Backpacking
Banff National Park
Banff National Park has several outstanding multi-day backpacking trails near the mountain towns of Banff and Lake Louise. Adventure travelers from around the world visit the park to explore it's spectacular valleys and peaks. The most popular destinations are Egypt Lakes and Skoki Valley. Sunshine Meadows is also a popular backpacking trailhead for extended trips into Mt. Assinibone Provincial Park.
To find a backpacking trail just right for you, select an area below:
| • Town of Banff | • Lake Louise |
Backpacking Trips Near Banff
Egypt Lakes is the most popular backpacking destination near Banff. You can overnight there on a weekend or you can set up a base camp at Egypt Lake Campground and explore the surrounding alpine valleys.
If your looking for a great backpacking trip, consider the Bow Valley Highline Trail that connects Egypt Lake, Shadow Lake and Twin Lakes trails. You can even arrange to stay at Shadow Lake Lodge located mid-way along this high alpine traverse.
Sunshine Meadows is a vast meadowland near Banff that is surrounded by incredible mountain scenery. It is a popular trailhead for trips into Mt. Assiniboine Provincial Park. The Mt. Assiniboine - Citadel Pass Trail is the most scenic and diverse route. However, many backpackers prefer the shorter and more popular Mt. Assiniboine - Bryant Creek Trail. Whichever trail you choose you won't be disappointed - the ice-glad summit of Mt. Assiniboine viewed from Lake Magog is absolutely stunning. Plan on spending several extra days exploring the area on trails to Nub Peak, Windy Ridge and Wonder Pass. You also have the option of flying into Mt. Assiniboine via helicopter. You can camp at Lake Magog Campground, stay in one of the rustic Naiset Huts or opt for the comfortable Mt. Assiniboine Lodge.
Backpacking Trips Near Lake Louise
Skoki Valley is the most popular backpacking destination near Lake Louise. It is a unique area comprised of desolate alpine scenery, vast meadows and numerous mountain lakes. To access Skoki Valley follow the Boulder Pass trail that starts near the Lake Louise ski area. From Boulder Pass continue northeast following the Deception Pass - Skoki Valley trail. Strong backpackers can reach Skoki Valley in one long day, but for a more leisurely and enjoyable trip consider staying at Hidden Lake campground and exploring the Hidden Lake trail before carrying on to the Skoki area. When you arrive at Skoki Valley you have the option of staying at the rustic Skoki Lodge or camping at the popular Merlin Meadows campground. Both are great bases for exploring nearby trails such as Merlin Lake.