Tunnel Mountain Trail
Tunnel Mountain Trail
4.5
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Tunnel Mountain Trail and nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
139 within 3 miles
Attractions
55 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Kara DDidsbury, Canada27 contributionsNice HikeMy husband and I did this hike. We are by no means in shape and I'm sure we'll be sore for a few days, but it was worth it. It took us about an hour to get to the top (with several rests along the way) and only about half an hour to get down. Great view at the top. It was muddy in spots and a bit snowy at the top. Wish we had brought our hiking boots. We did the whole thing in running shoes.Visited April 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 23, 2023
- Cosmopolitan7666095 contributionsGorgeous view with a modest hikeNice hike to a great view. Multiple places to stop and catch your breath (for us 50 something year olds). Took about an hour and 15 minutes to get all the way up there and our thighs are burning up today, but it was worth it!Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 2, 2023
- tiaragirlCalgary, Canada100 contributionsThe perfect hikeOne of my favourite moderate hikes. Arrive early (9:00am was fine) to avoid a busy trail. Try the top parking lot as it avoids a steep stretch. Hiking boots not required, runners were just fine.Visited August 2023Traveled with friendsWritten August 10, 2023
- GPaCalgaryCalgary, Canada2,268 contributionsGreat ViewsAfter all these years of coming to Banff ( 50+ ), I have never seen the Hoodoos, or if I have, I had long forgotten them. On this occasion the friends from the UK that we were escorting around the park asked to see them, so we went up the Tunnel Mountain Road and took the trail to view the Hoodoos. What a great view of the valley below and Banff Springs Hotel.Visited August 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 5, 2023
- eVe 🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬Singapore, Singapore802 contributionsJust Do It....From downtown Banff, we walked in the direction to Tunnel Mountain, hit Grizzly Street and turn right. Continue walking for 500m and you will see the trail head near a car park. It is an easy hike up the 1,692 meters Tunnel Mountain. I took 70 minutes to the summit and rewarded with a stunning view of Banff and Bow River. We had our lunch at the summit with views that is simply panoramic. I took 40 minutes to get back down to the trailhead.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 16, 2023
- cl mDublin, Ireland742 contributionsWell Worth itThis is a lovely short hike up to fantastic views. yes, there is a slight exertion to get there but nothing too strenuous. always people onit, so you feel perfectly safe if your heading up alone. soo worth it.Visited September 2023Traveled with friendsWritten October 7, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
792 reviews
Excellent
498
Very good
246
Average
46
Poor
2
Terrible
0
Seth D.
Prince Edward Island, Canada26 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Coming from the east coast (PEI), this trail was recommended to us as a fairly easy beginner/intermediate trail. While we aren’t avid hikers, we often hike trails back home that are both longer and more narrow than Tunnel Mountain. However, we were inexperienced with hiking mountains or other steep inclines.
While the trail is mostly made up of switchbacks, which limits the steepness slightly, there are still some very steep parts of the trail, especially at the beginning. If you’re experienced climbing relatively steep terrain, this trail shouldn’t be difficult, but personally, we were exhausted by the time we reached the top.
As to the trail itself, it is fairly wide and well maintained. It is quite popular, so you’ll likely meet quite a few other people on the way up. While the views at the top are breathtaking, the rest of the trail is a bit repetitive. Overall, this is a nice trial if you have the time, but far from a must-see attraction.
While the trail is mostly made up of switchbacks, which limits the steepness slightly, there are still some very steep parts of the trail, especially at the beginning. If you’re experienced climbing relatively steep terrain, this trail shouldn’t be difficult, but personally, we were exhausted by the time we reached the top.
As to the trail itself, it is fairly wide and well maintained. It is quite popular, so you’ll likely meet quite a few other people on the way up. While the views at the top are breathtaking, the rest of the trail is a bit repetitive. Overall, this is a nice trial if you have the time, but far from a must-see attraction.
Written August 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tristan
59 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
Tunnel Mountain Trail is a beautiful, scenic hike with amazing views at the top! Completed it easily without any spikes/cleats, though they would make it safer. Worth the short hike for the amazing views. Bring a jacket for when you get to the top, because the wind can be very cold!
Written January 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alexander H
83 contributions
Jul 2021
It's a good trail to do on like arrival day...it's not super long nor super difficult (rated moderate) and it is close to downtown Banff...I would not make a point of doing this on anything other than like a partial day in the city.
Written August 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
trimess
Brookfield, CT201 contributions
Jan 2020
I did a run up to the top. It's a good workout, but the steepest parts are at the bottom. Snow on the trail was very well compacted, with only a couple of slick spots near the top. Great views! This is a fairly short trail, so well worth fitting into your schedule when you can.
Written January 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jodel
Los Angeles, CA285 contributions
Oct 2020
This is a good starter hike/climb when you arrive in Banff. Its walking distance from downtown Banff, has a moderate start, then gets challenging just before the summit. The view include the town below, surrounding mountains, and the Banff Springs Hotel.
Written October 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wendy F
Winnipeg, Canada24 contributions
Dec 2021 • Couples
We parked at the high spot near the outlook of the Fairmont. We didn’t know there were 2 lots. Incredibly icy at the onset of the stairs and many people turned back. We forged ahead, in runners, and it was well worth it. After the first 5mins or so the trail was packed and easily navigable. Views were beautiful. We saw only one way finding sign on the way in which we continued past. We eventually hit the highway and here is where we lost track of the trail. We turned back at this point and followed the trail back along the highway but still very nice and we encountered about 12 elk along the way which was incredible. We didn’t come across any other way finding signs and came out at the road which unfortunately took us over an hour to find our way back to the car and we had to ask directions. GPS and All Trails were no help at this point and took us to the lower parking lot. Unfortunately we missed most of the return trail and we didn’t come across the red Adirondack chairs or a waterfall as others mentioned. Not sure where things went wrong but more signage is needed. Otherwise a beautiful trail and we would try again,
Written December 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dan M
Calgary, Canada731 contributions
Aug 2020
Depending on your ability, this is an easy hike. It is very steep but only 1.8 km each way. Nice view at the top of the mountain. Whole hike took about an hour including some short stops to appreciate the many views. If you are not a good hiker, plan for 2 hrs. and a couple of cold ones after.
Written August 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
namabeer
Toronto, Canada400 contributions
Oct 2021
This is a quick hike up to the top. You can start higher up but few parking spots in the upper parking lots (maybe like 7 cars) If not then start lower. There is a few switch backs the quick walk to the top. The backside is Mt Rundle and golf course. There are some cliffs where you may see rock climbers. Further up to top gets you a nice unobstructed view of Banff town below and Banff Hotel and Sulfur mountain . Nice place to pack a lunch. there's even 2 red Muscoka chairs up there. Quick walk back down. It's a great little hike if you need to kill a few hrs.
Written October 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandy G
10 contributions
Aug 2022
This Hike is always on our must do when we visit Banff.
It takes about one hour to hike and has a great switchback trail.
I like it as you have great views of the golf course and MT Rundle to the back and Banff and vermillion lakes to the front.
Parking spaces are limited but lots of people were parking on the road on the mountain side as there was room.
It takes about one hour to hike and has a great switchback trail.
I like it as you have great views of the golf course and MT Rundle to the back and Banff and vermillion lakes to the front.
Parking spaces are limited but lots of people were parking on the road on the mountain side as there was room.
Written August 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JFLeBlanc
Moncton, Canada3,416 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
Recently came here to do this hike. Hike is average, but steep in some places. There was a good amount of ice as well, so clamps is highly suggested as you could easily slip.
Views up the mountain is great and worth it!
You wont be disapointed.
Views up the mountain is great and worth it!
You wont be disapointed.
Written April 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
EMHOK
Edmond, OK16 contributions
Hello.
Planning an itinerary for a trip to Banff in September 2020. Once at the trail head, how long should we allow to hike to the top, linger to enjoy the view and return?
Thanks in advfor you assistance.
Tried and Tested Travel
Mansfield, UK22 contributions
A couple of hours should be plenty of time. An hour on the way up, 30 mins at the top and 30 mins to come back down. The views are totally worth it!
Is this hike okay if you have a baby with you?
cocostravelsdotcom
Chelmsford, UK293 contributions
If you are used to hiking with a baby on your back then you will be fine. It is steep in places and ascends in a zigzag. We did meet a couple of unfit people who didn't quite make it but if you can take your time the views are worth the hike.
JBRetired
Apple Valley, CA473 contributions
When hiking in the Banff area do you see many people with bear spray or bells. They say to hike in groups but there are only two of us. Seniors but in good shape
Ben B
Calgary, Canada14,382 contributions
For Tunnel Mountain Trail, the likelihood of a bear encounter is low, not impossible, but low. We have bear spray always with us, but always rely on our own noise (chatter, and just calling out frequently) to alert all animals that we are about. The jury is out on bear bells. They are quite faint, and when you're hiking, you'll notice how close people are before you actually hear them. They are excellent reminders, though, for hikers wearing them that they are in bear country and must make lots of noise, be aware of your surroundings, and be extra cautious in noisy places like streams or rivers. There are good brochures on this subject at the Information Centre, and the experts at there can also give you other tips. Have fun!
Bet543210
213 contributions
I'm staying at Buffalo Mtn Lodge mid January and it looks like it's right on this trail. Has anyone hiked this in winter with snow on the ground? Do you recommend traction cleats or just snow boots? Snow shoes? Thanks!
Ivo J
Tongeren, Belgium56 contributions
I hiked this tunnel trail in June but I am pretty sure you can do it easily with only snow boots during snow Saison as it is all on gravel roads.
4familyCalgary
Calgary24 contributions
How likely are we to run into a bear at this time of the year (Sept 19th or 20th) on this trail? I am absolutely terrified of running into one and in the past this has stopped me from going on hikes. I am looking for a hike to do this weekend with my kids. The Tunnel Mountain trail sounds like a good one. I was also considering the Sulphur Mountain trail.
Any help or comments would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
gfmOhio
Cleveland, OH55 contributions
Saw very little wildlife. Tunnel Trail was a gentle uphill. It was done at 10 in morning. We crossed paths with others who lived in area. It was our first hike upon arriving in Banff.
Again. Very little wildlife viewing whole trip Sulphur Mt up to gondola is about 1 :hour 35 or longer walk. We took gondola both ways. The views are spectacular if it is a clear day. We had a wonderful trip 👍🌈
aliali P
Calgary, Canada
I'll arrive Banff by greyhound and plan to tour around the town by walking. Can I go to the starting point of Tunnel Mountain Trail by walking from Banff town center?
lauriebrandon
Atlanta, GA53 contributions
Yes, there are signs directing tourists from the city center to the trail. We were staying in a hotel in town and walked to the trail head from there.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingTunnel Mountain Trail - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Tunnel Mountain Trail
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Tunnel Mountain Trail:
- Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Banff and Calgary (From $6.43)
- Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Lake Louise and Calgary (From $6.43)
- The Sights of Banff: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour (From $6.43)
- Tunnel Mountain Trail: a Smartphone Audio Nature Tour (From $5.30)
- Banff Townsite Self-Guided Driving Tour - Explore the Rockies (From $15.29)
- Hotels near Tunnel Mountain Trail:
- (0.55 mi) Beaujolais Boutique B&B at Thea's House
- (0.53 mi) Canalta Lodge
- (0.65 mi) Banff Avenue B&B
- (0.41 mi) Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court Campground
- (0.54 mi) Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity - Hotels
- Restaurants near Tunnel Mountain Trail:
- (0.51 mi) Three Ravens Restaurant & Wine Bar
- (0.77 mi) Zyka Elevated Indian Restaurant
- (0.81 mi) Hello Sunshine Banff
- (0.74 mi) Farm & Fire
- (0.80 mi) Una Pizza + Wine - Banff