Healy Pass hike
View Photos
Healy Pass hike
Difficulty Rating:
The best hikes in Banff must include the hike up to Healy Pass. An exquisite hike, especially during Autumn with the larches in full colour. Get impressive views from the pass and take an optional descent via Simpson Pass to add variety.
Getting there
Drive 4.8mi west of Banff on Trans-Canada Highway and take the Sunshine Village exit. Drive 5.1mi on this lovely road to Sunshine Village ski resort.
About
| When to do | June through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | Yes - Egypt Lake |
| Toilets | Trailhead |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Healy Pass
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Healy Pass
This Parks Canada Trail is well maintained, and allows for beautiful views of many gorgeous peaks and Egypt Lake. From the Sunshine Village parking lot take the main trail behind the main building.
The start of the trail keeps you shaded from the summer sun as you gradually climb. The hike starts with a wide, rolling trail which narrows as you go. The lush forest and the bridge over Healy Creek are stunning, submerging you in the idyllic natural universe of the Canadian Rockies.
After almost eight kilometers you escape the forest and find yourself in a beautiful alpine meadow. There is a very minor creek crossing at the beginning of this final section of the hike. You then will climb up through the stunning meadow, hoping to spot wildlife across the massive, wildflower studded expanse.
Reaching the gentle apex of the pass you will see sprawled out in front of you peak upon peak and stellar mountain vistas. Find a rock to along either side of the trail to enjoy lunch; it’s hard to go wrong with such a view.
The entire hike is well marked and the trail is well maintained.
NOTE: The GPS map shows a descent via Simpson Pass – returning the way you ascended is quicker and a better trail.
Insider Hints
Descend via Simpson pass if you yearn for a change in scenery. Adds about 1.2mi to the trip.
For a very long day or a gentle one-night backpack descend the other side of the ridge down to Egypt Lake, an exquisite area.
Buy snacks for your hike, or simply use the restroom at the Sunshine Village building.
Similar hikes to the Healy Pass hike
Rundle Riverside Trail
The straightforward Rundle Riverside trail is an easy to follow trail that connects Banff to Canmore. It is a great…
Tower Lake
The hike to Tower Lake is great for those who don’t have the time or energy to trek all the…
Smith Lake Trail
Smith Lake is an often-forgotten lake that is nestled in the forest at Castle Junction. It is a stunning green-blue…
Rosemery Ash 4 years ago
I remember doing this hike when I was younger. During the fall season, you'll hear the crisp of the colorful foliage as you step on them.
Margaret Theroux 4 years ago
Really lovely hike, especially in the fall. It's a long one but well worth the effort.
Richy_travels 4 years ago
There is so much to see here, from remarkable views of mountains to lovely wildflowers and adorable wild animals.
Greenlife 4 years ago
We visited this few years back during autumn, and I love the breathtaking scenery.
Chris F. 4 years ago
We were under the impression that it would be difficult, but we were wrong. It's very doable and perfect for couples like us!
Lambert Y. 4 years ago
I bet you'll wanna stay here longer once you got here. It's that kind of beautiful.
Grant Ko. 4 years ago
The wildflowers were amazing! So happy was as able to do this while the flowers are in full bloom. Such a great experience.
Jeffrey Reagan 5 years ago
Amazing views of a magnificent natural wonder! There are mountains, lush forests, and refreshing air.
Parker L. 5 years ago
A truly magnificent hike, especially during autumn. Impressive views of the pass.
Alex Samuel 5 years ago
Superb scenery! It's not very steep but it took us some time to finish the hike.