Hoodoos Trail

The Hoodoos Trail is a fairly easy hike that doesn’t require much effort for those who consider themselves seasoned mountain climbers. It is the perfect trail for those looking for something simple that still offers great views and interesting terrain.

Starting at the Surprise Corner parking lot, you’ll want to take in views of the famous and historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. The views from the trailhead will have you feeling like you have stepped back in time.

Take the dirt path from the parking lot, descending to the shores of the Bow River. Enjoy the forest as the trail winds through the woods alongside the river, offering glimpses of powerful Mount Rundle. On your left, you will see the backside of Tunnel Mountain, and if you are lucky, you’ll be able to spot some rock climbers scaling the walls above you.

Continue along the shores of the river and test the temperatures if you dare! The Bow maintains frigid temperatures all year round, so be careful. You’ll begin to gain elevation after leaving the riverside, and despite having to work a little harder, you’ll earn some new views quickly. Some well-maintained stairs will bring you up to a bench on Tunnel Mountain.

Here, there are several viewpoints and interpretive exhibits offering information about how the Hoodoos were formed. Hoodoos are rock formations that have eroded. They look like gargoyle-esque columns and something you would find in the desert, but here they are in the mountains.

Take a seat in one of the famed Parks Canada red chairs to enjoy the contrasting scenery of Mount Rundle, the Bow River, and the Hoodoos before you.

From here, return the way you came or cross the street and explore some of the tunnel bench trails. Beware, these are maze-like and easy to end up somewhere you didn’t expect.