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Banff Marsh Loop Trail

Alberta  >  Canada

This beautiful wetland lies at the foot of Sulphur Mountain. It features a magnificent lake and several viewpoints.

Added* by Hans Dampf
Most recent update 18 decembar 2025

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 , Grassland

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Autumn migration , Spring migration , Spring , Autumn

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

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