Sunshine Meadows Is Back! Hiking Trails Open This Weekend

Get ready to trade in your ski boots for trail runners—Sunshine Meadows is officially open for summer adventures starting this weekend! Our alpine trails have shed their snowy coats, and they’re ready to show off. If you’ve been craving big mountain views, wildflower meadows, and fresh alpine air, it’s time to head up.

Whether you’re a trail newbie or a seasoned mountain goat, we’ve got a hike with your name on it. Here’s your guide to what’s open, what to expect, and what to spot along the way.

First Stop: The Gondola + Standish Chair

Your journey to the top starts with a ride up the Sunshine Gondola—a 5 km scenic cruise through the forest to our village base. From there, hop on the Standish Chairlift, which takes you even higher to the edge of the Continental Divide.

At 7,825 ft (2,400 m), the air’s a little crisper, the views are a lot bigger, and the trails? Well, they’re something else.

What Trails Are Open?

Rock Isle Lake Trail

• Level: Easy
• Distance: 1.8 km loop
• Time: 2 hours

This is our go-to trail for postcard-perfect views with barely any effort. Rock Isle Lake sparkles in the sun like a gem, surrounded by meadows filled with wildflowers and chirping marmots. Perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone craving instant alpine magic.

Grizzly–Laryx Loop

• Level: Moderate
• Distance: 3.6 km loop
• Time: 2.5 hours

If you’re ready to stretch your legs a bit more, this loop is your jam. It winds past forest groves, open meadows, and two peaceful alpine lakes. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and yes—marmots still steal the show.

Standish Viewpoint Trail

• Level: Easy
• Distance: 0.8 km loop
• Time: 15–20 min

Don’t skip this one—it’s a short stroll from the top of the chairlift to one of the best views in Banff National Park. You’ll get a sweeping look over all three lakes below (Grizzly, Laryx, and Rock Isle), framed by craggy peaks. Cameras out. Chins up. Wow factor: 10/10.

What You’ll See Along the Way

Sunshine Meadows isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a living, breathing alpine ecosystem packed with natural wonders. While you wander:

Watch for Wildflowers
By late June, the meadows start to pop with colour. Expect to see:

• Red and purple alpine paintbrush
• Soft, fuzzy western anemones (a.k.a. hippie on a stick)
• Yellow glacier lilies and cinquefoils

Spot the Locals
Our furry and feathered friends are just as excited for trail season. Keep an eye out for:

• Marmots whistling from the rocks (they love the drama)
• Pikas dashing between boulders with flowers in their mouths
• If you’re lucky, you might even spot a mountain goat or elk from a distance.
•  

Reminder: wildlife deserves space. Admire with your eyes, not your snacks.

Soak Up the Views
The meadows sit right on the edge of the Continental Divide, so you’re technically walking between Alberta and BC. On clear days, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Assiniboine—often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies.” She’s a stunner.

Trail Tips from the Top

• Dress for the mountains. Layers are your friend—Sunshine can turn to rain (or snow!) fast up here.
• Wear good shoes. Trails may still have snow patches or muddy bits, so leave those flip-flops at home.
• Pack snacks and water. There are no vending machines in the meadows.
• Take only memories, leave only footprints. Stick to the trail and respect the ecosystem.
• Buy your tickets online. The Gondola + Chairlift combo is the easiest way up—and booking ahead saves you time (and money).
•  

Let the Summer Begin

From mellow strolls to mind-blowing vistas, Sunshine Meadows is back—and we’re ready to hike. Whether you're here for the flowers, the views, or just the mountain air, this weekend marks the beginning of another unforgettable alpine season.

So lace up, grab your sunnies, and meet us at the top. Your perfect day in the mountains is just a gondola ride away.

See you on the trails!