The Banff Golf Course Loop is locally regarded as one of the best cycling routes in Banff National Park. Combining quiet, smooth, undulating roads, exceptional mountain scenery and a gentle ride suitable for most abilities, it’s the perfect outing whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise or a more energetic ride.
From the Juniper Hotel, it’s approximately 4 km (20–30 minutes by bike) to the start of the loop. Cycle into downtown Banff, follow the Bow River to Bow Falls, then cross the bridge into the Banff Springs Golf Course, where the dedicated 10 km loop begins.
The road is completely paved, smooth and gently rolling, making it ideal for both conventional bicycles and e-bikes. Car traffic is next to nothing throughout the year and particularly quiet in spring and autumn, allowing you to enjoy the sounds of the river, birdsong and rustling pine forest rather than passing vehicles.
The scenery changes constantly along the route. One moment you’ll be riding beneath the towering limestone walls of Mount Rundle, the next alongside the emerald waters of the Bow River before emerging into wide open fairways framed by some of Banff’s most iconic peaks. Viewpoints along the way offer uninterrupted views across the Bow Valley towards Sulphur Mountain, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the dramatic eastern face of Mount Rundle, one of the most photographed mountains in the Canadian Rockies.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. Elk are regularly seen grazing on the golf course and in the surrounding meadows, while deer, bighorn sheep, osprey and bald eagles are all common sightings. Early morning and evening rides offer the greatest chance of seeing wildlife, but always admire animals from a safe distance and borrow Bear Spray from the Juniper.
Allow around 1½–2½ hours to complete the ride from the Juniper at a relaxed pace, giving yourself plenty of time to stop for photographs and enjoy the viewpoints. The route is suitable for most riders, with only a few gentle climbs that are easily conquered on the Juniper’s e-bikes.
On your return, make one final stop at the Rundle Bar inside the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. The short climb to the hotel is rewarded with one of Banff’s finest terraces, where excellent cocktails and panoramic views overlook the Bow River, Spray Valley and surrounding mountains. If anywhere challenges the Juniper for the best view in Banff, this might just be it!
The Banff Golf Course Loop is an unforgettable way to experience Banff beyond the busy streets of downtown, combining quiet roads, incredible scenery and abundant wildlife into one of the most rewarding bike rides in the Canadian Rockies.