3 Scenic Banff Bike Trails for an Enchanting Winter Ride
Discover the magic of winter biking in Banff with Banff Adventures! From scenic routes like Tunnel Mountain Loop to easy rides along Vermillion Lakes, explore the Rockies on a winter bike or e-bike rental for unforgettable frosty fun.
When snow starts falling in Banff, it often marks the end of warm-weather adventures, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up your helmet! In fact, winter adds a dreamy, frosty charm to Banff’s bike trails and vistas—making it a must for biking enthusiasts! Once you grab yourbike or ebike rental from our downtown Banff location, there’s no shortage of stunning routes to uncover! Join us at Banff Adventures as we highlight a few of our well-loved bike trails and routes, perfect for a truly scenic, snow-dusted ride in the Rockies. Let’s dive in!
All of these bike routes are either easy or moderate in difficulty. If you’re a more experienced winter biker looking for a challenge, check out Park Canada’s full road ride map.
Route #1: Golf Course Loop
Distance: 10.9 km loop
Difficulty: Easy
The Golf Course route starts at the iconic Bow Falls area, one of Banff’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. During winter, parts of the waterfall freeze into stunning, icy formations. Afterwards, you’ll bike across the beautiful Spray River bridge, an ethereal icy scene frozen in time. From here, continue along to Golf Course Road, which brings you to the Banff Springs Golf Course. While best known for golf in the summer, this course is also a popular spot for wildlife sightings! Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and other wild residents of Banff! Afterwards, pass the powdery, snow-covered lawn and the historic Banff Springs Hotel before looping back to Spray River.
Route #2: Vermillion Lakes Route
Distance: 4.3 km one-way
Difficulty: Easy
The Vermillion Lakes route offers a leisurely, family-friendly ride with grand mountain views! Start in Downtown Banff and make your way along Mount Norquay Road toward Vermillion Lakes Drive. After some time, you’ll eventually pass through the Vermilion Lakes. Be sure to bring your camera, as while the Vermillion Lakes are stunning in the summer, they’re a truly magical sight in the winter. At the centre of it all is Mount Rundle, which stands tall and regal against the crisp, white winter landscape. After soaking in the views (and snapping some pictures!), many riders continue along the Banff Legacy Trail, which brings you to Bow Valley.
Route #3: Tunnel Mountain Loop
Distance: 10.7 km loop
Difficulty: Moderate
The Tunnel Mountain Loop begins at the heart of downtown Banff, at Central Park. From here, you’ll ride east along Buffalo Street. Ride uphill for a few kilometers to the Surprise Corner vista, where you’ll find a panoramic view of the Banff Springs Hotel, high above a forest of snow-covered trees. Afterwards, continue along Tunnel Mountain Drive, where you’ll soon reach the Hoodoos Viewpoint. This stop features dramatic, rock spires high above the frosty trees and Bow River below, a truly breathtaking sight!
Once you’ve taken in the view, head downhill toward the Tunnel Mountain Campground and follow Banff Avenue back to the start point.
More Rentals in Banff, More Fun
At Banff Adventures, we offer winter rentals for just about every occasion! From gear for spontaneous games of ice hockey to snowshoes that let you explore Banff's wild backyard, our one-stop Banff rental shop has everything you need.
Our winter rentals include:
- Mountain bikes & e-bikes
- Ice skates
- Cross-country skis
- Snowshoes
- Snowboards
- And more!
For our full list of rentals, check out our website! Winter rentals in Banff go fast, especially bikes!! We recommend booking ahead of your trip.
Hit The Snow with Banff Adventures
At Banff Adventures, we’re here to supply lasting memories that you’ll remember long after the snow melts. For nearly 30 years, we’ve been fuelling joy-filled journeys to families, friends, and couples visiting Banff. Book your Banff bike rental today, and start the conversation with our friendly team to learn more about our other unforgettable experiences.
News & Updates
Unwrap the Holiday Magic With These Family Banff Activities!
Is the Banff Gondola Worth It in the Winter?
