Watch elk during the rutting season

When autumn descends on the Rocky Mountains, an impressive bugling echoes through the forests around Banff – the elk are in rut. On the Fenland Trail, an easily accessible circular route through dense spruce forest, you have the perfect opportunity to watch these animals from close by.

The Fenland Trail is a relaxed 2 km hike that takes you along a clear mountain stream through idyllic scenery. The soft forest floor muffles your steps as you scan for movement between the trees. Keep your eyes open: as well as elk, North American beavers and bald eagles can be seen here.

As the elk can be more aggressive during the rutting season, always keep plenty of distance and use binoculars for observing them. The trail starts just a few minutes from the centre of Banff.