C Level Cirque is a short but rewarding hike near Lake Minnewanka. It starts from the Upper Bankhead Parking Lot. The steady incline to the amphitheater should only take 45 minutes to one hour. You can stop here, but the views over Lake Minnewanka start when you climb higher. Follow the trail around the amphitheater and up for about 45 more minutes until you reach the rock cirque wall.

Turn around, and you'll find the most stunning view of Lake Minnewanka. We love to do this hike when we're short on time, as it can be done in under three hours and is close to town. It's the perfect way to end a workday in the summer. It's also great for families and older visitors to Banff as it's not too long but still provides something to do and has stellar views. This 9 km out-and-back trail can get very busy on weekends in the summer, so you can try to visit on a weekday.