occasional weather changes throughout the day. The key is to dress in light layers that you can easily add or remove as the temperature shifts. Here’s a quick checklist of what to wear:

• Moisture-wicking base layers: Stay cool during the day and warm during breezy evenings.
• A lightweight waterproof jacket: Afternoon showers are common.
• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots: Trails range from easy to challenging, so proper footwear is essential.
• Sun protection: Include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the sun at higher altitudes is intense.
• Accessories: A small backpack for water, snacks, and your camera, plus hiking poles if you’re tackling steeper trails.

By planning your outfit wisely, you’ll be prepared to enjoy your day to the fullest without letting the weather catch you off guard.

Read on for our list of the best hikes in Banff National Park.

1. Lake Agnes & Plains of Six Glaciers Tea Houses

These are two of the most popular day hikes in the Lake Louise area, and for good reason. Both hikes are moderate difficulty and you get a big reward for making the trek. Both tea houses serve a selection of loose leaf teas, sandwiches and desserts. Is there anything better than finishing a hike, taking in the views, only to sit down and have someone bring you a steaming hot cuppa? We don’t think so!

Find out more about the Lake Agnes Tea House and the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House.

2. Saddleback Pass

Starting from the shores of Lake Louise, this trail climbs moderately to steeply at times and heads towards a pass between Mount Fairview and Saddle Peak. We recommend heading out with one of our accredited Mountain Adventure Guides to make the most of this hike. At the top, you’ll stop at the “hidden guides viewpoint” for a snack while enjoying some of Banff’s most spectacular views.

Learn more about Saddleback Pass and our Mountain Adventure Guides here.

3. Consolation Lakes

This hike starts at Moraine Lake, so already it’s a two for one deal as far as views are concerned! As you wander through the forest you’ll wind up at an alpine oasis. This is the perfect spot for a mountain picnic lunch while you take in the beauty of the mountains, valley and lake. Consolation Lakes is an easy hike with very little elevation, making it the perfect hike for kids.

Insider tip: Moraine lake is closed to personal vehicles. To access this hike, guests of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise can hop on our Moraine Lake shuttle. For day visitors, visit our blog on how to visit Moraine Lake this summer. 

See all the details on this family-friendly hike here.

4. Mount Fairview

If you’re looking for a peak to conquer that you can brag about to your friends – Mount Fairview is it. This hike takes you up the moderately steep Saddleback Pass trail and brings you up to the peak via numerous switchbacks. The views from the summit are some of the most Insta-worthy in all of Banff National Park. Spot Lake Louise down below and mountains as far as the eye can see.

For a quicker trip, head up to Fairview Lookout, a short but moderately steep walk through a sub alpine forest of spruce and fir to beautiful views looking down on the Chateau, Lake Louise and mountains beyond.

Learn more about Fairview Lookout here.

5. Helen Lake

Helen Lake is a dream. Starting at the Helen Lake trail head just south of Bow Lake, this trail climbs upwards leading you to beautiful meadows, and the views just keep coming. You’ll walk alongside glistening Helen Creek as it flows down the middle of the meadow towards the valley bottom. As you continue through the meadow you’ll reach Helen Lake, which is the perfect spot to stop and take in all of the beauty.

See why this is one of the best hikes in Banff here.

Insider tip

Looking for an effortless day but still want to soak in amazing views at a higher elevation? Allow one of our Mountain Adventure Guides to do the planning, while you join them on a guided hike. Choose from one of our half-day or full-day excursions, or better yet, create a customized experience tailored to your hiking experience and desired sights.

Learn more about our guided hikes and plan your next adventure here.