Where to Snowshoe in Banff National Park

 Banff National Park Snowshoe Safety Tips

• Designated snowshoe trails listed here have a low avalanche risk.
• If you venture off designated trails you are taking your safety into your own hands. Be responsible.
• If you want to adventure off the beaten path, be sure to take an AST 1 Avalanche Course through Splitboard HQ
• Always check conditions before you head out. If you aren't sure ask park staff when you enter the park, or drop into a visitor centre.

It is important to be prepared, even if you plan on sticking to the designated trails. Cell phone coverage in Banff National Park is unreliable, especially away from the major roads.

• Bring water and snacks.
• Pack an extra toque and gloves. They will save the day if you, or someone in your group, gets cold or wet.
• Pack first aid supplies.
• Bring a flashlight. The sun goes down early in winter and it's easy to lose track of time.
• Carry spare snowshoe parts. 
• Bring Bear Spray. Even though bears are asleep, there are other animals.

 Banff

• Johnson Lake

2.8 km easy loop around the Johnson Lake shoreline. This loop is located just East of the Town of Banff.

• Upper Stoney Loop

• Ink Pots

Lake Louise

• Louise Creek

• Laggans Loop

1 km easy loop with 50 m elevation gain. Located just off Lake Louise, this is a great option for a family outing.

• Lake Louise Lake Shore

• Mirror Lake

5.4 km intermediate out and back with 295 m elevation gain. A great option if you want to get the legs pumping. Venturing past Mirror Lake puts you in avalanche terrain.

• Taylor Lake

HWY 93 Icefields Parkway

• Peyto Lake

1.5 km easy out and back with 25 m elevation gain. Ends at the famously scenic Peyto Lake viewpoint.

• Bow Lake Meadows

8 km easy out and back with 80 m elevation gain. Runs parallel to the Parkway across meadows at the base of towering mountains. A great option if you want extra mileage after snowshoeing Peyto Lake.