hiking Archives -

A detailed itinerary for 7 days in Banff and Jasper

November 4, 2023January 18, 2022 by Natalie

Below is a detailed itinerary for 7 days in Banff and Jasper, with a stop in Yoho National Park. This itinerary is best if you enjoy hiking and have a rental car.

Know before you go: Tips for your 7 days in Banff and Jasper

This itinerary is better suited if you rent a car (or bring your own). We rented our car from the Calgary Airport from the Alamo Car Rental company and had good experiences!

Download the Guide Along App (formerly known as “GPSpy Guide) It is worth every penny! It can be used without cell service since it uses GPS. Anytime you drive past a specific location, the guide will start to tell interesting stories and tips. He also tells you how to get to each location. We used this for our entire trip and saw things that we would have otherwise missed!

Download the AllTrails App for hiking. It provides a map of the trail and your location while you are hiking. It also shows approximately how long it takes to complete a trail, and you can read reviews too.

Buy snacks and to-go meals from local grocery stores. On your arrival day, head to a local grocery story to keep you going while out and about!

Learn about bear safety before you hike. Know what to do if you encounter a bear, hike with bear spray, and make lots of noise while hiking. Bear spray can be purchased anywhere – at the tourist office, sports stores, and in the groceries stores. Sometimes your hotel may give it to you for free (just ask the front desk)!

Summary for 7 days in Banff and Jasper

Day 1: Banff. Lake Minnewaka and Tunnel Mountain hike. Overnight in Banff
Day 2: Banff. Via Ferrata, Banff Gondola, and Banff Hot Springs. Overnight in Banff
Day 3: Johnston Canyon, Bow Valley Parkway, Moraine Lake in the evening. Overnight in Lake Louise
Day 4: Hike to Devil’s Thumb and Big Beehive, Yoho National park. Overnight in Lake Louise
Day 5: Drive the Icefields Parkway to Jasper. Overnight in Jasper
Day 6: Jasper. Overnight in Jasper
Day 7: Drive back to Banff along the Icefields Parkway. Overnight in Canmore
Day 8: Airport to fly home!

Day 1 in Banff: Lake Minnewaka and hike up Tunnel Mountain

8:00am: Lake Minnewanka

For your first day in Banff, wake up early and make your way to Lake Minnewaka. It can get busy in the afternoon, and it is absolutely magical in the early morning light.

The plus side to waking up early is that you have a better chance of seeing wildlife on your way there!

At Lake Minnewanka there are lots of things to do:

Go on a Lake Cruise, or rent a canoe or kayak.

Hike the Stewart Canyon Trail. During certain times of the year (like in August when we went), it is restricted to 4 people minimum for bear safety. If you are in a group of less than 4, you are only allowed to hike about 1.2km to the Stewart Canyon bridge.

We chose to walk to the bridge on the Stewart Canyon trail and didn’t go on the boat cruise. If you choose to go on a boat cruise then this will take more of your time.

10:30am: Two-Jack and Johnson Lakes

After Lake Minnewaka, feel free to follow the GyPSy app’s directions and listen to the stories about the area. We stopped at Two-Jack Lake and Johnson Lake and wandered around at each location.

11:00am: Bankhead Trail

A short 1km long trail that is essentially like a (free) outdoor museum highlighting the mining history of the area. It is surrounded my mountains and has old ruins and a mining train on display.

1:00pm: Vermillion Lakes

Follow the guide of the GyPSy app to Vermillion Lakes. If it wasn’t for the guide, we wouldn’t have known where to find the hot spring enters the lake! This is a good place to stop and eat lunch.

1:30pm: Bow River

Make your way towards Bow River and walk along the pathway next to the river! You can make this walk as long or as short as you want, since it goes for quite awhile. There are beautiful views of the Fairmont, and water is so blue.

3:00pm: Hike up Tunnel Mountain

Tunnel Mountain is 1 4.5km hike located a short walk away from downtown Banff. If you can get parking at the trailhead, then lucky you! Otherwise it’s a short walk up the hill.

Depending on your fitness level, the hike is on the easier side, but it is all uphill. The views of Banff and the Fairmont from up high are so beautiful. If you have the time it’s worthwhile to do it.

View from the top of Tunnel Mountain in Banff during a 7 day itinerary — View from the top of Tunnel Mountain

5:30pm: Hoodoos

Finish your day by taking a short drive to see the hoodoos! It can either be a 10 or 30 minute walk, depending how far you want to walk. Since we had just finished hiking Tunnel Mountain, we opted for the shorter walk.

View of the hoodoos in Banff. Suggestion for what to do in Banff during 7 days — Hoodoos

Day 2 in Banff: Via Ferrata and Banff Hot Springs

9:30am-2pm: Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay

On our second day in Banff we opted to do a Via Ferrata! If you haven’t heard of these, it means “Iron Road” and it offers a safe and very fun climbing experience up Mount Norquay.

There are 4 routes to choose from that range in difficulty and length. We opted to do the “Ridgewalker” route which was 4 hours long. I will admit, I was nervous to do this! I thought I would be too slow, or be too afraid of climbing. If you are, then stay closer to the front of the line near the guide. Our guide was incredible, and helped everyone climb. And since you are focusing on the task infront of you, it doesn’t seem so scary to be so high up!

Book your Via Feratta here.

If you choose not to do a Via Feratta there are LOTS of things you can do during your 7 days in Banff and Jasper instead! Check out the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, or go for another hike.

picture of the via ferrata - what to do in 7 days in banff and jasper — Via Ferrata

4pm: Cascade Garden

This is free to enter, and it’s worthwhile to walk around the gardens. I mean, look at this photo!

Cascade Gardens. What to do for a 7 day itinerary in Banff and Jasper — Cascade Gardens

5pm: Banff Hot Springs & Banff Gondola

So I will admit, I did neither of these activities because both locations were VERY busy. During our trip, Covid cases were starting to go up and no one was mandated to wear masks. We didn’t feel comfortable NOT wearing masks, so we tried to avoid crowds during our 7 days in Banff and Jasper. However, if you are visiting Banff and feel comfortable doing this, or if life is back to normal, then this is your time to visit!

There is a short trail that goes from bottom of the Banff Gondola to the entrance of the Hot Springs, so we walked along this instead. We were pleasantly surprised to find a very small hot spring along the trail that you can put your feet in. (and it’s free!).

Banff hot springs. What to do for a 7 days in Banff and Jasper — View of the Banff Hot Springs

Day 3: Drive to Lake Louise via the Bow Valley Parkway

8:00am: Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon gets VERY busy, and can get crowded due to the narrow pathways. We arrived at 8am, and it was quiet, but there were still groups of people around.

To hike to the upper and lower falls is 3.5km, but if you want to hike up to the Ink Pots is 11km. We only chose to hike to the falls, but it is up to you and how much time you have in the day!

11:00am: Castle Lookout Hike (7.2km)

This hike is optional (you can either hike to Inkpots at Johnston Canyon, or hike another trail, or visit Lake Moraine or Lake Louise).

There are no minimum group hiking requirements for this hike.

The Castle Lookout Hike is 7.2km and it is all uphill! It starts by going through the forest, and then opens up to have views of the valley below.

Castle Lookout hike. Itinerary for 7 days in Banff and Jasper — Castle Lookout Hike

4:00pm: After checking into your accommodation, head towards Lake Louise and walk to the Fairmont Viewpoint. It is approximately 2km and can be done as an out-and-back, or a loop. The out-and-back is more popular because the pathway is groomed up to the look-off point. We did the looped trail which isn’t maintained and steep. It goes along the lake, but a few spots are a bit overgrown and it can get muddy.

6:00pm: Moraine Lake

UPDATED 2023: As of 2023, visitors are no longer allowed to drive down the road to Moraine Lake, or park there. You must use the shuttle and book it in advance.

Check out the Parks Canada website for details on how and when to book a shuttle to the lake since reservations are required.

For this itinerary, I arrived at 6pm (by car, when it was allowed. *sigh*). If you want to canoe at Lake Moraine, I would recommend going before 6pm so that you will have time. The canoe rental was closed when we arrived. This wasn’t on our agenda due to the cost (over $100!), but if you want to do this then either go again the next morning, or go earlier in the day.

Day 4: Hiking around Lake Louise

Today is the day for hiking around Lake Louise! The trails that are mentioned below do not have minimum group restrictions. We went as a group of 2 and were fine.

8am: Hike to Devil’s Thumb and Big Beehive (14km)

A very popular hike at Lake Louise is to the Lake Agnes Teahouse. It gets very busy, so try and get to the teahouse by 9am. Bring cash with you! (Credit cards are not accepted). There are no minimum group hiking restrictions, so less than 4 people is ok!

While you are hiking to the teahouse, you will mostly be hiking through the forest. But Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes are viewpoints along the way and very beautiful!

At Lake Agnes, you can hike an additional 40 minutes roundtrip to the Little Beehive OR continue to the Big Beehive. I cannot compare the two beehives, because I only went to the Big Beehive.

To get to the Big Beehive, you will continue past the Lake Agnes Teahouse and walk to the back of lake Agnes and up the switchbacks. And then you’re there! The views of the Fairmont from the top of the Big Beehive are spectacular.

If you are feeling up to it, and like a challenging hike, then continue to the Devil’s Thumb. This is a VERY steep trail, and a little scary in a couple of sections, but the views are amazing!

Suggested Reading: Hiking Devil’s Thumb

View from Devils Thumb – on the left is Agnes Lake and Teahouse, in the middle is the Big Beehive and the right is Lake Louise.

3pm: Yoho National Park

After a very long, exhausting and rewarding hike continue your journey to Yoho National Park in BC! This is a 40 minute drive away from Lake Louise. Don’t forget to use the GyPSy app so that you can hear the stories about the area along the way! Check out the Spiral Tunnels, Takakkow Falls (the 2nd highest waterfall in Canada!), and Emerald Lake.

Overnight accommodation: Bear Lodge is only a 5 minute walk away from Lake Louise! The rooms are very simple, but clean. The restaurant is SO good. It has a very unique atmosphere and feels like you’re in an old schoolhouse or lodge.

If you have more room in your budget, then the Fairmont Lake Louise would definitely be the preferred choice since you are on the Lake.

Takkakow Falls in Yoho Park - itinerary for 7 days in banff and Jasper and Yoho Park — Takakkow Falls

Day 5: Icefields Parkway

Today is another opportunity to visit Moraine Lake during your 7 days in Banff and Jasper. Try again this morning if you haven’t had any luck getting parking. But if you have already visited, then continue your journey to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway.

Today is the day where you will drive and make lots of stops to enjoy the scenery. I would highly recommend the GyPSy guide for your 7 days in Banff and Jasper (I swear I’m not sponsored!). We saw all sorts of animals with the guide’s help, and it made the drive more enjoyable.

What to do along the Icefields Parkway:

Bow Lake
Peyto Lake (now open as of 2022!))
Panther Falls
Athabasca Glacier (you can either walk up to the edge of the glacier for free, or pay to do the tour).
Skywalk
Tangle Creek Falls
Sunwapta Falls
Athabasca Falls

Day 6: Jasper

I would HIGHLY recommend driving up to Jasper and spending some time here! This is such a cute town, surrounded by mountains (of course!), and isn’t as busy as Banff. There was SO much wildlife too!

In the morning, drive to Maligne Canyon and then about an hour to Moraine Lake. If you are able to, then take the Moraine Lake Cruise to Spirit Island. The photos look incredible! We didn’t go unfortunately because we were trying to avoid crowded areas due to Covid. Another spot to visit is the Hot Springs in Jasper (these were closed for the season because of Covid, so check their website before you visit to see when they reopen).

After Maligne lake, follow the GyPSy guide to get a tour of Jasper, and end your day by going up the Jasper Gondola! It wasn’t too crowded here, so we felt comfortable going up.

Day 7: Jasper & Drive back to Banff

On your final day of your 7 days in Banff and Jasper itinerary, drive to Pyramid Lake in the morning. Spend the rest of the morning hiking up the Edith Cavell Trail. You are allowed to hike with less than 4 people here.

This was my favourite hike, the scenery was so varied. Glaciers, meadows with wild flowers, snowy mountain tops, and so many little animals!

Then, continue to drive back to Banff to your overnight accommodation before your flight home.

7 days in Banff and Jasper - Edith Cavell hike in Jasper — Edith Cavell hike

Are you planning a trip to Banff or Jasper? If you have any questions let me know in the comments below! If you have been to Banff or Jasper, what was your favourite activity or place you visited?

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What to expect while Hiking to Devil’s Thumb and the Big Beehive

July 18, 2022November 13, 2021 by Natalie

Devil’s Thumb and the Big Beehive are located at Lake Louise, and offer stunning views of the Fairmont and Lake Agnes. Along the trail there are 3 lakes, a waterfall, and the Lake Agnes Teahouse for a mid-morning or afternoon snack. Below I share what to expect while hiking to the Devil’s Thumb and Big Beehive.

Distance: 12.9km
Elevation: 883m
Difficulty: Hard
Time to complete: Approx 4 hours

How to get there

The trail starts in front of the Fairmont Lake Louise.

Paid parking is at Lake Louise, or you can take a shuttle to Lake Louise if the parking lot is full. To get a parking spot and to avoid the crowds, aim to arrive early (before 8am).

The night before our hike, we stayed at the Deer Lodge which is a 5 minute walk away. If your budget allows, you can spend the night at the Fairmont which is directly in front of the Lake. Spending the night before in Lake Louise will save time on driving all the way from Banff in the morning.

Suggested Reading: 7 day itinerary for Banff and Jasper

Tips for hiking Devil’s Thumb and Big Beehive

There are no group hiking restrictions for this trail. I went with my husband, so we were 2 people who did this hike.

It is a very busy trail, so try to start hiking by 8am to avoid the crowds. We reached the Lake Agnes Teahouse at 9am and the patio was already full (but there were no lines).

Always bring your bear spray with you! And make noise while hiking if there is no one around.

Bring cash for the Teahouse. Credit cards are not accepted.

Wear lots of layers! I brought a small puffy jacket that was light and easy to carry, and a hat. While we were at the top a cloud passed by and it snowed. Then once the cloud passed it was back to sunshine.

Bring a poncho. This was an excellent item to bring because it started to rain on our way back, and this kept us dry.

Bring water and snacks, and wear your sunscreen.

Download the AllTrails App so that you can track where you are on the trail

What to expect while hiking to Devil’s Thumb and Big Beehive

The beginning of the trail

While looking at the lake, you will walk to the right. It starts off as a paved walkway next to the lake, and then gradually switches to a groomed trail.

For the first 2.3km, the trail has a series of long and gradual switchbacks through the forest. During this section, there isn’t much for views since you are in the trees, but occasionally you will see Lake Louise peeking through.

the beginning of the hike to devil's thumb and big beehive — The beginning of the trail next to Lake Louise

Mirror Lake

After about 2.5km of hiking through the forest, you will reach Mirror Lake. This lake is beautiful on a clear day because it is as reflective as a mirror. The Big Beehive is the backdrop to the Lake, and it is impressive to see how tall it is. Take a moment to walk around the lake, and get pictures.

After Mirror Lake, you will hike another additional 2.5km to get to the Lake Agnes Teahouse. This section of the trail is also through the trees.

mirror lake with big beehive behind it. hiking to devil's thumb and big beehive — Mirror Lake with Big Beehive behind. Can you see me in this picture? (hint: I’m on the right)

Lake Agnes Teahouse

Before you reach the Teahouse, you will come across a gorgeous waterfall. This waterfall is located at the bottom of a staircase that will lead you to the Lake Agnes Teahouse.

The Lake Agnes Teahouse overlooks Lake Agnes. It has an outdoor patio which fills up very quickly, but there are lots of spots to sit and eat around the lake too.

Try to get to the Teahouse before 9am, and bring cash with you. There are also portable toilets onsite too.

hiking to devil's thumb and big beehive. a view of lake agnes from the teahouse — The view from our breakfast spot at Lake Agnes. Devil’s Thumb is that peak in the distance.

From Lake Agnes to the Big Beehive

After Lake Agnes, you will continue on the righthand side along the Lake for about half a kilometre. Once you reach the end of Lake Agnes you will begin the steep climb up a series of switchbacks. The switchbacks are in the open so you can have nice views of Lake Agnes the entire way up.

A picture of some of the switchbacks, with Lake Agnes.

Big Beehive

When you reach the top of the switchbacks, you will see a 4 way path intersection. To the left is the Big Beehive, to the right is the beginning of the trail to Devil’s Thumb, and straight ahead is the trail to the Plain of Six Glaciers which will eventually lead you back to Lake Louise.

On this hike, we did not continue to the Plain of Six Glaciers and instead went back the way we came. However, if you have the time and energy I would recommend continuing your hike along this route (after hiking the Big Beehive and Devil’s Thumb).

I would recommend going to the Big Beehive first, since you are practically there already. At the 4-way intersection turn left and walk a few meters along a pretty level (but rocky) terrain and you are there! From the Big Beehive are incredible views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont.

Take some time walking along the trail until you get to a wooden hut. There are lots of spots to get good photos.

A view of the fairmont lake louise from the big beehive — View from the Big Beehive

Devil’s Thumb

Now for the most challenging part of the hike! This is not for the faint of heart. Once you reach the intersection again continue on to the Devil’s Thumb (which will now be straight ahead).

The Devil’s Thumb trail is not marked on the sign posts that you see along the trail. At the time of writing this (August 2021), there was a tree blocking the path so you will need to climb over it.

Shortly after you begin the trail, you will need to climb up a very short but literally vertical rocky wall.

This is the vertical wall to climb. It’s not as tall as it looks, and there are lots of places to grab on to. It was easier coming down!

a vertical section of the trail while hiking to devil's thumb. lake agnes is in the background — Same vertical wall, but this time it is the view from the top of the wall! There is Lake Agnes in the background.

Once you pass this obstacle, you will then walk along a very narrow trail that gradually goes up and around to the backside of Devil’s Thumb. The drop off is very steep, so I would not recommend doing this in the rain or snow because it can be very dangerous.

view of mountains and a narrow trail while hiking to devil's thumb — The narrow path that goes around to the back of Devil’s Thumb. Can we all take a moment to appreciate how GORGEOUS that view is?! That is the glacier that flows into lake Louise.

This narrow trail then turns into another very challenging section of the Devil’s Thumb trail. It becomes VERY steep, and the drop off is very scary! Take your time and follow the pathway that takes you closer to tree. There are roots sticking up that you will need to climb over, and loose rock, so go slow.

This is the most difficult section of the trail. Can you see the 2 people in the distance? It is very steep there.

a steep section while hiking to devil's thumb and big beehive — It’s steep

You are ALMOST at the top once you pass this section! The trail then turns very rocky and becomes somewhat of a scramble. Veer to the right to go uphill to the summit. There are large boulders and very rocky terrain. It is very easy to lose the path here, which I know I did. But it’s not hard to get lost since you are almost at the peak and there is nowhere to go but up the boulders.

hiking devil's thumb and big beehive. almost at the top of devil's thumb. me walking over a very rocky terrain — The rocky section near the top

At the peak, the views are spectacular. Overlooking Lake Louise and Lake Agnes. You will even see the glacier that flows into Lake Louise, and the mountain range surrounding you.

hiking devil's thumb and big beehive. the view from the top of devil's thumb. Lake Agnes is on the left and Lake Louise is on the right — At the top of Devil’s Thumb! Lake Louise is on the right, Lake Agnes on the left, and the Big Beehive is that peak in the middle between them.

You will need to go back the way you came, but surprisingly for me it was easier than the way up.

Returning back

After you return from the Devil’s Thumb hike, you have two options for returning back to your car:

Option 1 – You can turn right at the 4-way intersection to return via the Plain of 6 Glacier’s hike. It had started to rain on our way back from Devil’s Thumb, so we weren’t up for hiking back this way since it will add more time and kilometres to your hike. BUT, it will take you along the glacier that runs into Lake Louise, and along the pathway next to Lake Louise, so it will be very scenic.

Option 2 – The second option is to simply just return the way you came. And whatever you do, do not try and take any shortcuts along the horse path back down (the horse path turn-off is near Mirror Lake). The sign says it’s shorter but it’s really not. Since the horses use this route the ground is uneven and full of horse poop AND it’s confusing to know where to go.

Have you ever been hiking to Devil’s Thumb and Big Beehive? Or do you have any questions about it? Let me know in the comments below!

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5 of the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Cape Breton – with minimal hiking!

October 16, 2020 by Natalie

Cape Breton has so many incredible waterfalls. However if you are short on time, and want to see a waterfall without having to hike for hours, then this list of 5 beautiful waterfalls in Cape Breton is for you.

These 5 waterfalls in Cape Breton take at most an hour to see, require minimal hiking, and the majority are very easy to get to. They are ranked from easiest to hardest to help you decide which ones are right for you.

Beulach Ban Falls

Out of all of the waterfalls in this list, Beulach Ban Falls is the most accessible waterfall in Cape Breton. The falls are a 1 minute walk from the parking lot, so no hiking is required.

The waterfalls are a 2.3km drive from the main road. The first thing you will see when you turn off the main road is a big, paved parking lot, but don’t park here! Continue down the gravel road to the second parking lot which is right next to the waterfalls. Although, keep in mind that campervans aren’t allowed to access the second parking lot and will need to park in the big, paved parking lot.

Mary Ann Falls

Mary Ann falls is a 15 minute drive from the main road. Next to the parking lot is a short walk (about 400m) down a flat, gravel road. At the end of the road are picnic tables and a washroom, and a staircase to go down and see the waterfalls.

Mary Ann Waterfall in Cape Breton Nova Scotia — Mary Ann Falls

MacIntosh Brook Falls

This waterfall is at the end of the MacIntosh Brook Trail. The path is short, flat and well-groomed with only a few exposed roots. It takes at most an 1 hour to complete (1.7km long). There is also a picnic area at the beginning of this trail.

MacIntosh Brook Waterfall in cape Breton Nova Scotia — MacIntosh Brook Falls

Uisge Ban Falls (pronounced Ish-Ka Ban)

20 minutes from Baddeck, the trail begins as gravel covered pathway. Near the end of the trail, closer to the falls, the gravel trail ends. It it not too difficult near the end, but it becomes more uneven and covered in roots. There are no steep inclines on this trail.

The hike in total takes about 1 hour, and is about 3km long. There are a series of trails currently under construction (as of 2020) which will provide more places to walk.

Don’t be discouraged if it is rainy when you hike this trail. It is located between the bottom of two mountains, which creates so many other waterfalls!

Egypt Falls

By no means is this an easy waterfall to hike to, but if you are short on time it only takes an hour at the most to visit. The hike to and from the waterfall is 15 minutes each way. It is VERY steep and has ropes and stairs to help you down.

To find the entrance to the trailhead, drive to Pipers Glen Rd. (google maps will be your friend here). Look for orange tape and a stake on the righthand side of the road to indicate the trailhead.

It is usually quite popular in the middle of the day, so there will probably be other cars parked on the side of the road too. We arrived at 5:30pm (one hour before dark), and were the only ones there!

Tips for Visiting these Waterfalls in Cape Breton

Wear walking shoes. In this list, the hikes to each waterfall range from 2 minutes to 1 hour, but for the longer hikes good walking shoes will help you to not trip on loose rocks or roots!

Come prepared with water, sunscreen, and snacks. A few waterfalls have picnic areas, so bring a snack or lunch to enjoy next to a waterfall.

The Alltrails App is useful for planning trips. It is helpful to read reviews from other travelers so that you can make a decision on if it fits your abilities. The app indicates how long their hike was too.

Check out my 3 days in Cape Breton Itinerary for when to fit these waterfalls in your schedule, and other activities to do!

Map for where to find waterfalls in Cape Breton.

Have you been to Cape Breton and visited these waterfalls? Are there any waterfalls that you would recommend visiting? Let me know in the comments below!

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