×

Canada🇨🇦 | hikesPlain of Six Glaciers TrailAlpine meadows, glacier views, historic teahouse | things to do and best time to go

Explore Long Range TraverseExplore Skyline Trail

Backpacking in Plain of Six Glaciers Trail
👌 Worth visitinghike ranked #11
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 27, 2026

You have to choose: burn your legs on the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail… or settle for the postcard view from Lake Louise’s shore and keep your shoes clean. That choice matters, because the trail turns Canada’s polished Banff National Park into something raw and loud, with ice cracking above you and helicopters thumping in the distance. Sitting behind the Fairmont at Lake Louise in Alberta, this out-and-back hike is long-ish, moderately steep, and absolutely doable for fit beginners who are stubborn. The payoff is glacier walls and a scruffy teahouse, but the crowds and highway-accessible trailhead make it feel less wild than nearby Lake O’Hara or Yoho’s Iceline.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Canada Travel Guide.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
Distance: 14 kilometers
Total ascent: 365 meters


Get your Canada guide
133 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (518 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #11 hike in CanadaReasons people choose to hike the here

The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a magnet for backpackers craving a blend of effort and reward. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering peaks and shimmering glaciers, all without the need for a mountaineering degree. The scenery-to-effort ratio is off the charts; a moderate hike that delivers jaw-dropping views with every step.

Access is a breeze via public transport from nearby towns, making it easy to fit into your itinerary. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—no pricey permits or entry fees here. You can tailor your adventure with flexible distances; tackle the full 14 kilometers or turn back early if you’re feeling the burn.

This trail seamlessly integrates into a longer backpacking route through Banff National Park, allowing you to explore more while soaking in the raw beauty of the … read more 👉
The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a magnet for backpackers craving a blend of effort and reward. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering peaks and shimmering glaciers, all without the need for a mountaineering degree. The scenery-to-effort ratio is off the charts; a moderate hike that delivers jaw-dropping views with every step.

Access is a breeze via public transport from nearby towns, making it easy to fit into your itinerary. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—no pricey permits or entry fees here. You can tailor your adventure with flexible distances; tackle the full 14 kilometers or turn back early if you’re feeling the burn.

This trail seamlessly integrates into a longer backpacking route through Banff National Park, allowing you to explore more while soaking in the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies. The moment you reach that viewpoint, with the wind in your hair and a cold beer waiting at the end, you’ll know it was all worth it.
Want to include Plain of Six Glaciers Trail in your Canada route?
Create a personalized Canada itinerary that includes Plain of Six Glaciers Trail and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

  • Lake Louise shoreline and morning reflections — The trail starts right at the iconic turquoise water, so you get those mirror-perfect reflections of Victoria and Lefroy before the wind picks up; few hikes hand you a postcard view before you even hit the switchbacks.
  • Moraine amphitheater and glacial bowl — As the trail climbs you look down into a scoured, moraine-carved bowl that frames the lake and peaks; the raw glacial landscape (rock ribs, bright blue glacial sediment) feels more alpine and exposed than most forested trails.
  • Plain of Six Glaciers viewpoint — This open plateau offers a sweeping panorama of several hanging glaciers and icefalls on the surrounding ridges; seeing multiple glacier tongues in one uninterrupted sweep is what gives the trail its name and makes the view so memorable.
… read more 👉
  • Lake Louise shoreline and morning reflections — The trail starts right at the iconic turquoise water, so you get those mirror-perfect reflections of Victoria and Lefroy before the wind picks up; few hikes hand you a postcard view before you even hit the switchbacks.
  • Moraine amphitheater and glacial bowl — As the trail climbs you look down into a scoured, moraine-carved bowl that frames the lake and peaks; the raw glacial landscape (rock ribs, bright blue glacial sediment) feels more alpine and exposed than most forested trails.
  • Plain of Six Glaciers viewpoint — This open plateau offers a sweeping panorama of several hanging glaciers and icefalls on the surrounding ridges; seeing multiple glacier tongues in one uninterrupted sweep is what gives the trail its name and makes the view so memorable.
  • Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House — A century-old backcountry tea house reached only on foot, serving simple food and hot drinks with glacier views right outside the door; personal favorite — there’s something unbelievably satisfying about a warm cup on a sun-warmed bench while ice groans in the distance.
  • Alpine meadows, moraine textures and wildlife — The shift from forest to alpine gives wildflowers, scree slopes, pikas and occasionally mountain goats or bighorn sheep; the mixture of close-up geological detail and animal encounters makes the hike feel rugged and alive in a way many groomed trails don’t.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Plain of Six Glaciers Trail

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff

4.9(3633)
✓ Free cancellation
From €63
per personViator
Lake Louise Moraine Lake Day Trip from Banff Calgary Canmore

Lake Louise Moraine Lake Day Trip from Banff Calgary Canmore

4.9(969)
✓ Free cancellation
From €50
per personViator
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour

4.9(889)
✓ Free cancellation
From €140
per personViator
8 Iconic Stops. 12 Comfy Seats. See Banff's Best in First Class.

8 Iconic Stops. 12 Comfy Seats. See Banff's Best in First Class.

5.0(576)
✓ Free cancellation
From €126
per personViator
Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Banff

Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Banff

4.8(664) 11h
✓ Free cancellation
From €258
per personViator
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Small-Group Tour | Guaranteed Access

Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Small-Group Tour | Guaranteed Access

4.7(704) 4h 15m
✓ Free cancellation
From €88
per personViator
Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park

Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park

4.9(460)
✓ Free cancellation
From €47
per personViator
2025 Winner-Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town

2025 Winner-Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town

4.8(446)
✓ Free cancellation
From €47
per personViator
Premium Moraine Lake Sunrise and Lake Louise Tour with Breakfast

Premium Moraine Lake Sunrise and Lake Louise Tour with Breakfast

4.9(251) 7h
✓ Free cancellation
From €246
per personViator
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald & Peyto - 4 Lakes in Banff

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald & Peyto - 4 Lakes in Banff

4.9(182) 10h
✓ Free cancellation
From €63
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 133 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing


  • Weather: Late June through early September is your window. Snow melts enough to clear the trail, but sudden storms still hit. Expect sharp shifts—sunny mornings can flip to rain or fog by afternoon.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs hover around 15-20°C (59-68°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. Nights dip to 5-10°C (41-50°F), so pack layers for chilly evenings.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer stretches daylight to 15-17 hours, giving you plenty of time to push forward without rushing. Early starts pay off with quieter trails and cooler air.

  • Crowds: July and August bring the busiest crowds, especially on weekends. If you want solitude, aim for late June or early September when the trail thins out but conditions remain solid.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer opens up side hikes and boat rides
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Late June through early September is your window. Snow melts enough to clear the trail, but sudden storms still hit. Expect sharp shifts—sunny mornings can flip to rain or fog by afternoon.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs hover around 15-20°C (59-68°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. Nights dip to 5-10°C (41-50°F), so pack layers for chilly evenings.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer stretches daylight to 15-17 hours, giving you plenty of time to push forward without rushing. Early starts pay off with quieter trails and cooler air.

  • Crowds: July and August bring the busiest crowds, especially on weekends. If you want solitude, aim for late June or early September when the trail thins out but conditions remain solid.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer opens up side hikes and boat rides on Lake Louise, adding variety to your trip. Early season might limit these extras, but the core trail stays accessible.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and shuttle prices peak mid-summer. Booking early or targeting shoulder months can save you a chunk of change without sacrificing trail quality.


Pro-tip: Hit the trail at dawn in late June for crisp air, near-empty paths, and the raw thrill of watching glaciers catch the first light.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: below average for travelingAPRApril: fair for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: excellent for travelingAUGAugust: excellent for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: fair for travelingNOVNovember: below average for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutCanada Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Canada
The digital guide (518 pages) contains:
✅ 133 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 14, 21 & 30-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Canada

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

Best hostels in Canada


Best quality hotels in Canada

🥾 Hike detailsRoute, distance, and difficulty explained

Total Distance: The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) round trip.

Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 4 to 6 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views or snap photos.

Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate. While it’s manageable for most hikers, there are some steep sections that might get your heart pumping.

Starting Point: The trailhead begins at the Lake Louise shoreline. If you’re using public transport, take the Roam Transit bus from Banff to Lake Louise. The bus ride is about 45 minutes, … read more 👉
Total Distance: The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) round trip.

Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 4 to 6 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to soak in the views or snap photos.

Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate. While it’s manageable for most hikers, there are some steep sections that might get your heart pumping.

Starting Point: The trailhead begins at the Lake Louise shoreline. If you’re using public transport, take the Roam Transit bus from Banff to Lake Louise. The bus ride is about 45 minutes, and it drops you off right near the lake.

Major Landmarks Along the Route:
  • Lake Louise: The stunning turquoise lake is a great starting point and a perfect spot for a pre-hike photo.
  • Fairview Lookout: Just a short detour from the main trail, this viewpoint offers a fantastic panorama of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains.
  • Plain of Six Glaciers Viewpoint: This is the main highlight, where you can see the glaciers and the surrounding peaks. It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy a snack.
  • Teahouse: About halfway up, there’s a historic teahouse where you can grab a drink and some snacks, but be prepared for slightly higher prices.

Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of well-maintained paths and rocky sections. You’ll encounter some switchbacks, especially as you gain elevation. The scenery is breathtaking, with views of the glaciers, towering peaks, and lush valleys. Keep your camera handy; every turn reveals something stunning.

Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: The trail is surrounded by dense forests of spruce and fir, with wildflowers blooming in the summer. You might spot wildlife like deer, marmots, and even the occasional bear, so keep your eyes peeled (and make some noise to avoid surprising them). Birdwatchers will also enjoy the variety of species in the area.

If you’re planning to tackle this trail, make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a good pair of hiking boots. The views are worth every step!
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Plain of Six Glaciers Trail

The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a feast for the senses, but it demands respect. Weather can shift quickly; be ready for sun, rain, or even snow, especially in shoulder seasons. Dress in layers and pack a reliable rain jacket. The trail is well-marked but steep in sections, with rocky footing that can challenge your balance. Take your time; the views are worth it.

Wildlife encounters are possible. Keep your distance from bears and elk; they’re more interested in grazing than you. Make noise to avoid surprises.

Hydration is key. Fill up at streams, but always treat the water. Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. The reward? A cold beer at the end, with glaciers glistening in the distance.
Check Country Safety

Other Canadian hikes near Plain of Six Glaciers Trail

Explore more nearby:


💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Canada including Plain of Six Glaciers Trail and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all hikes

Or checkout all Canada has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Canada
Country photo of Canada
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways before you go

The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a knockout. The thrill of standing beneath those massive ice formations is worth every step. But be ready for the crowds—this trail can feel like a highway in peak season. Embrace the hustle; it’s part of the experience. Just remember, the best views come after the sweat, and that first cold beer at the end? Pure bliss.

✈️ When did I visit Canada?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Canada in 2016.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Canada, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Canada guide •
Instant download • 133 highlights • Full Offline guide