Cycling the Golden Triangle in Canada is an exhilarating journey that takes riders through some of the most breathtaking landscapes the North American Rockies have to offer. This route, typically starting and ending in Lake Louise, Alberta, encompasses a circuit through Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, and Kootenay National Park, offering breathtaking views of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests.
You will cross the Continental Divide twice in your journey. For those unfamiliar, the Continental Divide separates the watersheds that drain into the Pacific Ocean from those river systems that drain into the Atlantic and Arctic Ocean (including those that drain into the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and Hudson Bay).
This journey through the Golden Triangle offers not just a physical challenge but an unforgettable adventure through some of Canada's most iconic natural beauty. With careful preparation and respect for the environment, cyclists will find this trip a rewarding experience that highlights the best of the Canadian Rockies.
I've have broken the trip down into two types of adventure. The first is a four day event for those who are advanced cyclists and are able to withstand more of a grueling pace with an average of 100 km (60 miles) per day. The second version breaks the trip down into a 9 day more relaxed pace. There will certainly still be challenges just in more bite sized doses. As the latter of the two trips is the likelier adventure for most, I'll focus more on the itinerary for that trip and just give the shorter version a high level view.
Getting There
The most logical location to begin from is Calgary, Alberta. It is the nearest international airport and is a short 1.5 hour drive west to Banff National Park. There are numerous bike rental places in Banff if you are needing to rent a bike for your trip. You can also find places to rent any camping equipment you'll need but it would be best to have that already reserved long before you arrive in Banff. You'll be staying in Banff one night of your ride but plan to spend a few days here getting accustomed to the climate before heading up to Lake Louise to begin your trek. You'll also want to purchase your other supplies like food etc. while here. Check all your gear, and keep an eye on the weather forecasts. You'll need to buy a Parks Canada pass in order to be able to gain access to Banff National Park. The pass will be good for the other Parks you transit as well.
Day-to-Day Itinerary for Four Day Trip
Day 1: Lake Louise to Banff
Distance: 60 km
Start your adventure in Lake Louise, heading east towards the historic town of Banff. This leg offers scenic views of Lake Louise itself and the Bow River. Explore Banff's local attractions in the evening.
Day 2: Banff to Radium Hot Springs
Distance: 135 km
Depart Banff heading south through Kootenay National Park. This challenging leg includes the climb over the Continental Divide at Vermilion Pass. Reward yourself with a soothing dip in the Radium Hot Springs upon arrival.
Day 3: Radium Hot Springs to Golden
Distance: 105 km
The journey from Radium Hot Springs to Golden takes you north through the Columbia Valley, nestled between the Rocky and Purcell Mountains, offering relatively easier cycling compared to the previous day.
Day 4: Golden to Lake Louise
Distance: 85 km
The final leg back to Lake Louise takes you through Yoho National Park, with must-see stops at Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge. This section includes a challenging climb but rewards cyclists with stunning views.
Day-to-Day Itinerary for Nine Day Trip
Splitting the journey through the Golden Triangle into an 9-day itinerary allows for a more leisurely pace, with shorter daily distances and ample time for rest stops and sightseeing.
This extended itinerary not only makes the journey more manageable for cyclists of all levels but also allows for deeper exploration of the Canadian Rockies' stunning natural beauty and attractions. Each day ends with ample time for relaxation, whether in a cozy lodge, by a lake, or in a hot spring, making for a truly memorable cycling adventure.
In most cases you'll be able to book ahead for accommodations, either cabins, hotels, or campgrounds but in some cases it may be a first come first serve scenario. For this itinerary one of the stops, Hoodoo Creek campground, is only open after mid-June so make sure to research ahead of time and make sure you'll be able to have somewhere to stay. Obviously this itinerary is just a basic guide so you can alter it as much as you require.
Day 1: Lake Louise to Johnston Canyon
Distance: 35 km
Begin your adventure in Lake Louise, cycling along the Bow Valley Parkway towards Johnston Canyon. This scenic alternative route to the Trans-Canada Highway offers views of Castle Mountain and chances to spot wildlife. Enjoy the slower pace and take time to stop at scenic viewpoints. Stay overnight near Johnston Canyon and explore the falls. Notable Sights:
Lake Louise: Known for its turquoise waters framed by towering mountains, Lake Louise is a starting point that's hard to beat for beauty.
Johnston Canyon: An accessible hike from the Bow Valley Parkway leads you through lush forest to cascading waterfalls, with catwalks affixed to limestone cliffs allowing for an up-close experience.
Day 2: Johnston Canyon to Banff
Distance: 25 km
Continue along the Bow Valley Parkway to Banff. With a short distance to cover, you have the entire afternoon to explore Banff's attractions and abundant restaurants. Notable Sights:
Banff Gondola: For panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the Banff Gondola at Sulphur Mountain is a must-visit. The summit offers hiking trails and an observation deck.
Banff Hot Springs: After a day of cycling, the natural hot springs provide a soothing experience with a historic spa and bathhouse set against a backdrop of stunning alpine scenery.
Banff Springs Hotel: This iconic hotel opened in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, as one of the earliest of Canada's grand railway hotels. The property is made up of several buildings, the main hotel consists of a center tower designed by Walter S. Painter, a North Wing and a South Wing designed by John Orrock. There are several restaurants in the hotel but you will need to book ahead.
Day 3: Banff to Castle Junction
Distance: 30 km
Head west from Banff, back onto the Bow Valley Parkway, reaching Castle Junction. This leg offers a relaxed ride with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the river views. Make sure you get a good rest tonight since tomorrow will be a pretty big ride Notable Sights:
Vermilion Lakes: Just outside Banff, this series of lakes is a tranquil spot for wildlife viewing, especially at dawn or dusk, with Mount Rundle reflecting beautifully on the water's surface. There are several pull-off spots along the highway to provide opportunity to photograph the area.
Day 4: Castle Junction to Radium Hot Springs
Distance: 105 km
Proceed to Radium Hot Springs via Kootenay National Park. The longest stretch of this journey will be rewarded by the soothing hot springs that await at the day's end. You'll have a decent climb at both the beginning and end of this day so those hot springs will feel good on the weary bones. Notable Sights:
Kootenay National Park: This leg of the journey takes you through dramatic mountain landscapes and past unique geological formations, including the Paint Pots—ochre beds formed by iron-rich mineral springs.
Day 5: Rest Day in Radium Hot Springs
Take a day off the bike to relax in the hot springs, explore the town, or enjoy short local walks. A day of rest will rejuvenate you for the remaining journey.
Day 6: Radium Hot Springs to Golden
Distance: 105 km
Head north to Golden, this stretch offers beautiful views of the Columbia River Wetlands. Another fairly long day but predominantly flat terrain will make the day less strenuous. Golden is a great place to experience the outdoor mountain culture. It is a much more low key atmosphere than Banff and you will not be overwhelmed by tourists. Notable Sights:
Columbia River Wetlands: As you cycle north, you'll pass by the expansive wetlands, a critical habitat for birds and wildlife. The terrain offers easy riding and opportunities to appreciate the diverse ecosystem.
Golden: Situated at the confluence of the Kicking Horse and Columbia Rivers, the namesake of this tour offers a rich blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery. Golden also boasts a vibrant community with a thriving arts scene, local cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of mountain culture.
Day 7: Golden to Hoodoo Creek Campground
Distance: 35 km
This will be a challenging start to your day by climbing the Kicking Horse Pass. By the time you reach Hoodoo creek you'll have climbed about 700 m (2300 ft) Break up the climb by taking a quick break at the Kicking Horse Rest area located about a third of the way there in distance, and about halfway of the vertical climb.
Hoodoo Creek Campground offers basic facilities in a rustic setting, with the unique hoodoo rock formations nearby. After setting up camp, consider taking a short hike to view these impressive natural structures.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so aim to arrive earlier in the day to secure one of the 30 spots. Notable Sights:
Kicking Horse Pass: The initial climb will test your endurance but reward you with breathtaking views of the Rockies.
Hoodoo Creek Campground: Your destination for the night, close to fascinating rock formations that are well worth exploring on a short hike. A Hoodoo is a column or pinnacle of weathered rock that usually has a cap rock that is resistant to erosion which protects the more erodible layers directly beneath. The resulting formations often resemble a group of people with hats huddled together.
Day 8: Hoodoo Creek Campground to Field
Distance: 25 km
One more day of fairly steady climbing although not as much as the previous day. This time you'll ascend about 400 m (1300 ft). The town of Field is a charming mountain town well known for its cross country skiing trails in the winter. You might find it difficult to leave this picturesque town. Notable Sights:
Yoho Valley: A detour to the Yoho Valley is highly recommended. Takakkaw Falls, with its impressive drop, is among the tallest waterfalls in Canada and a highlight of Yoho National Park.
Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge: Don't miss the stunning Emerald Lake for its vibrant colors and the Natural Bridge, showcasing the erosive power of water.
Day 9: Field to Lake Louise
Distance: 25 km
On the final day of your adventure, you'll embark on the return journey from Field to Lake Louise, completing the last leg of your memorable cycling trip through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. You'll star off with another climb of about 450 m (1500 ft) until about midway at which point you'll be downhill for the final stretch. This stretch promises a reflective ride through some of the most picturesque landscapes you've encountered. The final kilometers to Lake Louise are a mix of excitement and nostalgia as you reflect on the experiences and landscapes that have marked your journey. The familiar sight of Lake Louise signifies not just the end of your trip but also the lasting memories you've created along the way. Notable Sights:
Moraine Lake: nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks it is a spectacular glacially-fed lake located just a short hop from Lake Louise. Its stunning turquoise waters, a result of the refraction of light off the rock flour deposited in the lake by surrounding glaciers, make it one of the most photographed locations in Canada. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles, Moraine Lake offers visitors a serene and breathtaking natural setting.
Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint: Stop at the Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint for a fascinating glimpse into railway engineering and history. The viewpoint offers interpretive displays explaining the significance of the tunnels and how they solved the steep grade problem for trains passing through the Rockies.
Congratulations on completing your cycling journey through the Golden Triangle! You've not only traversed some of the most beautiful terrain in the Canadian Rockies but also challenged yourself and created memories that will last a lifetime.
Packing List (June to September)
Cycling Gear:
Helmet
Cycling gloves
Sunglasses
Water bottles or hydration pack
Repair kit (spare tubes, pump, multitool)
Cycling clothes (quick-dry and layering options)
Waterproof jacket
Bike lock
Camping/Overnight Gear:
Tent
Tarp
Sleeping bag and pad
Portable stove and fuel
Light cooking gear and cleaning supplies
Headlamp
Toilet Paper (trust me, you'll want your own)
Personal Items:
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Bear spray (yup, better safe than sorry)
First-aid kit
Maps and compass/GPS
Mobile phone and charger/power bank, a solar charger is a good idea too
Personal hygiene items
Food Menu Ideas:
Breakfast: Instant oatmeal, dried fruits, nuts, coffee/tea
Lunch: Wraps with cured meats, cheese, and veggies; trail mix; energy bars
Dinner: Dehydrated meals, pasta with sauce pouches, instant rice dishes
Snacks: Fresh fruits, jerky, granola bars, chocolate
General Tips on Travel by Bicycle
Prepare Physically: Train in advance for long distances and varying elevations.
Check Your Bike: Ensure your bike is in good condition before you start, focusing on brakes, gears, and tires.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, especially at high altitudes where dehydration occurs more quickly. The bulk of the ride will put you in areas where you will not find service stations, or places to purchase water. Some rest areas will have potable water. Plan accordingly.
Be Weather Wise: Weather in the Rockies can change rapidly; be prepared for all conditions. Even in July you could find yourself in a snowstorm.
Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and store food securely.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all your trash and minimize your impact on the natural environment.
Safety in Numbers: If possible, travel with a partner or group for safety and assistance.
Start Early: Begin your day early to make the most of the daylight and enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.
Take Breaks: Stop to rest and take in the views. You're in no rush, so savor the moments.
Celebrate Your Achievement: Upon completion of the triangle, take time to celebrate your accomplishment. Whether it's with a special meal, a dip in the lake, or simply relaxing by the shore of Lake Louise, recognize the completion of your epic journey.
Summary
Packing Up:
Before you head home, make sure to properly pack your gear and check your bicycle for any needed maintenance after the journey.
Consider sharing your experience with friends, family, or online through social media or a blog. Your adventure might inspire others to embark on their own.
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