by Turo
posted on May 17, 2025
If you’re looking for the top things to do in Alberta, start by lacing up your hiking boots! The province is packed with trails that lead to glacial lakes, canyon lookouts, wildflower meadows, and high alpine passes.
With so many options across Banff, Jasper, and Waterton, it’s easy to find a route that matches your pace. This guide highlights five of the best Alberta hikes, each one offering its own unique payoff that makes every step you take worthwhile!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Lake Agnes Trail
- Crypt Lake Trail
- Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots
- Larch Valley to Sentinel Pass Trail
- Wilcox Pass Trail
- Best hikes in Alberta: FAQs
- Get out and explore the best Alberta hiking trails
What to do in Alberta: must-visit Alberta hiking trails
If you’re sorting out what to do in Alberta, these must-visit Alberta hiking trails are a great place to begin. Each one shows off a different side of the province, so get out there and get moving!
Lake Agnes Trail, Banff National Park
This beautiful, relatively short hike begins at Lake Louise and climbs steadily past Mirror Lake to reach the Lake Agnes Teahouse. It’s a rewarding hike that offers a little bit of everything – waterfalls, switchbacks, and postcard-perfect lake views. It’s considered one of the best hikes in Banff for good reason.
- Distance: 7.4 km round-trip
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation: 400 m
Why it’s great
You’ll see a high-elevation lake, a cozy teahouse, and sweeping views over Lake Louise, all without needing to venture too far from the parking area. It’s a great mid-length hike that doesn’t skimp on scenery.
Practical tips
Bring cash for the teahouse, and get an early start to avoid the crowds. Pack layers – the weather changes quickly on the mountain.
How to get there
Lake Louise is 58 km northwest of Banff via the Trans-Canada Highway. Parking can be tricky at the shuttle station, so a compact rental car in Banff will make things easier. Look for models from Nissan or Toyota that are sporty and easy to maneuver, but still give you space for your gear.
Crypt Lake Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park
Your adventure starts with a boat ride across Upper Waterton Lake, followed by a challenging hike through waterfalls, a rock tunnel, and a narrow cliffside ledge. The final reward is a crystal-clear alpine lake tucked deep into Waterton Lakes National Park.
- Distance: 17.4 km round-trip
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation: 690 m
Why it’s great
The journey is just as important as the destination! Between the ferry crossing, cliffside chains, and high-elevation scenery, this trail delivers a full-day experience that feels like a true backcountry adventure.
Practical tips
Book your boat ticket in advance and catch an early departure. Bring a headlamp for the tunnel, plus layers and food – there’s nowhere to stock up in Waterton National Park.
How to get there
From Lethbridge, it’s about a 90-minute drive to the Waterton Marina, where the ferry departs from. A Chevrolet minivan or passenger van rental is a smart choice for groups heading out early with daypacks, coolers, and gear for a long trail.
Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots, Banff National Park
This popular place to hike in Banff leads through a narrow canyon on steel catwalks suspended above Johnston Creek, passing two major waterfalls before continuing into wide-open meadows and the colourful, mineral-fed Ink Pots. It’s an easy-to-moderate option that has a great payoff.
- Distance: 11.4 km round-trip
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation: 330 m
Why it’s great
The trail gives you a great variety – rushing waterfalls up front, peaceful alpine meadows at the end. The mix of terrain makes it fun for all ages.
Practical tips
Get there before 8 AM to avoid the heaviest foot traffic. The catwalks can be slick, especially in spring and winter, so wear good shoes and bring poles if that makes you more confident.
How to get there
Johnston Canyon is a 90-minute drive from Calgary and 25 minutes from Banff. Flying in? A Calgary airport car rental with Turo makes it easy to head out right after landing. Rent a spacious SUV like models from Subaru or Ford for the space and traction you’ll want for a full day of hiking with gear in tow.
Larch Valley to Sentinel Pass Trail, Banff National Park
Starting at Moraine Lake, this famous Alberta hiking trail opens into Larch Valley, one of the most photogenic spots in Banff, before the final push to Sentinel Pass, perched between two towering ridges. It’s a must-do in mid-September when the trees turn brilliant yellow.
- Distance: 11.6 km round-trip
- Duration: 4–6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Elevation: 725 m
Why it’s great
Few hikes in Banff, Alberta, pack this much variety into one day – from the lakeside to alpine passes, with fall colours that feel otherworldly. The climb is worth every step, especially at sunrise.
Practical tips
The trail is busiest in the fall, so book your Parks Canada shuttle early. Travel in groups and carry bear spray to be safe. Poles could be your best friend on the rocky climb – this is far from a paved trail.
How to get there
From downtown Banff, it’s about 50 minutes to the Moraine Lake shuttle stop at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Get in the spirit of connecting with nature – driving an electric vehicle to the shuttle makes the trip more eco-friendly. A Tesla rental is quiet, efficient, and easy to charge in Banff or Lake Louise.
Wilcox Pass Trail, Jasper National Park
Just off the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park, this trail climbs from the forest into wide-open alpine meadows with views of the Athabasca Glacier and surrounding peaks. It’s one of the best day hikes for seeing the Columbia Icefield without the crowds.
- Distance: 9.3 km round-trip
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation: 520 m
Why it’s great
You’ll get front-row views of one of the largest icefields in the Canadian Rockies. Early on, the trail opens up to sweeping landscapes where you might spot bighorn sheep grazing above the highway!
Practical tips
Bring layers – the pass is windy year-round. Start early to beat the tour buses and pack binoculars for wildlife spotting. Trails can be muddy, so wear good shoes.
How to get there
The trailhead is about 90 minutes south of Jasper on the Icefields Parkway. With steep grades and shifting mountain weather, an all-wheel drive vehicle is a smart choice. A truck or SUV rental handles the elevation and gravel better and will give you enough room to keep everyone comfortable.
Best hikes in Jasper: FAQs
Where is the best place to hike in Alberta?
Alberta is home to several world-class parks, each with its own standout trails. Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Waterton Lakes National Park each draw countless outdoor enthusiasts every year to experience what makes this beautiful province so special.
Each is within reasonable driving distance of Calgary or Edmonton, but make sure to set time aside to fully experience your destination. Flying in? Booking a Calgary or Edmonton airport car rental with Turo lets you skip the counter and start your trip right away, with delivery options that match your arrival time and location.
Is Banff good for beginner hikers?
Absolutely! Banff has many beginner-friendly trails that are short, scenic, and close to town. Tunnel Mountain, Fenland Trail, and the Lower Falls at Johnston Canyon are all great places to start.
What is the easiest hike in Alberta?
The Valley of the Five Lakes in Jasper is one of the easiest hikes in Alberta. It’s short, mostly flat, and loops past five beautiful glacial lakes with lots of places to stop and enjoy the view.
When is the best time to hike in Alberta?
Late June through early October is the sweet spot. Wildflowers bloom in July, September is best for fall colours, and conditions are most reliable in August. Some higher-elevation trails even stay snowy until mid-summer.
Do I need bear spray when hiking in Alberta?
Yes. All Alberta parks are bear country, including areas close to town. Always carry bear spray where it’s accessible and hike in groups when possible. Check for wildlife advisories before heading out.
Get out and explore the best Alberta hiking trails
The best Alberta hiking trails offer something different around every turn, and the best way to see them is on your own schedule. With Turo, you can pick up the right vehicle for your trip and hit the road without waiting in line.
Whether you’re planning a full Alberta road trip from Banff to Jasper or just heading out for the day, it’s all within reach. Book your ride, pack your boots, and get out there!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
