Our favourite bike routes in Banff

May 12, 2021

Banff is well-known around the world for its sparkling turquoise lakes and snow-peaked mountain ranges—which makes the international destination a no-brainer for hopping on the back of a bike and exploring on two wheels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or you want something a little more intense that’ll get the blood pumping, we’ve rounded up some of the best bike routes to check out in Banff—from the Bow Valley Parkway to the Golf Course Loop.

1. Banff Legacy Trail

Spanning from the from the Banff Park East Gate all the way to the Bow Valley Parkway, the paved Banff Legacy Trail is an ideal option for anyone in search of a comfortable ride with plenty of rest spots for picnicking or guzzling some water alongside breathtaking views of the mountains and Banff National Park. The trail also links Banff and Canmore, should you be keen to explore between these two neighbouring towns.

Distance: 22.3 km one way
Difficulty: Medium

2. Lake Minnewanka Loop

The Lake Minnewanka Loop is just outside of the Banff townsite near the Trans-Canada Highway overpass. The 24-kilometre path is one of the most striking in terms of mountain and lake views—but be aware that the ride includes a pretty strenuous climb that might not be suitable for all cyclists. That said—it does come with a fun, downhill descent on the way back to town.

Distance: 24 km one way
Difficulty: Hard

Bow Valley Bike Banff

3. Bow Valley Parkway

Looking for a leisurely ride without any car traffic getting in the way? The very scenic Bow Valley Parkway is currently closed to all vehicle traffic from the entrance nearest Banff until Johnston Canyon, making it a cyclist's paradise! “With panoramic views you cannot find elsewhere, this is an experience you cannot pass up on,” says Kaylee from Snowtips-Bactrax bike rental shop in Banff.

Distance: 48 km one way
Difficulty: Easy

4. Tunnel Mountain Bench Loop

Just behind HI Banff Alpine Centre, the Tunnel Mountain Bench Loop is a great introduction to single-track mountain biking. “With views you literally cannot find anywhere else in Banff, you get to experience the cruisey Coastline that hugs the Hoodoos,” shares Kaylee. “It offers something for everyone with an option to dabble in downhill biking if you're seeking a challenge!”

Distance: 9.7 km one way
Difficulty: Medium

Banff Bike Routes

5. Golf Course Loop

“A local favourite that is extremely underestimated is the Golf Course Loop,” explains Kaylee. “A quiet road that borders the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, is the best bang for your buck and with limited cars driving down the road, it’s great for all ages and skill levels.” According to Kaylee, the Golf Course Loop also gives way to the opportunity to stop at the Bow River, a great spot to eat a packed lunch and admire Mount Rundle from its base as it towers over you.

Distance: 5 km one way
Difficulty: Easy

Ride-the-city%E2%80%99-most-scenic-bike-bath.svg

Save with Bed & Bike

We want to make it easy for you to explore Banff by bike! Save 10% on your stay at HI Banff Alpine Centre and your bike rental from Snowtips Bactrax. Check out our Bed & Bike project to find the promo codes and start planning your trip to the mountains.

Book your bed & bike

This article is part of the
Bed & Bike

The Rockies by Bike

You may also like to read

Why exploring on your own two feet is the best way to see the world

When travelling, the best way to explore a new area is on your own two feet… and preferably by yourself sometimes.
March 20, 2023
...

13 free (or cheap) things to do in Vancouver

Even though “cheap in Vancouver” may feel like an oxymoron…
March 20, 2023
...

The Wilderness Series: Stories from HI Athabasca Falls Wilderness Hostel

HI Athabasca Falls is a wilderness lover’s dream
March 14, 2023
...