Molar Pass
challenging Icefields Parkway trail

Molar Pass

A challenging backcountry trail climbing to a high pass with sweeping views near Mosquito Creek.

๐Ÿ“ Distance 9.8 km one way
โฌ†๏ธ Elevation Gain 560 m
โฌ‡๏ธ Elevation Loss 35 m
โฑ๏ธ Time 7-8 hrs
๐Ÿ“… Season summer
๐Ÿ”๏ธ Difficulty Challenging

About This Trail

The Molar Pass trail ascends from near the Mosquito Creek Campground through dense forest and alpine meadows to a broad pass offering expansive views across the front ranges and into the remote backcountry beyond. The sustained elevation gain demands good fitness, but the reward is a genuine sense of wilderness immersion that few trails along the Icefields Parkway can match. Marmots and pikas inhabit the rocky terrain near the pass.

Highlights

Expansive front range viewsRemote backcountry atmosphereAlpine marmot and pika habitat

Trailhead Information

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Starting Point

Near Mosquito Creek Campground, 24 km N of Lake Louise junction

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Vehicle Required

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

Trail Location

Safety Tips

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

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

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

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

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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†’