Canadian Rockies Hiking & Biking

Canada is a hotbed for heart-thumping, adrenaline-pumping action. Geographically, it is the second largest country in the world and accordingly, it offers one of the most diverse landscapes in the world. Canada is known internationally as a world-class skiing and snowboarding destination due to long northern winters, heavy snowfall and a wild assortment of mountains and peaks that span the nation. But the country also offers many other activities that cater to hardcore thrill-seeking individuals. From the tides of the Pacific to the flatlands of the Western Canadian prairies, this enormous country has the right fix for any adrenaline junkie.

Banff is known the world over for its spectacular mountain scenery, yet with the arrival of Labour Day, it suddenly takes on a dormant mood as the seemingly endless wait for the ski season begins.

For hikers and sightseers, Lake Louise is a good base for a visit to the Canadian Rockies. It is central to three main hiking areas: the Lake Louise area itself, Yoho National Park and the first 50 kilometers (30 miles) of the Icefields Parkway. Despite their high elevation, these three hiking areas offer trails ranging from flat lakeside strolls, to invigorating workouts that ascend to passes or promontories.

Do you want to rent body armor?” asked the eager, young bike shop clerk at the base of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden, British Columbia. Is it recommended?” I sheepishly countered, wondering if I had perhaps made some sort of critical error by purchasing my one-way lift ticket to the top of the mountain. “Only if you don’t have a high pain threshold,” the young man quipped while sporting a menacing grin.

The Elk Valley is quickly becoming one of Canada's mountain biking hotspots. While there are many relaxing country trails in the region, the area's challenging mountainous single track is what everyone is talking about! Here is a sampling of several more popular rides in the Elk Valley: