Banff National Park was established in 1885 in the Rocky Mountains and presents a wonderful opportunity to access the mountains on an easy-paced, Canada hiking holiday. Situated 110 miles west of Calgary, in the province of Alberta, the park encompasses 2,564 square miles of mountainous terrain.
The park is home to many grandly glistening glaciers and ice fields, as well as dense coniferous forests and pretty alpine meadows. The main commercial centre is the town of Banff, in the Bow River Valley.
Spectacular views
For walkers who want the pleasure of exploring the natural attractions of the region on a less demanding Canada hiking holiday, Johnson Lake in Banff National Park is perfect, with several routes that are not too taxing. As you breathe in the clean mountain air and enjoy your walk, you will also be delighted by the spectacular views of Mt. Rundle, behind the lake - one of the most picturesque views in Canada. Hiking holiday aficionados will not be disappointed, as this destination provides a splendid introduction to the magnificent Rocky Mountains. However, the trails are easy to navigate and well-suited to those who aren't looking for overly demanding walks.
An experienced tour leader
The circuit around the beautiful and tranquil lake offers a leisurely walk and a wonderful opportunity to observe the diverse flora and fauna. The best way to get the most out of a Canada hiking holiday is to travel with a reputable tour company. An experienced tour leader will not only take care of all the travel details, they will be able to provide you with plenty of valuable information about the plants and animals you encounter.
Colourful wildflowers
The sunny, open slopes on the north bank of Johnson Lake are especially famous for their abundant and colourful wildflowers. They are a joy to experience and, as a bonus, you can see the exquisite prairie crocus during early spring. Another botanical highlight of this area is the presence of many Douglas-fir trees - one of which is nearly 700 years old and the oldest fir tree in Alberta province. After completing a guided walk of the lake, you may wish to enjoy a picnic at the tables provided on the west bank, and in the summer, many visitors enjoy topping off their visit with a refreshing swim.
Boulder Pass and beyond
For a moderate level walk, the Boulder Pass trail gives visitors a superb view of the park's highest peaks, including the Ten Peaks rising majestically above Moraine Lake. After hiking the first mile or so surrounded by conifers and larches, you will find yourself in the heart of a classic sub-alpine valley with wonderful open meadows. With the handy Halfway Hut daytime shelter, you have a welcome dry spot in which to wait out any inclement weather. This route is also an access point for longer walks to explore Skoki Valley and Hidden Lake.
Spot the pika
Hikers can use the camping ground as a base for day-long hikes, or the start of an onwards trail leading to more wonderfully unspoilt valleys and lakes. Look out for animals you may not have seen or heard of before, such as the cute-looking pika, a distant cousin of the rabbit. It has small ears and no tail, however, and feeds on the abundant plants growing in the beautiful mountain meadowland.
There really is nothing to compare with the sense of exhilaration one can attain on a hike through a lush alpine landscape. It is the ideal way to truly connect with the marvellous natural world that awaits on a Canada hiking holiday.
