Canmore’s Best Winter Hike

Ha Ling and Miner’s Peak — Accessible All Year Round

Ha Ling shows up on almost every Canmore hiking list, and I usually resist recommending trails that are already well-documented and highly trafficked. But this one earns its reputation, especially in winter.

I’ve done Ha Ling in every season, and the colder months are when it really stands out. The trail is easy to follow, steep enough to feel rewarding, and most importantly, not hidden beneath feet of untouched snow.

It's Better at Sunrise

From a photography perspective, Ha Ling is in a fantastic position to experience and capture the sunrise over the surrounding ridges.
From the top, you have clear views to the east, providing the perfect opportunity to watch the first light spill across the valley without any obstructions. On good mornings, the sky warms slowly while the surrounding peaks stay cold and blue, creating that clean separation of tones that’s hard to find during the day.

It’s the kind of light that rewards simplicity: a telephoto lens, a straightforward composition, and patience as the colours shift. Even a quick summit stop can get you a handful of compelling images.

The Familiar Can Still Be Worth Shooting

There are more remote peaks in the Rockies, and definitely quieter ones. But Ha Ling sits in that rare space where accessibility doesn’t take away from the experience. It’s a classic for a reason, and in winter, with a camera in hand, it still feels fresh.