Sunshine Meadows Loop

Plan on about 7.4 miles (11.9 km) and roughly 3.5 hours for this moderate figure-eight/connector itinerary. From upper Sunshine Village, follow the signed Citadel Pass and Rock Isle trails to the Rock Isle viewpoint and the Grizzly–Larix circuit, then return to the junction and continue on Twin Cairns–Meadow Park Trail. Finish on the Sunshine Village Simpson Pass Trail at the upper shuttle stop; the stored line is therefore a point-to-point visitor route rather than a closed loop back at the village. The tread is generally well-marked alpine dirt, gravel, boardwalk, bridges, and occasional steps, with about 200 m of rolling elevation change.

Rock Isle, Grizzly, and Larix Lakes each frame the surrounding peaks differently, while the open meadows bring summer wildflowers and early-fall larch color. The route crosses and follows the Continental Divide landscape, with the best broad compositions around Rock Isle and the Twin Cairns–Meadow Park valley. Keep an eye out for marmots, pikas, and bears, and stay on the signed path through fragile alpine vegetation.

Park at the Sunshine Village base area and ride the gondola to upper Sunshine Village to start walking; lift access is paid and seasonal. The route finishes at the upper Simpson Pass shuttle stop near the resort facilities, so check the current shuttle connection and plan your return before setting out. Carry water and snacks because reliable on-trail water service is not part of this route, and check the resort and Parks Canada trail information for access, hours, and maps.

High-alpine weather can change quickly: bring warm layers, rain and sun protection, and navigation backup. The route is exposed in places and can be wet or muddy, with early snow possible in fall. Dogs are not allowed on the sightseeing lifts or this trail network, and bear awareness is essential.