Banff & Jasper Backpacking Trail Reccomendations

Hi Matt,

I haven't done multi-day hikes there personally, but the Willmore Wilderness Park (immediately north of Jasper National Park) has mountain trails that you can hike for many days. Beautiful scenery, and plenty of solitude. As it's not a national park, you don't need any back-country permits to hike there; you can walk and sleep wherever you want. Might be something that interests you.

Berg Lake, The Rockwall, Mount Assiniboine, Skyline, and Tonquin Valley/Amethyst Lakes are some of my favourite multi-day hikes in the Rockies. None of these are really loop trips though, as they're either a one-way trip or an in & out.

At that time of year, The Rockwall should have the best colour from all the larch trees at the various passes.

I cannot recommend Bullers pass/ Ribbon Lake enough. It is around 40 minutes from Banff, with some decent inclines, stunning views, and the most variety I have seen in any hike. Think meadows filled with wildflowers, burnt down forests, thick and lush forests, waterfalls, lakes, and a moose that likes to frequent the lake beside the backpacking camping sites. I've also spotted bears and several bighorn sheep as well. The actual backpacking site has 2 'community' firepits as well as very sturdy lockers to keep your food in, during the week it is absolutely dead, on weekends it can be a bit more busy, but everyone I have ever met there is absolutely lovely. You can also continue to the ribbon falls area which will involve a bit of rockclimbing, but once you hit the main waterfalls that way the path can become a bit congested. Also be sure to go off path on the opposite side of the lake from the campground...there are a myriad of waterfalls and stunning views from that end!

Thanks guys and gals for all your input! Struggling to decide over here, but it seems like there some pretty phenomenal options. So... who's coming with me?! ;)

Have you booked yet?

If not, you need to book accommodation and campsites ASAP. It's been a very, very busy summer in the Rockies and your trip falls over the Labour Day Weekend. I suspect your camping options will be limited by what backcountry campsites are still available.

The Skyline is likely to be out as I believe folks who got bumped earlier this summer because of the fire are being given first option to rebook. Bullers Pass sounds like a great option.

agree that you better check into your permits right away. i bet most of them are already gone for the long weekend. good luck

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