Topp Notch–Return of the Jedi Loop

This 3.2-mile loop links Topp Notch with Return of the Jedi above Banff. It is built and described as a technical mountain-bike ride, with a feature-rich Topp Notch section followed by a climb back to the Tunnel Mountain bench. This listing follows the complete connected loop; the separately named Topp Notch segment is reported one way at a longer distance. Pedestrian access across both legs has not been established, so check posted access before planning to walk it.

Start at the signed Tunnel Mountain access and follow Topp Notch’s tight switchbacks to wooden ladder bridges, skinnies, berms and other constructed features. Some newer features have marked ride-arounds. At the junction, Return of the Jedi climbs back by switchbacks to the bench, closing near the starting access. No summit or viewpoint destination is documented; the built trail itself is the draw.

A linked-route estimate is about an hour on a bike, with roughly 900 feet of climbing; feature choices and stops change the pace. No water, food or toilet facilities at the access or along the route were confirmed. Dogs must remain leashed and under physical control in Banff; check for posted trail restrictions before bringing one.

The trail takes its name from Doug Topp, a former president of the Bow Valley Mountain Bike Alliance. Volunteers reportedly spent three years and more than 3,500 hours hand-building it in partnership with park staff.