With postcard-perfect summers to bike and hike, Banff National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. During the warmer months, the variety of paved roads and trails make biking an ideal way to explore the area. So grab a bike rental from a vendor in Banff and head onto the trails.

Here are 3 highly-recommended, easy bike trails in Banff National Park, suitable for most riders regardless of experience level. Breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and exercise-that-doesn’t-feel-like-exercise awaits you. So stock up on picnic snacks, clip on your GoPro, and get peddling!

What to know before you go

Renting a bike in Banff is quick, easy and budget-friendly. The friendly local bike shops can help you choose the best rental bike and offer insider tips. For snacks-on-the-go, stop by local hotspots Wild Flour Bakery & Café (211 Bear Street) or Whitebark Café (401 Banff Avenue), then hit the road.

1. Sundance Trail (3.9km one way)

This wide, paved pathway offers a gentle, family-friendly ride, fantastic scenery and minimal elevation gain. Find the trailhead at the back of the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, at the end of Cave Avenue. On this trail you’ll wind along the Bow River and climb gently to the Sundance Canyon picnic area. If you’d like to explore the canyon, bring a bike lock to secure your ride at the public bike rack, then take the creek-side hiking trail.

2. Vermilion Lakes Drive (4.3km one way)

For lakeside cruising, take the paved trail from the Fenland day-use area to Vermilion Lakes Road. This scenic ride follows the flat, paved road along three lakes surrounded by wildlife wetlands. With several small docks, bike racks and benches along the way, take a scenic photo break, relax with a snack and enjoy views framed by the iconic Mt Rundle.

3. Banff Legacy Trail (29km one way)

Discover awe-inspiring Canadian Rocky Mountain views, rest stops and picnic areas via 29km of paved trails and roadways. This commuter trail connects the Bow Valley Parkway with the town of Banff, Cascade Ponds, the Banff East Gate and the town of Canmore. Start at Valleyview, Cascade Ponds, Vermilion Lakes and Fireside day-use areas, or the east end of Banff Avenue. Take in the views of the Bow River and Rundle Range as you weave in and out of the trees. One-way riders can return to Banff via the Roam Transit from Canmore (bus route 2, $6 one-way adult bus fare).

Ready for an adventure?

For more must-do summer sightseeing activities, visit the local experts at The SkiBig3 Adventure Hub to arrange the perfect sunny-day experience in the mountains.

While summer in Banff National Park is a must-do – so is winter! With three unique ski resorts to explore, it won’t be long before you feel the call of the Canadian Rockies’ famous powder snow.

To help you find the best ski vacation packages for your taste, style and budget, our friendly Reservations Team is always happy to share their local knowledge and experience. Check out our featured vacation packages or call us on 1-844-754-2443 our based-in-Banff experts are here to help!