Alberta hiking trail named one of the most anticipated in the world to visit
An Alberta trail just earned some global recognition after landing a spot on a list of the world’s most anticipated hiking trails for 2026.
The list comes from the BBC, which compiled five of the most anticipated hiking trails for 2026, and the Alberta Rocky to Nordegg Trail made the cut.
The trail, which is located east of Banff and Jasper, begins in Nordegg and stretches over 100 kilometres through some of Alberta’s most scenic landscapes, which were largely inaccessible until now.
It follows the abandoned historical rail line between Rocky Mountain House and Nordegg, commemorating its significance in the 1900s. The trail takes hikers past dense forests, stunning valleys, lakes, and the restored Taunton Trestle bridge.
Clearwater County
As of Fall 2025, 50 kilometres of the trail from Nordegg to Jackfish Creek is open to hikers, cyclists and horseback riders. The trail is being designed for year-round recreation, so those who enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing will be able to use it in the winter months as well.
Once completed, the trail is expected to take around six days to traverse. New sections are set to open in 2026 as development continues, gradually extending the route for year-round adventure.
Other hikes on the list include the Pohorje-Kozjak Trail in Slovenia, the King Charles III England Coast Path in England, the East Mallorca GR-226 in Mallorca, and the Dongseo Trail in South Korea.
You can view the full list online.