Fenland Trail loops through a white spruce forest located just outside the Town of Banff. The family friendly trail meets up with Echo Creek before looping back to the trail head.
If you want to explore the Banff National Park area then try these 10 Easy Hikes in Banff National Park.
Insider Tips for Families
In the winter, consider bringing along a sled to pull small children along this easy hike.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.54 km (1.6 mi) loop
Elevation: 0 m (0 ft)
Highlights: Mountain Views, Creek, Bridges
Facilities: Outhouse, Picnic Table,
Optional Gear: Carrier, Stroller, Wheelchair, Sled, Snowshoes
TrailRider Rating: Easy
Getting There
From the Trans Canada Highway AB-1 W take the Mt. Norquay exit. Turn left on Mt. Norquay Rd towards the Town of Banff.
Take the second right into the trail head parking lot.
Parking is limited.
Trailhead
The trail head and sign for Fenland Trail are located at the
far end of the parking lot away from the road just past
the outhouses.
Trail Experience
Fenland Trail is the ideal first winter hike for families. Experience a snowy winter wonderland that emerges on
the trail without committing to a long trail with the kids in
the cold.
Follow the wide flat trail through the trees as it soon crosses a bridge. At the junction, follow the sign and turn left to start Fenland Trail. At the next junction, take a right. The trail thins out but could probably handle a double all-terrain stroller. After one km of hiking, cross the small bridge. Savour the mountain views before heading back into the trees. Meet the third bridge on the hike and enjoy views of the mountains and Echo Creek. Shortly after this bridge is a bench. Enjoy walking along the trail beside the water before meeting another bench. The trail soon becomes bumpier with roots on the trail.
As you near the highway the trail loops around and follows the water. Do not cross the next bridge. Instead, continue straight and eventually veer away from the water. Once you finish the loop, turn left to cross the first bridge and head back to the parking lot.
Nearby Attractions
If you are visiting the mountains in the summer and would like to avoid the crowded Banff streets, then take a five-minute drive to Johnson Lake on for a picnic and a swim. For an easy summit hike in Banff, try hiking up Tunnel Mountain!
Want more hikes like this one?
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Purchase (Ebook) Hikes for Families: A Guide to the Canadian Rockies here.
