Cycling is one of our favourite ways to explore Banff. We often look for bike rides when we travel, and we love being able to do the same thing so close to home. You’re moving slowly enough to appreciate the mountain views but can cover far more ground than you would on foot.
There are paved paths for families, scenic roads for confident cyclists and some wonderful options for combining a bike ride with a short hike. Here’s how I’d choose where to ride in Banff.
Listen to Episode 24 of The Banff Travel Podcast
3 Key Takeaways
- Choose a ride for your ability and available time. The Legacy Trail and Bow Valley Parkway are longer rides, while Sundance Canyon and Banff river paths are best for shorter outings.
- The Bow Valley Parkway is special during vehicle-free periods. The 17 km road section is a favourite, but take note of the separate wildlife and seasonal access restrictions.
- Treat cycling as a mountain activity. Carry bear spray, wear a helmet, pack layers and be ready for traffic on roads that are not dedicated bike paths.
Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail: Canmore to Banff
The Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail is one of the best-known cycling routes in the Bow Valley. The paved trail is approximately 26.8 km, connecting Canmore with the Town of Banff and continuing toward the Bow Valley Parkway. It is about three metres wide and generally gentle for a trail through the mountains.
The ride from Canmore toward Banff has a gradual uphill grade and can be harder if you’re riding into the wind. Coming back is usually easier. You can make a full outing of it by cycling to Banff, having lunch and exploring before riding home.
I do want to mention the highway noise. The trail runs alongside the Trans-Canada Highway for much of the route, and it can be busy on nice summer days. You’ll still enjoy the mountain views and an early start is well worth it!
If the distance is too much, consider renting an e-bike or checking whether your return trip can work with a Roam Transit bus bike rack. The Banff Legacy Trail guide has all the details.
Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway During Vehicle-Free Periods
This is one of my favourite rides in Banff National Park. Parks Canada has designated a 17 km section of the eastern Bow Valley Parkway, between the Banff side and Johnston Canyon, for vehicle-free cycling during certain spring and fall dates.
The vehicle free times on the Bow Valley Parkway are May 1 to June 25 and September 1 to October 6. There’s also an important overnight wildlife restriction on this section between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. from March 1 to June 25, which applies to cyclists and walkers as well as vehicles. These are separate restrictions, so plan the timing of your ride carefully. This means no riding in the spring until after 8am.
The road is paved, and it feels completely different without motor traffic. We’ve ridden it at least once most seasons. You can stop for mountain views and make the outing longer by hiking Johnston Canyon at the far end.
You don’t have to complete the entire 17 km. If you’re cycling from the Town of Banff via Vermilion Lakes Road and the Legacy Trail, the approach can add another 7 km or so before you even reach the vehicle-free stretch. This can make the day too long for some, so turn around whenever it makes sense.
One compromise if you ride all the way to Johnston Canyon is that you probably won’t arrive for the quietest early-morning hiking hours. You can also consider a guided cycling tour, including options that ride in one direction rather than returning the same way. Read our Bow Valley Parkway cycling guide for more detail.
Best Easy and Family-Friendly Bike Rides in Banff
Sundance Canyon: Bike + Hike
I particularly like Sundance Canyon because you get to combine two activities. Start near the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, then ride approximately 4 km along a paved path to the canyon trailhead. Lock up your bikes and hike the 2 km canyon loop.
The bike route follows the river and includes a gentle downhill near the start followed by a gradual climb. The canyon trail passes through forest and crosses the creek on wooden bridges. It’s a great way to enjoy more of the area without committing to a long hike from the beginning.
Bow River Pathways in the Town of Banff
Banff has a network of paths following the Bow River, with approximately 15 km of connected routes to explore. Many sections are flat and make a good option for families or anyone who wants an easy ride.
You can follow the river near downtown and head toward Bow Falls. To reach the actual Bow Falls viewpoint, expect a hill and some road riding rather than a completely flat pathway all the way. You can also expect the pathways to be busy during peak season, so an early morning ride may be a better option.
Vermilion Lakes Road
Vermilion Lakes Road is a quieter road of approximately 4.2 km, passing three lakes with views of Mount Rundle. It’s one of my favourite areas for sunrise or evening photography, but cycling is another great way to appreciate the changing views along this road.
It isn’t a dedicated bike trail, so remember that cars still use the road. It’s usually a much more relaxed ride than a busy highway, but you still need to watch for traffic and other visitors.
Road Cycling Routes for More Confident Riders
Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive
The Lake Minnewanka loop is around 13.1 km and passes Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake. There are a few hills but nothing like a sustained mountain climb, and I like the option of stopping at several lakes along the way.
It’s still a road, so be aware of vehicles, especially around popular parking areas. Our Lake Minnewanka cycling guide covers the route in more detail.
Moraine Lake Road
Moraine Lake Road is a much more demanding ride, with approximately 14.5 km of sustained climbing toward the lake. I prefer riding it in late spring when conditions allow cyclists on the road but before regular shuttle service begins.
During shuttle season, you share a narrow road without much shoulder with frequent buses. That’s not the experience I’d recommend for an inexperienced cyclist or a relaxed family outing. Pay close attention to seasonal access and snow or avalanche conditions.
Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway is an incredible road-cycling objective, but it’s better approached as a supported multi-day trip. The distances, elevation, limited services and changing weather make it very different from an afternoon outing around Banff.
Bike Rentals and Safety Tips
There are several places to rent bikes in the Town of Banff, including options near the train station. Depending on the operator, you may be able to rent regular bikes, e-bikes, children’s bikes and trailers.
Important Tip: Carry bear spray somewhere you can reach it, including on easier rides. Ride in groups when possible, make noise on blind corners and never approach wildlife for a photograph.
Bring a helmet, water, snacks, a waterproof layer and gloves in cooler weather. A basic repair kit and first-aid kit are worth carrying on longer rides. Mountain weather changes quickly, even if it’s sunny when you leave town.
For almost every cycling route, I’d start early. You’ll avoid some of the crowds, have cooler riding conditions and often enjoy better light for photographs.
If I were choosing just one ride, I’d pick the Bow Valley Parkway during its vehicle-free period. Otherwise, the Legacy Trail is excellent for a longer outing, and Sundance Canyon is my choice when I want to combine a shorter bike ride with a hike. Our guide to the best bike trails in Banff has more ideas.
Helpful Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Best Bike Trails in Banff National Park
- Banff Legacy Trail: Bike Canmore to Banff
- Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park
- Cycling the Lake Minnewanka Loop in Banff National Park
Need Help Planning Your Banff Trip?
If cycling is on your wish list but you are wondering where it fits with hikes and sightseeing, my Banff & Jasper Planning Hub can help you build a practical daily itinerary.
