Parker Ridge Trail, Banff: Address, Phone Number, Parker Ridge Trail Reviews: 5/5
Parker Ridge Trail
Parker Ridge Trail
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5.0
559 reviews
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469
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76
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12
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1
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1
Sarah
Halifax, Canada21 contributions
Aug. 2021
Decent, short hike with great views! This trail is family friendly with switchbacks, ~2 hours there and back, and high traffic. Super windy on the top of the ridge so dress warm. The signage isn't great at the top and got a little lost but nothing too bad. If you are in the area for a while or are looking for glacier views I would recommend.
If you are short on time, I think there are other trails in the area that are less work for a better view, and would skip out on this. You can see a breathtaking glacier from the road just 10 minute drive up the road.
If you are short on time, I think there are other trails in the area that are less work for a better view, and would skip out on this. You can see a breathtaking glacier from the road just 10 minute drive up the road.
Written November 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
PaulaDDuck
Toronto, Canada191 contributions
Sep. 2021
It had snowed overnight, so the surrounding trees and some of the trail were snow covered, so it was handy to have proper hiking boots and poles. It is a steady upward climb. As we neared the top, the wind and snow increased; however, we were lucky that shortly thereafter, the wind dropped, the snow stopped and a glimmer of sun appeared on the Saskatchewan glacier, the valley, the waterfall and surrounding peaks. Soon the wind and snow picked up again. It took us about 2 hours round trip including stopping for pictures. Well worth the effort!
Written September 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
LesleyYang
New York City, NY158 contributions
Aug. 2021
No mistake it's not easy. A lot of elevation at the front. But it's not dangerous and if you pace yourself you can make it. The top view is super rewarding but even along the way it's fantastic! Just go~~
Written August 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
WinnipegSteve
Winnipeg, Canada103 contributions
Aug. 2021
We hadn't planned on spending time here - stopping just to look at the flowers on the lower part of the trail. However, we kept climbing and eventually reached the top. We were blown away. This is the closest thing to the Swiss Alps that we've seen anywhere outside Switzerland. Spectacular views of the glacier, river, and surrounding mountains.
Note that when you reach the crest, you can either go right (which appears to be higher) or left. Take the left trail - although it doesn't go quite as high, you have much better views of the glacier, valley, and river.
Note that when you reach the crest, you can either go right (which appears to be higher) or left. Take the left trail - although it doesn't go quite as high, you have much better views of the glacier, valley, and river.
Written August 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Mark K
Edmonton, Canada282 contributions
Jul. 2021
I did this hike by moonlight many years ago, and I was so trilled to do it again in summer time. Last time we were "Lost on Parker's Ridge" LOL, but not this time. It's a wonderful hike about 5.1 km round trip, it's a bit of elevation 260m, but lots of places to rest and watch the over the ridge you are climbing. Such a beautiful area, and you get to see the Saskatewan Glacier.
Written July 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Liz M
2 contributions
Oct. 2020
The day we hiked Parker Ridge, it was very windy. The hike started off in a wooded area so we had plenty of protection; however, at the top, the wind was incredible. The view of the Saskatchewan Glacier was breath taking and worth the hike. The trail is very well laid out and anyone travelling the Icefield Parkway should allow a few hours to take advantage of this hiking trail. My husband is much less active than I am and he was able to do this hike by taking his time. I would highly recommend this hike for all levels of abilities.
Written November 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Karen N
2 contributions
Sep. 2020
A nice break on the trip from Banff to Jasper with a great view. Hike is moderate but as a spectacular glacier view.
Written September 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ha P
Ontario, Canada926 contributions
Aug. 2020
I was very fortunate to see mountain goats. They were running from one side to the other. It was quite windy at the too but the View was amazing. Definitely recommend this hike.
Written August 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
fadamek
Canmore, Canada137 contributions
Oct. 2019
This is an easy trail to get to a stunning view of the glaciers and mountains. I am not sure why other reviewers say it is challenging. At 81 years old it is one of the few remaining hikes that I can do. It is much easier than the Six Glaciers tea house hike. The most challenging part was to walk in other peoples foot steps in the snow. The deep snow in Oct. was unexpected and I did not bring my gaiters.
Written November 26, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Sightseer_Sam
Sioux Falls, SD167 contributions
Jun. 2019
Make no mistake - this hike requires some effort. Although it's a short hike, it's steep and mainly uphill, so depending on your physical fitness, it could be pretty challenging. With so many stunning scenes and quickly changing terrain along the way though, it's very easy to keep your mind focused on the surroundings rather than the physical exertion. Once you reach the ridge line, the payoff is unreal! My husband and I did this hike on a whim towards the end of our Icefield Parkway day and I so wish we could've spent more time here. It was extremely hard to turn back and walk away from such a gorgeous place!
Written October 24, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Helen V
Toronto, Canada48 contributions
Hi all,
We are considering going along the Parker Ridge Trail tomorrow (July 25th).
I'd highly appreciate if anyone can tell more about the drop-offs sections on the trail. Where are they? I mean if they are at the top or along the trail...How challenging
are they?
It would be very kind to respond.
Thank you
4bk1
Cincinnati, OH66 contributions
I would say there really aren’t any “drop-offs”. By that term, I assume you mean places where it would be easy to fall off. This is a perfectly safe trail in my opinion, and I have a fear of heights. After walking up the switchbacks for 45-60 minutes, you end up atop a very broad ridge. My healthy fear never kicked in. Once on top, follow the yellow markers to the left and the views of the valley on the other side are revealed. You can hike quite a while up there before the trail narrows and becomes rocky. This hike was a highlight of our trip.
TheHappyFlutist
Owasso, OK151 contributions
What time would we need to get there in the morning to be able to get a parking spot? Thanks!
sasha98
Manchester, UK39 contributions
Suggest an early start to make the most of the day? Hope this helps?
Flyguyngirl
Gulf Breeze, FL4 contributions
We are staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs and want to Hike the Parker Ridge Trail. How would we get there?
Kristie G
Sebring, FL243 contributions
I would think you would need to rent a car and drive the Icefields Parkway. Or you may be able to call around to different tour companies to see if anyone would take you there. But it's an easy drive to do yourself.
Flyguyngirl
Gulf Breeze, FL4 contributions
We are stating at the Fairmont Banff Springs and want to Hike the Parker Ridge Trail. How would we get there?
er_katrina
San Francisco, CA65 contributions
Renting a car will be the best option, the drive from Banff to the little town of Jasper is very scenic. You can stop on plenty of viewpoints. Download the Icefields Parkway Gypsy Tour, this will you give all of the possible stops and even the history of Icefields parkway.
flying2011
New York City, NY1 contribution
Hi there, when did you go hiking? We plan to go this Memorial Day weekend - is the condition ok? Thank you!
Henri B
Houston, TX109 contributions
There will be snow there most likely. Our most recent trip was early June. You should have a great time, but expect the trail to be covered with snow, and plan accordingly.
JBRetired
Apple Valley, CA430 contributions
Do you recommend hiking with bear spray. Do you see any wildlife
Shawnda M
1 contribution
Always wise to carry bear spray on any trail... You just never know. Bells don't work. Bears are regularly seen near highways... Unfortunately humans feed them to get photos. Idiots.
Butt0n28
Franz Josef, New Zealand37 contributions
Can this hike be done end on May?
Henri B
Houston, TX109 contributions
We hiked it in early June in waist deep snow. The other "interesting" note is that in this area they use explosives during the winter to manage avalanches. There is a sign that warns of the possibility of unexploded shells in certain areas. This is no joke and must be regarded very seriously. Signs at the trailhead will provide current information.
Butt0n28
Franz Josef, New Zealand37 contributions
Can this hike be done end on May?
Nemo1921
Alexandria, VA70 contributions
Hi - I would end of May would be safe as far as snow goes, but you'd have to keep an eye on the weather before you get there. It would make sense to check in with park officials in the days before you travel. Hope your trip goes well!
laurie6174
Estevan, Canada21 contributions
I am planning on visiting Banff national park in late August early September and will be travelling with a disabled person using a wheelchair and limited walking with cane. What are sites and activities that they would be able to do.
Chaitanya
Cambridge, Canada923 contributions
Hi, Some of the lakes would be easily accessible - Lake Louise, Lake Moraine, Peyto Lake viewpoint would be a great place to go as they have a closer parking spot to the top. Another good lake spot is Vermillion Lake (for sunsets - be wary of mosquitoes), Pyramid Lake (close to jasper) and Bow Lake.
The Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls (closer to Jasper) are quite accessible and would provide great views.
The Banff Gondola would be an option, for Banff views, but getting to the summit involves a hike for 20 mins.
Johnston Canyon and Maligne Canyon are possible options.
Travelingsteph123
12 contributions
Do you guys know if you can do this hike in December or January? Or is there too much snow?
runsuerun60
Salt Lake City, UT225 contributions
It would be covered with snow. I️ believe they even close the road so it’s inaccessible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parker Ridge Trail
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- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Parker Ridge Trail:
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