Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to experience Banff in winter. It's accessible to virtually everyone — if you can walk, you can snowshoe — and it opens up a world of snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and silent forests that most winter visitors never see. With options ranging from flat lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents, Banff's snowshoeing trails rival its summer hiking in beauty and variety.
Best Snowshoeing Trails in Banff
1. Taylor Lake
Distance: 12 km return | Elevation Gain: 585m | Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous
One of the most rewarding snowshoe trails in the park. The trail climbs through old-growth forest to a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering cliffs. On sunny winter days, the frozen lake with snow-dusted peaks is strikingly beautiful. Budget 5–6 hours.
2. Marble Canyon (Kootenay)
Distance: 1.6 km return | Elevation Gain: Minimal | Difficulty: Easy
A short, easy snowshoe through a narrow canyon with frozen waterfalls and ice formations. Just 20 minutes from Banff via Highway 93 South. Perfect for beginners or a quick winter outing.
3. Sundance Canyon
Distance: 7.4 km return | Elevation Gain: 75m | Difficulty: Easy
A mostly flat trail following the Bow River and Cave Avenue to a small frozen canyon with ice formations. The wide trail is ideal for first-time snowshoers. Start from the Cave and Basin parking lot.
4. Boom Lake
Distance: 10.4 km return | Elevation Gain: 180m | Difficulty: Moderate
A gentle trail through dense forest to a beautiful frozen alpine lake. The trail is well-packed and relatively flat, making it a great intermediate option. Located on Highway 93 South, about 25 minutes from Banff.
5. Chester Lake (Kananaskis)
Distance: 9.6 km return | Elevation Gain: 310m | Difficulty: Moderate
One of the most popular snowshoe destinations near Banff (about 1 hour drive). The trail follows a ski trail through meadows and forest to a stunning frozen lake beneath The Fortress. Often well-tracked.
6. Spray River Loop
Distance: 12 km loop | Elevation Gain: Minimal | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
A flat loop along the Spray River from the Banff Springs Hotel. The wide trail runs through forest with mountain views and is popular with both snowshoers and cross-country skiers. A peaceful half-day outing right from town.
Gear Guide
Renting Snowshoes
Several shops in Banff rent snowshoes and poles, including Snowtips-Bactrax, Wilson Mountain Sports, and Banff Adventures. Expect to pay $15–25 CAD per day for rental. Poles are included or available for a few dollars extra.
What to Wear
- Waterproof winter boots (snowshoes strap onto your existing boots)
- Moisture-wicking base layer
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)
- Waterproof, windproof outer shell
- Warm gloves, hat, and buff/neck gaiter
- Gaiters (to keep snow out of your boots) — highly recommended
Guided Snowshoe Tours
For first-timers or those wanting a curated experience, guided snowshoe tours include equipment, instruction, snacks, and expert knowledge of local trails and wildlife. Evening fondue snowshoe tours combine a forest walk with a fondue dinner under the stars. Book a guided snowshoe tour in Banff for a memorable winter experience.
Safety Tips
- Check avalanche conditions at avalanche.ca before heading into the backcountry
- Carry bear spray — bears can emerge from dens during warm winter spells
- Bring extra layers, a thermos of hot liquid, and high-energy snacks
- Daylight is limited in winter (sunrise ~8:30am, sunset ~5pm) — start early
- Stay on established trails and avoid frozen lakes unless you can verify ice thickness