Sundance Canyon

The hike to Sundance Canyon has a lot going for it. For one, it’s close to the Town of Banff. For another, it’s a fairly gentle trail that ends at a spectacular destination. The trailhead is a 4 km (2.5 mi) hike from the Cave and Basin parking lot. We say “hike,” but that stretch is along a paved pathway, so feel free to ride your bike or strap on your in-line skates. The trip from Banff to the trailhead adds another 2 km (1 mi) to the trip. The pathway runs alongside the Bow River, which provides scenic views and a gurgling accompaniment to your steps. From the trailhead, the roundtrip hike to Sundance Canyon is another 7 km (4 mi). It’s a steady but easy climb. Give yourself about three hours to complete the journey. The trail loops through Sundance Canyon, a shady oasis home to rushing streams and small waterfalls.