One of the best parts of backpacking is dreaming about your next adventure.
Whether you’re drawn to turquoise lakes, high alpine passes, remote wilderness, or iconic mountain scenery, the Canadian Rockies offer endless possibilities. Every backpacking trip has its own character, challenges, and rewards—and choosing the next destination can be almost as exciting as the journey itself.
Here are five of our favourite backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies that continue to inspire hikers, backpackers, and guides alike.
1. Berg Lake Trail, Mount Robson Provincial Park
The Berg Lake Trail is one of Western Canada’s most iconic backpacking routes. Winding beneath the towering north face of Mount Robson—the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies—the trail passes waterfalls, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery at every turn.
Although access has undergone restoration work in recent years, Berg Lake remains a bucket-list destination for many backpackers.
Why we love it: Massive mountain scenery, glaciers, waterfalls, and a true sense of wilderness.
2. Rockwall Trail, Kootenay National Park
The Rockwall Trail has earned a reputation as one of the finest multi-day hikes in the Canadian Rockies. Over several days, backpackers traverse alpine passes, meadows, hanging valleys, and glacier-fed streams beneath the towering limestone cliffs that give the route its name.
Each day reveals a new landscape, making it one of the most consistently scenic backpacking experiences in the Rockies.
Why we love it: Spectacular mountain scenery, excellent campsites, and classic Rockies terrain from start to finish.
3. Skoki Backcountry, Banff National Park
Just beyond Lake Louise lies one of Banff National Park’s most beloved backcountry destinations. The Skoki region combines alpine lakes, rolling meadows, historic backcountry lodges, and rugged mountain scenery into a backpacking experience that feels far removed from nearby crowds.
Popular routes can include visits to Hidden Lake, Baker Lake, and Merlin Meadows, allowing backpackers to customize their adventure based on experience and available time.
Why we love it: Beautiful alpine landscapes, stunning campsites, and endless opportunities for exploration.
4. Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park
Often referred to as the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” Mount Assiniboine is one of the most photographed and recognizable peaks in North America.
Whether approaching from Sunshine Village, Mount Shark, or as part of a longer traverse, backpackers are rewarded with stunning alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and unforgettable views of Assiniboine’s distinctive pyramid-shaped summit.
It’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits.
Why we love it: Iconic scenery, incredible campsites, and some of the most memorable sunrises in the Rockies.
5. Banff Highline
For backpackers seeking a true mountain journey, the Banff Highline offers an unforgettable traverse through some of the most spectacular terrain in the Canadian Rockies.
The route links together alpine passes, wildflower meadows, larch forests, and pristine mountain lakes while showcasing the remarkable diversity of the Rockies. With every pass crossed, the scenery changes, culminating in views of Mount Assiniboine and the surrounding peaks.
This is the kind of trip that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Why we love it: A classic Rockies traverse featuring expansive views, diverse landscapes, and a genuine sense of adventure.
Where Would You Like to Go?
The beauty of backpacking is that there’s always another destination to explore.
Some adventurers dream of standing beneath Mount Robson’s towering glaciers. Others are drawn to the alpine lakes of Skoki, the dramatic cliffs of the Rockwall, or the iconic silhouette of Mount Assiniboine. Wherever your interests lie, the Canadian Rockies offer adventures that can last a lifetime.
If you could choose your next backpacking trip, where would it be?
Looking for Advice?
Choosing the right backpacking route depends on your experience, fitness, objectives, and the time of year. Our guides spend countless days exploring the Canadian Rockies and can help you select an adventure that matches your goals while making the most of current conditions.
Whether you’re planning your first overnight trip or your next big mountain journey, we’re always happy to help you find the right trail.
