Description
A faint smell of sulfur hangs in the air as you approach the Banff Marsh Loop Trail. You share the nearby parking lot with visitors to the "Cave & Basin National Historic Site". The trail begins south of the lake with a wooden boardwalk that leads to several great viewpoints. The initial section offers the best views of the lake, but the whole 3 km loop trail is well worth it. It leads through forest, along meadows, and beside the river with its crystal-clear water. From the trail, you can spot American Bittern, Red-winged Blackbird, Green-winged Teal, Wilson's Snipe and with a bit of luck, coyotes, wolves, and bears.
Details
Access
The Banff Marsh Loop Trail is located directly west of the town of Banff. A parking lot is located nearby. Follow the signs for "Cave & Basin National Historic Site". Parking fees are included in the National Park Pass. Press P on the map for directions to the parking lot.
You need a valid Parks Canada pass to enter Banff National Park, including the town of Banff and Lake Louise. Day passes ($ 11.00 CAD, 2025) and annual passes ($75.25 CAD, 2025) are available Online via Parks Canada, at park gates when driving into Banff National Park or at Visitor Centres in Banff.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Mountain , Wetland , Lake , Moors/heathland , GrasslandConditions
FlatCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Autumn migration , Spring migration , Spring , AutumnRoute
Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , BicycleBirdwatching hide / platform
YesLinks
- Banff National Park - Birding
- Banff National Park Cave & Basin Marsh eBird hotspot
- Banff National Park - Tarifs-fees


