Cory Pass Loop
challenging Banff trail

Cory Pass Loop

A strenuous scramble to an exposed mountain pass with vertigo-inducing views down into Gargoyle Valley.

๐Ÿ“ Distance 13 km loop
โฌ†๏ธ Elevation Gain 915 m
โฌ‡๏ธ Elevation Loss 915 m
โฑ๏ธ Time 6 hrs
๐Ÿ“… Season summer
๐Ÿ”๏ธ Difficulty Challenging

About This Trail

The Cory Pass Loop is one of Banff's most thrilling and demanding day hikes, climbing steeply through forest before traversing an exposed ridge with dramatic drop-offs into the rugged Gargoyle Valley below. The loop connects Cory Pass with Edith Pass, providing varied scenery from dense forest to barren alpine rock. Loose footing and exposure demand experience and confidence, but the payoff is among the most spectacular in the park.

Highlights

Exposed ridge scramblingGargoyle Valley viewsMount Louis panorama

Trailhead Information

๐Ÿ“
Starting Point

Fireside Day-use

๐Ÿš—
Vehicle Required

This trail is not accessible by public transit. A personal vehicle or taxi is required.

Trail Location

Safety Tips

๐Ÿป

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bears are active throughout Banff National Park.

๐Ÿ“‹

Check trail conditions on the Parks Canada website before heading out.

๐Ÿ‘ฅ

Tell someone your hiking plan โ€” where you're going and when you expect to return.

๐Ÿงฅ

Bring layers. Mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer.

๐Ÿ’ง

Carry at least 1 litre of water per person. There are no water stations on most trails.

Check Latest Trail Conditions

Always check the official Parks Canada page for current conditions, closures, and advisories before heading out.

View on Parks Canada โ†’