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A beautiful trail in Banff - very steep!


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Map Key

2.8

Miles

4.5

KM

Point to Point

7,700' 2,347 m

High

4,748' 1,447 m

Low

2,966' 904 m

Up

14' 4 m

Down

20%

Avg Grade (11°)

66%

Max Grade (33°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Description

Cross the river (good place to filter and fill up on water). The trail is a slight descent for 1/2 mile, then you'll see the fork for Cory Pass (left) or Edith Pass (Right). Stay left, then go up, up, up! You'll quickly pack on some serious vertical up this trail, which is why it is often linked to Edith Pass for the return trip, to spare your knees with a longer but more gradual descent.

The Cory Pass trail itself is in very good condition, route finding is quite easy on this pass. About 1/2 way there is a seasonal runoff that may be flowing where you can fill a water bottle (filter it, of course). This is also a popular spot for sighting wildlife. Keep in mind while bear sightings are quite rare in Banff, it is definitely bear country so do your research on how you prepare yourself.

As you progress, you'll quickly be met with beautiful views over the surrounding land. You'll see the highway for a bit, but the tiny cars below will be a testament to the elevation you've gained! Don't worry, the hike will taper off towards the top, yielding to the most beautiful views over Banff that few people are willing to earn! There is a definite reason this is often touted the most strenuous hike in the park. In my opinion, also the most rewarding! Return the way you came, or continue straight ahead to link up to Edith Pass. Enjoy!

Flora & Fauna

Mostly meadow with some mixed forest sections mixed in.

Contacts

Land Manager: Alberta Parks

Shared By:

Dave Mencel

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 3 votes

#3

in Banff

#7320

Overall
  4.7 from 3 votes
5 Star
67%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#3

in Banff

#48

in Alberta

#7,320

Overall
12 Views Last Month
8,886 Since Apr 16, 2015
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
0%
33%
67%
0%

Photos

Cory Pass offers sublime views from many points on the trail, not the least of which is this one looking south toward Mount Assiniboine in the distance.
Dec 11, 2016 near Banff, AB
You'll pack on quite a bit of vertical in a very short time on this hike!
Apr 16, 2015 near Banff, AB
Mt. Edith and Cory Pass.
Apr 30, 2015 near Banff, AB
The meandering Bow River and craggy, yet stunning Sundance Peak present an incredible backdrop to any adventure along Cory Pass in Banff, Alberta.
Dec 11, 2016 near Banff, AB
The view atop Cory Pass is a welcome reward for the ruthless climb on the way up.
Dec 11, 2016 near Banff, AB
Wildflower-filled meadows grace the lower parts of Cory Pass in Banff, Alberta.
Dec 11, 2016 near Banff, AB

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