My Top 3 Hikes in the BC Rockies

There’s something special about hiking in the BC Rockies. It might be the fresh mountain air, the chance to spot wildlife, or maybe it’s just the pure joy of not being at work. Regardless, if you’ve got a thing for incredible views and don’t mind sweating a little, these three hikes—Abbot Ridge, the Iceline Trail, and the Lake O’Hara Circuit—are a must do. Here’s why they’re worth every hot spot and sore muscle.

Abbot Ridge – Glacier National Park (Canada’s ;)

Length: 13 km (8 miles) | Elevation Gain: 1,025 m (3,362 ft)

Let’s start with Abbot Ridge, a hike that will make you question your choice by the halfway point. But don’t turn back. The trail starts in the lush old-growth forest of Glacier National Park (cue lots of ferns and mossy trees), then gradually ascends until you’re above the treeline. It’s all uphill, and your quads will remind you of that later, but the panoramic views of the Selkirk Mountains are worth every step. They really are.

About halfway up, you’ll start to see the Illecillewaet Glacier, which is a solid motivator to keep going because nothing says “keep climbing” like a glacier you can actually see shrinking in real time. And when you finally reach the ridge…you’ll forget about the hard work and start appreciating the rewards. The views stretch out for miles, and you feel like you’re on top of the world. Just remember, what goes up must come down, and those downhill switchbacks are no joke, especially if you played sports but didn’t take care of yourself when you were younger…

The Iceline Trail – Yoho National Park

Length: 21 km (13 miles) | Elevation Gain: 710 m (2,329 ft)

The Iceline Trail isn’t just a hike; it’s a rollercoaster. You’ll go from “This is amazing!” to “Why do I do this to myself?” in record time. Starting near the Whiskey Jack Hostel, the trail wastes no time climbing uphill, offering views of Takakkaw Falls—a 300-meter waterfall. You can also start from the Tak falls parking lot which is a lot more relaxed and you finish by descending for 2kms, instead of starting by going straight up.

Once you hit the alpine section, you’ll be walking alongside a line of glaciers (hence the name Iceline) and looking down on the Yoho Valley. The landscape is so surreal it feels like you’ve walked onto a movie set. The best part is the views stay with you almost the entire time, making it easy to forget the fact that your legs feel like noodles by the end. Tip: Bring layers, because the weather up there changes faster than you can imagine.

Lake O’Hara Circuit Trail – Yoho National Park

Length: 11 km (7 miles) | Elevation Gain: 393 m (1,289 ft)

Lake O’Hara isn’t just a hike—it’s a rite of passage. First, you have to score a spot on the elusive shuttle or commit to an 11-km walk-in, but trust me, it’s worth it. Once you arrive, it’s like you’ve stepped into a postcard. The Lake O’Hara Circuit Trail takes you around the lake and through alpine meadows that are so picturesque, you’ll remember it for the rest of your life.

Each turn of the trail offers a new vantage point of the aquamarine lake, surrounded by jagged peaks and glaciers. And if that wasn’t enough, you’ll pass by smaller lakes like Lake Oesa and Mary Lake, each one more stunning than the last. It’s a hike where every step feels like it should be accompanied by a dramatic soundtrack. This hike always takes me way to long because I am constantly stopping to take photos.

Final Thoughts

If you’re heading to the Rockies, these three hikes are guaranteed to leave you breathless—in more ways than one. From glaciers and waterfalls to alpine lakes that look like they were photoshopped, they offer some of the best scenery Canada has to offer. Just don’t forget to stretch afterward.

Before heading out on any hike, especially in the Rockies, it’s essential to bring the proper gear, plenty of water, and layers to keep you comfortable. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly—from sunny skies to sudden rain or even snow—so always check the forecast and trail conditions before you go. A good rule of thumb? Prepare for every season, even if it’s just a day hike. Safety first, adventure second.