Canada: Easy loop hike to Sunshine Meadows in Banff National Park
- Wibke Helfrich
- Apr 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 30
You don't always have to take a daunting hike to experience a magnificent mountain panorama. This relatively easy loop hike to the three lakes of Sunshine Meadows in Banff National Park offers breathtaking views without requiring much effort. You'll find all the information and GPS data in this blog post.
Admittedly, the scenery in Sunshine Village isn't exactly picturesque. Ugly chairlifts and gondolas don't look inviting. But when you look from Mount Standish toward Mount Assinboine Provincial Park, against the magnificent backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, you'll know why you're here.
The light in the mountains is particularly beautiful early in the morning and late in the evening.
Getting up early is worthwhile, as the circular hike to Sunshine Meadows in Banff National Park is (understandably) very popular. Those staying overnight at the Sunshine Village Lodge have a good starting point. This hike is worth doing at sunrise, before the first gondolas arrive. The tranquility and colors are beautiful at this time of year. The three lakes: Rock Isle, Grizzly, and Larix Lakes, glitter in the sunlight, and from the observation deck of Mount Standish, the surrounding mountains glow in soft pastel shades. Add to that the blooming flowers that add a splash of color, and the scenery is perfect.
Canada Loop Hike Sunshine Meadows
Key Facts about the Easy Canada Loop Hike Sunshine Meadows Banff NP
♡ Factor: ♡♡♡♡♡
Walking time : 3:15 h
Altitude : 379 m up and down
Length : 11.3 km
Accessible by public transport? There is a free shuttle bus from Banff to the valley station of the gondola from Sunshine Village.
Directions: Take the exit toward Sunshine Village from Trans-Canada Highway 1. Ample parking is available in the parking lot at the gondola lift (fees apply).
GPS data: I have uploaded the GPS data for the hike to the Outdoor Active website
Starting and ending point: Banff Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort Parking
Safety note: Canada is a bear country. In my blog post " Hiking and Camping Safely in Bear Country Canada, " you'll find tips on how to avoid the bear and what to do if you do encounter one.
Gear: For this hike, I recommend hiking boots or trail running shoes. Hiking poles can also be helpful. Rain gear, warm clothing, and bear spray are a must in Canada.
Further information and links: General information on accommodations and activities can be found on the Travel Alberta website.
Current information on the condition of the hiking trails can be found on the Parcs Canada website .
On the Banff Sunshine Village website you will find all the information about the local hiking trails, the gondola lift and you can also book an overnight stay at the lodge.
Click on the first image to start the photo gallery:
NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE
The national parks in Canada charge admission. Each day costs $10.50. If you stay longer or want to visit several national parks, the Parcs Canada Discovery Pass for $72.25, valid for one year at all Parcs Canada facilities.
Shortcut: Take the chairlift to Mount Standish
If you don't want to walk the whole tour, you can also take the chairlift from Sunshine Village up to the Mount Standish viewing platform.
This makes the hike only 7 km long and significantly less elevation gain . Then follow the signposted trail down the mountain toward the Rock Isle Trail. Just before Rock Isle Lake, the trail turns right for a loop to Griizly and Latrix Lake. On the way back, pass this trail from two balconies and then turn right toward Sunshine Village.
For those staying overnight at the Sunshine Village Lodge, the gondola ride, chairlift and parking are free.
Directions:
From the top station of Sunshine Village, which can be reached by gondola (fee applies), follow the Twin Cairns Meadow Park Trail north. The trail is well signposted. After approximately 1.7 km, follow the trail to the left. Those who wish can continue walking another 200 m to the "Monarch" lookout point. After 3.7 km, it's worth taking a detour to the left to the Mount Standish viewing platform, from where you can enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the lakes below. Returning to the loop trail, turn right before Rock Isle Lake and walk around the three lakes: Rock Isle, Grizzly, and Larix Lake, in just over 4 km. The well-maintained trail leads partially over wooden planks, small bridges, and stairs. Back at the intersection, take the loop trail to the right back to Sunshine Village.
INFO
General information on accommodations and activities can be found on the Travel Alberta website.
Current information on the condition of the hiking trails can be found on the Parcs Canada website .
On the side of the Banff Sunshine Village You will find all the information about the local hiking trails , the gondola lift and you can also book an overnight stay in the lodge there.
ARRIVAL
There are several scheduled flights daily from Germany to Vancouver or Calgary. An electronic travel document (eTA) is required to enter Canada.
The easiest way to continue your journey is by rental car , e.g. via www.billiger-mietwagen.de
BEST TIME
The best time to hike in the Rocky Mountains is from early July to September. However, depending on the altitude, snow can also occur in summer.
LITERATURE
ACCOMMODATION
On the Banff Sunshine Village website , you'll find all the information you need about the local hiking trails and the gondola, and you can also book an overnight stay at the lodge. Those staying at the Sunshine Village enjoy free parking, the gondola ride, and the chairlift to Mount Standish.
CARDS
If you would like a detailed hiking map in addition to the maps from Parks Canada, you can order a waterproof and tear-resistant hiking map for the region from Gem Trek or purchase it locally.
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