Banff Guided Hike: 4 Iconic Trails with Lunch

Four different hikes, one guide who knows them all

A guided hike in Banff National Park and the Lake Louise area where you choose one of four trails (Larch Valley, Plain of Six Glaciers, Consolation Lakes or Stanley Glacier) each with its own difficulty and scenery. A certified guide leads groups of no more than a handful of hikers, handles transport from Banff, provides hiking poles and a packed lunch, and adjusts the route if weather or trail conditions demand it.

The experience

The hike starts with pickup from the public bus parking behind the Mount Royal Hotel in Banff, then transport takes you to the trailhead of your chosen route. Each of the four trails runs on a fixed schedule: Larch Valley and Stanley Glacier on alternating days, Consolation Lakes on Tuesday, and Plain of Six Glaciers on Wednesday and Friday. The guide meets you at the start, and from there the day unfolds at the pace of the group: no rushing, no stragglers left behind.

What you see depends on which trail you pick. Larch Valley climbs through a larch forest above Moraine Lake with views across to Sentinel Pass and Mount Temple. Plain of Six Glaciers ascends a glacial valley from Lake Louise to a teahouse where six glaciers feed into the valley below. Consolation Lakes is the easier option, a leisurely walk through the Valley of the Ten Peaks to turquoise lakes, with time to explore the Rockpile on the way back. Stanley Glacier follows a forest trail between two mountains to views of the glacier itself. All four sit in the Canadian Rockies, so turquoise water, soaring peaks and waterfalls are the backdrop no matter which one you choose.

The guide carries the logistics: hiking poles are provided, a packed lunch is included (you choose your meal when you book), and the return transport to Banff is part of the package. The day runs about seven hours from pickup to drop-off. Mountain weather changes fast, so bring layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy hiking boots if you have them, sunscreen and a water bottle. If conditions shift, the guide may modify the route for safety: that is not a cancellation, just the reality of hiking in the Rockies.

What’s included

• Certified hiking guide leading a small group.
• return transport from Banff with pickup behind the Mount Royal Hotel.
• use of hiking poles.
• packed lunch with your choice of meal selected at booking.

Options for this experience

4 options

Consolation Lakes HikeGuide in English · Available from 1 Jun 2027Leaving at 8:00 am, we'll take a relaxed hike to Consolation Lakes and, on the way back, explore the area around Moraine Lake. Pickup is included.

Stanley Glacier HikeGuide in English · Available from 3 Jun 2027Departing at 8 am, travel through a landscape shaped by fire and ice in Kootenay National Park. Pickup is included.

Hike across the Plain of 6 GlaciersGuide in English · Available from 2 Jun 2027Departing at 8 am, your hike begins on the shores of Lake Louise and climbs to views of the six glaciers. Pickup is included.

Larch Valley HikeGuide in English · Available from 5 Jun 2027Leaving at 8:00 am, we'll take a relaxed hike to Consolation Lakes and, on the way back, explore the area around Moraine Lake. Pickup is included.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jun 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Under 13: can't be booked

GroupUp to 12 · max 9 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 12 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Discover Banff Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a guide to set the route and pace for you. Choose self-guided if you'd rather decide which trail to hike and when to turn back.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the difference between the four hikes on this tour?

Larch Valley is a moderate climb through a larch forest above Moraine Lake with views of Sentinel Pass and Mount Temple. Plain of Six Glaciers is a moderate ascent to a teahouse with views of six glaciers feeding into Lake Louise. Consolation Lakes is the easiest option, a leisurely walk to turquoise lakes with time to explore the Rockpile. Stanley Glacier is a moderate forest trail between two mountains to views of the glacier. You choose one when you book.

How long does the hike take and what's included in the day?

The full day runs about seven hours from pickup in Banff to drop-off. Included are the certified guide, return transport from Banff, hiking poles, and a packed lunch. You choose your meal when you book.

What do I need to bring and wear for this hike?

Bring lightweight hiking pants, a breathable shirt (not cotton), a warm layer like a fleece or waterproof jacket, a hat, sunglasses, sturdy hiking boots or shoes, a small backpack, a water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray and your camera. Mountain weather changes quickly, so layers and waterproof outerwear are essential.

Is there an age limit for this hike?

The minimum age is 13 years. Children aged 13 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult who signs their waiver. Children aged 16 to 17 may hike without an adult, but a parent must meet the guide in the morning to sign the waiver.

What happens if the weather is bad or the trail is closed?

The guide may modify the route for safety or accessibility if conditions shift. Early or late season itineraries may also change. Contact the reservations team at booking if you have questions about your specific date.

Where do I get picked up and what time does the hike start?

Pickup is from the public bus parking located behind the Mount Royal Hotel in Banff. The start time depends on which trail you choose. Contact the operator for the exact departure time for your selected hike.