Best time to visit Banff & Jasper National Parks

Big Beehive in Banff & Jasper National Parks

A much photographed mountain in Banff National Park

Best time: June–September

Big Beehive
Big Beehive
Big Beehive
Big Beehive
Big Beehive
Big Beehive

The Beehive is one of the most famous mountains in Banff National Park, Alberta. It got its name in 1890 because of its resemblance to a beehive. There is another smaller mountain that also looks like a beehive; it's called the Little Beehive. The 2,270-m (7,448 ft) Big Beehive mountain towers over Lake Louise and can be accessed through the Big Beehive Trail passing by Lake Agnes, Mirror Lake, and Lake Louise.

The Big Beehive Trail is about 9.9 km (6.2 mi) long. It starts at Lake Louise, then takes hikers to the beautiful Lake Agnes Teahouse. After the Teahouse, the trail continues along the Lake Agnes shoreline with fewer hikers as lots of them choose the Teahouse as their final destination. Right behind the Teahouse, you'll find a junction where the trail to the right takes you to the Little Beehive and Mount St. Piran, and if you keep walking straight, you'll walk towards the Big Beehive.

The best time to walk this trail is from June through September when the water in the lakes is not frozen and the path is convenient for walking. The trail is mostly used by hiking, nature trips, and birding enthusiasts. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash.

Practical info

When is the best time to hike the Big Beehive Trail?

June through September is the ideal time for hiking the Big Beehive Trail when the trail is comfortable to walk on, and water is not frozen in the lakes. During these months, weather is usually warm, and hiking conditions are perfect. However, the trail can become busy during peak season, and morning hours are ideal to avoid crowds. Show more

What is the length of the Big Beehive Trail, and where does it start?

Beginning at Lake Louise, the Big Beehive Trail extends a distance of approximately 9.9 km (6.2 mi). After completing the trail, hikers can then continue along the Lake Agnes shoreline until they reach the Big Beehive. Though demanding, the trail provides an elevation gain of over 700 meters and stunning views of the incredible scenery. Show more

Are there any nearby trails to visit besides the Big and Little Beehive trails?

Aside from the Big and Little Beehive trails, visitors may explore other nearby trails like the Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail, the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, and the Sentinel Pass Trail. Each trail is unique and provides excellent opportunities to explore the natural surroundings. It’s essential to research each trail beforehand to determine the hiking difficulty and time requirements. Show more

Is it necessary to make a reservation for the Lake Agnes Teahouse?

Though not compulsory, making a reservation for the Lake Agnes Teahouse is recommended during the peak season. This popular teahouse can become busy during the summer, with long wait times. However, arriving early in the morning is an excellent way to avoid massive crowds. The teahouse offers a perfect spot to relax, take some refreshments before continuing with the hike. Show more

What other activities can visitors do in the area besides hiking?

Banff National Park offers several activities besides hiking. Visitors may choose to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, go ice skating, wildlife watching, or enjoy the hot springs or spas located throughout the park. The park presents many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, and activities are best suited for people of all ages and skill levels. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin