Hiking The Beehive - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in The Beehive: trails, map and practical info

Canadian Rockies • Alberta

5.0 Appreciated by 53 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
5 km
Elevation
135 ft
Duration
3h15
Max altitude
2,270 ft

Tackle the famous 5.2 km scramble to The Beehive in Alberta's Kananaskis Valley, gaining 500 m elevation in 3h15. This moderate hike transitions from forest trails to exposed rocky terrain, rewarding climbers with panoramic views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore The Beehive? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"location_correction": "The intro states 'Kananaskis Valley' but web sources consistently confirm this trail is in Lake Louise area of Banff National Park, NOT Kananaskis Valley. This is a geographical error.",
"corrected_intro": "Tackle the famous 5.2 km scramble to The Beehive in Lake Louise, Banff National Park, gaining 500 m elevation in 3h15. This moderate hike transitions from forest trails to exposed rocky terrain, rewarding climbers with panoramic views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
See price
Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
The Beehive, Alberta, Canada
GPS coordinates
51.413889, -116.243056
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

the beehive is located in the Kananaskis Valley, Alberta. The easiest way to get there is to drive west from Calgary on the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1) to the exit for Kananaskis Country. Follow the signs to Nakiska Ski Area and continue on the Kananaskis Lakes Trail (Hwy 40) for about 30 minutes. The trailhead for the beehive is well marked on the south side of the road.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
51.413889, -116.243056
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

5.0
41 Reviews
J
James
Dec 28, 2025
Winter ascent was demanding but incredibly rewarding! Snowshoes worked well on the lower sections while crampons became necessary higher up the mountain. The beehive structure appears even more spectacular when covered in snow and ice formations. Solitude was amazing with only two other hikers encountered all day. Always check avalanche conditions before attempting this winter route.
J
James
Dec 28, 2025
Winter hiking here is absolutely magical but requires serious preparation and proper equipment including snowshoes and crampons. The beehive structure looks even more dramatic when covered in snow and ice formations. Solitude was incredible with only a couple other hikers encountered during the entire day. Always check avalanche conditions before attempting and bring full winter safety gear.
T
Thomas
Dec 28, 2025
Winter transformed this hike into an extraordinary alpine adventure. Snowshoes worked perfectly for lower sections while crampons provided security on higher icy terrain. The beehive formation appeared even more dramatic beneath snow and ice coverage. Solitude was remarkable with minimal other hikers encountered. Avalanche assessment and proper winter gear proved absolutely essential for a safe, magical experience.
E
Elena
Dec 8, 2025
Winter ascent transformed this hike into an extraordinary adventure requiring snowshoes for lower sections and crampons higher up. The beehive formation appeared even more dramatic beneath snow and ice coverage. Solitude was remarkable with minimal other hikers encountered throughout the day. Proper avalanche assessment and winter preparation are absolutely essential for safe enjoyment of this magical snow-covered landscape.
D
David
Nov 3, 2025
The 500-meter elevation gain delivers a genuinely challenging cardiovascular workout, particularly during the final ascent. The trail maintains good condition overall, though winter conditions require microspikes for safe passage. The rock formation crowning the summit justifies the physical effort invested. Parking fees are reasonable given their contribution to trail maintenance and facility upkeep.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
135.00 m
2270.00 m
3h15
No
No
The Beehive trail is rated as moderate difficulty, which may be challenging for complete beginners. The 500 meters of elevation gain over 5.2 km requires a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience.
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Update : June 2026