Tunnel Mountain, Banff National Park
If there’s one hike you must do in Banff, it’s the one up Tunnel Mountain. There’s a reason it’s so popular with locals and visitors alike. After 2.4 km (1.5 mi) of hiking on a gentle grade, you’ve gained enough elevation for eye-popping views of Mount Rundle. Look in the other direction for panoramic views of Banff, including the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Check out Parks Canada’s iconic red chairs, just shy of the summit. There’s no better place to catch your Instagram moment than here.
Hike Tunnel Mountain fast if you’re after a workout. Do it as a stroll if you’re into beauty and nature. It won’t take fast hikers more than an hour to do the return hike. For everyone else, allow 90 minutes to two hours. Stay back from the cliff edge near the summit.
Cross Conservation area near Calgary
Over 20 km (12.4 mi) of hiking trails weave through the Cross Conservation Area on the outskirts of Calgary. This isn't a hiking area where you’ll encounter big drop-offs and gnarly cliff faces. What you will find are peaceful trails through native prairie, untouched rolling hills and huge stands of trembling aspen.
The 4.8 km (2.8 mi) Fescue Trail is a great choice for hikers who like a bit of everything. Enjoy superb views of the Canadian Rockies in one direction and Calgary’s downtown skyline in the other. In spring and summer look for wildflowers that dot the rolling hills. Then come back in September for the aspen’s beautiful golden leaf display. If the Fescue Trail isn’t enough, simply add another loop.
While animals are frequently sighted in the conservation area, humans are few and far between. Keep an eye out for black bears, elk, white-tailed and mule deer along with moose. And even if you haven’t got a birding bone in your body, you’ll be thrilled with all the mountain bluebirds.
The path of the Glacier Trail, Jasper National Park
For a rare up-close glacier experience, choose the short and easy Path of the Glacier Trail. The busy trail is paved from the parking lot, but don’t let that deter you. Continue to the overlook and you’ll be wowed by Cavell Pond. Filled with green glacial water, runoff from the old Angel Glacier, it stretches down the north face of Mount Edith Cavell. From a distance, the glacier looks like an angel with its wings spread open.
Up for more hiking? Continue part way along the Cavell Meadows trail for even better views of the glacier. You’ll also come upon wildflower-studded meadows and have a high chance of hearing a pika.
