Banff Sunshine Meadows is one of those hiking areas that require a bit of planning ahead, but the effort is well worth it. I had the opportunity to visit the magical alpine area at the end of the season in September, when the crowds had thinned and late summer wildflowers were still in bloom, complemented by the first hints of fall foliage. Sunshine Meadows trails are some of the best in the Rockies and I was grateful to finally experience the famous Sunshine Meadows hike.
The scenery is what initially attracted me to this area, but the entire trip itself turned into a special experience, the lovely hotel, cozy accommodations, delicious meals, and wonderful hospitality all made this adventure even more memorable. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your own Sunshine Meadows adventure.
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Table of Contents
Sunshine Meadows Hike: When To Visit
Sunshine Meadows is typically open from late June to mid to late September, with each month offering slightly different scenery. Early summer brings lush greenery and the first blooms of alpine wildflowers, while July and August showcase the meadows in full color. By September, crowds have thinned and fall foliage has begun making its appearance. There’s not a bad time to visit Sunshine Meadows, but I’d recommend visiting during the week during peak season for less crowds.
Getting There & Logistics
Sunshine Meadows is located in Banff National Park, just a short drive from the town of Banff or Lake Louise.
-Parking: There is parking located at the base of the gondola. If you book an overnight stay at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge, your parking and gondola passes will be included.
-Gondola/Lift Access: The ski lift access provides easier access to the trails. If staying at Sunshine Mountain Lodge, it’s included in your rate.
-Passes/Fees: A valid Parks Canada pass is required to enter Banff National Park. Check online for seasonal fees and pass options.
-Seasonal Closures: Sunshine Meadows closes in mid-late September so plan your visit accordingly.
What to See & Do
One of the most unique things about Sunshine Meadows is its abundance of alpine wildflowers. The area is carefully protected, meaning the delicate ecosystem is preserved and visitors can enjoy vibrant blooms unlike anywhere else in the Canadian Rockies. Beyond the wildflowers, several trails showcase scenic mountain viewpoints and pristine alpine lakes.
A standout highlight is the Standish Viewing Platform, located at the top of the Standish Chairlift. From here, you can take in breathtaking views of the three mountain lakes and either hike down to them or just soak in the view and ride the chairlift back down to the village.
It’s also a popular area to spot wildlife, marmots, pikas, mountain goats, and a variety of birds can be spotted along the trail, adding an extra layer of magic to your adventure.
In the village, there are a couple of restaurants, Mad Trappers Grill, Chimney Corner, and Java Lift, all provide snacks and meals for your time in the village. There’s also a large outdoor hot tub at Sunshine Mountain Lodge that is perfect to soak in after a day on the trails.
Trails & Hiking Routes
Choosing which trail to hike was a bit difficult for us. My partner Garrett and I visited with my parents, and my parents only had one day to hike, whereas we had two days. We ended up chatting with some kind hotel staff that gave us advice on where to hike with only one day (for my parents). We ended up catching the Standish Chairlift up to the Standish Viewing Platform, a must-see. We then hiked down to Rock Isle Viewpoint and continued all the way back down to Sunshine Mountain Lodge. These were stunning trails and definitely perfect for a quick snapshot of the area.
Our next day, Garrett and I decided to hike the Grizzly Laryx Loop Trail. It was a longer trail that gave gorgeous views of the other two lakes, I definitely recommend hiking both if you can, but if you only have a short time there, the Rock Isle Viewpoint is a great option.
Tips for a Successful Visit
It’s always important to be prepared when visiting the Canadian Rockies, and Sunshine Meadows is no exception. Here are a few tips to make the most of your adventure:
-Dress in layers: Weather in the Rockies can change quickly so it’s always important to bring a waterproof jacket or windbreaker, warm layers, and sun protection.
-Footwear: Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots are a must. These Columbia ones have been a favourite of mine for years.
-Hydration and snacks: come prepared with enough water and food, especially for longer hikes.
-Trail Etiquette: Sunshine Meadows has done a great job of marking all trails. Just make sure you always stay on the path to protect the alpine wildflowers and vegetation.
-Wildlife Awareness: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and always carry bear spray.
-Parks Canada pass: don’t forget to purchase your Parks Canada pass!
Sunshine Meadows Hike: Already Planning my Next Visit!
The amazing part of getting to experience Sunshine Meadows at the end of the season is that I can go back again for an entirely new experience. Next year I plan to explore earlier in the season, when the meadows are bursting with wildflowers and the trees and vegetation are at their brightest.
No matter when you visit, Sunshine Meadows is a magical place of pristine mountain wilderness. It’s an experience I’ve been wanting to have for years and now that I’ve been there, I know it’s somewhere I’ll keep returning.
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