Viewpointhardglacier

Iceline Trail

Long alpine loop above Takakkaw Falls with glacier views, meltwater lakes, and waterfalls — one of the standout Yoho days.

Time

7h

Distance

20 km

Gain

690m

Trailhead

Takakkaw Falls lot, Yoho Valley Road

DirectionsTrail conditions

Conditions, access, and parking can change quickly. Check before going.

Plan notes

Best for

Fit hikers wanting a long alpine day with glacier scenery.

Pair with

Takakkaw Falls viewpoint at the start or end.

Access

Trail leaves from the Whiskey Jack Hostel area near the Takakkaw Falls parking. Several loop options of varying length.

Season

Best July through September; snow lingers longer than Banff-side alpine.

Safety

High alpine terrain with exposure to weather. Storms build fast — carry layers and turn back early if needed.

From town

Longer drive

Similar hikes

Rocky Plain of Six Glaciers trail landscape above Lake Louise.

Photo: Florian Fuchs / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0

Challenging Hike

Plain of Six Glaciers

Glacier views, a second tea house, a moraine that feels like Mars.

LevelhardTime5hCrowdpopular

Best for

The trail trades crowds for a long valley walk, glacier views, and a wilder finish above the lake.

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View over Banff town and the surrounding peaks from the gondola side of Sulphur Mountain.

Photo: Ken Lund / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0

Challenging Hike

Sulphur Mountain (skip the gondola)

Switchbacks for 2 hours. Top is the same view, half the crowd.

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Best for

Same summit complex and boardwalk payoff, earned by switchbacks instead of a ride.

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Challenging Hike

Cory Pass Loop

The hard one. Knife-edge views, screaming quads. Pack snacks.

LevelhardTime6hCrowdquiet

Best for

Big views and a quieter mountain feel when the classic lake trails are too busy.

Mountainsceniclocal favourite
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