Everything You Need to Know About Legacy Trail

Spanning two iconic mountain towns, Legacy Trail is a Bow Valley classic. The paved path links the towns of Canmore and Banff, weaving through the awe-inspiring scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Exploring Legacy Trail is a must-do adventure for locals and visitors alike.

Banff Legacy Trail is a 22.3 km (13.6 mi) paved pathway that runs from the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park to the town of Canmore boundary at the Banff east gate. Legacy Trail extends an additional 4.5 km from the Banff east gate into the town of Canmore to connect the neighbouring mountain towns. The full trail from Canmore to Banff is called Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail but is more commonly referred to as “Legacy Trail”. The trail runs parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and is a popular summer trail for cycling, running, and more.

Download the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail map for more information.

Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail was constructed to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Banff National Park. It was designed to promote sustainable travel and offer locals and visitors a low-impact way to experience the stunning mountain scenery of the Bow Valley. Learn more about its origins on Parks Canada’s website.

As the popularity of the Legacy Trail continues to grow, improvements are underway to enhance user experience and safety. Future construction plans include an extension to the Canmore Nordic Centre to provide even more connections throughout the Bow Valley.

Legacy Trail typically opens in mid-April and remains accessible until mid-October, depending on weather and snow conditions. Parks Canada and Alberta Parks announce the official open date every year on their respective websites and social media accounts.

From the Bow Valley Parkway to Canmore’s townsite, the trail stretches 26.8 km (16.6 mi) one way—just over the length of a half marathon! Most people start at either the Banff townsite or Canmore and ride to the other end, then return on the Roam Transit Route 3 regional bus. The Roam Transit fleet is equipped with bike racks so you can bring your bike back with you.

The trail tends to gain more elevation from Canmore to Banff and lose more elevation from Banff to Canmore.

The multi-use trail is open to:

• Cycling (including e-bikes)
• Running and walking
• Rollerblading and roller skating
• Nordic blading
• Skateboarding
• Horseback riding
• And more!

Be sure to stay to the right of the yellow centre-line and use caution when passing slower trail users. In some sections, cyclists may be required to dismount for safety – watch for posted signage.

Legacy Trail is mostly fenced, but passes through several wild areas where there is potential for encountering wildlife. Remember to pack bear spray and be aware of what to do during a wildlife encounter.

There are several rest stops and viewpoints along Legacy Trail. The most popular rest stop is the Valleyview Picnic Area, equipped with picnic tables, iconic red Adirondack chairs, and pit toilets. Other rest stops include:

• Cascade Ponds: picnic tables, full serviced public washrooms
• Vermillion Lakes: benches, no washrooms
• Fenlands: picnic tables, pit toilets
• Canmore Legacy Trail parking lot: fully serviced public washrooms

Download the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail map to plan out your rest points.

If starting in Canmore, parking is available at the lot near the trailhead.

If starting in Banff, recommended locations include:

• Cascade Ponds Picnic Area
• Town of Banff Fenlands Recreation Centre
• Banff Train Station parking lots
• Valleyview Picnic Area
• Fenland Picnic Area

If you are parking in Banff, you will need a National Parks Pass. A National Parks Pass is not required to park in Canmore.

Several local businesses offer bike and e-bike rentals. Booking ahead is strongly recommended during peak season:

• Sports Garage
• Gear Up Mountain Sport and Rentals
• Trail Sports
• Rebound Cycle
• Pedego Electric Bikes

Ready to explore? Grab your gear, check the trail conditions, and get ready to experience one of Alberta’s most iconic pathways.

In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.