The Canadian Rockies is home to seven parks, including four national parks. Each of them offers truly stunning and pristine scenery as the parks can be quite remote. Below are some of our favorite introductory trips to the area from 2-6 nights in length.

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Before you go hiking in the Rockies

Hiking season in the Canadian Rockies begins when the snow melts, which can vary depending on the severity of the previous winter. Trails at higher elevations may not be passable until well into late June or July, whereas trails that remain mostly in the valley bottom or forests can clear of snow as soon as mid-May. 

For beginner backpackers, you’ll want trails that are well-established with a relatively modest elevation gain or loss, while still traveling through some of the most iconic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, from pine forests to alpine basins and alongside turquoise lakes. Our favorite beginner-friendly trails are also well-signed and have facilities such as pit toilets, tent pads, and food storage to ensure the easiest camping experience.

One of the draws of hiking in the Canadian Rockies is the abundant wildlife you might see, including elk, moose, beavers, foxes, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and of course, bears. It is important to educate yourself a bit on the dangers this wildlife can pose and to always carry and know how to use bear spray.

Getting there

The Canadian Rockies cover a large area and often have somewhat remote trailheads, upwards of one to two hours from the nearest town. Having the ability to drive to the trailhead, arrange a shuttle or opting for a guided hike are popular options for out-of-town travelers. The nearest city to fly into is Calgary, Alberta, and then trailheads begin near the small mountain towns of Banff, Canmore, Jasper, and Invermere.

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