Water Tower Trail
Banff, Alberta, Canada

This super fun singletrack dips and turns all the way to the water tower located along the escarpment above Highway 1. The trail starts with a short, but steep, set of steps; prepare to hike-a-bike up this section, which is then followed by smooth undulating singletrack trail. Once you arrive at the water tower, continue along the gravel road leading to Johnson Lake. The views of the lake are spectacular, and if you’re brave enough, jump in for a dip to cool off on a hot summer day.

The Water Tower Trail is an out-and-back, or may be combined with Johnson Lake Road and Lake Minnewanka Road to complete a loop back to your car or back to Banff. The trail offers great views of the Rundle Range and Cascade Mountain, with little elevation gain.

bikepirate rating:

Trail Stats

Distance: 7.8 km (return)
Time: 1 - 2 hrs
Elevation Gain: 145 m
Elevation Loss: 145 m
Min Elevation: 1,397 m
Max Elevation: 1,462 m
Technical Rating: Intermediate
Physical Rating: Easy
Season: June - October
Permit Required: Yes (Park Pass)

Trail Location

Trailhead: Drive or ride to the Cascade Ponds day area. The trailhead is located at the northeast corner of Cascade Ponds. Ride across the two wooden bridges and follow the path to your left (northeast) over to the trailhead, which is clearly marked with a signed post and map about 500 metres from the parking lot.

GPS:
N51 12.734 W115.32.105 (Parking)
N51 12.807 W115 31.785 (Trailhead)

Downloads

Map: click here
GPS Map (GPX): click here
Google Earth: click here
BVMBA: click here
Trail Report: click here

Google Earth trail view only works if you have the program; download it here (free)