Hiking

Prime hiking season in the Rockies begins in late spring at lower elevations and comes into full swing from mid-June until October, though early or late snow can change things. The fall colours in Alberta are a sight to behold, and winter provides the chance to try snowshoeing or winter hiking.

Wondering about current weather conditions before hitting the trail? Check out our Climate & Weather page.

That totally depends on where you’re staying! Crypt Lake in Waterton National Park combines a ferry ride with a once-in-a-lifetime day hike. Jasper’s Skyline Trail lets you camp among rugged mountains on a multi-day journey. Combine a short but steep trek with tea time at the Lake Agnes teahouse at Lake Louise, or explore Sundance Canyon right from the Cave and Basin site in Banff. And don’t forget, Edmonton and Calgary are both full of urban trails worthy of your hiking boots or a more relaxed meander around the city.

So you’re after the long ones, hey? You have two great options, the first being the Trans Canada Trail. The completed sections in Alberta currently cover 1,700 km (1,066 mi). It is part of a trail system crossing Canada from coast to coast.

Another long hike in Alberta is the Great Divide Trail, which starts northwest of Jasper in British Columbia, hopscotching back and forth over the border as the trail winds its way south to the U.S. border in Waterton National Park.

Absolutely. The National Parks are home to many advanced hikes, including multi-day excursions that will put your skills and stamina to the test. Climbing routes dot the landscape as well for those looking to get vertical.

A guide can make your hiking more of an experience and less of an exercise in planning and logistics. Search our database of Experience Providers to find specific operators and outfitters. They will also know the best trails based on your desires and ability. That said, you are welcome to explore Alberta’s thousands of kilometres of trails on your own.

Bring your climbing legs and lungs if you’re exploring the mountains. The weather can change in a matter of minutes as well, especially at elevation, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Snow might not be common in the middle of summer, but it’s not unheard of. You should also be ready for animal encounters no matter where you are in Alberta. In bear country, that means carrying and knowing how to use bear spray. And if you need gear or tips on which trails to hit, there are rental shops and outfitters in the area who will be happy to set you up for even the most ambitious hike.

Absolutely. Alberta is home to a stunning 587 different species of animals, including bear, deer, elk, eagles, moose and a lot more that we don’t have space to name! Alway give wildlife their space. Carry and know how to use bear spray, and be aware of animals that may seem less threatening too.

You’re likely to see a few iconic animals on your visit, so just relax and remember to enjoy them from a distance. We share their home! Visit our Wildlife Viewing page for more tips on wildlife viewing.

There are a number of published hiking guides online and in print. Try Parks Canada or stop at a visitor information centre for official hiking routes in the National Parks, or use Alberta Parks for the provincial parks.

Alberta is a big place with lots to explore and many authors have published regional guidebooks with details and information about local hiking trails. Check out Alberta’s Regions to get inspired and look up nearby hikes for your chosen itinerary.