In Wild Rose Country every season is hiking season, but fall is our very favourite! Surrounded by golden trees and bright blue sky, places like Saddleback Trail, Alberta, are extra special in the fall – but there are a few things you should know before you hit the road.

Located in Lake Louise, this enchanting destination is one of the very best—especially if you’re in search of magic.

To get to the trailhead, first, you’ll need to take a shuttle to the world-famous chateau. The trailhead is near the boathouse and marks the start of a 3.7-kilometre journey to the pass.

How long it takes will, of course, depend on your speed, but we’d recommend giving yourself about 4 hours to complete it.


Once on your way, you’ll see birds, Mount Temple, and Paradise Valley, so bring a camera—and plan ahead!

The best time to see autumn colours in Banff National Park is mid-September, but it will have come and gone before you know it.

While this particular trail is beautiful no matter the time of year, it’s truly something else this time of year.

Pack light, don’t forget to stretch, and have fun!

There’s no better way to get your steps in.

Saddleback Trail, Alberta

Where: Lake Louise, AB, Canada – Directions here

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Cassandra Stefanic

Regional Editor, Prairies –Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling, and storytelling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing, or editing, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, binge-watching a new series, at a speakeasy, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.

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