Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail

The basics

Tunnel Mountain is one of the smallest mountains in Banff National Park, and its peak is relatively easy to access via the Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail. Visitors can hike the easy-to-moderate trail on their own, climbing through the forest and up a series of well-graded switchbacks to reach the summit and get a good visual layout of the region. A self-guided audio tour provides more information on the history of Banff National Park while hiking the trail.

Things to know before you go

• You need a national park pass to enter Banff.

• Wear sensible shoes and carry plenty of water.

• Even though it’s a popular trail, there are bears in the area, and carrying bear spray is a good idea.

• Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a leash.

• There are no restrooms or water facilities at the trailhead or along the trail.

• Bikes are not permitted on the Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail.

How to get there

Tunnel Mountain is located to the east of Banff. There are two trailheads for the Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail. The lower trailhead is located on St. Julien Road (there is a parking lot), while the upper trailhead is across from the Tunnel Mountain viewpoint parking area. You can also walk around 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) from the center of Banff to the lower trailhead. The Roam Route 2 bus stops at the trailhead, too.

When to get there

The Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail can be hiked year-round. The trail is very popular in the summer and early fall. Avoid the crowds by going early in the morning or later in the afternoon (though leave yourself enough time to get down before dark). In the winter, ice cleats, hiking poles, or snowshoes may be helpful/necessary if there has been recent snowfall.

Trail highlights

As you hike up the Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail, you’ll first see Fairmont Banff Springs (aka Banff Springs Hotel). Once you’re on the ridge, you can enjoy views of the Bow River, Mount Rundle, and the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course. At the summit, you’ll be able to enjoy views of Banff, Vermillion Lakes, and notable mountains such as Sulphur Mountain, Pilot Mountain, Mount Norquay, and Stoney Lookout.