Alberta's hiking trails are plentiful and incredibly diverse.
Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself in a big way or go for a chilly stroll, you’ll find something without a doubt. In this list, we’re sharing some unbeatable trails that offer stunning vistas and a good dose of sweat and adrenaline. If that’s what you’re after, this bucket-list roundup is for you.
These challenging hikes aren't exactly casual, but each tough step is rewarded tenfold with some of the province’s most jaw-dropping scenery and a sense of achievement like no other.
Grab your hiking boots and get ready to push yourself to the limit. These challenging Alberta hikes are as rewarding as they are tough.
Crypt Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park
Distance: 17.2 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 700 m
Crypt Lake is not just a hike; it's basically a whole trip. In fact, National Geographic recently rated it one of the world's 20 most thrilling trails. You’ll cross the Canadian-US border, find your way through tunnels, climb ladders, and cling to chains bolted into cliffs. The payoff? Stunning alpine lake views nestled dramatically in the mountains of Waterton.
This is truly a bucket-list adventure that you won’t soon forget. The best part is that you can do it all in just one day. While it may have some technical challenges and you might be slightly tired afterwards, we cannot express just how worth it truly is.
Sulphur Mountain Trail, Banff National Park
Distance: 10.8 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 750 m
Skip the gondola and embrace the burn as you hike up Sulphur Mountain. Sweeping panoramic views of Banff, the Bow Valley, and surrounding peaks await. Plus, your reward at the top includes a mountain top boardwalk, tons of stunning viewpoints, a few outstanding dining options, and a burn that will make you feel like you just spent an hour or two on the stairmaster. The best part about this hike is that it’s short, so you get all the reward without committing an entire day.
Skyline Trail, Jasper National Park
Distance: 44 km one-way (multi-day)
Elevation Gain: 1,410 m
The Skyline Trail is Jasper’s highest and most scenic hike. Most of the journey is above the tree line, offering endless views of rugged mountains and vibrant wildflower meadows. Backpackers will appreciate the challenge and tranquillity of this epic multi-day adventure. If you’ve never done an overnight hike before, a lot of extra details go into planning this trip, so you’re both prepared and safe. Do your research, check for closures, warnings, and advisories, and always tell someone where you’re going. This is a rewarding journey, and we highly recommend it for anyone looking to level up their hiking game this summer.
Tent Ridge, Kananaskis Country
Distance: 10.1 km loop
Elevation Gain: 800 m
This spectacular ridge hike is worth every steep step. The trail loops around Tent Ridge, offering sweeping panoramic views of Spray Lakes, towering peaks, and lush valleys. It’s ideal for hikers craving thrilling ridgeline adventures and unbeatable photo opportunities. While the distance may make it seem accessible, the elevation is what will get you, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
Prairie Mountain, Kananaskis Country
Distance: 8.4 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 675 m
Short but intense, Prairie Mountain is a popular hike for folks looking to log a ton of elevation in a short distance. The steady climb rewards hikers with spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding foothills, mountains, and prairies. It's ideal for testing your limits without committing to a long trek or an overnighter. Also, you get the added benefit of summiting a mountain, which not everyone can say they’ve done.
East End of Rundle (EEOR), Canmore
Distance: 5.8 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 875 m
EEOR packs a punch in a short distance. Steep inclines, rocky scrambles, and exposed ridges make this hike thrilling and–we won’t lie to you–a little bit scary. At the summit, breathtaking views of the Spray Valley and Ha Ling Peak make every challenging step worthwhile. Be sure to pace yourself, drink lots of water, and bring hiking poles. These steep steps can be hard on the knees, and we don’t want you out of commission for the rest of the summer.
Mount St. Piran, Banff National Park
Distance: 13 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 900 m
Less crowded but no less beautiful, Mount St. Piran rewards you with exceptional views of Lake Louise and surrounding glaciers. The trail ascends steadily through alpine forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and pristine nature at every turn. It’s the perfect blend of distance and elevation. While it’s pretty steep, the elevation is stretched out a bit compared to other, shorter hikes.
Sarrail Ridge, Kananaskis Country
Distance: 11.3 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1000 m
Starting at Upper Kananaskis Lake and passing stunning Rawson Lake, Sarrail Ridge culminates in breathtaking views of turquoise waters and dramatic peaks. The final ascent is steep and scrambly, but the scenery makes every drop of sweat worth it. Be sure you’ve got good, sturdy footwear, that you stay alert, and do your research before committing to this difficult hike.
Sentinel Pass, Banff National Park
Distance: 11.3 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 800 m
Journey through Larch Valley’s vibrant forests before climbing steep switchbacks to Sentinel Pass. The pass offers unrivalled views of Paradise Valley and the iconic Valley of the Ten Peaks. In fall, the golden larches provide an unforgettable experience.
Each hike promises rewarding views, thrilling terrain, and the satisfaction of conquering some of Alberta’s toughest trails.
To park in provincial and national parks, you must have a Conservation Pass and a National Parks Pass. For more information, visit the Kananaskis Conservation website and the Parks Canada website. As always, do your research, check for closures and advisories in the area, be sure you’re properly prepared, use the buddy system, and always let someone know where you’re going and when you should be expected back. Safety could not be more important when venturing into the alpine.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
