About This Route
The Banff Legacy Trail is a scenic 26 km crushed gravel path from Banff to Canmore along the Bow Valley Parkway, ideal for long intermediate endurance runs. Multi-use with bike traffic; runnable year-round, stunning in winter with grooming. Passes wetlands, viewpoints; wildlife galore. Section it: Banff to Valley Trailhead (10 km). Flat profile suits tempo work.
Safety Considerations
Bears cross frequently; spray mandatory, eyes open on straights. Train traffic nearby; reflective gear dusk. Icy patches winter; spikes needed. Elk rut fall aggressive. Flood risk Bow River. Parks Canada closures common; app check essential. No headphones.
Essential Gear
Brooks Cascadia shoes, Gregory 2L belt, bear spray, Fenix 7 watch, Pearl Izumi vest, Yaktrax spikes winter.
Emergency Tips
Bear: Slow retreat. Breakdown: Flag highway. Call 911; roadside access good.
Ultramarathoners train here safely. Extend to Policeman's Creek. LNT: Yield wildlife corridors.