Valley of the Ten Peaks: exploring the beauty of one of Canada’s most stunning natural wonders

A short drive from Calgary, Alberta and Banff, Alberta lies an area of natural beauty unlike anything else in Canada—the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Formed by glaciers more than 10,000 years ago, this valley offers incredible views of one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. The Valley of the Ten Peaks is so named because the peaks rise to heights greater than 10,000 feet above sea level. I’ve visited this area many times and have been lucky enough to hike several trails around it. Here are some beautiful photos and descriptions that I hope will entice you to visit this natural wonder soon!

Dazzling views from Bow Lake Trail

The Valley of the Ten Peaks is one of Canada’s most scenic places, and it’s easy to see why. The hills are alive with natural beauty, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. One thing to do is take a hike along Bow Lake Trail, which takes you past shimmering mountain lakes as well as towering peaks that can be seen for miles around.
There are many scenic hikes within an hour drive from Banff including Johnston Canyon (which has been featured on TV), Tunnel Mountain and Moraine Lake. Along the way hikers will encounter gorgeous waterfalls, rushing rivers and incredible rock formations.

Rising up out of lush forests and meadows, these hills make for perfect hiking trails. From rocky paths lined with flowers to gentle slopes leading up to high vantage points, there’s no shortage of choices when it comes to how you want your journey through these hills to unfold.

Giant cedars and fireweed near Bow Lake

As you drive along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, the first thing that will catch your eye is the turquoise waters of Bow Lake. But keep driving and you’ll be rewarded with one of Canada’s most breathtaking natural sights: Valley of the Ten Peaks. The valley consists of ten peaks (nine visible from the viewpoint), which are Mount Sir Donald, Mount Aberdeen, Mount Lefroy, Mount Nootka, Mount Inglismaldie, Mount Woolley
the three Oxtongues—Oxtongue Mountain (8012m), Oxtongue Point (7628m) and Oxtongue Spire (7555m)—Mount Forbes (7439m), Mt. Athabasca (7367m), and Tumbling Glacier Peak (7185m). There are also several hiking trails around the valley, as well as a number of scenic viewpoints to stop at on your way to enjoy this majestic sight. One such viewpoint is Sentinel Pass, where you can find some spectacular views of both Alberta and British Columbia.

Climbing high above Bow Falls

The Valley of the Ten Peaks is one of Canada’s most stunning natural wonders. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolverines, and eagles. And the views from the top of the peaks are simply breathtaking.
Staring out over Bow Falls while feeling the cool mountain air whip across your face as you climb up high above them makes it hard not to pause for a moment and take in all that you see. But once you start climbing down, there is no question that this was an experience that can only be described as life-changing.

When you reach the bottom of the mountain, looking back at where you came from and taking in the sight before you, it feels like your whole world has been lifted off its axis. From here on out, nothing will ever seem quite so ordinary again. The walk back through the woods with waterfalls surrounding you creates an ethereal atmosphere, and when you finally emerge onto Lake O’Hara, it’s hard not to feel grateful for what nature has given us.

Sunset at Crowfoot Glacier Overlook

As the sun sets, the colours of the landscape change and provide a new perspective on this incredible place. The Valley of the Ten Peaks is one of Canada’s most beautiful natural wonders, and it’s easy to see why. With its towering mountains, pristine lakes and rivers, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder this place is so popular with hikers, climbers, and nature lovers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful stroll, the Valley of the Ten Peaks has something for everyone. Spend some time admiring the view from Crowfoot Glacier Overlook, or take in panoramic views from the top of Mount Temple. Explore glacier-carved peaks like Wapta Mountain and Bow Peak by following trails through a range of ecosystems, including subalpine meadows, coniferous forests, and alpine tundra.
Afternoon hikes are great opportunities to catch glimpses of marmots, weasels, moose, deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats that call these hills home.

Summit Lookout with Stunning Views Across Banff

The Valley of the Ten Peaks is one of Banff National Park’s most popular hiking destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The views from the summit lookout are simply breathtaking, with 10 towering peaks framing a beautiful valley below. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Lake Louise! If you’re looking for a challenging hike with incredible views, look no further than the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

But don’t worry – this 8km (round-trip) trail doesn’t require any technical climbing or scrambling. Once you reach the top, take in those spectacular vistas while keeping an eye out for marmots and deer (sometimes grizzlies too!). It may be best to make this a two-day adventure by staying at some nearby accommodations such as The Alta Vista Hotel.
In addition to being right next door to one of the region’s favorite hikes, they also offer spacious rooms and fantastic dining options. For more information on visiting the Valley of the Ten Peaks, check out this post!

The Valley of the Ten Peaks Lodge is a great place to rest your legs after a long day in the mountains

With its towering peaks and pristine lakes, it’s no wonder this place is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. The Valley of the Ten Peaks Lodge is the perfect place to stay when you’re visiting the area.
With its comfortable rooms and great amenities, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your time in this stunning natural wonderland. If you want to get closer to nature while staying here, go on a guided hike through the valley or take part in some fishing at one of the nearby lakes.

Either way, you’ll find that our lodge is an excellent base for exploring all that this beautiful place has to offer. So why not spend some time with us? We think you’ll love what we have to offer! Make sure to come back tomorrow and read about other amazing places in Banff National Park!
Thanks for reading our post today on hiking Banff National Park! It was created by a local writer from CanItHelp, who knows a lot about travel writing and tourism services.

Get to the top by horseback, foot or mountain bike

One of the best ways to experience the Valley of the Ten Peaks is by getting to the top. You can do this by horseback, foot or mountain bike. Horseback riding is a great way to take in the scenery, and you can also get a workout in at the same time. If you’re looking for a more challenging way to get to the top, try hiking or mountain biking.
You’ll be able to really take in all the sights and sounds of nature this way. It will definitely be worth it! The vast views are an amazing sight to see up close and personal, so you won’t want to miss out on any of them. Just make sure you have enough food and water with you if you plan on going on a hike or backpacking trip because there are no stores near the area. After your excursion, make sure to head over to Lake Louise for some post-hike refreshments!
After experiencing the breath-taking views and vistas that surround you in Valley of the Ten Peaks, we recommend heading over to Lake Louise for some post-hike refreshments.