Sundance Canyon, Banff

Inching closer to Banff, I crossed beneath the Trans Canada Highway and entered the Legacy Trail. It's a scenic pathway built in 2010 for Banff National Park's 125th anniversary. Shared by both walkers and cyclists, the trail stretches for about 14mi (22km) and passes the Vermilion Lakes, a series of three lakes, one of which has a hot spring.

I connected from one trail to the next, skirting around the edge of Banff town before I crossed a bridge that led me toward Sundance Canyon. The trail I followed was a level track winding alongside the tranquil shores of Bow River. It was incredibly picturesque. I stopped to watch its gentle flow and admire the majestic mountains in the background. The river's glassy surface mirrored the coniferous trees lining its banks. The sky overhead was a deep, unblemished blue, without a single cloud to mar its brilliance. An occasional cyclist pedalled past on their mountain bike while families with their young ones enjoyed a leisurely stroll. It was a superb day for a gentle hike or ride.

A short while later, the trail turned inland and began a slow, steady ascent through the woods until it reached the picnic grounds near the banks of Sundance Creek. A little further up was a large clearing with bike stations for riders to dismount and lock up their bikes. The rest of the trail was designated for foot traffic only.

I entered the Sundance Canyon hiking trail and crossed a sturdy wooden bridge over the gushing creek. Here, the path began a fairly steep ascent through dense forest. Strolling alongside the stream, I relished the sight of its cascading waterfall and dramatic rapids flowing beneath the towering canyon wall. Fortunately, the steep climb was short-lived. I ascended rocky steps and crossed another bridge at the top of the Sundance Canyon waterfall. I could have stopped here and turned back but instead continued upstream. The trail followed the creek's swiftly flowing waters and its waterfalls. I encountered several crossings over small wooden bridges, occasionally stopping to admire the forest colours, the vibrant green moss carpet, and the lichen hanging from the evergreen trees. There were a few small stream crossings where I had fun hopping from rock to rock to reach the other side, secretly hoping I wouldn't lose my footing.

After reaching the trail's end, I captured many photos before retracing my steps and descending along the same path.