About This Trail
Continuing past the Sunset Lookout, this trail pushes into increasingly open alpine terrain before reaching Sunset Pass, a broad saddle with views stretching across the backcountry of Banff's northern reaches. The additional elevation beyond the lookout takes hikers above the treeline where the landscape becomes stark and beautiful, with wind-sculpted rock and sparse alpine vegetation. This full-day hike combines the lookout viewpoint with genuine high-alpine exploration.
Highlights
Trailhead Information
Sunset Pass parking, 16.5 km N of Saskatchewan Crossing
This trail is not accessible by public transit. A personal vehicle or taxi is required.
Trail Location
Safety Tips
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bears are active throughout Banff National Park.
Check trail conditions on the Parks Canada website before heading out.
Tell someone your hiking plan โ where you're going and when you expect to return.
Bring layers. Mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer.
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 โMore Trails in Icefields Parkway
Explore other trails and destinations nearby.
Peyto Lake Viewpoint
๐ 0.6 km one way ยท โฌ๏ธ 30 m ยท โฑ๏ธ 30 min
Bow Summit Viewpoint
๐ 3 km one way ยท โฌ๏ธ 310 m ยท โฑ๏ธ 2.5 hrs
Mistaya Canyon
๐ 0.5 km one way ยท โฌ๏ธ 10 m ยท โฑ๏ธ 30 min
Bow Glacier Falls
๐ 4.4 km one way ยท โฌ๏ธ 190 m ยท โฑ๏ธ 3 hrs