travel tips to banff

27 Helpful Banff Travel Tips to Know

There’s nowhere quite as remarkable as Banff National Park, and to travel to Banff is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether it’s winter or summer in Banff, there is so much to do in Banff it’s impossible to get bored. We visited this little mountain town a few years back and fell in love so much that we decided to move here and eventually start this entire website!

These mountains provide an endless playground bringing in millions of tourists a year. Hopefully, these Banff travel tips will help you plan your ultimate Canadian Rockies trip and let you experience Banff to the fullest.

Our Top Banff Travel Tips

Start your banff trip in calgary.

Most visitors traveling to Banff will fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC). You can get to and from YYC to Banff in just an hour and a half, making Calgary the ideal starting point. I’m thrilled to call Calgary my home airport as I think it’s the most chill airport I’ve ever been in. I’ve rarely waited in a line for check-in or security, and coming into Calgary on an international flight is exceptionally breezy.

The only other option for travelers coming in via plane is to fly into Edmonton. However, Edmonton International Airport consistently churns out much higher airfare prices than Calgary and is further away from Banff.

I would only recommend flying into Edmonton if you are spending the majority of your time in  Jasper National Park or are driving from Banff to Jasper and want to fly one way in and another way out to save time (though one way flights are typically much more expensive).

Consider Renting A Car for Banff

Being in North America, your options for transport are limited. Most visitors to Banff will rent a car in Calgary, which is the easiest way to get around the mountains. Renting a car for Banff ensures you can get to where you want to go on your own schedule.

Depending on your travel season, car rentals in Calgary can be pretty affordable. We’ve rented with Enterprise for less than $30 CAD a day in the winter. However, expect prices to rise quite drastically during the high season (June through the end of September, as well as Christmas).

In Banff in the winter, it’s best to get a car with winter tires , so make sure to check with your car rental agency. Just because it’s winter and you’re renting a car in Alberta does not mean the rental car agency will automatically outfit your car with the proper tires you need. If you rent a car in Calgary, they don’t know that you are driving into the mountains and need all-wheel drive or winter tires.

Snow/winter tires are mandatory if you decide to drive from Alberta into BC or if you are driving the Icefields Parkway between November and April! You can see  road conditions here , which are super helpful between November and late April.

Is Driving in Canada Like Driving in the US?

As an American who moved to Canada, I would say driving in Canada is exactly like driving in the United States. So, if you are visiting from the US or have experience driving in America, you are in luck. Cars drive on the right side of the road, with the steering wheel on the left side of the vehicle. All traffic laws and rules are almost identical. So, if you are an American visitor, you shouldn’t have any trouble renting a car and driving in Canada.

There are Other Options Besides Renting A Car

You may not feel comfortable driving in Canada, and that’s okay! There are other options to get to and from Banff and around the town. However, they are limited, so keep that in mind. To get from YYC to Banff without a car , the  Banff Airporter  is a good option and costs about $150 CAD round trip.

Once in Banff, there is the  Roam bus system  to get around town. In the summer, it runs to sights like Lake Minnewanka and Lake Louise, and September they even have buses that run to Moraine Lake. While in the winter, there are buses that will quickly get you to Lake Louise Ski Resort and Banff Sunshine Ski Resort. The Roam Transit also easily connects Banff to Canmore.

The Canadian Dollar is the Currency to Use

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar and all prices will be in CAD . Though the $ symbol is the same as the USD. It’s best to pay for all items with Canadian Dollar and not US Dollar.

At the time of writing 1 United States Dollar equals around 1.30 Canadian Dolla r. So if you are an American looking at the prices in Canada, you can think of everything as getting a bit of a discount, though we find prices in general are slightly higher in Canada than in the US. Given the exchange rate, you might find that American pricing and Canadian pricing to be pretty similar.

USD is accepted occasionally at tour operators and restaurants, though we have never tried to pay with USD. Why? Well, you’ll be getting a pretty poor exchange rate if you pay with USD. Most Canadians don’t have USD to exchange or give you back change, meaning you will often get a 1:1 exchange rate, essentially losing 30 cents per US dollar spent.

We recommend paying for most items with your credit card, Apple Pay, or pulling out CAD from the ATM upon arrival. If you need to exchange currency in Banff, you can do so at the Clock Tower Village Mall on Banff Ave.

Cash in Banff

We often get asked how much cash is needed to visit Banff, and the truth is not much. You can pay for almost everything in the Canadian Rockies with your credit card. In fact, we still have a crisp $100 bill that we pulled out over a year ago sitting in our wallet, because there is no need to use much cash.

Not only do we not need cash, but most services in Canmore and Banff can be paid for using tap technology. We often use Apple Pay and just make sure to have our phone on us when paying for things. One of the only times you absolutely need cash is if you are going camping or hiking and will not be in a serviceable area, or if you have tour guides to tip. Then, it never hurts to have cash on you.

The Main “Tourist” Sights Are Worth It

Lake Louise,  Moraine Lake , Johnston Canyon,  Peyto Lake …these are some of the most popular spots to visit in Banff National Park—and for good reason ! Every popular area is popular because it is out of this world beautiful. Everyone loves it, which means that it is swamped during the high season.

However, I wouldn’t let that deter you from visiting. Trust me, I absolutely HATE crowds, but Banff National Park’s natural spots are so incredible that it’s hard to let the crowds deter you. Even with the high numbers, I don’t think there is anywhere more beautiful than Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

My advice would be to go see them once and then continue to some of the less popular areas (we’re getting to where those are!).

How to Avoid the Crowds at the Popular Banff Spots

It’s hard to avoid the crowds around Banff in the summertime, especially around Downtown Banff and places like Lake Louise, Sulphur Mountain, and  Lake Minnewanka . My best Banff travel tip for avoiding crowds is to travel outside of July and August , get up as early as possible, and stay out later. You didn’t want to sleep on vacation, did you?

Moraine Lake and Lake Louise will start to get crowded around 9am, so set your alarm early! However, you can generally score some solitude if you hang out around until about 8 or 9 pm in the summer. I know it sounds late, but the sun sets around 10:30pm in July, leaving plenty of time to explore.

Beyond the popular sights, I can’t stress enough to get out on some hikes. This is the best way to avoid crowds in the Rockies. In general, the further and higher you hike, the fewer people you will see. Some of our favorite hikes and scrambles that don’t see many people are The Onion , Mist Mountain (Summit – not hot springs), and Arnica Lake.

Spread Out The Tourism

Of course, I don’t recommend only going to the well-known sites in Banff. The park is 6,641 km2 (2,564 sq miles), so there are PLENTY places to find some quiet space. I could go on and on about how to escape the crowds in Banff, or I could tell you to navigate and click around on this site – use the search bar feature! It has all the resources you need to research and find the best places to go in Banff !

Banff National Park is larger than some countries, but the reality is most people head to the same spots on their trips. It’s been estimated that over 85% of visitors to the park don’t venture more than 2 km from the car park.

Obviously, this will create crowding issues. To find yourself in more secluded experiences, hike higher, further, and venture away from the main tourist spots. Here are just a few tips for spreading out:

• Instead of dealing with the shuttles at Moraine Lake or parking at Lake Louise, drive up the Icefields Parkway and enjoy Waterfowl Lakes or look into Sherbrooke Lake nearby in Yoho.
• I nstead of bumping into crowds on Banff Ave , head to Canmore or Golden for a pleasant stroll down the main street.
• Instead of hiking an easy trail in Banff , try one of these Kananaskis hikes instead o r go hiking in Yoho National Park.
• Instead of fighting the crowds at Johnston Canyon, try Grotto Canyon in Canmore or Marble Canyon in Kootenay .

Venture to the Neighboring Mountain Towns

We chose to call Canmore home, so of course, I’m always going to advocate for visiting Canmore. In my opinion, and after much observation, I find Canmore to have a much more local feeling. Banff is a town built on tourism and is more internationally known, but Canmore is where many of the mountain people really reside and base themselves.

That being said with each passing year, Canmore becomes more expensive and busier. Not just for tourists, but sadly for locals as well. Canmore is closer to Calgary, closer to Kananaskis Country, less crowded, and is slightly more affordable than nearby Banff. Plus, there are plenty of epic things to do in Canmore.

Another great mountain town to visit that sees far fewer numbers of people is Golden, BC . Golden is just one hour away from Lake Louise and provides exceptional access to Glacier National Park and Yoho National Park.

Consider Booking Accommodation Outside of Banff

One of my favorite Banff travel tips is to stay in the next door towns to save money. My two suggestions are either Golden or Canmore. Canmore is just a 15 minute drive away from Banff, so it is the more obvious choice while Golden is closer to Yoho National Park.

Don’t just head to Canmore for a quick two-hour detour though – come and stay awhile. Canmore has many hotel and guesthouse options in and around town. Canmore is slightly more affordable than Banff , will provide you with a more local feeling, and is often less crowded. There are things like a normal-priced grocery store and down-to-earth restaurants in Canmore.

I particularly love Canmore’s proximity to the Spray Valley and Kananaskis Country, as there are some amazing hiking opportunities in both! To get more affordable accommodation you can consider heading out of the mountains to Dead Man’s Flats, Cochrane, or stay in Calgary and drive to Banff every day.

Do You Tip in Banff?

Tipping is a common practice in Canada. Service workers in restaurants are often tipped between 15-20% just like in the US. Though, their starting wage is much higher. The minimum wage in Alberta is $15, and this goes for restaurant and bartenders too. In the US, restaurant workers are paid as little as $2.13 per hour depending on the state (don’t ask me how I know 😆).

Still, there will be an option to tip at your restaurant, and 15% is generally the starting percentage to tip. Hotel bellman can be given $1 to $2 per bag. Tour operators do rely on tips, so whether you are dog sledding, hiking, or enjoying the Mount Norquay Via Ferrata a tip to show appreciation is common practice, but in no way obligatory.

Can You Drink the Tap Water?

I cringe everytime we see tourists buying cases of bottled water in the stores around Banff, because it is not necessary. The tap water in Banff and Canmore is perfectly safe to drink and, in my opinion, is some of the best-tasting tap water out there.

The Town of Canmore produces high-quality tap water that exceeds strict provincial and federal operating regulations. While Banff’s drinking water comes from deep underground wells. Alberta Environment rates Banff’s tap water as “High Quality Groundwater.”

Banff water is disinfected with chlorine as it is pumped from the wells into a reservoir on Tunnel Mountain. It is tested daily to ensure its safety for consumption. Not only is buying bottled water in Banff a waste of money, but also a waste of plastic . So grab a refillable water bottle and enjoy the delicious and refreshing mountain water.

Dress For The Mountains

If I had a dollar for every time I saw a visitor wearing skimpy mountain clothes, I would have like $500. All jokes aside, it’s best to come to Banff dressed for mountain weather. That means packable down jackets   and warm hats on hand, even in the summer.

The weather in Banff can change at a moment’s notice, and you don’t want to be underdressed. It’s essential to pack layers, thermals, and hiking boots or shoes for hiking.

Yes, hiking boots or shoes. If you plan to hike while visiting Banff, please do not show up in Converse sneakers. It will not only make you uncomfortable and look a little out of place, but it can be potentially dangerous if you attempt a mountain hike you are not prepared for. You can find my entire list of  what to pack for Banff here.

Wear Proper Footwear

I had to categorize this again because footwear choices in the mountains are crucial. Don’t come to Banff with heels; no one wears them here. We wear our hiking shoes, Salomon Speedcross , Blundstone Shoes, Arcteryx down jackets and Patagonia sweaters everywhere – even to dinner. There are very few places around Banff where this attire isn’t acceptable. You wouldn’t even look strange going to the nicest Banff restaurant in it!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Banff?

With stunning scenery to behold all year round, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Canadian Rockies. Whether you like skiing and snowboarding or simply want to hike around mountain trails and camp under the stars, Banff is a dreamy destination of imposing mountains, glassy lakes, and storming waterfalls. 

So, when is the best time to visit Banff for good weather? It depends . If good weather is a winter wonderland for you, then the best time to visit Banff is between December and February . If good weather means sunshine and long days, the best time to visit Banff is in July and August.

May, June, September, and October are the shoulder seasons, and I would be prepared to see some snow in any of these months. Although come June, the weather will be starting to turn to summer and come late September, you’ll be experiencing white fluff again. March, April, and November are low-season months when you find the best rates.

The Weather in the Rockies

The weather in the Rockies changes all the time. We can get sunshine, snow, and rain all within an hour. If you’re looking at your Apple weather app and see that it has a “rain cloud” for the entire week of your vacation, just relax. It’s pretty unlikely it will rain the entire time. Apple Weather will show rain for the entire day, even if it’s forecasted to rain for an hour. (Side note – it’s also the WORST app to use for the weather here).

We recommend getting to know Windy.com, Environment Canada, and Accuweather. None of them are perfect, but one of them is always the least wrong.

Thankfully, the Rockies aren’t like the Scotland, Iceland, or the Faroe Islands. It’s rare that it rains the entire day, and it’s also rare that it’s straight downpouring and thunderstorming for hours on end. In the summer, pack a rain jacket and a smile, and don’t let the weather apps get you down.

Can You See the Aurora in Banff?

You can see the northern lights in Banff, and we typically get one to two good shows every winter. Sometimes, it’s more, and sometimes, it’s less. When the aurora is strong and the skies are clear, nearly everyone in Alberta knows about it and goes out in force to see the lights dance across the sky.

That being said, the Rockies are not like going to Alaska or Scandinavia, where you can almost guarantee seeing them if you visit in the winter months. We are not that far north here, even though it certainly feels like it if you are coming from Florida.

If the stars align for a clear night and a strong forecast in Alberta while you are visiting, consider yourself very lucky! Here are all our tips for seeing the northern lights in Banff.

Make Sure To Do At Least One Hike

Many people come to Banff with no intention of hiking, and I believe this is a big mistake. To not get out on a hike in one of the most beautiful places on earth would be a great tragedy. Don’t worry, you don’t have to summit a mountain to feel accomplished in Banff.

There are plenty of easy and attainable hikes for all to enjoy! A few of the more mild, but incredibly scenic hikes are Johnston Canyon, Fenland Trail, and Boom Lake.

Don’t Bother The Wildlife

You can find all sorts of wildlife in Banff National Park. If your dream is to see an elk or grizzly bear, you stand a decent chance of seeing these animals in the summer. Coyotes, cougars, moose, black bears…they can all be found in the Canadian Rockies. They are beautiful but should also be respected.

Bears are not cuddly, and your distance should be kept if you see one. Don’t try to get a selfie, don’t try to feed them, don’t try to get closer for an Instagram shot, don’t get out of your car when you see one… don’t do any of these things. Admire the bear from a safe distance and move on. Don’t stop traffic when you visit a grizzly with cubs (it’s called a “Bear Jam,” and locals do not like them).

Keep your pets on a leash at all times. Please don’t feed the chipmunks around Lake Louise and always clean up after yourself. Every trash can in the park is a bear-safe trash can, but if you just leave your food and trash on top of the trash can or don’t latch it, it’s basically worthless. If I had a dollar for all the times I’ve seen all of these things, I would have another $1000. So now I’m up to $1500 – yay!

Respect the precious wildlife that is in Banff and avoid human/wildlife encounters. If you don’t, it’s not only you that could get hurt but the animal too. As soon as a wild animal becomes aggressive towards humans, the animal will likely be put down even if it’s the human’s fault.

Always Be Wildlife Aware

If you plan to hike around Banff, you need to go to the local outdoor store and purchase a canister of bear spray . This will set you back around $35-50 CAD, but it is more than worth it in a bear encounter gone wrong.

Before any hike in Banff National Park, make sure to pack bear spray, check the park websites for wildlife information ( Parks Canada  and  AB Park ), and check again for notices at the trailhead. When you’re on the trail, make noise by banging hiking poles, talking, whistling, clapping, or singing. This is particularly important around blind bends and corners. If it’s a busy trail, you generally don’t need to make too much noise, but always be bear aware. 

This means staying alert, traveling in a group if possible, minding children and keeping the pets on a leash, and finally carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it. This means having it easily accessible so you can reach it within seconds in an emergency and not at the bottom of your backpack.

If you are flying to Alberta, bear spray cannot travel on an airplane. So it’s best to buy it when you get to Canada. Atmosphere on Banff Ave and Valhalla in Canmore both carry bear spray and are recommended places to buy it.

People are generally surprised that they didn’t use their bear spray that they purchased for a trip to the mountains. It’s worth noting that we have been out on hundreds of hikes, go biking multiple times a week, and even carry bear spray while walking/running/biking around our neighborhood (so a daily occurrence) and have never once had to use bear spray . It’s kinda like a seat belt or insurance – there in an emergency, but most likely will never be used.

Check Trail Conditions

Before heading out on any trail, you should be prepared for the wilderness and trail conditions. My go-to is the app, AllTrails , which reviews many of the current trail conditions. Keep in mind that AllTrails is not the end-all be-all of hiking, it is a convenient app that gives decent information such as distance and elevation, but it still has plenty of questionable information as well.

It is a starting point for research, so don’t treat it like a hiking bible . Reviews are a mixed bag. One persons definition of “hard” or “easy” is different from the next, just keep that in mind.

If there are recent reviews, I study them before picking where I will head off for the day. If someone notes that the trails are icy or that they recently saw a bear on the course, I will likely avoid it and pick another one. You should also check Parks Canada for trail closure notices and any other important information.

Purchase a Parks Canada Pass

You can purchase a Parks Canada pass at any park gate; you need a Parks Canada pass to visit Banff and all the Canadian National Parks. This includes Jasper National Park, Yoho National Park, and Kootenay National Park. Yes, Parks Canada employees check, and you can get a ticket. Parks Canada pass prices are as follows:

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Fees (Yearly Pass)

Parks canada day pass rates.

You can buy from Parks Canada in advance online. If you’re staying in Banff for over a few days, I highly recommend a Discovery Pass. A Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which gets you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for the year, is only $ 151.25 for a family.

Again, day passes are $11 per person, so depending on how many days you are staying and if you have plans to go to Banff, you may want to consider the Discover Pass. If you plan to hike in Kananaskis, you need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass , separate from the Parks Canada Pass.

Altitude In Banff

The town of Banff sits at 1,383 meters (4,537 feet), making it the highest town in Canada. If you think you might suffer from altitude sickness from visiting Banff, getting medication may be worth it.

I have never had a problem in the Canadian Rockies, and neither have any friends and family who have visited. So unless you are prone to altitude sickness, you will likely be fine! Just come with lots of lotion, vaseline, and chapstick— it’s dry here!

Save Money By Eating In

One of the main things to know before going to Banff is that a holiday to Banff is not a cheap one. Banff is a tourist town, and prices are higher than in many other places in Canada. If you go out to eat for every meal, you’ll put a massive dent in your wallet.

I recommend booking a VRBO with a kitchen to enjoy some of your meals in . The leading grocery stores in Banff are IGA and Nesters. They are more expensive than your typical Canadian grocery store but still cheaper than eating every meal out. Grab some bread and cheese and a cooler for lunch and enjoy a picnic lunch (just remember to leave no trace).

If you really want to save money on your food, Save On Foods or Safeway in Canmore have everyday grocery store prices that don’t gouge tourists.

Enjoy All The Things To Do in Banff

There are so many amazing things to do in and around Banff that it’s impossible to ever get bored, and you’ll need many trips to Banff to feel fulfilled to the fullest! We get out all the time and know we will never even scratch the surface. You’ll love being in Banff as long as you like being outside. Here are just a few things in Banff that I recommend.

• Relax at Lake Minnewanka : One of the top things to do in Banff National Park is Lake Minnewanka. Lake Minnewanka is a glacial lake that is just a ten-minute drive away from the town of Banff. This lake is 21 km long and 142 meters deep.
• Photograph Two Jack Lake : Two Jack Lake is just a five-minute drive away from Lake Minnewanka. It’s another fantastic lake with Mount Rundle Views. Two Jack is one of the most photographed lakes in the Canadian Rockies due to its proximity to Banff. However, it’s possible to arrive here with a tripod in the winter and be all by yourself.
• Ski/Snowboard: Banff has three ski resorts in the park and a few more if you venture to Kananaskis, Golden, or Jasper. All are fantastic and are the best thing to do in the winter.
• Mt Norquay Via Ferrata : Want to get into the mountains, but have the safety of harnesses and a mountain guide? Mt. Norquay’s Via Ferrata is the perfect thing to do for those looking for a real adventure in the Canadian Rockies.
• Hike to Helen Lake : Helen Lake is a beautiful lake along the Icefields Parkway. It’s far less prevalent than nearby Lake Moraine or Lake Louise. While the water is not glacier-fed bright blue, it’s a peaceful area.

Where to Stay in Banff

You have so many lodging options in Banff. We break down all the best neighborhoods to stay in Banff here , as well as the best hotels in Banff, and the best hotels in Canmore. A few of our favorite places are:

The Moose Hotel

Elk + Avenue

Rimrock Hotel

Hopefully, these Banff travel tips help you plan your trip to Banff . If you have any other questions leave a comment or see our  Canadian Rockies travel guide  for more articles about photography spots, lakes, hikes, and everything else.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

↓ Join the community ↓

The  Banff Blog Facebook Group  is your headquarters for Canadian Rockies travel advice and information, including hike and off-season travel information. You can also meet new adventure buddies.

About Cameron

Cameron is a resident of Canmore, Alberta. After traveling the world for six years, he settled down in the beautiful Bow Valley with Natasha. He has been featured as a travel expert with numerous publications worldwide and has spoken on several occasions about the power of travel. He has a passion for all things in the Canadian Rockies and loves to spend his time snowboarding, scrambling, camping, biking, and trail running. Conservation is a deep fundamental in his life, and he aims to inspire others to care about our natural world. You can learn more on the about us page. If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

8 thoughts on “27 Helpful Banff Travel Tips to Know”

Great blog! We will be there in May 2022!

I’m traveling solo and would love to include hacking the beehive and other places as well, what do you suggest especially if I can’t afford a tour guide for every hike.

You most certainly do not need a guide for easy hikes in the park. The Beehive is on a well-developed and trafficked trail.

Is it too late to come to enjoy the scenery from sept 17-24?

That’s one of my favorite times to be in Banff! You can see more about the months here: https://thebanffblog.com/best-time-to-visit-banff/

This is an amazing guide! Thanks for sharing it!

Love your blog! We (two older, but still healthy and active ladies) are planning to spend 10 days in the Banff area, mid-May this year. Won’t be doing any hiking or skiing, just the normal touristy adventures and walking around the towns. Will keep reading, but can you recommend blog articles that would be most helpful to us? Thanks!

Hi Kristin,

Perhaps this post will help you with the timing of your trip! https://thebanffblog.com/banff-in-may/

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Banff Travel Guide – Tips for your First Trip to Banff National Park

By Brianna | August 2, 2019

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Banff National Park tops many travel wish lists for good reason. Stunning mountain landscapes are dotted with breathtaking glacial lakes and blanketed with evergreens as far as the eye can see. Whether you choose to view Banff from the comfort of your car or go on an epic backcountry hike there is an adventure for everyone. With such majestic scenery it’s no surprise that more people are traveling to Banff than ever before; and with so much to see and do in Banff planning a trip to Banff can be a bit overwhelming. Armed with these tip you can make your trip to Banff one to remember.

This post contains affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small  commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you.

Traveling to Banff

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the nearest airport to Banff National Park and you should expect a 1.5 hour drive in typical traffic. There is regularly scheduled shuttle bus service from Calgary International Airport to Banff but for the greatest flexibility in getting around Banff I suggest renting a car. You can also arrive by train, either by Canada Rail (you can travel all the way across Canada by train btw) or the luxury Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver. Banff is also a must stop for any trip through Canada.

Getting Around Banff National Park

While having your own car offers the most freedom there are some public transportation options. Roam Transit offers a hybrid bus service linking Canmore and Banff to some of the most popular sites throughout the park. Alternately you can take a hop on/ hop off bus which stops at Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine.

When to Visit Banff

Late June through early September is the high season for Banff. Sunny days and mild temperatures draw crowds looking to experience Banff’s beautiful glacial lakes and adventurers seeking to hike the back country of the Canadian Rockies; along with the crowds come higher lodging prices. Banff’s three ski resorts are the big draw during the winter months with skiing, snowboarding and plenty of apres-ski activities for everyone.

Spring and autumn are Banff’s shoulder seasons, the crowds thin out but if you come during this time be prepared for unpredictable weather. It’s not uncommon for it to snow in May or September.

Entrance Fees for Banff National Park

Adults and seniors can purchase a day pass to Banff ($9.80/$8.30 CAD or $19.60 for groups up to 7 traveling in the same vehicle) that will give you entrance not only to Banff but to Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay and Waterton Lakes. Kids 17 and younger can visit for free!

If you plan on staying in the Banff area for an extended amount of time or plan on visiting multiple Canadian national parks the Discovery Pass ($67.70/$57.70/$136.40 CAD for adult/senior/group) is a great deal. The Discovery Pass grants access to over 80 Parks Canada sites.

Weather in Banff

Weather in Banff can be highly variable, even in the summer months. Summer days are usually sunny with high temperatures that range from 60-75 degrees Farenheight ( 15-24 degrees Celsius) but it’s not uncommon for cooler temperatures and rain, even in July and August. From October to April snow (and lots of it) are a given.

Where to Stay in Banff National Park

Whether you want a cozy cabin, a family friendly condo or five star luxury there’s a place for everyone in Banff. Accommodations can be pricey in the high summer season but you can find deals by visiting in the off season. Most of the lodging options in the national park are centered around Banff and Lake Louise, but the town of Canmore just outside Banff has a lot of options and a great mountain vibe.

Hotels in Canmore

Basecamp Lodge

Grand Rockies Resort

Solara Resort and Spa

Creekside Villa

Lamphouse Hotel

Hotels in Banff

Fairmont Banff Springs

Canalta Lodge

Elk + Avenue Hotel

Hidden Ridge Resorts

Banff Caribous Lodge and Spa

Brewster’s Mountain Lodge

Hotels in Lake Louise

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Post Hotel Lake Louise ( Read my review )

Lake Louise Inn

Things to Do in Banff National Park

Banff is all about the outdoors and experiencing the splendor of the Canadian Rockies. I’ve listed the sites here in order of distance from the park entrance. Since the vast majority of Banff is wilderness it’s best to keep your gas tank on the higher side. There are far more hikes, sights and activities in Banff than I can list but I think the following sites highlight the best of the Canadian Rockies.

Lake Minnewanka

Banff National Park has no shortage of beautiful glacial lakes and Lake Minnewanka has something for just about everyone. Located just 5 km from the town of Banff this 21 km (13 mile) long lake is big on size and adventure. Trails along the rocky shore offer plenty of opportunity for hiking, mountain biking and picnicking. Lake Minnewanka is also your best bet for getting out on the water; the guided scenic boat cruise is a popular way to explore the lake  and learn about it’s cultural history (including First Nations’ archeological artifacts ) or you can rent a canoe for a fraction of the price of Lake Louise.

Town of Banff

Banff offers a lot of lodging and restaurant options with a great view of Mount Norquay, but can get quite crowded during the busy summer season. While you’re in town make sure to take a stroll along the scenic Bow River Trail and check out the grand Faimont Banff Springs Hotel.

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular attractions in Banff. Flanked by a lush evergreen forest, Johnston Creek has carved a winding limestone canyon to dramatic effect. An easy hike can bring you to the Lower Falls, and the crowds thin out if you continue on to the Upper Falls. If you have several hours continue 3km to the Inkpots, seven emerald colored mineral springs set in an open meadow.

Lake Moraine

Located 14 km from the village of Lake Louise the stunning aquamarine waters of Lake Moraine are one of the most iconic views in the Canadian Rockies (so much so that Lake Moraine was once featured on the back of Canada’s twenty dollar bill). The most popular view can be had from a quick 15 minute hike to The Rockpile for a view of this beautiful glacial lake but there are a variety of hikes (including Constellation Lake and Sentinel Pass) for those looking for a bit more adventure.

Aim to get to Lake Moraine before 7am as the parking lot fills up and Parks Canada staff will turn cars away ( a shuttle is available from Lake Louise of the Lake Louise Park and Ride later on in the day). Lake Moraine is accessible May-October and is closed during the winter due to high avalanche risk.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most photographed places on the planet and it’s not hard to see why. Carved by the Victoria Glacier, massive peaks flank beautiful turquoise water and the palatial Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise welcomes everyone. Summer brings crowds looking to enjoy this mountain paradise and your best bet is to get here early (the tour buses start to arrive at 8 am and the parking lots fill up).

What to do while you’re at Lake Louise ? Canoeing Lake Louise is a bucket list item but at $135/hour this experience doesn’t come cheap. If hiking is more your style Lake Louise has a trail to suit everyone. The Lakeshore Trail is flat and hugs the lake but there are plenty of options if you crave a bit more elevation and adventure.

The Lake Agnes Teahouse hike from Lake Louise is one of the most popular hikes in Banff. The trailhead is a few minutes walk from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and is a moderately steep hike on a packed dirt path but the payoff for your effort is well rewarded. Plan for 2–3 hours roundtrip with plenty of time to stop at Mirror Lake as well as Lake Agnes and it’s famous teahouse where you can stop for a cup of tea, hot soup and a pastry (the teahouse accepts cash only and waits can be up to 45 minutes during the busy summer season). Hike past the teahouse to the Little Beehive, a rocky outcrop with a bird’s eye view over Lake Louise.

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway go from Banff to Jasper National Park has been lauded as one of the world’s most scenic road trips and I’d have to agree. Many people take this epic drive as a day trip from Banff ending at the Columbia Icefields, but if you want to continue onto Jasper be sure to take a look at this comprehensive guide to the Icefields Parkway and check out this guide for things to do in Jasper .

Located 37 km north of Lake Louise Bow Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park. Easily viewed from the Icefield Parkway, this lake owes it’s beautiful turquoise color from glacier runoff from Bow Glacier. The blue water is especially strking against the backdrop of Bow Summit when it’s sunny but is still impressive if it happens to be overcast. Park at Num-Ti-Jah Lodge for great views or to walk along the lake.

Just 5 minutes from Bow Lake the bright blue of Peyto Lake is stunningly surreal. Follow signs for “Bow Summit” (there are no signs that say “Peyto Lake”) and a short, but steep hike brings you to one of the most beautiful views on the planet. Peyto Lake is extremely popular so be prepared for crowds.

Mistaya Canyon

67 km from Lake Louise Mistaya Canyon was one of my favorite stops along the Icefields Parkway. A short hike takes you where the power of the Mistaya River has cut a beautiful swirling gorge into the limstone. Set against the backdrop of towering evergreens and snow covered peaks Mistaya is just stunning.

Columbia Icefield/Athabasca Glacier

The largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, the Colombia icefield is 130 km from Lake Louise and while it is located in nearby Jasper National Park many people visit as a day trip from Banff. Athabasca Glacier is the most visited glacier in North America and is receeding at an alarming rate of 15 feet per year. Stop at at the Columbia Icefield Discover Center to check out exhibits on the glaciers, purchase tour tickets or grab a bite to eat in the cafe.

There are several ways you can get close to the glacier. You can take a guide Snocoach tour onto the glacier where you are then allowed to walk around the glacier for about 20 minutes. If you are a bit more adventurous you can opt for a guided ice walk tour (walking on the glacier without a guide is prohibited), these last between 3-6 hours depending on the tour you choose. Alternately you can do a self guided hike to the toe of the glacier (this is what we chose to do). The hike to the toe of the glacier takes about 40 minutes but is steep with loose rocks and is not appropriate if you have any mobility issues.

Tips for visiting Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the top tourist destination in Canada and parts of the park can get extremely crowded in the summer months, especially when the tour buses roll through. Expect to have trouble finding parking in both the town of Banff and Lake Louise as well as waits at more popular sites like Johnston Canyon and Lake Moraine.

Canoeing in Banff

Canoeing the beautiful glacial lakes tops many Banff wish lists but it can be pricy, especially at Lake Moraine ( $100/hour CAD) and Lake Louise ($135/hour CAD). Consider canoeing at Vermillion Lakes ($40 CAD), Lake Minnewanka( $65/hour CAD) or Emerald Lake in nearby Yoho National Park ($80/CAD).

With altitudes of 5,000 feet and up, you may need some time to adjust especially if you live at or near sea level like me. While the altitude didn’t prevent me from doing anything the hikes I did on my first full day felt more strenuous than the ones after a few days of being able to acclimate.

Don’t ask the Australian server for hiking tips

I’d often chat with servers and staff during my trip, most of whom were from Australia. Without fail whenever I’d ask for hiking tips I’d get a recommendation for a 20 mile 2 day ridgeline hike. I’m sure it’s a great hike but not quite what I was looking for.

Stay in Canmore

On the recommendation of a few friends who live in Calgary we stayed in Canmore for the first half of our trip and I’m sure glad we did. Hotels and restaurants in Canmore were less expensive and it wasn’t at all crowded. We loved the laid back mountain vibe here and I wish I had more time to check out the hikes, biking and rafting in Canmore.

Wear good shoes

Unless you’re walking the sidewalks around town Banff is not the place for flip flops. Many trails are steep and uneven with loose rocks. Nothing ruins a trip faster than a sprained ankle.

Wildlife in Banff

Wildlife sightings are very common in Banff but use common sense and keep your distance, both for your safety and that of the animals. Elk, deer, bighorn sheep, groundhogs and chipmunks are commonly spotted; you may also see bears (more on bears below), mountain goats, coyote or wolves.

Banff is home to both grizzlies and black bears. Do not approach bears or get out of your car to view them (common sense) and if you’re hiking more remotely take bear spray.

Check hiking trail conditions before you go

Hiking trail conditions can be highly variable, especially higher altitude backcountry trails or if there’s been a lot of snow earlier in the year. Check for current trail conditions before you hike.

About the Author

Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

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Nancy Williams says

August 3, 2019 at 10:23 am

I absolutely cannot wait to visit Banff someday. Reading this and seeing your pictures makes me want to go now!

August 3, 2019 at 10:30 am

Banff has been on my personal bucket list for a very long time, but I think I missed my window as it is becoming increasingly popular, I like the idea of Banff alternatives nearby. This region is 1000% gorgeous and I will get there some day!

Sue Davies says

August 3, 2019 at 10:39 am

The water looks so blue/green in all of the lakes. Very helpful post. And so sad to hear how quickly the glacier is retreating. Definitely, need to get there soon before it becomes even more crowded.

Laureen Lund says

August 4, 2019 at 1:00 pm

Your photos are stunning. It’s one of my favorite places in the world. Thanks for the walk down memory land!

Tamara says

August 5, 2019 at 11:07 pm

I’m so happy to see that most of what I had on my itinerary has been included in your post!

Rashmi K says

November 10, 2019 at 6:15 am

Banff National Park is on my travel wishlist. Awesome pics. The natural beauty of this place is absolutely captivating. I hope to visit this national park soon.

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Banff Itinerary: A 3-Day Travel Guide for 2024

If there’s anything Canada is famous for – after absurdly friendly people and maple syrup – it’s got to be its stunning nature and landscapes. Banff National Park is perhaps the most famous showcase of the country’s natural beauty, considering it hosts more than 4 million visitors every year.

And let me tell you, when you visit Banff in the high season – it shows! If you’re planning to visit Banff, but only have a couple of days, you can use this comprehensive Banff itinerary for 3 days to plan your trip!

Read on for a guide to visiting Banff National Park in 3 days including maps, points of interest, tips for beating the crowds, a short packing list, things to do in Banff, the best time to visit Banff, and as always – tons of excellent photography locations in Banff National Park!

All of my favorite places are denoted in the headline with a ★ so you know which places you absolutely should not miss on your Banff road trip itinerary!

Before you go to Banff National Park

You don’t need to overplan your trip, but there are a couple of things you’ll want to make sure are all squared away before you go to Banff National Park:

Duration – 3 days Dates visited – August 27-29

Where to stay in Banff

Depending on where you stay in and around Banff, you can spend wildly different amounts on accommodation. The most important thing to do, is to BOOK IN ADVANCE , especially if you are planning to visit during Summer!

One of my colleagues booked more than seven months in advance and found most of Banff was already booked out. If you haven’t booked accommodation yet, head over to my post dedicated to where to stay in Banff for details on how to pick accommodation in Banff.

Otherwise, here are a couple of options to consider:

• Banff town – Right in the thick of things, staying in Banff will save you about 40 minutes of travel each day compared to Canmore. Tons of excellent dining, though on the pricier side both for food and accommodation. Check out Banff Ptarmigan Inn , which strikes a good balance between having those mountain lodge vibes and being affordable by Banff standards. Click here to check hotel availability in Banff for the dates of your visit.
• Canmore, Alberta – This is where we stayed! Located less than 20 minutes from Banff, but has a bigger selection (being a slightly bigger town). It’s less expensive, has less competitive parking, and more selection. Specifically, we stayed at this resort in Canmore , and enjoyed having a suite with a full kitchen. It’s also really family-friendly with an indoor swimming pool with a slide for the kids, and several nice restaurants within walking distance. Click here to check availability in Canmore for hotels during the dates of your visit.
• Lake Louise – Easily the most stunning place to stay, if you’ve got the budget for it! Wake up every morning with lake views (and enjoy that sweet priority parking). Without a doubt, the Fairmont Chataeu Lake Louise is easily the most coveted place to stay near Banff . Definitely the place I would stay if I were loaded with money (or just enjoying a special occassion like a birthday or anniversary!). Click here to see other hotels in Lake Louise for the dates of your visit.

Looking for hotels in Banff is not for the faint of heart. Learn where to stay in Banff, the pros and cons of different locations, what to look for in accommodation in Banff, tips for doing it on a budget.

Should you rent a car in Banff?

If possible, I recommend renting a car with 4-wheel drive . It will give you an unparalleled amount of flexibility to customize this itinerary to your own needs and interests! The roads are very well-paved but depending on what you plan to do, you might want to add gravel protection to your insurance. That said, there are loads of tours running in and around Banff in case renting a car isn’t feasible for you.

Our favorite place to rent cars is DiscoverCars.com . We’ve used them in almost every country we’ve visited with no issues.

Fun and affordable Banff activities

There are three main activities mentioned in this itinerary : two right near Banff and one along the Icefields Parkway. Here’s a handy list with my own reviews in case you are currently on the hunt for activities in and around Banff!

And without further ado…here is the full 3-day Banff itinerary .

You can take the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain at sunset for these amazing views 😄

Banff Itinerary for 3 days

Day 1: banff and surroundings, day 2: icefields parkway, day 3: lake louise, moraine lake, bow valley parkway.

Today is all about getting to know the area directly around the town of Banff and the town itself. We’ll start early in the morning on the Lake Minnewanka Loop and pop by ultra-reflective Two Jack Lake before continuing on to our Minnewanka Lake Cruise on the largest lake in Banff National Park. After that we’ll go for an early lunch in Banff before taking a look at Bow River on our way to the Mount Norquay Viewpoint and then the Vermillion Lakes . Our last stop before dinner is Johnston Canyon , and after dinner we’ll take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain to watch sunset.

Two Jack Lake ★

Arrive at Two Jack Lake early in the morning for the stillest water and the best reflections. Two Jack is connected to Lake Minnewanka, yet has its own small-lake vibes. If you’re keen to have breakfast outdoors, Two Jack Lake has a number of picnic spots for you to enjoy the early hours with a coffee in your hand.

Two Jack gets a lot less attention than its big sister Minnewanka, so in the morning you’ll have the place mostly to yourself. So long as you take the longer branch of the Lake Minnewanka Loop you’ll have an easy time stopping here on your way to your boat cruise.

Lake Minnewanka ★

I originally booked a cruise on Lake Minnewanka after reading an itinerary where the author considered it the highlight of her trip! Especially since I was traveling with my parents and my boyfriend, we thought it would be a good way to kick off the trip. We learned about the history of the lake, both in terms of the original inhabitants and the explorers of Europe, got to taste some pine tea and locally-made sourdough bread. Our guide was ultra friendly and took time to answer questions in addition to telling lots of stories about the lake.

I even saw a bald eagle fly over the boat! It’s also possible to see other animals like wolves or bears, but of course when it comes to nature, it’s all about getting lucky 😄

My own takeaway from the trip was that it’s a great way to experience Banff’s largest lake and get some context about the park before starting our 3-day experience.

Note: There is only one company that offers cruises on Lake Minnewanka, called Brewster with the parent company Pursuit. You’ll see that they offer lots of different tours throughout Banff, and also operate the Banff Gondola. In general our experiences with them were positive!

We chose the 1.5 hour extended cruise. It was something like $10 more per person but 50% longer so we thought it seemed like a great deal. Furthermore, our cruise had just a few people on it whereas the classic cruise was totally packed, even when we arrived 15 minutes early.

Here are the different types of Lake Minnewanka cruises:

• 10AM – 1.5 hour extended cruise
• 12PM – Childrens cruise
• 5PM – Beer cruise

If you have the time, you can also do a hike to Stuart Canyon from Lake Minnewanka. Ultimately we opted against it because we wanted to go for an early lunch in Banff so we’d have plenty of time to do things afterwards before our dinner reservation at Park Distillery .

Banff town ★

The town of Banff is the epicenter of this part of the national park. It’s become famous on instagram for its mountain views right from the main street, Banff Avenue. The main challenge we faced when visiting Banff was parking our massive truck, but we eventually got lucky with the row of parking right on Bow River .

Besides being the home of plenty of great restaurants (with high prices to match), you can buy all the Banff sweaters and leaf-shaped maple syrup bottles your heart desires in Banff. It’s also the starting point for a lot of day tours, and therefore a convenient place to stay if you aren’t self-driving Banff National Park.

Bow River and Bow Falls

You can take the scenic route around Banff and you’ll find both the river and the waterfall right in the heart of town. One of the common things you’ll be thinking about on this trip is how incredible the color of the water is. That’s because the Bow River is fed by the Bow Glacier, which imparts its amazing color.

Mount Norquay Viewpoint

After lunch, you can do a short drive up Mount Norquay, a popular spot for skiing around Banff. There’s an obvious turnout and viewpoint that’ll give you a view over Banff and across to Tunnel Mountain, Mount Rundle, and Sulphur Mountain. We also got lucky enough to spot a whole herd of mountain sheep!

This lookout point has a large plain of grass in case you prefer to prepare yourself a picnic and eat in the grass and enjoy the view.

Vermillion Lakes

Next are the Vermillion Lakes, which we found surprisingly unpopulated despite the close proximity to the town of Banff. There are two main ways you can see the Vermillion Lakes: either from the lookout point connected to the highway or by driving along a road that winds along parallel to the lakes and the highway at the lake level. Ideally you take the time for both!

What makes the Vermillion Lakes special is the view of Mount Rundle, the distinctive jagged mountain in the distance. In the morning or winter when the water is still, you can see a clear reflection of the mountain in the lakes.

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is probably one of the most popular sites on today’s itinerary, given that the “hiking trail” is totally paved and easy to access for families. That means the first part of the trail through the canyon is going to have quite a lot of people, especially in the Summer.

There are three points of interest at different distances: the lower falls, the upper falls, and the ink pots. We only made it to the lower falls and honestly found it a little bit underwhelming – there was a queue to see the waterfall from inside a cave and the view was not much different than seeing it from the outside.

That said, the upper falls are where you’ll find the instagram-famous version of Johnston Canyon, so if you’re on the hunt for photos definitely do the extra trek to get there! It’s not that much longer in total.

Banff Gondola / Sulphur Mountain

After dinner, you can head up the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain to watch the sunset over Banff town and its surroundings. If the clouds behave you can end up with a really spectacular sunset, and what’s better – if you buy gondola tickets after 5PM you get a small discount!

When we went there was a “Sunset Festival” happening at the top of Sulphur Mountain, though the performer was not that great so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend spending your whole evening up here. And indeed, after the sun had thoroughly set, most people were queueing up to head back down to town.

Icefields Parkway is considered one of the most scenic road trips you can do in the entire world . The whole time you’ve got mountains on either side, glaciers cropping up in the distance, and even wildlife easily spotted from the road. This epic stretch of road connects Banff National Park with Jasper National Park to the north. While you’d ideally spend at least two days driving the Icefields Parkway, it’s doable in a single day.

Our strategy was to focus on stops on the side of the road with the best sunlight during that time of day in order to snap the best photos. For the most part we focused on driving up north quickly, and only start to make stops after hitting the half-way point.

That means on the way up we stopped at Bow Lake , Big Bend Lookout , Panther Falls , Athabasca Glacier , Sunwapta Falls , Athabasca Falls , and fueling up in Jasper .

On the way back to Canmore, we stopped at Saskatchewan River Crossing , Tangle Falls , Peyto Lake , and Herbert Lake .

We woke up around 6AM in order to leave by 7:30AM for a long day of driving. If you want to take more sunrise photos, you’ll probably need to get up earlier in the Summer. Make sure you have plenty of gas in your car , the only place to gas up before you get to Jasper is the Saskatchewan River Crossing which is more expensive than getting gas beforehand. You should also be aware that these services are not available in the Winter, so be prepared!

Our first stop in the morning is Bow Lake , which is probably the most famous for its ultra-reflective water. It also has a fabulous color in the sunlight thanks to the adjoining glacier. This lake is pretty massive and it’s very easy to walk down to the shore for some up-close photos.

Big Bend / Cirrus Mountain Lookout

After Bow Lake we’ll drive for a while and try to make some progress along the Icefields Parkway. Make sure that once you transfer from the Trans Canada Highway that you change onto the 93, which is the Icefields Parkway that leads to Jasper. There’ll be a checkpoint for your park pass, and you can also get a map with some points of interest along the parkway.

The next stop we’ll make is at a big curve in the road, called Big Bend (named after a nearby mountain). If you stop at the lookout point on top, there’s a great view over the road and you can even see a waterfall trickling down the side of the mountain.

This is where Banff and Jasper National Parks meet, so be prepared that you’ll soon be entering a new national park (and that you have your park pass in order 😉).

Panther Falls

Shortly after the Big Bend lookout point, you’ll see another turnout where you can stop. From here it’s possible to do a short (but slightly trecherous) hike to Panther Falls . This spot isn’t on any of the maps, probably because there isn’t much infrastructure around it and you can walk right up to the cliffs. Obviously – don’t do that, the drop is steep and leads directly to the bottom of the waterfall. If you’re careful you can catch a glimpse of a very special and hidden waterfall.

Note: Access to these falls is a little dangerous so please be careful!

Athabasca Glacier ★

Icefields Parkway gets its name for the enormous Columbia Icefield that rests on top of the mountain range. It’s the largest accumulation of ice south of the Arctic Circle! The glaciers we see are just “toes” of that larger icefield, and the Athabasca Glacier is one of the largest. You can get close to a certain point, enough for some really nice pictures!

But if you want to actually get onto the glacier and see it up close, you can take a tour by the same company that runs the Minnewanka Lake Cruise and the Banff Gondola:

• Athabasca Glacier Tour and Glacier Skywalk – This tour lets you drive right up on the glacier in a special vehicle! Taking a tour like this is the only way to safely get on the glacier yourself. It lasts for 3 hours, and has really flexible times: you just show up at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discover Center and you can join any of the tours that depart every 15-30 minutes.
• Columbia Icefields, Glacier Skywalk, and Lake Louise tour – If you’re open for a full-day tour, this one combines a number of highlights from the Icefields Parkway into a single trip: Lake Louise (easily Banff’s most famous lake), Peyto Lake, and two glaciers – one of which you’ll explore on foot the same way as the other tour, on an Ice Explorer! This tour has overwhelmingly positive reviews on TripAdvisor.

Sunwapta Falls ★

You can choose to visit Sunwapta Falls either on your way up the Parkway or back down, but we opted to do it on the way up in order to get the falls in good lighting. Here you can see that a good part of the falls was already in shade when we arrived a little after noon.

After shooting some photos, we stopped at a picnic spot for lunch. There are really not a lot of places to eat out here, though you could theoretically eat lunch at the Saskatchewan River Crossing on the way up if you’re running a bit late or a bit early. Otherwise, we made it up to Jasper and there are plenty of options there.

Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls are the highest volume waterfalls in Jasper National Park, and super powerful! While I didn’t find them as picturesque as Sunwapta Falls, they were still worth the stop. There’s a lot of infrastructure that allows you to see the falls from different angles.

Jasper pitstop

After reaching Athabasca Falls, you’re only about 20 kilometers away from Jasper. You don’t need to come all the way up if you’d rather save time, but it’s a useful place to get gas and stock up on snacks. Probably the most famous sight in Jasper is Maligne Lake , which can only be reached through a road from Jasper that doesn’t connect back directly to the Icefields Parkway. We didn’t have time for this stop, but you might if you start reaaaaaaally early 😉

Saskatchewan River Crossing

You can get out here and see the spot where trappers and fur traders used to cross on their way into British Columbia. Again you’ll spot some more glaciers, and this is an opportune stop partway back to your home base along the Icefields Parkway.

Tangle Falls

Tangle Falls is right along the road, and if you drive too fast you’re likely to miss it. Unlike a lot of waterfalls, Tangle Falls is a place where you’re allowed to climb on the rocks around the waterfall. The map we got at the beginning of the parkway warned us to be on the lookout for sheep!

Peyto Lake ★

This lake is the highlight of the day, and we were lucky we got to visit it because the maps we received from the park service said it was closed for rennovation! Luckily we decided to check it out anyways, and after a short 15-20m hike for 2km on a paved path, you emerge with a high-level view of Peyto Lake! Peyto Lake is probably most famous for being shaped like the head of a wolf.

This lake is like a less frequented sister to the two lakes we’re visiting tomorrow: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. It has the same famous turquoise water. You can take a 2.8km hike to a higher viewpoint to get away from the crowds. We visited during Golden Hour and the crowds were certainly managable.

Herbert Lake

The last place we stopped on the way back from our Icefields Parkway drive was Herbert Lake, which is best known for its reflections in the water. On a day without wind, the lake acts like a perfect mirror for the trees and mountains above. Herbert Lake also has a number of spots for day camping if you want a spot to chill out and picnic.

This itinerary is all about saving the best for last. And today we’re going to two of the most famous lakes in the entire Banff region: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake . Read on for lots of tips on exactly how to reach these lakes, which are typically the most popular with tourists. After our lake adventures we’ll also stop by Castle Junction where you can get a great view of Castle Mountain before you continue along Bow Valley Parkway during Golden Hour. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife in the numerous meadows and forests along the way!

Lake Louise ★

When I was reading up on TripAdvisor exactly how I could reach Lake Louise, there were a number of people who said Lake Louise is the most beautiful places they’ve ever been. While I’ll admit it was gorgeous, I’m not sure I’d rank it that high – but you have to think, when you’re on the shores of Lake Louise, that it is a very, very special place.

And this special place attracts crowds. That said, I found the reviews on TripAdvisor to be completely overdramatic with the number of crowds (I was not, however, visiting Lake Louise on a weekend!). There are crowds but I thought that Parks Canada did a good job managing them and that the bus system was pretty well organized.

Read on for tips on how to reach Lake Louise and how it works.

How to reach Lake Louise

In essence you have five main options:

• Wake up before dawn and try to get a spot in the Lake Louise parking lot. Usually full of cars by 6:30AM.
• Take the free bus from the “overflow parking” to Lake Louise town and hike ~1h to the lake. Departs every 45 minutes.
• Pay $2 per person for a round trip directly to Lake Louise from the “overflow parking” lot. Departs every 15 minutes starting at 9am and has variable waiting times for the bus.
• Stay at the Fairmont Chataeu Lake Louise and wake up to a view of Lake Louise
• Take a tour to Lake Louise directly (this tour also includes many other beautiful stops).

We eventually took Option 3 as were traveling with my parents who weren’t so keen on waking up at 3AM to go to the lake. I can’t blame them 😂 In total our wait for the bus was probably around 45 minutes and the whole system seemed pretty organized. They send busses every 15 minutes and it helps control how many people are at the lake. We also found the lake a bit crowded but still totally mangable around 11AM on a Thursday in August.

At Lake Louise you can directly buy a ticket for the bus to Moraine Lake. That one costs $6 per person and you need to pick a time in advance when you want to go to the lake. We opted to spend 3 hours at Lake Louise for photos and eating lunch. One thing we missed in the area was a 3-hour round-trip hike to Lake Agnes , which we’d love to do on a return trip.

Moraine Lake ★

Moraine Lake, like Lake Louise, has limited parking that tends to fill up fast. When it’s full that means they close the parking lot altogether as people tend to spend a lot of time here. If you want to snag the famous photo of Moraine Lake with the sun on the tips of the mountains, you’re going to need to wake up damn early to get it!

Be sure to climb the Rockpile for the best photos of Moraine Lake at any time of day. When the sun is out, the lake becomes the most unbelievable turquoise color. Yes, it is a good or better than the photos! But you can really tell a difference between when the sun is out or when it’s cloudy.

Get this photo by climbing to the top of the Rockpile. There are quite a lot of stairs and you’ll be climbing over some rocks so wear sturdy shoes!

From Moraine Lake you can take the bus back to your car at the overflow parking. The return trip is included in the $6 ticket you bought at Lake Louise.

Castle Mountain ★

From Lake Louise, you’ll want to connect at Castle Junction. You might need to go slightly north to make sure you don’t miss this exact junction. As you cross at Castle Junction on your way to Bow Valley Parkway, stop before the bridge over Bow River and go through the wildlife gate (be sure to close it behind you) up to the river. From there you can take photos of Castle Mountain surrounded by water!

Castle Mountain looks best at sunset when it’s illuminated by the setting sun. This photo was taken in the morning.

Bow Valley Parkway

Bow Valley Parkway is a small highway that runs parallel to the Trans Canada Highway. You can take it at a slower pace – if you want to return to Johnston Canyon, you can do that along this stretch. Otherwise, be on the lookout for animals! This is a popular spot for animals to walk through, whether they are wolves or moose or other critters 😉

More beautiful places in Banff beyond this itinerary

It’s obviously impossible to see every bit of Banff and Jasper National Parks in just three days. I wanted to be sure to mention some of the places that we wanted to visit but didn’t find the time, either because it was a longer hike, we ran out of time, or we passed it on the road.

• Lake Agnes – A 6.8km hike from Lake Louise.
• Emerald Lake (Yoho) – Another popular turquoise color lake with a picturesque lakehouse on its shores.
• Takakkaw Falls (Yoho) – The second tallest waterfall in Canada!
• Morant’s Curve – Famous spot to catch a photo of the Candian railway in action, located on the northern part of the Bow Valley Parkway.
• Maligne Lake and Spirit Island (Jasper) – Only accessible from Jasper from a road that doesn’t connect back directly to the Icefields Parkway. On my list to return to!
• Mistata Canyon – An easy stop on the Icefields Parkway, which we passed.
• Parker’s Ridge – This is a longer hike.
• Wilcox Pass – This is a longer hike.

Banff Packing List

What exactly you need to pack for Banff is going to depend on what kind of trip you’re planning to have. Obviously if you’ll be doing a lot of hiking, you’ll need appropriate clothing for that. But here are some of the main things I wouldn’t leave at home for this trip:

• Buy your park pass – Be sure to check whether a Parks Canada annual pass is more cost-effective for you. It gives you 12-months of unlimited entrance to over 80 different parks. Realize you will probably go to several parks during your stay in Banff, such as Banff itself, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, and potentially others.
• Carry bear spray – In Banff and the surrounding national parks, you’re expected to hike in groups of at least 4 people and always be carrying bear spray . If you’re driving to Canada, you ARE allowed to bring bear spray over the border (which is what we did). Otherwise, you should buy it once you’re in Canada because bear spray is not allowed to be in checked luggage.
• Bring hiking boots – Even some sights are close to the road yet require some hiking on unpaved paths. I stupidly only brought tennis shoes and I regretted it!
• Pack warm layers (even in Summer!) – The temperature variation in Banff can be pretty extreme, with cold mornings and evenings as well as hot mid-day sun suitable for shorts. Wear layers you can remove as the day warms up and put back on as it cools down. A wind layer will also come in handy for those mountain tops!
• Get an offline-friendly travel guide – Much of Banff National Park does NOT have cellular reception at all! You won’t be able to reliably use your data plan in the national park. If you want to check on-the-fly whether a stop or a hike is worthwhile, you are going to need an offline-friendly travel guide. See my recommendation below.

Recommended travel guide – I found this awesome Banff National Park guidebook extremely useful for planning our trip. It has great sample itineraries, color photos, hiking guides, tips for where to see wildlife, as well as information on Jasper and Glacier National Parks in addition to Banff itself. Again, this is really helpful when traveling somewhere without any cell reception.

Best time to visit Banff

Banff is a popular destination to visit year round, with the Summer months popular for the great weather and the winter months popular for winter sports such as skiing. Since Banff receives heavy snowfall, there are a lot of roads or hikes that are not accessible in Winter. That said, you can capture some really amazing photos in the wintertime that you can’t capture for the rest of the year. August begins so-called “Berry season” where the buffalo berry is ripe and the bears eat a quarter million berries daily to start fattening up for winter. Obviously in the Winter you probably wouldn’t see bears, since they are hibernating 😉

We went in late August and found that the weather was great and the days were still long, with sunset around 8:45PM. The crowds were apparent but still managable in the week before the school holiday. September starts to see crowds tapering off, and October is the month where many services start to close for winter. May and June mark the beginning of the tourism season.

Do you want to visit Banff National Park?

Let me know in the comments which of these beautiful locations you’d love to see the most, or if I missed your favorit spot!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

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Ultimate 4-Day Banff Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2023)

With its snow-capped mountains, pristine turquoise glacial lakes, and countless hiking trails, Banff is arguably the most heart-stoppingly beautiful national park in Canada. Whether you are looking to escape the chaos of the world and retreat to nature or simply admire the natural beauty, Banff is a place that everyone visiting Canada should visit. If you are only in town for a few days, here is my ultimate 4-Day Banff Itinerary for First-Time Visitors .

Banff At A Glance

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• What to Pack for Banff
• Tips for Visiting Banff
• Wrap-Up: 4-Day Banff Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2023)

Traveling Soon? Here Are the Travel Resources I Use!

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Banff National Park is nestled in the Canadian Rockies Mountains in Canada’s Alberta Province. The country’s iconic natural beauty is easily accessible by taking the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1), which as the name suggests, is a highway that stretches across all of Canada. If you are more familiar with some of Canada’s major cities, Banff National Park is a 1.5-hour drive from Calgary, about 9 hours Northeast of Vancouver, and 35 hours Northwest of Toronto.

Fun Fact: The United Nations named Banff National Park a World Heritage Site in 1985.

To be honest, Banff is a tourist and local hotspot almost year-round. There really isn’t an off-season, but there are definitely better times to pass through. For example, the peak season is considered from June to August . The peak season consists of milder temperatures, less rainfall, and days where the sun is out until 10 pm at night. Since rainfall tends to muddy the brilliant blue color of the lakes, these summer months are the best time for capturing pictures, canoeing, or hopping on a boat tour. The nice weather also makes conditions perfect for embarking on a hike through the evergreen trees. You may even see some wildlife, including deer, goats, or bears passing by!

NOTE: Summer services, such as boat tours and some hikes, tend to close for the winter season in October.

With Banff’s abundance of snowfall each winter season (October – April) , avid skiers, snowboarders, and alpinists flock to enjoy the three ski resorts. Even if you aren’t particularly interested in winter sports, you should consider visiting during the winter. The national park transforms into a winter wonderland with snow blanketing the entire area, making for a picturesque snow day with friends and family.

That being said, if you want to avoid the heavy crowds, you can pass through during the shoulder season — May and September . Beware though, the weather tends to be fickle. You may get caught in a heavy rainstorm or snowstorm, but hey, what’s traveling without a little adventure?! 😄

Depending on what you are looking to do during your visit, you can honestly spend a day or weeks in Banff National Park. If you are on a tight schedule, you can fairly comfortably visit the most popular tourist spots within a day. However, if you want to see some of the less frequented places as well as do a bit of light hiking, I recommend spending at least three days .

This will allow you to take the time to truly appreciate the stunning surroundings without feeling in a rush to tick off everything.

How to Get to Banff Canada

To get to Banff National Park, you have a few options. The first and obvious option is to drive to Banff from wherever you live if you are up for a road trip and live within reasonable driving distance.

Another option is to take the Canada Rail , which is a train that tours across all of Canada, stopping at several scenic destinations. This is great if you want to spend a week or more sightseeing all over Canada and are looking to travel with ease. However, with tickets costing thousands of dollars per person, it is definitely the most expensive option. For anyone who lives further outside of Canada, you will likely need to hop on a plane.

Where to Fly for Banff

Since there is no airport in Banff, Canada, the closest airport you can fly to is the Calgary International Airport (YYC) . Personally, I love Calgary’s airport. It’s easy to navigate, check-in and security are efficient, and you don’t often feel the chaos that larger airports typically have.

✈️ PRO TIP: For finding the cheapest flights, I suggest looking at both Skyscanner and Student Universe.

Calgary Canada to Banff

From the airport, I highly recommend renting a car . This will provide you with the most flexibility and freedom for exploring all the magnificent places around Banff . Furthermore, the drive time from Calgary to Banff is a quick 1.5 hours, depending on traffic, since the distance between the two cities is about 140km. This also means you can easily spend a day exploring Calgary and then drive out to Banff in the evening!

However, if you aren’t up for renting a car, there are tons of transportation services and private tours from Calgary to Banff. For example, this private tour provides tons of flexibility, provides hotel pick-up, and will allow you to comfortably explore Banff National Park completely hassle-free! A private tour is especially the route to go if you visited for a short amount of time and want to make the most of your trip as your guide will know all the best spots!

✅ Check rates & availability for this highly-rated PRIVATE tour of Banff National Park!

You will need puy a park pass to visit Banff National Park. Fortunately, the pass includes entrance to Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Waterton Lakes, and Elk Island national parks. I know these little fees can be annoying to some, but the money generated goes strictly back into the upkeeping of the park and all the services it provides. Park passes can be bought online and are good until 4 pm the next day.

Cost for Daily Pass

Adult: $10.50 CAD // Senior: $9 CAD // Kids 17 and under: FREE Family or group of up to 7 people in sample vehicle: $21 CAD

If you intend to spend more than a few days in Banff or visit other Canadian national parks within a year time period, I would look into a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. This is the most cost-effective option . The Discovery Pass is good for a year and provides you entrance to all 100+ national parks in Canada, national marine conservation areas, and national historic sites across Canada. Discovery passes must be bought online and mailed to you.

Cost for Discovery Pass

Adult: $72.25 CAD // Senior: $61.75 CAD Family or group of up to 7 people in sample vehicle: $145.25 CAD

4-Day Banff Itinerary

Now that you know how to get to Banff and the general background info, it’s time to discuss all the amazing things that you can do during your 4 days in Banff. Also, I know it’s an absolute pain when you are researching places and people just list all the activities in a random order that has you crisscrossing all over the city. Thus, to make things easier, I have everything listed in the exact order I recommend doing them. This will hopefully save you both time and energy!

For Day 1 of my 4-Day Banff Itinerary, I recommend some light hiking to get yourself adjusted to your surroundings. After getting your heart rate up, you can relax by the side of one of Banff’s best lakes before heading back into town.

1. Johnston Canyon

I recommend waking yourself up with an easy hike at Banff’s Johnston Canyon. I must warn you, the hike is extremely popular because it is a well-maintained trail. Thus, you can expect there to be lots of foot traffic, especially if you arrive mid-morning or afternoon. As you pass through the limestone canyon, there are three main sites along the trail: the Lower Falls, the Upper Falls, and Ink Pots.

Lower Falls

The Lower Falls are 1.2 km (0.75 miles) away from the trailhead and feature a medium-sized glacial blue waterfall. If you don’t mind waiting, you can pass through a small cave that allows you to view the waterfall a few feet away. However, if you only want a picture with the waterfall in the background, the closer viewpoint won’t really be worth it as it will just soak your camera.

Upper Falls

After the Lower Falls, you can continue hiking for another 1.3km to reach the Upper Falls. Beware, you will have to climb relatively steep and uneven steps, so wear good shoes. That being said, I saw multiple people with baby strollers heading to the Upper Falls, so anything is possible if you believe it… The Upper Falls has a larger waterfall and is where lots of people go for the Instagram shot. It really is stunning, and you start to feel like you’re in some enchanted forest once the rainbows start appearing!

If you enjoy hiking and have the energy, continue another 2.1km to Ink Pots. The crowds definitely thin out here and you might see some wildlife on the trail, so be on the lookout. At Ink Pots, you will see 5 mineral pools that are varying shades of blue-green in a large meadow.

PRO TIP: Get to Johnston by 7:30 am to avoid insane crowds. This will also help you secure a spot in the closer parking lot.

2. Lake Minnewanka

After a hopefully pleasant hike at Johnston Canyon, head over to Lake Minnewanka to relax and have a picnic. This glacial lake is huge and great for canoeing or taking a boat cruise around. The surrounding forest area is also filled with all kinds of hiking and biking trails. If you are brave and have a high cold water tolerance, you can even go for a swim.

This was definitely one of my favorite places in Banff National Park to chill. While I was there, I observed the wildlife, dipped my toes into the water, and enjoyed the astonishing views.

Should you get hungry, there is a little snack shop called the Black Anchor, but the prices are pretty overpriced.

3. Banff Town

When you are ready for a change of scenery and perhaps some food, head 5km to Banff, the famous resort town. Banff town definitely knows its target consumer. Here, you will find the streets lined with restaurants and bars serving different types of cuisine. There’s also no shortage of souvenir shops, coffee shops, and various types of housing accommodations.

In one direction, the main street, Banff Avenue, gives way to a striking view of Mount Norquay. Meanwhile, the other end of the street looks at the Banff National Park Administration Building. I know “administration building” doesn’t sound thrilling, but it offers great views down Banff Avenue. Furthermore, if you get tired, you can sit on one of the many benches in the Cascade of Time Garden. This garden is also just pleasant to stroll around and get lost in your thoughts.

4. Bow Falls Viewpoint

A short drive or 20-minute walk from Banff Avenue is Bow Falls Viewpoint. This scenic spot showcases the small but wide Bow Falls waterfall. The area is home to various hiking and cycling trails that don’t get too much foot traffic. Therefore, if you hate crowds and aren’t a morning person, this is a nice alternative to the trails at Johnston Canyon.

As you admire the surroundings, you might notice the giant Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel . The luxury hotel can cost over $800 per night, so if you can’t afford to stay there like me, at least you can admire it from the outside!

For day 2 of my 4-Day Banff Itinerary, it’s time to see Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. These two lakes are the two most popular attractions that millions of visitors come to Banff National Park each year to enjoy.

5. Lake Louise

I recommend visiting Lake Louise first thing in the morning to avoid having to deal with the afternoon crowds.

Getting to Lake Louise

To get to Lake Louise, there are two main options that are on the budget-friendly side.

• Option 1: If you have a rental car, you can wake up before the sun rises and try to obtain one of the coveted parking spots. These spots cost $12.75 CAD for the day and the lot typically fills by 7 am. Getting to the lake at 6 am is the best way to ensure you get your perfect photograph.
• Option 2: You can drive to the Lake Louise Ski Resort and ride the Parks Canada Shuttle to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. To ride the shuttle, you will have to pay $8 CAD per adult and $2 CAD per youth. I highly recommend making your reservation online in advance as shuttle time slots tend to fill up quickly.

Once you’re at Lake Louise, you can rent a canoe, do some stand-up paddle boarding, or just snap a few photos and take in the view.

While Lake Louise is stunning and a very picturesque place, I personally thought it was a bit overrated. For example, the number of people can be a little overwhelming, and all the noise from the people makes it difficult to fully enjoy the surroundings. If you end up going a bit later in the day and have to deal with crowds, I recommend walking around the lake. The crowds thin out pretty quickly once you’re a few hundred feet away from the entrance and it takes only 15-20 minutes to reach the other side.

6. Lake Agnes Tea House

On the other side of the lake is also the trailhead for a hike that goes to Lake Agnes Tea House. The moderate hike to the tea house is 4.4 miles round trip, and it takes 1-2 hours one way.

Once you reach the tea house, you can re-energize yourself with some delicious tea, soup, and mountain bars. The views from up top are unbeatable, and the staff is so friendly.

To thank them, ask the staff if you can help them take any garbage bags down. You can just tie the bag to the outside of your backpack, and it really helps them out. The workers normally have to hike out all the trash generated. If you want to keep hiking past the tea house, you can extend the hike to about 9 miles round trip by visiting the Plain of Six Glaciers. This will give you one of the most extraordinary views of 6 different glaciers.

NOTE: Before hiking, make sure to check the trail conditions . If there has been heavy rainfall or snowfall, the trail may be unsafe or closed.

7. Moraine Lake

To get to Lake Moraine, you can ride the Parks Canada shuttle. The seat you booked to visit Lake Louise is also valid for going to Lake Moraine. Just wait in line at the designated area. I don’t recommend driving yourself to Moraine Lake unless you get there at the crack of dawn. The parking lot up there is very small, especially after they removed some parking spots to make room for the shuttles.

At Moraine Lake, you can also go kayaking or canoeing on the water. To capture the best pictures of Moraine Lake’s special turquoise color, I recommend climbing the Rockpile. The path to the Rockpile has a lot of steps, and the dirt can be pretty loose. Definitely wear good shoes if you don’t want to be slipping and sliding around.

From Moraine Lake, you can jump on the Parks Canada Shuttle to go back to Lake Louise ski resort.

For day 3 of my 4-Day Banff Itinerary, we are headed for a scenic drive along Icefields Parkway. By now, you may have slightly less energy than you did in the beginning and your feet may hurt. As a result, I recommend saving the destinations further from the center of Banff for Day 3.

8. Icefields Parkway

For Day 3, I recommend driving along Icefields Parkway, which connects Banff National Park to Jasper National Park in the north. This parkway is unequivocally one of the most breathtaking stretches of road that I have driven on. On both sides of the road are majestic views of tightly packed evergreen trees, imposing snow-capped mountains, and glaciers springing up in the distance. Honestly, I don’t think anyone could be upset driving along this road. At 230 km (143 miles) in length, I wouldn’t recommend driving the entire Icefields Parkway and back in a single day. Instead, I recommend driving about half of it and then turning around at one of the turnoffs.

We turned around at Silverhorn Creek Campground since there was a river at the turnoff. I recommend filling up your reusable water bottle with some fresh water from the river. The water comes from the glaciers, so it’s safe to drink and will leave you feeling absolutely refreshed.

9. Peyto Lake

While driving back along Icefields Parkway towards Banff, hike to one of the viewpoints at Peyto Lake ( pronounced Pee-toe ).

The lower viewpoint is only a short 20-minute hike away, along a well-paved path. Some sections of the path are steep, but aside from that, you really don’t need to bring much with you. If the lower viewpoint is too crowded, consider hiking to the upper viewpoint 2.8 km away. From both viewpoints, you can admire Peyto Lake’s remarkable blue color.

The unique blue color that Peyto Lake, Moraine Lake, and Lake Louise are famously characterized by comes from the glacial water. Normally, glacial water is dirty, but as the water flows down to the lake, most of the larger pieces of rock are filtered or sink. Only fine particles of dirt remain suspended in the water. These fine particles ultimately scatter the blue and green light, giving these lakes their incredible color.

10. Bow Lake

After Peyto Lake, hop back onto the road until you reach Bow Lake. I recommend taking the little dirt path that leads you into the medium-sized dirt parking lot instead of parking right next to the road. This will provide you with better access to walk along the shoreline, take pictures, and enjoy a snack or lunch on one of the logs.

As someone who values having peace and quiet while exploring nature, Bow Lake was one of my favorite places. Unlike Peyto lake, this water is more clear blue, and you may even spot some fish. There were hardly any crowds, and everything felt so serene. My friends and I even witnessed a small wedding take place along the shoreline! Congrats to Em and Fred!

11. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint

Less than a 2-minute drive from Bow Lake is Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint. There’s a large parking lot on the side of the road that you can pull off into. Although there isn’t much to do, it’s worth stopping to appreciate the massive glacier up close.

12. Herbert Lake

The last place I recommend stopping at on your way back to your accommodations is Herbert Lake. Located 20 minutes from Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint on Icefields Parkway, the smaller secluded lake is considered a bit more of a hidden gem. You likely won’t encounter any crowds, and there is a sense of tranquility around the entire place. In the morning, or on days when it isn’t windy, the lake is known to provide crisp reflections of the nearby trees and mountains.

There’s even a makeshift diving board on one of the rocks. Therefore, if you happen to visit when it’s a bit warmer, you can cool off by swimming around in the lake.

For the final day of my 4-Day Banff Itinerary, I recommend embarking on an incredible hike to the top of Sulphur Mountain. This will allow you to finish the trip off with the most amazing panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies!

13. Sulphur Mountain

For those who don’t know, Sulphur Mountain is considered one of the best scenic lookout points in the Rockies. And hiking to the top is one of the most popular things to do in Banff National Park since the mountain is located just 7 km from downtown Banff.

The hike is 6.8 miles (11 km) roundtrip, with an elevation gain of 2,480 feet (756 m), and contains lots of switchbacks. And I won’t lie — this route is definitely challenging. On average, it takes about 4.5 hours to complete.

That said, even if you’re an inexperienced hiker and thinking, “Nope. Not for me…,” I urge you to reconsider. The hike is a long one, but quite doable. You just might need to take breaks more frequently, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Plus, when you reach the top, you’ll be so proud of yourself! The journey/struggle (because let’s face it…anytime we hike uphill for more than 5 minutes, we immediately start re-evaluating our choices) will only make the breathtaking views of Bow Valley even more worth it!

🏔 NOTE: Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, snacks for extra fuel, and a jacket as it gets colder the higher up you go!

14. Banff Gondola

Of course, if you decide not to hike to the top of Sulphur Mountain, you can still enjoy the sweeping panoramic views by taking the Banff Gondola to the top.

One way, the gondola takes about 8 minutes and allows you to soar above the treetops at a height of about 2,292 feet!

You will arrive at the top of the Sulphur Mountain Trail. From there, you’ll walk across a wooden boardwalk and up some stairs that will take you to the actual top of the mountain, where all the best views are!

On top of the mountain, you’ll find a completely pristine and fancy summit building. Within it, there are restaurants, interactive museums, and even a little theatre. However, the best part in my opinion is the 360° rooftop observation deck!

So if aren’t up for hiking to the top, you can always take the Banff Gondola ! Either way, it’s well worth the trek or the price of the Gondola to soak up the magnificent views of Bow Valley!

✅ Click to purchase your roundtrip ticket on the Banff Gondola

Banff by Car

By far the easiest and best way to get around Banff is by car . This will give you the most freedom in creating your perfect Banff itinerary and accessing the more remote locations.

👉 If you’re flying into Calgary International Airport, you can pick up your rental car directly from the airport! Book your rental car as soon as possible to ensure inventory is available for your trip!

Banff by Bike

If you don’t want to travel by car, it is possible to access a lot of spots by bike. During the shoulder season, Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) is normally closed to regular traffic. Regardless if there is vehicle traffic or not, this stretch of road makes for a pleasant day cycling all over Banff.

NOTE: For July and August 2022, Bow Valley Parkway is open to vehicle traffic, but will close to vehicle traffic for the month of September.

There are a few shops in Banff town that rent out both regular mountain and road bikes as well as e-bikes. However, navigating Banff safely while riding a bike can be a bit of a challenge. Thus, I recommend taking this highly-rated guided e-bike tour around Banff if you’re looking to explore the area completely al fresco!

⭐️ RATING: 4.6 / 5 – 35+ 5-star reviews! | ⏳ LENGTH OF TOUR: 4 hours

This small group e-bike tour includes:

• Professional Guide to help you explore Banff on an e-bike
• Seeing Vermilion Lakes
• Biking through the serene forest on Legacy Trail (a dedicated bike trail)
• Cycling along Bow Valley Parkway
• Day Hike through Johnston Canyon to Lower Falls
• Shuttle back to the meeting point

“Our guide, Michelle, was outstanding. She was informative, extremely friendly, helpful and safety conscious. One of the best tour guides I’ve ever had. The places we went were beautiful. Everything was high quality. It was a really fun activity. I highly recommend this tour.”

– Carol ( see more reviews )

✅ Check rates & availability for this excellent e-bike tour through Banff

Banff by Bus

If you would rather just hop on and off various buses, Banff has a hop-on, hop-off bus that allows you to explore at your own pace. You’ll want to buy tickets in advance to guarantee your seat!

There are so many different places to stay in Banff, from lodges to hotels to bed and breakfasts. Depending on your budget and timing, you can expect to spend $100 a night to upwards of $1000 per night. The most important thing to take away from this is to book as soon as you possibly can . Without further ado, here are my recommendations for where to say in Banff Alberta.

Budget-Friendly Housing

• Banff International Hostel ($) – If you are a student or young adult trying to save as much money as possible, check out the Banff International Hostel as you won’t find a cheaper place to stay unless you plan on car camping…
• Cabin or local resident’s place – You can always check out Airbnb or VRBO to look for housing that fits your exact needs.

Medium-High Priced Hotels

• Elk + Avenue Hotel ($$) – ⭐️ 8.2 / 10 | Located on Banff Avenue, this hotel is within a 5- minute walking distance of everything downtown. The rooms are clean, well-stocked, and kept up-to-date. If you get hungry, there is a restaurant and bar attached to the hotel. They provide modest services, but considering the price and location of the hotel, the Elk+Avenue Hotel is a solid affordable option.

✅ Check rates & availability at Elk + Avenue Hotel

• The Rimrock Resort Hotel ($$$) – ⭐️ 8.5 / 10 | On the higher end, but not quite the price of staying at a Fairmont Hotel is the Rimrock Resort Hotel. This four-star hotel is located deep in the Canadian Rockies and offers a marvelous view just from your hotel room. The hotel includes two restaurants with excellent food, several fitness areas, an indoor pool, and a sauna and is within close proximity to a few tourist attractions. If you want an almost fairytale experience high up in the mountains, this is the hotel for you.

✅ Check rates & availability at Rimrock Resort Hotel

Luxury Stays

• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise ($$$$) – ⭐️ 8.3 / 10 | If you want the full luxury experience, then the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has it. Located right on Lake Louise, the luxury mountain resorts allow you to skip the transportation hassle and simply wake up to the breathtaking views of Lake Louise. The resort offers all kinds of services and amenities to its guests. For example, you can embark on a guided mountain tour, they have an in-house rental shop, indoor pool, spa, and so much more.

✅ Check rates & availability at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

• Fairmont Springs Banff Hotel ($$$$) – ⭐️ 8.7 / 10 | Right in the heart of Banff is the iconic Fairmont Springs Banff Hotel. It sits right next to Bow River and offers a superb view of the surrounding green valley and Mount Rundle. The luxury hotel has been open for over 130 years and has an insane 745 guest rooms. Some of the amenities it provides include high-end fitness centers, pools, tennis courts, access to the Championship golf course, a wide gamut of organized activities and tours, and more. If this doesn’t scream luxury, I don’t know what does.

✅ Check rates & availability at Fairmont Springs Banff Hotel

Housing Outside of Banff

If you are looking for more affordable housing options that are less crowded with tourists, consider finding lodging in the nearby town of Canmore. This city is a quick 20-minute drive from Banff and is known to have more of a local vibe. Feel free to use the interactive map below to help view hotels and rentals available in the area. And if you enter your specific travel dates, you’ll get an even more accurate picture of what is currently available.

4-Day Banff Itinerary: What to Pack

Aside from the normal items to bring while traveling, you will want to pack a few extra things to ensure you are prepared for your trip to Banff. 🌲 Park Pass – As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to purchase a park pass to enter Banff. If you are traveling in a car, don’t forget to put the park pass on your vehicle dashboard. 🌲 Jacket – Even if you are visiting in the summertime, pack a jacket or some warm layers. It can get pretty warm during the day, but the mornings are brisk. Plus, temperatures on the mountain trails tend to be colder than the temperatures in town. 🌲 Comfortable Hiking Shoes – Most of the scenic spots require some hiking to get to, and the trails can be a bit slippery, especially if there has been recent rainfall. Do yourself a favor and wear hiking shoes with a good amount of traction. 🌲 Sunscreen/Sunglasses/Hat – The sun is very intense in Banff because the air is thinner at higher elevations, so protect yourself with sunscreen. I forgot sunscreen the first day I was in Banff, and my lips ended up fairly sunburnt. 😢 Similarly, I recommend sunglasses because the sunlight reflected from the lakewater can damage your eyes after a while. 🌲 Bear Spray – If plan to do a hike, especially one that isn’t as popular, it is highly recommended to pack some bear spray. For anyone hopping on a plane, you will have to buy the spray locally as these aerosols are not allowed on planes. Please educate yourself on how to use the bear spray and make sure it is easily accessible. If you encounter a bear and find yourself in a dangerous situation, you don’t want to waste precious time fumbling around for your spray.

5 Tips for Visiting Banff

A 4-Day Banff Itinerary isn’t complete without giving you some tips on how to save money, avoid crowds, and stay safe!

1. Make a Reservation in Advance

Whether you are booking a spot on the bus to Lake Louise or your accommodations for the trip, make a reservation as soon as possible. In the age of social media and people being obsessed with visiting the most picture-perfect locations, Banff receives more and more visitors each year. As a result, hotels and lodges fill up quickly and prices go up, especially when peak season starts to roll around. Save yourself some money by not waiting until the last minute to make your reservation.

2. Go During the Week

If you aren’t keen on dealing with massive tourist crowds, try to go during the week. As someone who went both on the weekend and during the week, there is a fairly noticeable difference in terms of the size of the crowds. That’s not to say that there won’t be any crowds during the week, but the roads are less congested, and parking is a bit easier.

3. Wake up Extra Early

On a similar note, if you want to get your perfect picture without a bunch of people in the background, wake up extra early. I am not talking about waking up at 7 am and heading out the door at 8 am. I mean arriving at the popular tourist spots, such as Lake Louisa and Lake Moraine by 6 am. Sleep is for the weak and we can sleep when we are dead right? The bright side is that you can watch some of the most gorgeous sunrises as the morning light crests the mountains and brings everything to life.

4. Bring Food and Save Money

As one of the most visited tourist destinations, the food in Banff is notoriously expensive. To give you perspective, I decided to eat dinner in Banff town with some friends and internally cried as I paid $25 CAD for a 10″ pizza. Save yourself some money by stopping at the local grocery store, like IGA or Safeway. Be sure to pack out food remnants and trash if you stop to eat a snack while on the trail. You don’t want to attract any wildlife.

5. Respect the Wildlife

With Banff’s thousands of miles of dense forests and sweeping mountains, it means all kinds of wildlife. People often encounter black bears, moose, deer, chipmunks, goats, and so much more. I know it can be tempting to step out of your car, feed them, or approach them to take a picture, but for your sake and the animals’…don’t. Remember that the animals are wild and their behavior can therefore be unpredictable. Don’t feed them human food and leave no trace by throwing out any trash you produce. We want to respect the homes of these beautiful creatures.

Wrap-Up: 4-Day Banff Itinerary (2023)

Every year, Banff National Park attracts millions of photographers, nature lovers, locals, and tourists worldwide. With so many must-see destinations, it can be hard to plan your perfect itinerary. Hopefully, with my 4-Day Banff Itinerary, you can create your dream trip that suits your traveling style!

Here is a list to recap the 12 beautiful places you should visit on your trip to Banff.

• Johnston Canyon – The famous limestone canyon where you can easily hike to several waterfalls and Ink Pots (mineral pools).
• Lake Minnewanka – A Massive lake that is less crowded than Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Awesome spot for taking a boat tour, biking, hiking, or camping.
• Banff Town – The famous resort town with an abundance of restaurants, bars, hotels, lodges, and souvenir shops.
• Bow Falls Viewpoint – Scenic spot to look at Bow Falls (waterfall) which is right behind the Fairmont Springs Banff Hotel.
• Lake Louise – One of the two most popular lakes in Banff that has some of the most picturesque views.
• Lake Agnes Tea House – Quaint Teahouse, with awesome snacks, located along a 4.4-mile trail (round trip) that starts at the back of Lake Louise.
• Moraine Lake – The other of the two most popular lakes in Banff. Offers a higher vantage point that is fairly accessible after a short 10-minute hike.
• Icefields Parkway – An incredibly scenic road that connects Banff National Park to Jasper National Park.
• Peyto Lake – Lake with unbelievable blue color and two great viewpoints that are fairly accessible with short hikes.
• Bow Lake – Magnificent lake located along Icefields Parkway that is less crowded and absolutely worth visiting.
• Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint – The place to go if you want to get up close to a massive glacier located 2 minutes from Bow Lake.
• Herbert Lake – A secluded lake that is less frequented and a bit of a hidden gem.
• Sulphur Mountain – Ascend to the top of Sulphur Mountain to catch the most amazing views of Bow Valley!
• Banff Gondola – Soar more than 2,000 feet above the trees surrounding Sulfur Mountain!

If you made it this far, thanks for reading my ultimate 4-Day Banff Itinerary. I wish you the absolute best time on your adventure through Banff National Park!

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Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

The PERFECT Banff Itinerary You Can’t Miss (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: April 2, 2024

If you’re looking for the best 3 days in Banff itinerary you’ve come to the right place!

This dreamy mountain town set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies is a place high on a lot of people’s bucket lists, and for good reasons.

This mountain resort town is home to some of Canada’s most beautiful scenery, wildlife and amazing activities. With iconic sights like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and various national parks, nature lovers and photographers have to book a trip to Banff!

The town itself is surrounded by nearly 7000 square kilometres of the spectacular Banff National Park just waiting to be explored. And for a first-time visitor, 3 perfect days in Banff will give you just the taste you need to be hooked.

While the town is easy enough to get around on foot or by bike, in order to reach some of the trailheads and attractions it is best to have a vehicle.

However, if that isn’t in your budget you will still be able to see tons of what Banff has to offer but utilizing the public transit system and shuttles, especially for the ski hills.

Most of the hotels and restaurants are located in the main downtown area, which is also one of the prettiest in the Rockies.

READ MORE: Click here for a more detailed guide on what to do in Banff!

Stroll through the parks, indulge in some afternoon drinks on a patio and just soak in the views. They are everywhere you look after all so it’s hard to miss them.

Millions of visitors flock to Banff every year for skiing, hiking, or just exploring the great outdoors of Banff National Park.

No matter what your travel style or budget, you’ll be able to find something to do here for everyone.

My 3-day Banff itinerary includes all these epic spots:

The Icefields Parkway

• Banff National Park
• Lake Louise and Lake Moraine
• Cave and Basin National Historic Site
• Cycling around downtown
• Johnston Canyon
• Two Jack Lake
• Vermillion Lakes
• Lake Minnewanka

Banff Gondola

• And plenty more…

Table of Contents

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Explore banff town, exploring the lakes & johnston canyon, banff upper hot springs, banff hiking trails, when to visit banff, getting around banff, where to stay in banff, the best hostel in banff – samesun hostel, best budget accommodation for couples – banff rocky mountain resort, best mid-range hotel in banff – fox hotel & suites, best luxury hotel in banff – fairmont banff springs, budget – bear street tavern, mid-range – the grizzly house, high-end – the bison restaurant, my ultimate 3 days in banff itinerary.

From Banff National Park and the famous Lake Louise to the museums, spas, and ski resorts, there are so many attractions to keep you busy during a 3 day Banff itinerary.

You’ll be surprised how much you can do here in 3 days. So hopefully this Banff itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.

Day 1 – The Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine in Banff National Park

With no commercial airport, it’s likely that after your flight you’ll have a car journey ahead of you to kick start your itinerary for 3 days in Banff.

If not you’ll want to rent a car and start driving through Banff National Park along one of Canada’s most beautiful stretches of highway.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

The first thing you need to do on any 3 day Banff itinerary after renting a car is go for a spectacular drive to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and along the Icefields Parkway.

About an hour up the road you’ll come to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, two of the crown jewels in the Banff National Park.

We recommend heading up early to watch the sunrise over Moraine Lake, where you’ll be absolutely amazed at the perfect reflections of the 10 peaks on the still body of water.

If you’re up for a fun activity, rent a canoe and paddle out on Moraine Lake.

After Moraine Lake, drive back towards Lake Louise and spend an hour or two wandering around the lake.

If it’s winter, definitely grab some ice skates and go for a carve on the frozen Lake Louise. The views from Lake Louise are seriously next level.

An alternative driving route if you’re coming to Lake Louise from Banff is the Bow Valley Parkway. This scenic winding route from Banff to Lake Louise is quiet and peaceful. The Bow Valley Parkway is 48km one way.

Next, hit the Icefields Parkway after enjoying Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

This is known as one of the world’s best road trips, and you can’t visit Banff National Park without checking it out.

The road stretches from Lake Louise all the way to Jasper National Park, and along the way you’ll find some of the most beautiful spots in all of Canada.

From Athabasca Falls, to Sunwapto Falls, to the Columbia Icefield, you’re going to be stopping the car a lot for photos, we can guarantee that.

If you make it all the way to another highlight of the Canadian Rockies near Banff, Jasper National Park, check out Maligne Lake and Canyon and Pyramid Lake.

Bow Lake is one of the best things to see in Banff National Park, located about 37 km north of Lake Louise. Take a dip in Bow Lake if you dare! It’s beautiful for a swim but the water is freezing so it’s best on a hot summer day.

Peyto Lake is another stunning spot.

Once you’ve seen everything you can on the Icefields Parkway and Banff National Park, and you’ve snapped lots of photos of Lake Louise, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Moraine Lake, make your way back to Banff.

Read next: The Best Things To Do In Jasper, Canada

Once you arrive in Banff town, you’ll want to get right into exploring. While the town of Banff is not massive it does have tons to be explored, and one of the best ways to do that is by renting a bike and touring Banff town.

A list of trails surrounding the town can also be found here but the downtown area has well-marked cycle paths for those visiting Banff.

If you’re on foot stop into Wildflower Bakery for a coffee to wake you up and head down to the Bow River Trail for your first bit of exploring.

The paved trail runs parallel to the Bow River and is really just the perfect place for a stroll,  to sit out and enjoy the view, or go for a run.

Wander through the beautiful parks and eventually, you’ll come to the Banff Park Museum.

This lovely little museum is housed in a historic log manor from 1903 and you’ll be able to find out all sorts of fun facts about the town of Banff and what it has seen over the years.

It’s also a really cool place to see some incredible artifacts and a massive collection of wildlife specimens from the Rockies.

Not too far off from here, you’ll also find the Whyte Museum of the Candian Rockies.

This museum offers visitors a chance to dive deep into the culture of the Rockies as well as gain a better understanding of the first people who settled here.

Exhibits here change often but the permanent collection includes items from Banff’s history with sports, skiing and the great outdoors.

 To keep with the museum theme the Buffalo Nations Museum is a great opportunity to learn more about the indigenous peoples of Canada and what they have brought to not only the town but the surrounding provinces.

One of the best ways to spend 3 days in Banff is heading out to Cave and Basin National Historic Site .

The thermal waters that surround this area have been quite a significant aspect of Banff history since 1883 when they were discovered by railway workers.

There are daily tours offered which allow visitors to experience the area and get up close and personal with the incredible bubbling waters.

There are also lantern tours offered from May-August to see the caves by a lantern which is really special. 

To cap off the first day of your itinerary for 3 days in Banff you’ll be hoping for a clear night. Why you might ask? Well, a clear night is the best way to experience a dark sky preserve.

Bundle up and head out to Stargaze in Banff on any bench downtown. But if you want the perfect spot it needs to be free from any lights from cars or lampposts.

Driving a little way out of town can help with this, or heading to the Bow Valley parking lot even. You’ll likely never have seen stars so bright until you see them in Banff.

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Canada with our comprehensive Travel Guide .

Day 2 – Canyons, Lakes & Hot Springs

As you kick off your 2nd day in Banff, you’re hopefully waking up to a gorgeous sunrise over the mountains.

Pack your bags, grab your camera, and don’t forget your bathing suit, yes even in winter. You’ll be off for one awesome day in Banff.

No matter what time of year you’ll always be able to find something amazing to do in Banff. It may just be a matter of whether or not you prefer skating on the lakes to swimming in them.

One of the most visited locations is also one of the most beautiful in summer or winter.

Johnston Canyon is less than a 30-minute drive and will have you feeling as if you’ve stepped into another world.

In the wintertime, Johnston Canyon full of waterfalls freezes over and becomes an incredible place to walk.

This activity can be done on your own but if you don’t have your own gear you can join in on a day trip where you’ll be able to experience these 30 m high frozen falls and see the canyon in a whole new way.

Visiting in the warmer months means you’ll be able to hike through Johnston Canyon, experience the rope bridges and get right up close to the waterfalls.

A truly breathtaking spot, and one you could spend all day. But with only 3 days in Banff you’ll be keen to check out more.

While the mountains are what draw visitors to this part of Canada, the Lakes are equally as spectacular and there are a few not to be missed while staying in Banff.

Along the TransCanada Highway is where you’ll find Two Jack Lake, the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic and a hike.

The 3.2 km loop trail is well marked and will give you access to the beautiful lake and also connects to a campground.

Vermillion Lakes is located just west of Banff and is the perfect place for a paddle.

At the base of the incredible Mount Rundle , Vermillion Lakes is great for renting canoes and soaking in the views from the boat.

READ MORE: Check out this guide to the best hikes in Banff

Or make your way out here in the depths of winter as it’s a great spot to catch the Northern Lights.

One of the most famous lakes in the area lies just to the East and you’ve probably seen it on any number of postcards.

Lake Minnewanka is glacially fed which gives it that stunning turquoise colour.

At 21km long, this lake is one of the largest in the Rockies and perfect for any number of activities.

An amazing way to enjoy the lake is by booking a guided wildlife tour . Not only can you check out the scenery, but your local guide will help you spot some wildlife like elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.

In the winter there are cross country ski and snowshoe trails set up across Lake Minnewanka.

The hiking trails in the area are also worth checking out. Specifically, the Devils Gap trail which takes you up above Lake Minnewanka for some stunning views.

After a day of exploring the best way to end, it is with a dip at the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Soak in the gorgeous thermal pools while looking out over the mountains, and don’t let a little cold weather or snow scare you off either.

Banff Upper Hot Springs is the perfect spot to watch the snowfall. For more information and rates visit the website .

For a perfect cap to the second of your 3 Days in Banff itinerary head to the Fairmont Banff Springs for a meal in one of their many restaurants or a drink in the car.

Looking like a castle and with some of the best views of the mountains it’s a must-visit location even if staying there is out of your budget. 

Day 3 – The Banff Gondola and Hiking

The last of your 3 Days in Banff itinerary has arrived, but never fear you’ll be in for an incredible day in the mountains to finish things off. 

We’ve dedicated the last of this 3 day Banff itinerary to the amazing hiking trails. If you’re visiting in winter and prefer to hit the slopes, Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the best places to ski or snowboard in the Canadian Rockies.

You can choose to spend a day visiting Lake Louise and the ski slopes, or do the hiking and sightseeing listed below!

So before a day of hiking, grab a hearty breakfast in Banff town at Coyotes Southwestern Grill before kicking off a magical mountain adventure in the national park.

For some great views and fun hikes, you don’t need to embark on a 7-hour journey to see it.

One of the best ways to spend 3 days in Banff is by searching out the best views and the best hikes.

But you really don’t need to go far to find those things.

Bow Valley Falls is located fairly close to the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs and can be accessed from town on foot fairly easily.

While these falls are not the highest in the area they produce a huge volume of water which is so cool to see.

There is a trail here that takes you up above the falls, however, this is closed in the winter but the viewpoint is still open.

No itinerary for 3 days in Banff could be complete without seeing one of the best views of the town so be sure to head up Tunnel Mountain.

Easily reached from town you can access the trailhead from Tunnel Mountain road and up you go, 2.5 km to the summit.

You’ll be able to see all of Banff from above and the turquoise lakes and rivers running through the center.

On your way back through town grab some lunch to go from Laggan’s Deli and head out for a hike.

North of Banff between Norquay and Banks head is Cascade Mountain, one of the most visited trails in the area.

Alternating scrambles and switchbacks will definitely make you sweat but the views along the way will be more than worth the effort. This trail is not ideal for winter visitors, so if your trip takes you out in the winter months opt for Rawson Lake .

Surrounded by incredible peaks you can hike this trail with or without snowshoes and you’ll find the most stunning panoramic views from the top.

As you head back from your afternoon of hiking make sure you stop in at the Banff Gondola which travels up Sulphur Mountain.

At the summit of Sulphur Mountain, the entire Rocky Mountain range will be on display for you to admire.

Enjoy the cable car ride up through the trees and snap dozens or hundreds of shots from the observation deck as the sun sets over the mountains.

Enjoy a drink at the onsite Sky Bistro or stay and have dinner. For more details click here .

To cap off your amazing 3 days in Banff, head to Park Distillery.

Using the freshest and purest waters in Canada, taste your way through their selection of whiskeys, gins and vodkas to find your favourite for a nightcap.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these other great things to do in Banff to your itinerary.

Banff Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Banff, here is some information that will help you know the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat when you visit.

When it comes to planning your 3 days in Banff itinerary one thing you’ll want to know is when the best time to visit will be.

The answer to this really depends on what sort of activities you are hoping to do here.

If you’re after a winter wonderland trip full of skating, skiing, hot tubs and snowy views you’ll want to visit Banff in the winter.

From December until March you’ll find Banff National Park covered in a blanket of pristine sparkly snow, but also may experience extremely cold temperatures.

If you’re hoping for sunny skies and warm afternoons for hiking, canoeing and swimming May through September are the perfect months for your adventure.

The weather in the Rockies can be slightly temperamental so don’t rely on the forecast for your trip, it likely will change.

If over breakfast the snow is dumping down, you could experience sunny blue skies by lunchtime.

Or if you’re out hiking in the warm weather, by the time you summit, the temperatures could drop drastically.

So it is always best to be prepared by layering up.

Downtown Banff is perfect for walking or cycling. If you base yourself within the town center you’ll never be more than a few minutes from the shops, restaurants and beautiful parks.

If you are looking to get out a bit further or have limited mobility there is a public transit system called Roam. You can find all the details on routes and schedules here .

 If you are arriving into the Rockies on a flight, you’ll likely fly into Calgary, and from there you’ll be able to get a coach or private transfer from the airport right to Banff town center.

However, the easiest option on how to tour Banff in 3 days will definitely be by car.

If you are arriving into Banff by train there are several car rental companies in town to check out.

Additionally, there are dozens of car rental opportunities from the airport.

If you are visiting in the winter be sure to choose a rental vehicle that is equipped with winter tires especially if you plan to do any backcountry hiking where the roads may not be cleared. 

For exploring Banff National Park and other nearby national parks on your own schedule, a rental car is the way to go.

Exploring Banff in 3 days you’ll surely be spending every day on your feet. This means when it comes to choosing somewhere to rest up for the next day you’ll want to make sure you’ve made the right choice.

From cabins tucked away in the woods, to central hotels with beautiful mountain views, to lodges in Banff National Park, there are many options.

You’ll find beautiful resorts with incredible amenities like spas and heated outdoor pools, and budget-friendly social hostels perfect for meeting new adventure buddies.

The town of Banff may not be huge but it definitely does not lack accommodation options for every budget on any style of trip.

Accommodations In Banff

If you’re looking for the best hostel that’s central to town, while having an epic party atmosphere, this is the spot for you .

The Samesun Hostel is part of the great chain found all over the country, and you need to do yourself a favour and stay in at least one during your trip here.

In Banff they have a great social area both indoors and outdoors, a kitchen, cozy rooms and storage for skis and snowboard gear.

If you’re on a romantic getaway Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is the perfect place for relaxation.

With a cozy laid back cabin vibe, there is also a lovely restaurant on-site and outdoor hot tubs to watch the stars with your partner after a day of exploring.

Less than a 10-minute walk from the town centre, The Fox Hotel is in the best location.

Keeping with the mountain vibe with the decor in every room and the common areas, this hotel will keep your mountain-loving holiday going strong even as you sleep.

If you want to experience staying in a Canadian Castle, look no further than the Fairmont Banff Springs . Upscale rooms with personal jacuzzis,  incredible dining options and the most beautiful mountain views from everywhere.

This is the quintessential fairytale location for your 3 day Banff itinerary.

Best Restaurants In Banff

While the town of Banff might be small, there is nothing small about the food and drink choices here. A melting pot of cultures and cuisines for every visitor with any budget.

In the center of town, you’ll find Bear Street Tavern.  Amazing pizzas, salads and quality pub food with a great beer menu to match.

Plus they have an awesome patio, perfect for summer.

The Grizzly House is a landmark in Banff and the best fondue restaurant in the Rockies. Plus they keep things interesting with things like alligator and rattlesnake on the menu.

Be brave or enjoy a classic, it’s all fantastic!

Whether you’re visiting The Bison Restaurant in the summer for their patio or winter for a cozy post-ski meal, the whole menu is delicious.

A farm to table approach with locally sourced and seasonal creations perfect for any meal.

Another high end restaurant option is the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise fine dining restaurant. This is a luxury resort on Lake Louise, so even if you can’t afford staying at this magnificent hotel, you can still enjoy an incredible meal there with views of Lake Louise.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Laura Oxley

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Home » North America » Banff

BANFF Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Nestled high in the Canadian Rockies, tucked away in a cozy bowl amid the mountains, lies a picturesque alpine town full of beauty and wonder: Banff.

Set to the backdrop of stunning mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and frosted evergreens, Banff is an exceptionally beautiful town! It’s located deep within Banff National Park, surrounded by some of the most exceptional natural landscapes and wildlife on Earth, and provides easy access to three world-renowned ski resorts (which we’ll discuss later on in this Banff itinerary).

If you’re planning a trip to Banff or looking for a full-fledged Banff itinerary, you’ve come to the right place! This Banff Itinerary will help you decide exactly what to do in Banff during your stay, as well as provide a rundown on the area and a host of insider tips!

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Best Time to Visit Banff

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Banff’s gorgeous landscape varies dramatically throughout the year. From the frosty white blanket of winter to the rich life-filled green of summer. Banff is beautiful all year round, but the most popular seasons lie at these extremes.

Summer is a beautiful time to explore this Canadian national park’s exceptional nature and wildlife, while, in Winter, the park transforms into a snow sports paradise and a winter wonderland. If you’re wondering when to visit Banff, it depends entirely on the experience you wish to have!

While the ski slopes are generally open between mid-November and as late as May, snow conditions are at their prime between December and March.

Between late June and the end of August is the best time for warmer weather activities such as hiking, canoeing, fishing, and rafting. The weather is at its warmest and Banff is at its busiest!

You may choose to visit Banff in the shoulder season (April – May, and September – November) when flight and accommodation prices are lower than peak season and tourist crowds are sparse! During these months, some activities are available, but the conditions are unpredictable and generally aren’t ideal for either winter or summer activities.

We’ve done our best to make this Banff itinerary applicable to both summer and winter vacations in Banff!

The town of Banff is small, so there aren’t many areas to consider when booking your accommodation. Choosing where to stay in Banff is therefore easy as no matter where you stay in town, you won’t be more than a short drive or bus ride from the center!

That being said, it’s best to book something as close to the center of town as possible. There’s a multitude of bars and restaurants in the center, and having accommodation close by makes it easier to get home after evening out!

There are also other places to stay within Banff National Park, although in our opinion, the center of town is the best place to stay. It’s probably worth booking accommodation in Lake Louise  instead, if you’re planning on skiing or snowboarding there on multiple days

Sunshine Village ski resort is just a short journey from Banff, but it also offers great ski-in-ski-out accommodation if you prefer not having to commute. If you’re skiing at Mt. Norquay, the town of Banff is your best bet! The best hostels in Banff are all within reasonable distance of the ski sites.

Best Hostel in Banff – Samesun Banff

Samesun Banff offers affordable accommodation right near the center of Banff. The dorms boast clean, comfortable beds, and most also offer incredible views of the mountains! The onsite Beaver Bar is a great place to enjoy your evenings is Banff, with nightly events and frequent live music! The hostel staff is happy to help organize ski passes and transport for your Banff itinerary and activities!

Best Airbnb in Banff – Private Room in the heart of Banff

Enjoy having this cabin all to yourself! It includes a sweet BBQ grill, picnic tables, a kitchen, and a gazebo.Theres a quirky moose blanket that might remind you of your grandmas house but ya cant complain because its SUPER soft. Just a block away and will end up on the main street shopping and trying all the local restaurants.

Best Budget Hotel in Banff – Holiday Lodge Bed and Breakfast

This affordable bed and breakfast is located right in the heart of Banff, just a few hundred feet from the town center. It offers shared kitchen facilities and a comfortable common area, as well as a communal BBQ for outdoor cooking! The rooms are simple and comfortable, with great amenities, including a private bathroom. Of course, a delicious daily breakfast is included in the price!

Best Luxury Hotel in Banff –  Moose Hotel and Suites

Located just about as central as can be, this luxury hotel is the best Banff has to offer. A wide range of deluxe rooms is on offer, each with exceptional mountain views! With a classic Canadian atmosphere and design, the highlight of this hotel is the rooftop area, equipped with steamy outdoor hot tubs overlooking the Canadian Rockies. Guests also have access to a spa area, with a sauna and indoor pool.

As a resort town, Banff is well equipped for visitors, and getting around is pretty straightforward.

If at all possible, we would recommend making use of a car for this Banff itinerary. While the public transit system is well connected and pretty efficient, having a car will grant you unparalleled freedom, and allow you to see and experience things that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to!

That being said, you’ll rarely need to use a car within the town of Banff itself. It’s a fantastic town for walking and cycling, thanks to its small size and wonderful atmosphere. You can rent bikes in town, or bring your own! Most journeys within the town can be made on foot or with a bike.

If the weather is unpleasant, you can always make use of the town’s ‘Roam’ bus. It travels frequently to and from all important parts of town and is well equipped to handle ski gear and bikes! Taxis are also available and they run 24 hours a day.

Buses and shuttle buses also run regularly between Banff points of interest outside of the town, including Lake Louise and the major ski resorts.

Downtown | Highway 1A | Lake Louise | Active at Lake Louise | Moraine Lake | Icefields Parkway | Upper Hot Springs

Day 1 Banff Itinerary will be all about experiencing Banff National Park’s unparalleled natural beauty. If we only had one day in Banff, this is how we’d spend it!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Downtown Banff

• Why it’s awesome: The town center is beautiful, and a perfect place to start your Banff itinerary
• Cost: Pay only for what you buy
• Food nearby: Check out the acclaimed Block Kitchen and Bar on Banff Avenue

In order to get settled and comfortable in Banff, it’s worth exploring the town and gathering your bearings. Downtown Banff is quaint, picturesque, and utterly charming. It’s a beautiful spot, that is quintessentially alpine and well worth exploring in and of itself!

Banff Avenue is the high street and main artery of the town. It’s lined with a myriad of establishments from cafes and restaurants to stores and bars! A stroll down Banff Avenue is the perfect way to get acquainted with this gorgeous little town. You could also pop into the visitor’s center and organize a Banff walking tour!

This is a great time to do a bit of shopping to set you up for your visit. There are plenty of great stores on Banff Avenue. You’ll find designer brands, casual clothes, thrift shops, and a plethora of items weird and wonderful. Whether you’re after clothes, outdoor accessories, ski-apparel, or souvenirs, this is the place to get them.

Wander around Banff Avenue for a while and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere, before popping into one of the cozy cafes for a morning brew!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Highway 1A

• Why it’s awesome: A scenic drive with good chances of wildlife sightings
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Bring a picnic and stop at Muleshoe picnic spot!

Also known as the Bow Valley Parkway, Highway 1A is the slower, but more scenic route between Banff and Lake Louise.

A drive along Highway 1A is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some of the park’s outstanding natural scenery and wildlife. It cuts through areas of the park rich with wildlife, allowing for roadside viewings of some incredible animals, including bears, deer, and wolves to name a few!

You’ll need a car to take the Bow Valley Parkway, as public transport to Lake Louise runs on the parallel Trans Canada Highway.

Insider Tip : Stop at Storm Mountain Lookout en route for some amazing views and informative interpretive signs!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lake Louise (a must-visit on any Banff Itinerary)

• Why it’s awesome: A beautiful turquoise lake set to the backdrop of the towering Rocky Mountains
• Food nearby: Grab a bite at Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House

Lake Louise is one of Banff National Park’s most treasured attractions, and one of Canada’s most beautiful places . It’s a quaint hamlet set on one of the most visually striking lakes you’ll ever see, in an impossibly scenic setting.

The lake is world-renowned for its jaw-dropping shade of turquoise. You may have come across pictures of it and smirked in disbelief, chalking it up to the age of photoshop and Instagram filters. But we assure you, the color of Lake Louise is real, and entirely natural.

Once you arrive, spend a bit of time taking in the vistas; trust us when we say you’ll want to absorb these views and keep them tucked away in your memory bank! The crisp turquoise lake is backed by the magnificent Canadian Rockies, creating a scene so picturesque and idyllic, that it has to be seen to be believed.

You may, by now, be wondering what causes the incredible color of this picturesque pair of lakes. Well, wonder no more! The color is imparted by what is known as ‘rock flour’, which is effectively a finely ground stone powder, created through glacial erosion.

The immense glaciers that sit atop the lakes slowly grind against the mountains as they creep along, crushing all that they touch to dust. Turquoise lakes, therefore, are particularly common in this glacier rich area! You’ll find some of the best lodges and cabins in Banff in this area.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Get Active at Lake Louise

• Why it’s awesome: Lake Louise offers a range of activities Mountains
• Cost: The recommended activities are free, pay only for what you buy!
• Food nearby: Enjoy fondue at The Walliser Stube

Depending on the type of experience you wish to have, there are a number of ways to spend your time at the lake. Choose between relaxing at the stately Chateau Lake Louise, or enjoying a scenic hike or activity amid the splendor of the lake’s surrounds!

If you’re looking for an easy-going hike with nice views, we recommend walking the trail up to Fairview Lookout. There are numerous other hiking options near the lake, so be sure to visit the Lake Louise Visitors’ Center when you arrive for more information! Many of the trails can be hiked in winter, too, but they generally require snowshoes and/or crampons.

Although the crisp winter hikes may come with complications, the cold season conjures its own a prized attraction: one of the most scenic ice skating rinks on Earth. Set in front of the grand Chateau Lake Louise hotel, the rink is completely free to use!

You may prefer to take it easy and explore the vast Chateau Lake Louise. This grand and impressive hotel looms over the lake in magnificent fashion and offers its own points of interest. Stop by the chateau for some lunch overlooking the lake, take in its opulent architecture, and browse the stores that it houses.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Moraine Lake

• Why it’s awesome: A stunning, isolated turquoise lake with smaller crowds than Lake Louise
• Food nearby: There are no restaurants at Moraine Lake – fuel up in Lake Louise or bring a picnic

A left turn at Lake Louise, followed by an easy 20-minute drive, will take you to a different mountain lake, wedged in a picturesque glacial gorge.

Perhaps even more enchanting than Louise Lake, Moraine Lake shares the vibrant turquoise color of its well-known neighbor. At Moraine Lake, the tourist crowds are replaced with empty Canadian landscape, which makes for a more peaceful and personal experience.

Much like at Lake Louise, the scenery at Moraine Lake varies greatly between the seasons. In the summer, the water is liquid and turquoise, wrapped in a forest of green. In winter it hardens to ice, bordered by snow-capped evergreens and a blanketed white terrain.

The area is certainly more suited to a summer visit, but it does offer spectacular cross-country skiing in the winter. If your trip to Banff is in the warmer months, we recommend you canoe or kayak across the glassy water of the Lake! Short of a swim in the icy glacial waters, nothing immerses you in the lake’s beauty quite as much as paddling across its surface.

If you have the energy for a hike, head up the Rockpile Trail. It’s a fairly short and easygoing trail that culminates at a large pile of rocks. Clamber up on the rocks and rejoice as the vista opens out in front of you! The Valley of the Ten Peaks in all of its glory, and the landscape reflecting off of turquoise water!

Moraine Lake is certainly one of our favorite places to visit in Banff, and a must-add to any Banff trip itinerary. Either way, it’s one of the best hiking destinations in North America for summer .

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Icefields Parkway

• Why it’s awesome: Considered one of the most beautiful drives on Earth, and a popular Banff road trip
• Food nearby: Stop for a picnic with a view en route

Once you’ve enjoyed your lake explorations, it’ll be time to head towards Icefields Parkway. Strung between Lake Louise and the town of Jasper, this scenic stretch of road is considered amongst the most beautiful drives on the planet! The road boasts extraordinary mountain views and scenic surroundings, as well as a host of natural attractions and a pair of mountain passes.

If you’re only spending a weekend in Banff or 3 days in Banff, you won’t have time to drive the full length of the parkway, as it’s a few hours drive in either direction. But capturing a piece of the beauty is highly recommended!

A common way to experience a piece of the parkway from Lake Louise is to drive 40 minutes along it to Peyto Lake. Here, you can stop for a picnic with a view before turning around and heading back to Banff!

Insider Tip : If you’re spending one week in Banff, you may choose to enjoy Icefields Parkway in its entirety! You can make a day out of it, or even stay overnight in Jasper when you get to the other side.

Day 1 / Stop 7 – Banff Upper Hot Springs

• Why it’s awesome : A natural hot spring that’s perfect for a steamy soak with a view
• Cost : ± $6.50 USD
• Food nearby : Enjoy a fine dining experience at Eden

After a long day in the vast Canadian Wilderness, nothing brings peace and relaxation quite like a soothing bath in a natural hot spring! Banff Upper Hot Springs offers just that, along with a wonderful mountain view as the day turns to dusk! The temperature of the pool usually hovers between 98°F and 104°F (37°C and 40°C).

While the pool is man-made, the thermal waters are heated entirely naturally. From the depths of the Earth’s crust, the water is pushed vertically over 6,500 feet through a crack in the layers of rock. This journey imparts the water with a unique blend of minerals, which is said to have restorative properties! Relaxing in the pool is a vital addition to any itinerary for Banff!

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Cave and Basin | Johnston Canyon | Banff Gondola | Bow Falls | Vermillion Lakes | Banff Nightlife

Day 2 will be more focused on the attraction in Banff town and it’s immediate surroundings. Read on if you’re planning a 2 day itinerary in Banff, or an even longer trip.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Cave and Basin

• Why it’s awesome : Cave and Basin is the birthplace of Banff National Park, and offers a beautiful and informative experience!
• Cost: ± $3 USD
• Food nearby : Find some baked goodies at Wild Flour artisan bakery

Cave and Basin is the birthplace of Banff National Park. Originally discovered by pioneer railway workers, this magical hot spring is what first brought visitors to the area, and is now a small but popular museum!

Through a series of film presentations and interactive exhibits, you’ll learn the extensive history of the site, and how it acted as the seed from which Banff National Park grew. The waters of the hot spring are heated geothermally 1.8 miles below the surface, bubbling up warm and rich in minerals!

A short man-made tunnel opens out into the hot springs cave, which, along with the brightly colored basin of mineral water at its core, gives the site its name. A small hole in the roof of the cave scatters dappled sunlight throughout the cavern, creating a soft mood-lighting that couldn’t be more fitting for the scene!

The sound of the water dripping, bubbling, and splashing reflects off the jagged stone walls, filling the cave with tranquil echoes. This creates a multi-sensory experience, wrapping you in a sonic world that matches the beauty of the entrancing visuals! After the cave, it’s worth heading to the upper deck that offers great views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Johnston Canyon

• Why it’s awesome: Beautiful waterfalls and scenic canyon surroundings, a perfect addition to your 2 day itinerary in Banff
• Food nearby: Enjoy lunch with a view at Storm Mountain Lodge

Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular hiking spots in Banff National Park! The trails are all incredibly well maintained, and most are fairly easy, making this a great spot for travelers of all ages and fitness levels.

The Johnston Canyon trail takes you along winding paths and metal catwalks, through some of the most stunning natural landscapes we’ve ever seen!

While the hiking trails at Johnston Canyon are a year-round attraction, particularly busy in Summer, we think that the canyon is at its most beautiful in the colder months. The paths follow dramatic canyon walls, weaving between frosted spruces, icy streams, and magnificent frozen waterfalls. Summertime in the canyon has its own wonderful charm, bringing lush greenery and the hum of rich Canadian wildlife!

Following the trail upwards takes you past two waterfalls: Lower Johnston Falls, and Upper Johnston Falls. The Lower Falls hike is short and easy, with the falls located just over half a mile from the trailhead. It’s around a 1-hour round trip and is really easygoing on the whole!

From the Lower Falls, you can continue walking for an additional ½ hour in order to reach the Upper Falls, located around 1.6 miles (2.6 km) from the trailhead. Visiting both waterfalls is one of the most popular routes, and we highly recommend it – they’re both stunning and well worth the walk.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue on from the Upper Falls for another hour or so to reach Ink Pots. Here, you’ll find beautiful turquoise ponds of mineral water that bubble up through the earth!

Insider Tip : Unless you’re hiking Johnston Canyon during the Summer, we strongly recommend that you make use of crampons or ice cleats. The cool shaded paths and catwalks tend to stay iced over for much of the year.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Banff Gondola

• Why it’s awesome : Amazing views, a scenic walk, and a world-class interpretive center
• Cost: ± $49 USD
• Food nearby : Dine in the sky at Sky Bistro atop Sulphur Mountain

One of the most popular tourist activities in Banff, the Banff Gondola soars you to the top of Sulphur Mountain! The cozy 4-person pods are modern and made of glass, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery as you ascend.

The stunning gondola ride lasts around 6 minutes, terminating at the top of the mountain, where you’ll find a world-class interpretive center, packed with activities and information!

Your first stop atop Sulphur Mountain should be the large rooftop observation deck. From here, the panoramic views are unparalleled; swooping downwards to the town of Banff and Bow Valley , and outward to six mountain ranges! The summer and winter views are starkly different, but both equally captivating.

Next, enjoy an easy-going stroll along the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk. It’s a half-mile (1km) self-guided, interpretive trail, meaning there are several informational stops along the way! The placards you pass will provide interesting facts and information on the area’s rich wildlife and history.

After the walk, grab some lunch at one of the two restaurants, or sip on a cup of coffee (with a view) from the mountaintop cafe, before heading to the interpretive center.

The Above Banff Interpretive Center offers a range of immersive, hands-on experiences that are both informative and entertaining! One of the top attractions is the Above Banff Theatre, which takes you on a multi-sensory journey, where you’ll soar above The Rockies like an Eagle.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Bow Falls

• Why it’s awesome : Scenic waterfall with picnic spots just a short walk from town
• Cost : Viewing and trails are free, while rafting can cost around $60 USD pp
• Food nearby : Fine dine at Grapes restaurant

While bow falls may not be quite as spectacular as the falls in Johnston Canyon, it’s still a popular tourist site and well worth a visit. The thunderous gush of the water pairs well with the scenic surroundings!

It’s also located right next to the town of Banff, behind the Banff Springs Hotel, so it’s really easy to pop down for a quick visit. Walking from town will take around 20 minutes while driving will take just 7 minutes.

The water that flows down Bow River and over the falls originates at Bow Glacier, and is one of the cleanest water sources on Earth! You won’t need long to see the falls, but there is a trail that runs from the falls along the river, passing several spots where you can enjoy a scenic picnic or just admire the surroundings!

Several local tour companies also offer chilled out raft trips down Bow River from just below the falls. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to enjoy some more spectacular scenery, it’s well worth hopping on a raft tour and heading downriver! There aren’t any rapids or rough waters, so it’s suitable for all kinds of travelers! Just be sure to stop by the Banff Visitor Center and book in advance.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Vermillion Lakes

• Why it’s awesome: Beautiful lakes with spectacular scenery, right outside Banff
• Food nearby: The Juniper Bistro serves up delicious dishes

While Vermilion Lakes may not share the vibrant turquoise of the lakes explored on Day 1, they offer beautiful views and an idyllic atmosphere right on Banff’s doorstep. The lakes are an easy 20-minute walk from the town center! Sunset and sunrise are particularly beautiful times to visit the lakes, so head over when the sun is hanging low in the sky.

Take some time to walk along the paths that wind through marshlands around the lakes, before finding a comfortable viewpoint on the water’s edge. Get comfy, and watch the water slip into soft shades of yellow, orange, and pink as it reflects the evening sky and surrounding mountains.

Before the darkness is full, make your way back to the town center for some dinner!

Insider Tip : Banff can get chilly in the evenings at any time of year, so be sure to wrap up warm and bring a blanket for a sunset snuggle with loved ones!

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Experience the Banff Nightlife

• Why it’s awesome : Banff has an eclectic mix of locals and travelers, who love to have a good time!
• Food nearby: Try Balkan Restaurant’s delectable Mediterranean food

Banff is hardly a large town, and it may not have an extensive range of bars and clubs, but it certainly knows how to party!

Banff is a multinational melting pot, with a plethora of travelers from around the world visiting and staying in town. Ski instructor schools in the area ensure a steady stream of youthful students, who are all looking to have a good time!

Most of the bars and clubs in town are concentrated in a fairly small area, so it’s easy to hop between them and experience the full range of Banff’s nightlife.

There are a range of nightlife options, catering to all kinds of nights on the town. If you’re after a chilled out drink with a game of pool and some live music, Rose & Crown is a great option. Alternatively, check out Wild Bill’s saloon for line dancing, live music, and karaoke! Tommy’s Neighborhood Pub is another laid back option.

For those who wish to dance the night away, the nightclub options are limited to two: Hoodoo, and Dancing Sasquatch. But don’t be dismayed, both of them are fun and friendly, with great DJs playing deep into the night! Head over to Dancing Sasquatch if you’re keen to party in true Banff spirit; it’s a cabin-themed club, with a sauna styled chillout room!

Samesun Banff

Samesun Banff offers affordable accommodation right near the center of Banff. The dorms boast clean, comfortable beds, and most also offer incredible views of the mountains!

• Free Breakfast

Hit the Slopes | Farmont Banff Spring Hotel | Lake Minnewanka | White Museum | Banff Park Museum

For those planning a 3 day itinerary in Banff, we’ve got you covered! If you’re only spending two days in Banff, the above itinerary will serve you well. But if you plan on spending 3 days in Banff, 4 days in Banff, or even longer, there are plenty more Banff attractions and activities!

Hit the Slopes

• Banff is famed for amazing skiing
• Three ski resorts nearby
• Suitable options for all ages and skill levels

A Banff itinerary really wouldn’t be complete without mention of the world-renowned ski slopes that surround the town. We’ve tried to keep this guide predominantly season neutral, but we couldn’t forgo one of the park’s most iconic and popular attractions!

We assume that, if you want to travel to Banff in Winter, you’re planning on doing some skiing or snowboarding. But where to start? Well, Banff National Park is home to three world-class ski resorts: Sunshine Village, Mt. Norquay, and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Each of these resorts has its own benefits and charm!

Lake Louise is one of the largest ski resorts in Canada, with plenty of slopes, a gondola, and 10 chair lifts! It has been named the best places to ski in the country multiple times and is a fantastic choice. Lake Louise is the farthest of the three, around 35 miles (57km) from Banff town center, so it’s not ideal if you’re planning on commuting each day. That being said, there is accommodation available in Lake Louise, if you want to stay closer to its slopes!

Sunshine Village, on the other hand, is just a 20-minute drive from Banff, and easily accessible by shuttle bus! It’s the highest ski resort in the country, which means exceptionally great snow conditions and an extended ski season. Pristine powder is plentiful here, and there’s even a top-notch terrain park with boxes, rails, tubes, and jumps!

The closest ski resort to Banff is Mt. Norquay, just 3 ½ miles (6km) from town. It’s the smallest and most accessible of the three, ideal for easy-going family holidays! It’s also pretty affordable. There’s a resort for every kind of traveler in the park!

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

• Grand hotel with beautiful interiors
• Great restaurants on-site with amazing views
• One of the most iconic Banff landmarks

Sometimes referred to as the Castle of the Rockies, Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a popular attraction and worth visiting for its grand design and classic, opulent interiors!

The hotel was built in 1885 in the Canadian chateau style, which fuses French chateau detailings with Scottish Baronial design. It sits boldly on the mountainside, enormous in stature, but still dominated by the mountains!

The interior of the hotel is spacious, grand, and luxurious in a way that’s reminiscent of old-world opulence. Soaring ceilings with dark wooden beams ark between tall brick walls, and over floors of marble! Not to mention the sweeping staircases and grand arches.

Wander through the hotel admiring its design and cozy Rocky Mountain atmosphere, then head over to the inhouse shopping arcade! Here you’ll find everything from art galleries and luxury goods, to outdoor gear and tourist shops.

If you’re hungry, you’re in luck. There are several great restaurants in the hotel, most with exceptional views of the stunning surroundings!

Lake Minnewanka

• Large narrow lake with beautiful natural scenery
• Just a 15-minute drive from the center of Banff
• Offers awesome activities for a 3 day itinerary in Banff

Meaning ‘Water of the Spirits’ in the Nakoda language, Lake Minnewanka is a long, narrow lake, that snakes between mountains to the northeast of Banff. The enormous lake is right on the town’s doorstep, just a 15-minute drive from the center!

A popular way to experience the lake is to embark on the loop drive that passes Lake Minnewanka as well as Two Jack Lake. The entire drive is around a half-hour round trip from Banff town center, and the views of each lake are incredible!

Lake Minnewanka is famed for its beautiful natural scenery and range of activities. If you’d prefer to experience the lake more deeply than a mere drive-by viewing, there are a few awesome options available!

Take a boat tour of the lake, or rent a kayak and glide across its glassy surface. A cruise or paddle on the lake is an awesome way to immerse yourself in the towering peaks, forested banks, and incredible range of Canadian wildlife.

Alternatively, you could plunge down into the lake for some scuba diving. We know – you probably weren’t headed to the Canadian Rockies in search of scuba spots, but we assure you, there’s good reason to give it a try; Lake Minewanka is home to an underwater ghost town!

Minnewanka Landing has been submerged for nearly a century, flooded due to the construction of a dam wall. The eerie remnants of this once thriving resort village can still be seen lurking in the depths of the lake!

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

• An arts and culture museum dedicated to the Canadian Rockies
• Explores the cultural history and Banff and it’s surroundings
• A good way to get acquainted with the area and its history

Founded by Peter and Catherine Whyte in the 1960s, the Whyte museum explores the cultural history of the Canadian Rockies. The Whytes were enthusiastic artists and avid collectors. They shared a passion for the magnificent natural landscape of the Canadian Rockies, as well as the areas rich cultural history!

Across its exhibits, the museum houses a vast collection of art, artifacts, photographs, and archival material, all paying tribute to the Canadian Rockies in one way or another!

The art ranges from the abstract to realism, with creative portrayals and recreations of the surrounding landscape being a popular point of focus. Historic artifacts are plentiful, with relics from the native Nakoda people and objects exploring how the area shaped its cultures.

A visit to the Whyte Museum is a great way to get acquainted with the area and its rich history. You’ll learn a lot, and come away with a newfound respect for the Canadian Rockies, their people, and their vibrant culture!

Banff Park Museum

• A museum dedicated to the wildlife of Banf National Park
• Housed in a beautiful 1903 log building
• Over 5,000 park specimens

Housed in a historic log building, the Banff Park Museum is the oldest natural history museum in Western Canada. It explores the parks natural wildlife and history through its collection of over 5,000 botanical and zoological specimens, including a vast collection of taxidermied animals. The museum is a great place to get acquainted with the park’s history and to learn all about the wildlife that call it home!

Built over 100 years ago, the museum still primarily houses the original specimens that were collected in the park during the early 1900s. It, therefore, offers a fascinating window into Victorian-era Banff and shows how natural history was interpreted all those years ago!

One of Banff’s finest attributes is also its most prominent danger: the stunning untamed wildlife of Banff National Park. Banff is home to a number of potentially dangerous animals, including bears, wolves, cougars, and elks. While dangerous encounters between humans and wild animals are rare, certain precautions should still be taken in order to ensure your safety.

The general advice for encounters with dangerous animals is to make yourself appear as large as possible and back away slowly while facing the animal. You generally shouldn’t run, as predators are hardwired to chase animals that run from them. However, it’s important that you learn how to deal with different animal encounters, as the best approach can vary between types of animals.

Best practice within the park is to hike and travel in groups. Don’t let kids play alone outside in the park, and just be mindful of your surroundings!

Another danger comes from venturing into the wilderness unprepared or getting lost in its vastness. Always stay on marked paths and slopes, and try to keep your bearings in order to avoid getting lost. Make sure you’ve got the right safety gear for outdoor activities and always be sure to stay warm, no matter what you’re doing. Banff gets extremely cold, so warm gear is an absolute necessity.

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If you’re looking for something extra to add to your Banff National Park itinerary, we recommend trying one of these amazing day trips from Banff!

Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure

Columbia Icefield is a large area of interconnected glaciers, spread between the national parks of Banff and Jasper. This tour immerses you in one of the icefield’s famous toes: Athabasca Glacier!

You’ll begin the tour by learning all about the glaciers at the Columbia Icefields discovery center, before boarding an Ice Explorer bus. The bus ventures out onto Athabasca Glacier, where you’ll get to walk on, touch, and drink water from, the 25,000-year-old glacier. Athabasca Glacier is the most-visited glacier in North America.

Along the way, your experienced guide will provide fascinating commentary about the glacial surroundings!

Kananaskis River Whitewater Rafting Tour

This whitewater rafting tour is fun and exciting, while still being family-friendly. It offers beautiful scenery as well as thrilling entertainment!

Start the tour with a scenic 45-minute drive that winds through the beautiful Canadian countryside. You’ll be kitted up and briefed on safety before hopping in a raft and heading down the stunning Kananaskis river!

The surrounding landscapes are gorgeous, and you may even spot some of the area’s thriving wildlife! Enjoy the views on the calm sections of the river and get ready for an awesome ride as you hit the rapids!

Banff National Park Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Day Pass

This hop-on-hop-off bus tour is an awesome system for touring Banff and a great way to explore the park if you don’t have a car. It also removes the stress of parking, and helps keep your explorations streamlined!

The bus stops at several of the key Banff attractions on this itinerary. Starting in the town of Banff, it travels to Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Lake Louise Gondola, and Morraine Lake. With three departure times a day, you’ll be able to explore Banff national park’s best attractions at your own pace.

Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour with Lunch

After a pickup in Banff, you’ll be shuttled toward the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. En route, the tour makes a stop at Takakkaw Falls, Canada’s second-highest waterfall!

The next stop is the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, where you’ll take to the skies in a sightseeing gondola with spectacular views. Once you reach the top you’ll have time to enjoy the panoramic vistas before enjoying a delicious lunch at the highest restaurant in Canada!

Catch a scenic chairlift up to the Grizzly Bear Refuge, an enclosed grizzly bear habitat which is the largest of its kind on Earth. You’ll meet a friendly grizzly bear and learn all about these beautiful animals! This tour is one of our favorite day trips from Banff.

Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback

We don’t think there is any way to explore the Canadian Rockies more fitting than on horseback. Thrust into the vast Canadian wilderness, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back to the days of cowboys and explorers!

This tour takes you on horseback along a trail that was pioneered by explorers in the early 1900s. With your trusty horse, you’ll trek along glacier-fed rivers, winding between mountains, trees, and spectacular wildlife. Stop for a cowboy style lunch and spend the night in a cozy and comfortable lodge, tucked away in the depths of nature!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Banff itinerary.

How many days do you need in Banff?

Exploring Banff within 3 days is definitely possible, but you will have to plan ahead so you can use your time efficiently. Having an extra day to chill or change plans spontaneoulsy will make your itinerary a lot more relaxed.

What should you add to your Banff itinerary in summer?

You can’t miss out on these cool places in Banff: – Downtown Banff – Moraine Lake Banff – Upper Hot Springs

Can Banff be a day trip?

Banff can be a day trip, but you’ll most likely only see one attraction. We’d recommend planning well ahead if you’re only staying for a very short time and maybe getting a guide or join a tour.

What can you do in Banff today?

To find out what’s on the activity menu in Banff today, check out GetYourGuide for awesome tours, attractions and tickets. If you want to have a more local vibe, go with Airbnb experiences instead.

Closing Thoughts

Banff was quite literally built for visitors, thanks to the hot springs that first brought tourists to the area. It’s the highest town in Canada, with a picturesque town center, a quintessential alpine vibe, and access to amazing attractions and ski resorts! Our itinerary for Banff is packed with the best of the best when it comes to exploring this mountainous paradise.

While a few of the activities in this Banff Itinerary are only suitable for a summertime trip to Banff, most of them are wonderful all year round! If you’re visiting Banff in winter, it’s worth fitting in at least some of these activities around your winter sports for a well rounded Banff experience.

We hope that this Banff Itinerary has set you up for an amazing vacation in Banff!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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Hi, One correction – Parks Canada announced it would be restricting parking for most visitors at Moraine Lake come summer. Those who wish to see the iconic blue lake can instead use the shuttle service, Roam Transit, or other commercial transportation to access the area, yet that comes with a fee.

Thank you so much for the beautiful review of Banff. It would supposedly be an amazing travel in coming months but here down under, New South Wales , is in lockdown. Nevertheless, I’m travelling quite well with your reviews. As if I’m there at the moment! Thanks to you!

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Banff   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon | Getty Images

16 Epic Things to Do in Banff, Alberta

If you make the trek to Banff, you may have an outdoor sport in mind. Take advantage of the rugged terrain in whatever manner you see fit. In the winter, skiing is king, but there are many full-day and half-day tours of the surrounding areas that

• All Things To Do

Banff Sunshine Village Banff Sunshine Village

Located 11 miles west of Banff Town, Banff Sunshine Village offers 12 lifts, including Canada’s only heated lift, more than 3,300 skiable acres and a peak elevation of 7,200 feet. And thanks to its location straddling the Continental Divide, Sunshine sees more snow than its neighbors, meaning the ski season here is long – typically from early November to late May. The powdery terrain beckons skiers of all levels (another point of praise from recent travelers), and Sunshine Mountain Lodge offers the only ski-in, ski-out hotel in Banff.

If you're not in Banff for ski season, you should still make a point to visit Sunshine, according to reviewers. From mid-June to early autumn, the Sunshine Meadows are open for hiking, but be aware that there may be wildlife in the area, including bears. The Banff Sunshine Sightseeing Gondola (ticket required) takes you to the village, where you can board the Standish Chairlift to the Viewing Deck and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes. Hiking in the meadows is free and so is the shuttle from town, which runs from 7:20 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. during the summer.

Banff Gondola Banff Gondola

U.S. News Insider Tip: Download the free Agents of Discovery smartphone app so kids can complete the Banff Gondola Mission and get a reward pin at the Photo Centre. – Debra Smith

The Banff Gondola is a relaxing way to admire the town's natural beauty. The eight-minute ride to the summit of 7,486-foot Sulphur Mountain leads to breathtaking views of the Bow River Valley and Banff, not to mention a boardwalk, a gift shop, an interactive interpretive center, a multisensory theater, a 360-degree rooftop observation deck and several eateries, including Sky Bistro, a fine dining restaurant serving high-end Canadian cuisine.

Moraine Lake Moraine Lake free

Located about an hour's drive north of town, Moraine Lake is a visual highlight of any Banff trip and labeled an unforgettable experience by many recent visitors. Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, the lake mirrors the snowcapped mountains and is surrounded by backcountry hiking trails.

The easiest trail is the flat Moraine Lakeshore path, which starts near Moraine Lake Lodge and takes about 45 minutes to complete (round-trip). As you walk along the lakeshore, you'll spot stunning views of Mount Fay and the Fay Glacier. If you've got a bit more time on your hands, consider embarking on the nearly 2-mile Consolation Lakes trail, which takes about two hours to complete. You'll encounter some elevation gains with this one, but you'll be rewarded with views of the high alpine meadows, talus slopes and the Quadra Glacier. For a detailed list of all the available hikes in this area, visit the Parks Canada website .

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Lake Louise Ski Resort Lake Louise Ski Resort

The Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of Banff's most popular ski locales and one of the largest ski areas in North America. It encompasses four mountains, 164 runs – including a 5-mile run – 11 lifts (one gondola, seven chairs and three carpets), and three terrain parks for snowboarders from beginner to expert. There are several top-notch eateries, a dozen are open during the winter and five stay open during the summer, including the stunning Lodge of Ten Peaks Cafe. Plus, Lake Louise boasts one of the longest ski seasons in North America: The first chair runs in early November and doesn't stop until the first Sunday in May. Though Lake Louise is a skier's paradise, it also provides plenty of other activities, such as snowshoeing, tubing and free mountain tours. And when the weather warms up, the resort offers guided hikes (for a fee), a free wildlife interpretive center and a sightseeing gondola.

According to recent visitors, this resort is home to some of the best skiing in the Rocky Mountains. Reviewers were quick to praise the free tours led by the Ski Friends, a group of enthusiastic volunteers who guide visitors to lesser-known ski runs. Summer visitors were a bit taken aback by the cost of the gondola ride, but wowed by the views and the number of wildlife to be seen in the area.

Mount Norquay Mount Norquay

Although it is the smallest of Banff's three ski areas, Mount Norquay is also the closest – it's about 4 miles northwest of Banff Town. Beyond its convenient location, the resort is also considered one of the area's best skiing locales for families because it offers ski and snowboard instruction for ages 3 and older. Mount Norquay is also home to the North American Chairlift, one of the earliest lifts in the area that opened in 1948; the ride to the summit offers a spectacular aerial view of Banff townsite in winter and summer. You can get your adrenaline pumping with some of Mount Norquay's 60 ski runs spread over 190 acres, or you can head off on one of the area's trails for a cross-country hike in the summer. The tube park has the longest and fastest runs in Alberta, with morning, afternoon and night tubing sessions. Complete an adventure-filled day with a hearty meal at one of the four lodges.

Recent visitors enjoyed the friendly staff, the instructors and the quality of the ski lessons. They also described the tubing as fun for all ages and a great family activity. 

Johnston Canyon Johnston Canyon

A favorite destination for locals and visitors alike, Johnston Canyon is located about 15 miles from Banff along Highway 1A (also called the Bow Valley Parkway ). The river-carved canyon is surrounded by a lush forest and popular for its waterfalls, which visitors can access via two trails.

The trail to the Lower Falls is an easy hourlong hike on a well-groomed path that follows the tree-lined canyon. Steel catwalks that crisscross Johnston Creek are perfect spots to snap a photo. From there, the path continues 1 ½ miles to the Upper Falls. Allow three hours to complete both trails. In winter, consider taking a guided ice walk to see the canyon from another perspective, including waterfalls of glittering ice. Discover Banff Tours is a popular operator that provides round-trip transportation, a certified guide, and equipment like hiking poles and ice cleats.

Columbia Icefield Columbia Icefield

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you plan to drive the Icefields Parkway, consider purchasing a one-year Discovery Pass, which covers entry to every national park in Canada, including Jasper National Park, and more than 80 historic sites and destinations across the country. – Debra Smith

Covering 89 square miles on the northern edge of Banff National Park, the Columbia Icefield is the largest body of ice in the Canadian Rockies. It's a bit of a drive from Banff Town (about two hours) to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre across from the foot of the Athabasca Glacier, but you'll quickly find the views are well worth the trip.

Bow Valley Parkway Bow Valley Parkway free

The Bow Valley Parkway – 36 miles of road that originally connected Banff and Lake Louise – meanders through meadows and marshes, and provides many opportunities to spot elk, moose, mule deer, and the occasional wolf and bear on the mountainsides. (Morning and evening are prime viewing times to safely observe wildlife by keeping your distance.) A round-trip drive from Banff takes about two hours by car, without stops. But there are many places to pull off for a picnic like Corral Creek, which is fully accessible, and Muleshoe, and the hiking trails in Johnston Canyon are a must. Take a classic photo at Morant’s Curve, a beautiful spot made even better if a Canadian Pacific Railway train is rounding the tracks.

From May 1 to June 25 and Sept. 1 to Oct. 2, the first 10 ½ miles of road leading from Banff are closed to vehicles and cyclists take over. Rent a bicycle or an e-bike at Snowtips Bactrax  or Bear Street Outfitters and take to the road. Banff Cycle offers guided e-bike tours that include a hike to the Lower Falls at Johnston Canyon.

Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Sunrise | Award-Winning Premium Tour

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Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Banff

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Banff Tour with Gondola & Lake Cruise - roundtrip from Banff

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Whitewater Rafting & Float Trips Whitewater Rafting & Float Trips

When you're not admiring Banff's stunning scenery from a hiking trail or in the comfort of your car, get out on one of its rivers. Whether you're craving the excitement of a whitewater rafting adventure or just want to peacefully glide through the water, you'll find Banff tour operators satisfy a variety of interests.

For a scenic, guided tour of the Bow River and the Hoodoos, consider Rocky Mountain Raft Tours . During these float tours, which last about one hour, you'll be seated in a raft as a guide paddles you calmly through the river along with about 20 other rafters. Not only is this a great tour for seniors and families with young children, but it's also ideal for anyone who isn't interested in getting wet (even your shoes are safe thanks to the rafts' elevated floorboards). Prices range from CA$75 (about $56) for adults and seniors to CA$35 (approximately $26) for children from 2 to 15 years old. These tours are also the closest to Banff; they depart from the Bow River near the golf course at the Fairmont Banff Springs , less than 2 miles from downtown.

Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay

One advantage of visiting Banff in the summer is the unique opportunity to climb the Via Ferrata (Italian for "iron path") on Mount Norquay . Promising stunning views of Banff National Park, the Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay is a one-of-a-kind adventure. What's more, you don't have to be a climbing expert to do it.

Five different routes of increasing difficulty include ladders, suspension bridges and single-cable mountainside traverses on the way to the top. But never fear, climbers are tethered by strong cables, outfitted with helmets and led by professional guides. Explorer and Ridgewalker route climbers must be over the age of 12 and weigh a minimum of 88 pounds. Alpinist, Skyline and Summiteer climbers must be 14 and older with the same weight restriction.

Banff Upper Hot Springs Banff Upper Hot Springs

U.S. News Insider Tip: Night swims at the springs are extra special with the stars twinkling over the mountains, and even more magical when snowflakes are falling. – Debra Smith

These springs, which were first discovered by Canada's First Nations people thousands of years ago, were regarded as sacred waters that could cure illness and maintain health. Now, the springs are a popular tourist attraction thanks to their serene atmosphere and stunning alpine views. At 5,200 feet, this is the highest operating hot spring in Canada. The facility features all of the modern amenities you would expect from a public swimming pool (such as railings, ladders, lockers, changing areas, a cafe and a gift shop), but the water is kept at 98 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and is infused with minerals like sulfate, calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium and sodium.

Go on a dog-sledding tour Go on a dog-sledding tour

Arguably the most fun you can have outdoors on a sled, dog-sledding is an action-packed way to weave your way through the woods. It’s hard to decide who is having the best time, you or the dogs, as they clearly love to pull their sleds through the snow. With an introduction and some instructions from the mushers (guides), you’ll be making furry friends while enjoying the thrill of dashing through fields of powder and taking in the exquisite views of the mountains around you. There are several dog-sledding tour companies in and around Banff; Kingmik and Snowy Owl are two popular operators.

Kingmik Dogsled Tours in Lake Louise offers two different tours during the winter season: a 3-mile, 30-minute tear through the meadows near Lake Louise, and a 10-mile, 90-minute tour that takes you to the Continental Divide. Get to know the dogs and drive the team on the way home with the help of your guide. The 90-minute ride costs CA$575 (about $425) for a maximum of two people per sled and a total load of 380 pounds. Kingmik is located about 40 miles northwest of Banff.

SnowDays Festival SnowDays Festival free

Every January, the streets of Banff and the shore of Lake Louise are transformed into outdoor sculpture galleries by international teams of ice and snow carvers. During the first week of the festival, you can watch huge blocks of snow being shaped into fantastical figures all around Banff, from the Whyte Museum to Bear Street and Banff Avenue Square. The sculptures will have varying completion dates, but they’ll all be on display the second week, with the best viewing at night when they are illuminated. At Lake Louise, the carvings are made of ice that sparkles against the backdrop of Lake Louise, one of Canada’s most photographed lakes.

Crowds line Banff Avenue to witness the thrilling and unique sport of Skijoring, where horses tow riders over ski jumps and cowboys and cowgirls perform trick riding and ski stunts as they gallop through town.

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Cave and Basin National Historic Site Cave and Basin National Historic Site

This is a popular attraction among nature lovers and history buffs alike. Experts refer to this site as the birthplace of Banff National Park, and the natural hot springs lured travelers in search of solace for years. Although the original springs are no longer open to the public (the Banff Upper Hot Springs are the new hot spot for comfort-seekers), the Cave and Basin National Historic Site does feature interactive displays educating visitors on local wildlife and the history behind the park's establishment. A new display and a self-guided tour lets you walk into the original cave where the springs were discovered in 1883.

Recent travelers said this is a worthwhile stop in Banff, not only for its historical significance, but also for the stunning views. Others commend the informative displays about local flora and fauna and the friendly staff. If you have time, you should plan to tag along on the guided 30-minute Cave and Basics Tour, which is included in the cost of admission. The tour explains how railway workers first discovered the thermal pools and their uses, and allows participants to dip their hands in the steamy thermal waters. Be aware that the pools give off strong natural sulphur fumes.

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

Located just a block back from Banff Avenue on Bear Street, the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies is the only museum of its kind. Named after its patrons, Peter and Catharine Whyte – who were determined to enhance Banff's cultural life – the museum is dedicated to portraying the art and culture of the Canadian Rockies while respecting the traditional values and history of Indigenous peoples. Here, you'll experience the art, history and local folklore of the region. If you're a fan of landscapes, you've come to the right place; the Whytes loved landscape paintings, both historic and contemporary.

Recent visitors said this is a small museum that packs a big punch with a mix of audio, visual and hands-on exhibits. Many reviewers praised the gift shop where they found the wide selection of mountain-related art, books and gifts was the best in town. The docent-led tours are highly rated.

Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum

Having opened in 1952, the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum has dedicated more than 50 years to educating visitors about the contributions made by Indigenous people in the area. Brace yourself if you're a history buff or amateur anthropologist; there are numerous displays exhibiting domestic routines, hunting tactics and daily life of the region's inhabitants prior to their encounter with Europeans, and how they continue to adapt and preserve their culture.

Recent visitors praised the exhibitions and say the museum provides an educational introduction to the history of the First Nations people, informative displays and interesting artifacts. What's more, reviewers found the gift shop to be well stocked with unique handmade goods, including beadwork.

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3rd time's the charm: Finally taking a Canadian dream trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper

Like many travelers, we had epic plans for the summer of 2020. We had mapped out a highly anticipated multigenerational family trip to Canada with my parents and kids for June 2020. It was a big trip that would let us tick off several bucket-list destinations while simultaneously giving us the chance to escape Texas' summer heat.

But then, we all know what happened: The coronavirus pandemic swept the globe. Suffice it to say, the trip couldn't happen.

So, we rebooked the trip for June 2021 hoping, like many, that the Canadian border would reopen by then. Much to our disappointment, though, it remained closed to U.S. tourists, prompting us to cancel the trip once again.

Fast forward to June 2022, and luck was on our side. The third time was indeed the charm, as restrictions lifted and we were finally able to use our flight vouchers that had collected dust for two years to head across the border.

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Our merry band of travelers (which now included a range of ages, from my 6-year-old daughter to my 73-year-old father) took off for points north, bound for Alberta and all it had in store. We may have all aged by two years by the time the trip became a reality, but it was just as grand as we had hoped — and well worth the years of planning, waiting and replanning.

Here's how we booked our trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, Alberta, including what we did, where we stayed and what we ate.

How to plan an epic Alberta adventure

Since we had a week to work with, we wanted to enjoy Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper on the same trip.

Adding Jasper definitely makes the trip longer and more involved, so if you're pressed for time or just want to move at a slower pace, know that there's plenty to see and do in Banff and Lake Louise.

With prices at their peak from July through August (the region's busy season), we decided to plan our trip for June to save money. From our experience, visiting a month before the peak travel season didn't lead to any major sacrifices on our part, so the cost-cutting move proved worthwhile.

We knew we'd need a rental car (and, specifically, a harder-to-book minivan to accommodate our large group), so we immediately started looking for a reservation. Luckily, we began planning our trip far enough out to snag a rental car without any trouble. Had we waited until we arrived at Calgary International Airport (YYC) in June, we would've discovered they were sold out.

With our dates and the rental car settled, we began to plan our trip. We started our adventure in Banff before moving on to Lake Louise and briefly checking out Jasper. We rounded out our Alberta visit with a one-night stay at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis Country, a region located about an hour west of the Calgary airport.

Assuming you visit in the summer, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are where you head to look at pretty lakes, streams and waterfalls and enjoy a number of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, canoeing and horseback riding.

There are plenty of options for all of these activities, but here are the ones we recommend:

Explore Cave and Basin National Historic Site

This destination in the heart of Banff was not only instrumental in the creation of Canada's first national park but is also a place that's held special meaning for thousands of years for people tied to Canada's First Nations community. Cave and Basin National Historic Site's rich history makes it a must-visit destination in Banff.

The actual cave is very short and small, with the pungent smell of sulfur. It is still cool though — both literally and figuratively.

While you'll likely only be inside for no more than five minutes, you can also look around outside, view the historic site's movie and peruse the site's exhibits to extend your visit to about 30 minutes.

Children 17 and younger can visit for free, but adults are required to pay 8.50 Canadian dollars (or about $6.50) each to enter. Travelers ages 65 and older are eligible for the reduced senior rate of CA$7 (less than $5.50).

Ride the Banff Gondola

Experiencing the Banff Gondola was a lot of fun, but we had sticker shock when we strolled up to the ticket office and found out that adult gondola tickets cost a whopping CA$70 (about $54) each during the warmer months.

Fortunately, the kids were free, as admission is waived for each child 15 and younger who is with an adult and rides before 10 a.m.

To save yourself from being stunned upon arrival, try to reserve your tickets online in advance, as you may have luck snagging a lower rate.

Despite the high price, the views were exceptional and worth the hit to our budget. We loved taking in the stunning scenery while strolling along the extensive boardwalk at the top.

In total, we spent about 90 minutes here, which felt like the right amount of time for most families.

Take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

Our stop at the Banff Upper Hot Springs was also a little different than what I imagined. These historic natural hot springs looked like a pretty basic swimming pool.

Still, at only CA$29 (roughly $22) — which is what a family pass for two adults and two children costs — we found the springs to be a fun spot to enjoy a dip.

Try to arrive first thing in the morning to beat the crowds, as your experience will be much more enjoyable if you're not rubbing elbows with hordes of visitors.

To dial up the nostalgia and avoid hauling around a wet bathing suit all day, I opted to rent the "old-timey classic" swimsuit. A clean and well-appointed locker room was available on site, so we could comfortably change and safely store our belongings while in the springs.

Go for a hike in Johnston Canyon

A popular Banff destination for hiking is Johnston Canyon, a stunning natural wonder in Banff National Park.

Our hike through this impressive canyon, which was carved into the limestone bedrock by water over thousands of years, was easy enough for everyone in our crew to complete. We did the 1.1-kilometer (a little more than a half-mile) hike to the lower falls, which took no more than an hour to complete.

More challenging trails are available as well, should you find yourself wanting to break a sweat.

Sign up for an Open Top tour

While we didn't actually go on an Open Top tour, we found ourselves wishing we had, as the classically styled vehicles we kept spotting at our hotel caught our eyes.

Priced at CA$42 (about $32) for adults and CA$24 (approximately $18.50) for kids, these tours help you see some of the area's top sights in just 90 minutes without having to do any driving or planning. Based on recent reviews, you'll also get some great stories along the way.

Hit the trails on horseback

Another activity we didn't have time to do in Banff was horseback riding. If we had stayed more than one night at the Fairmont Banff Springs, we would have found a way to fit in this activity, as there are trails conveniently located next to the hotel.

You can choose a one- or four-hour ride, which cost CA$89 (a little more than $68) and CA$249 (nearly $191), respectively. The minimum age is 8 years old for the shorter ride, while every member of your party will need to be at least 10 years old for the four-hour ride. If you're traveling with a younger kid, note that there are trail rides with lower age minimums in Jasper.

To save money, book in advance online to get the 10% discount. There's also a package discount available, should you find yourself also visiting places like local hot springs and the gondola.

Get an eyeful of Peyto Lake

Several lakes in varying shades of hard-to-believe colors are worth visiting while in Alberta, but Banff's Peyto Lake is one of the most breathtaking.

To get to this beautiful lake, which is free to visit, you need to embark on an easy 10-minute hike. We thoroughly enjoyed the brief hike thanks to the snow that was still on the ground during our mid-June visit. We found ourselves having an impromptu snowball fight before arriving at the lake.

Once Peyto Lake came into view, we were floored by the color. It was, without question, the richest hue of blue I've ever seen.

Rumor has it that, on sunny days, the lake takes on a brighter, turquoise appearance, so know that the color may vary slightly depending on when you visit. It gets its color from suspended rock flour in the water.

Related: Planning the perfect Banff summer vacation

Lake Louise

Marvel at moraine lake.

One of the absolute highlights of our trip was unquestionably our time in the Lake Louise area at Moraine Lake.

While Peyto Lake wowed us, the mesmerizing blue-green color of Moraine Lake's glacier-fed water was equally as impressive. Photos simply don't do this lake justice.

The lake is free to visit, though you'll need a bit of luck (or lots of strategizing) to avoid paying for transportation.

If you arrive early (or late) or just happen to time your visit perfectly, you can park right at Moraine Lake. We pulled up late in the morning just as the "parking is full" sign was being put out, so we had to head to the parking lot near Lake Louise Ski Resort's gondola and pay to take a bus back to the lake.

For what it's worth, Lake Louise's Fairmont also had a shuttle to Moraine Lake, but it was very expensive compared to the bus option, which only cost CA$8 (about $6) for adults and less for kids and seniors. We read that you needed advance reservations to use the bus, but we had no problem getting walk-up tickets during our visit.

No matter how you get to the lake, don't miss it. We walked around and admired it for about an hour. Be sure to wear hiking boots, as the trail can be slick.

Hop on the gondola

Lake Louise's gondola is said to be the best way to spot wildlife in the area from a safe distance.

However, the weather was rainy, overcast and generally not good the day we tried to ride, so we ultimately passed on this attraction.

If you don't want to do multiple gondola rides during your Alberta vacation, consider prioritizing this one, as it's much more affordable than the Banff gondola. Tickets cost CA$54.99 (approximately $42) for adults, with CA$10 (less than $8) discount cards easy to find everywhere there's a stand with tourist brochures.

Paddle around Lake Louise

While the weather was also not cooperative for this activity, we powered through the less-than-ideal conditions. That decision ended up being the right call, as our canoeing adventure was one of the highlights of our trip.

Renting canoes from the Fairmont's dock is an expensive activity at CA$95 (about $73) for an hour or CA$85 (a little more than $65) for 30 minutes. Prices are even higher for non-hotel guests.

Still, nothing beats watching those iconic red canoes out on the blue water except being in one with a paddle in your arms. The wind put our canoe skills to the test, so we didn't make it more than 20 minutes before heading back to shore, but had the water been calmer, we would have loved exploring for a full hour.

Saddle up at the Jasper Riding Stables

Next to canoeing and seeing some of the gorgeous lakes, my favorite activity was riding through the forest on the back of a horse.

While we didn't have time to go horseback riding in Banff, we made sure to go riding in Jasper at the Jasper Riding Stables. Because it was less expensive — CA$79 (about $60.50) for a one-hour ride — and had a lower minimum age of 6 years, this stable was the perfect place for our crew to spend some time with horses.

Unlike other parts of our trip when I found myself worrying about bear encounters (despite carrying bear spray with us at all times), I found myself able to truly relax while on horseback. The guides seemed more than comfortable handling the possibility of coming across bears, which helped put my mind at ease.

With one less thing for me to worry about, I was able to focus on the lovely scenery. On this particular day, our ride included no one but our party of four and our two guides, which was an absolute dream scenario.

Take a scenic drive full of impromptu stops

Like Banff and Lake Louise, Jasper had lots of lakes featuring an array of blue and green colors, but I'll give a special shoutout to a particularly green body of water we stopped at on the way to the Jasper East Cabins. I don't know its name, but we discovered it while driving around the area.

Besides pulling over for the lake, we made frequent stops to watch wildlife. We saw bears, moose and more on the side of the road as we drove through Jasper.

Roadways here offer enough space to safely slow down and pull over to enjoy the view, so we took full advantage of this free show. You'd be remiss if you didn't do the same when you visit.

Explore Maligne Canyon and the bridges in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-see destination on its own, but its bridges and Maligne Canyon, the park's deepest canyon, can't be missed.

From the bridges, you'll enjoy phenomenal views of the park. You're almost guaranteed to spot wildlife, too, while exploring the area around the canyon.

Check out the Columbia Icefield

For around CA$90 ($69) for adults and CA$60 ($46) for children, you can explore the Columbia Icefield.

With the tour fee, you get the chance to walk out onto the Athabasca Glacier and enjoy a skywalk experience. Know, though, that this isn't the only way to see the glacier.

If you're looking to save money (like we were) or the tour option sells out (as is often the case), you can instead park farther away and walk toward the glacier to see it up close. Don't attempt to walk onto the glacier on your own, though, as access to the actual icefield is only for those who pay for a tour.

Where to stay

Fairmont banff springs.

For most first-time visitors to the area, the Fairmont Banff Springs is probably at least in the conversation when debating where to stay in Banff. The 100-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed "Castle in the Canadian Rockies," as it's lovingly called by many, is a bucket-list destination in and of itself.

We only stayed at the 745-room property one night due to the high room rates, but we enjoyed our visit overall and wholeheartedly recommend hanging your hat here — or, at the very least, visiting for a drink, a meal or maybe a spa treatment.

That said, if you only have the time and budget to pick one iconic Fairmont while in Alberta, this shouldn't be the one.

The views were phenomenal, and the convenience of being by the lake and having an array of amenities available at your fingertips was great. However, these highlights weren't enough to justify the close-to-$1,000 a night price tag for a room.

The room itself looked more like a $125-per-night budget-brand option desperately in need of renovation than what you expect to find at a high-end hotel.

Still, I'm glad we tried it for a night.

The Dorothy Motel

For less than a third of the price of the Fairmont, you could instead stay at a fresh take on the traditional motel concept.

My parents decided to stay at The Dorothy Motel (also in Banff) using their Capital One miles from their Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (which is currently offering a 75,000-point welcome bonus after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of opening your account). This meant that rather than pay more than $200 for a one-night stay, they had zero out-of-pocket costs for their room.

It was far from a full-service resort, but if you want to try something a little different and conserve your cash a bit, it was a more-than-suitable option.

Canmore accommodations

If nothing in Banff proper is meeting your needs, you can stay in nearby Canmore, Alberta, and drive the 20 minutes into Banff. In Canmore, you'll find more abundant vacation home rentals, cheaper hotel rates and some traditional hotel points properties from brands such as IHG and Choice Hotels .

To balance out our Fairmont extravaganza, we spent a night at the Quality Resort Chateau Canmore using Choice Privileges points we purchased during a Daily Getaways sale . While our points got us some larger room types that sounded cool on paper, one night was the right length of time to spend at the property.

Go in with modest expectations, and you'll probably be OK for a short stay.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

You don't need to splurge on your lodging in Banff if you don't want to, but if there is one hotel worth paying up for, it's the Fairmont in Lake Louise.

Granted, we got a suite to share with my parents, so that helped keep us away from the very small entry-level rooms (some of which don't have air conditioning), but we all quickly agreed that the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was worth the big price tag.

Staying right on the blue-green lake was not only a dream come true, it was a reality that lived up to (and exceeded) our expectations.

The views from our suite were awe-inspiring, and the decor was much more elevated than what we found at the Banff location.

If you are on the fence about which of the two Fairmonts to pick, know that you'll have access to fewer amenities at the Lake Louise property if you're not staying the night, so you shouldn't show up and expect to enjoy the same perks as paying guests.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

There is also a Fairmont in Jasper, if you want to hit the trifecta of the three luxury resorts.

But remember, this location is often sold-out for long periods of time due to passengers from the Canadian Rocky Mountaineer train staying here while in the area, so you'll want to look into making reservations as far in advance as possible. We weren't able to snag a coveted room during our visit, so we only had a chance to walk around the grounds.

It was a cute property that I would have loved to try for a night, though it didn't seem like a property that would overtake the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the top Fairmont in Alberta, so I quickly got over my disappointment.

Jasper East Cabins

Because we weren't able to stay at the Fairmont, we instead chose to book a more affordable cabin. There are a few options more centrally located, but we reserved a cabin at Jasper East Cabins , a spot a little east of town. It was by no means the Fairmont, but it had a classic look we enjoyed. Not to mention, availability wasn't an issue.

A three-bedroom cabin set us back about $500 per night, with smaller cabins costing less. You're a bit removed from civilization here, but you will find a brewery within walking distance, should you crave something to do outside your cabin. There's also a well-stocked general store on site that had a great selection of basics and even some organic, higher-end options.

Related: TPG's guide to the Canadian provinces

What to eat

A fancy meal at the fairmont.

Even if you don't stay at a Fairmont while in town, you'll want to try a fancy meal at one (or more) of the Fairmont properties — if you can swing it.

At the Fairmont Banff Springs, we dined at 1888 Chop House one night for dinner and loved everything we tried.

It wasn't cheap, but the classic steakhouse offered excellent service and divine dishes. And don't discount it if you're not a huge meat eater, as even the vegetable plates and sides were outstanding. It's probably no surprise the Wagyu and the scallops were fantastics, but the sides (a flavorful beet salad, sautéed mushrooms and Brussels sprouts), seriously stood apart.

Appetizers here start at CA$20 to CA$30 (about $15 to $23), while entrees generally cost anywhere between CA$50 and CA$80 (or roughly $38 to $61).

If 1888 Chop House isn't in your budget, don't fret: You can enjoy an equally memorable bite while grabbing a drink at the Rundle Bar. Most happy hour drinks (think: wine, beer and select cocktails) cost around CA$10 (less than $8) while offered from 3 to 5 p.m. There is a short menu of appetizers and small bites, too.

At the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, we failed a little bit in the dinner reservation-making department, so we weren't able to eat at any of the higher-end sit-down spots, but we were able to order drinks and snacks in the Lakeview Lounge, which showcased jaw-dropping views of the lake from its windows. Since there was still snow on the ground, I warmed up with a mulled wine made of red wine, brandy with hints of honey, cinnamon and cloves.

If I had to do it all again, I'd be better about planning and make dinner reservations for the adjacent restaurant. There is also a spot for fondue and a lively restaurant called Alpine Social, should you find yourself feeling more adventurous.

A pastry and a slice of pizza

In our experience, Alberta excelled at bakery items and pizzas.

The Bear's Paw Bakery in Jasper was a sublime spot for morning pastries and all things baked and delicious. (If you're going to Bear Paw Bakery, don't be creative, get the bear paw. Trust me.)

We also really enjoyed Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. in nearby Canmore, which had both indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of great pizzas for about CA$20 (approximately $15) each. I loved my fig, bison and brie pizza that also had caramelized onions, mushrooms and arugula scattered on top.

Casual pub grub paired with a cold brew

Next to our cabins in Jasper was the Folding Mountain Brewing Taproom and Kitchen, which had a not-to-be-missed kitchen to go along with its taproom.

We were pleasantly surprised by our meal here, as there's not a lot available in this part of Alberta, so the venue could easily get away with being mediocre due to the lack of options. But the food was solid, and it was great to have a selection of beers on tap to enjoy with dinner.

At this point, I'd had enough "on-the-go" food and ordered the Hikers Veggie Bowl which contained couscous, spiraled beets, arugula and yams. It might not sound great, but after days of basics, it tasted like (vegetable) heaven. Plus, you can add meat for a few extra dollars, if that's your thing.

A picnic lunch

No visit to Alberta would be complete without enjoying a meal outdoors.

There's no need to eat every meal in a restaurant when you're surrounded by stunning natural wonders, so we found ourselves preparing at least one picnic a day (often lunch) to set up on a random rock, picnic table or chair.

If you stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs and are feeling extra bougie about your picnic lunch, you can order one with your breakfast via room service to save for later. We did this during our stay and found the meal to be incredibly convenient and tasty. The cost was on the higher end at CA$40 (nearly $31), but there was enough food for two to enjoy — including a ham-and-cheese sandwich on a baguette and a gooey chocolate chip cookie — making the price easier to stomach.

Bottom line

When I look back through our collection of lake, stream, mountain, wildlife and waterfall images stashed away in our trip photo album, I admittedly find everything blending together in my mind.

But that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? You often don't have just one thing you are planning a whole trip around. Instead, you typically have an abundance of can't-miss activities and sights to experience throughout your vacation to create countless memories you'll cherish forever.

Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper more than delivered in terms of things to see and do. Although some of what we did involved preplanned routes and stops, many of our favorite memories from the trip happened organically while exploring this beautiful part of Canada.

This may have been my first trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, but it most certainly won't be my last.

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Banff in Summer – 10 Essential Travel Tips to Know Before Going

Last updated on July 24th, 2023 at 05:45 pm

Guest Posted by Fariha Shanta

Banff National Park in Canada is every traveler’s dream, and what better season than to visit in summer. Now, there maybe dozens of things to do in Banff in summer but to make your trip memorable you’ll need these helpful tips below that are shared by my dear friend Fariha based on her own experience.

We drove to Jasper, the longest drive from Calgary Airport, and then drove south into Banff. If you have the luxury of time, by all means, drive into Banff from the airport and do the Icefields Parkway Banff to Jasper drive and back. TIP: Give yourself a little extra time at the airport for your return flight to the United States as you have to go through customs in Canada airport before you board the plane. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

Important Things to Know Before Visiting Banff, Lake Louise, & Jasper in Summer 

1. rental car.

There is no other way to see Banff & Jasper than to do a road trip. Make sure you book a rental car in advance, i.e., right after you book your flight tickets.

We originally had a sedan, but thankfully we upgraded to an SUV with built-in navigation. This was the best decision we made because many areas do not have cellular service, so being able to put our locations into the navigation was a real lifesaver. And I mean this because we most definitely got lost one night. TIP: It is super important to have a built-in navigation system in your rental car or have an offline Google map downloaded on your phone.   

2. DRIVING & PARKING IN BANFF & JASPER

The roads are pretty clear, and you won’t see too many drivers until you are in Banff. It was nice that we never ran into any traffic on the highways. Just watch your speed limit, as it’s easy to speed when no one else is on the road; just ask Richa, who managed to get a speeding ticket on an empty National Park road. We barely saw any traffic lights until we were in the little towns of Banff and Jasper. 

Banff gets very busy in summer, and it’s not easy to find parking spots. There are overflow parking lots with shuttles running to the lakes. We could not do the hike on one of our days because we could not get parking. We tried to park at a lot with a shuttle, but the wait was TWO HOURS.  TIP: Get there before 8 am to ensure parking, especially if you are trying to do this on a weekend. 

You will be lucky to see a sign in the dark for a gas station, so make sure your tank is full whenever you see a station. We were lucky that we didn’t run out of gas at any point; our SUV had great mileage! We passed one of our hotels when it was dark, and luckily two girls who happened to get a flat tire were able to lead us back on the right track. This is a huge reason to download an offline Google map when your navigation system cannot locate a place or lose service.  TIP: Try to ensure you get to your destination before the sun sets due to the limited lights and signs.  

It will save you a lot of anxiety trying to figure it out without any data service. Make sure to stop along Icefields Parkway, there are some stunning views and even bears! Keep reading for more info on these viewpoints.

TIP: Keep in mind that there are no lights, limited signs, and very few rest stops while on the road between Banff to Jasper . 

3. WATER and FOOD

As I had mentioned before, there are not a lot of stops for food; hence I highly recommend making sure you are loaded with snacks and water in the car. In the US, we are so used to rest areas and food places every couple of miles, but up in Jasper and Banff, it was not the case. You will find many options to eat in the towns of Jasper and Banff but very limited while driving.

At one point, we got to the town of Jasper, and the road was blocked from the town due to a freight train. We luckily found a parking lot and walked through the tunnel to a grocery store nearby as these freight trains could block the roads for a very long time. 

Bring a  refillable water bottle  and keep yourself hydrated at higher elevations. 

4. BUG SPRAY

If you are traveling to Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper in the summer, then you need to pack bug spray just as much as you need to bring bear spray with you.

We hiked up to the Valley of 5 Lakes near the town of Jasper. It was easy, they said. And, to be fair, it was a fairly easy hike, but unfortunately, none of us thought to bring bug spray. The mosquitoes were EVERYWHERE. They bit through our clothes and on our heads, they swarmed us, and it was terrible. So terrible we only made it to one small lookout point at the Valley of the 5 lakes. We probably had a combination of 100 bites between the 4 of us, if not more. And sadly, it ruined some of our fun and sleep as we were so itchy! Alas, it was a lesson learned because we picked up bug spray at our very next stop, but the damage was done.  So just a reminder, lakes + mosquitos = very itchy week.

5. BATHROOMS 

If you are not outdoorsy, it’s important to know that many bathrooms in national parks are latrines. This means they look like toilets that lead to big holes in the ground.  Make sure you bring hand sanitizer and baby wipes and make it quick!   I’ve been on quite a few outdoor adventures and can rough it, but if it’s not your thing, this will be a whole new experience. We did a boat tour to Spirit Island from Lake Maligne in Jasper National Park, and there were no bathrooms on the island or on the boat. So make sure to use the restrooms before getting on board if you decide to do this boat ride. 

As I mentioned above, there are very few stops on the roads in Banff or Jasper for bathroom breaks, so it’s better to use a bathroom when you see it rather than holding it hoping you will find something on the way. 

6. WHAT TO WEAR IN BANFF IN SUMMER 

Do not underestimate the Canadian summers, if you can call them summer at all. We thought we would be okay not layering up in August,   but we were wrong. It can be hot, cold, rainy, or even snow in one day.  TIP: Make sure to pack a fall jacket even though you are visiting in summer. 

One thing we all wish we had packed was a pair of  gloves.  It was cold on some of the hikes, and gloves would have been very helpful when we went canoeing. 

I personally carried a waterproof jacket  so I wouldn’t have to hold an umbrella, and I was able to wear a few layers underneath it. This was really helpful when it started to drizzle while we were canoeing. I also brought this  backpack  which was lightweight but could hold a lot of things, like the layers I would remove. I would recommend a  packable down coat , one of my friends had one, and I was jealous as I added extra layers. 

We also only traveled with one carry-on each since it was four girls and we were moving from place to place; it was easier to manage. This is actually the only way I travel these days, and if you don’t already own  compression packing cubes , then I would highly recommend them. I also thought we might need some “cute” clothes for nice dinners or going out, but this was not true. Everyone was casual, and I wish I didn’t bring any of them because I did not need them. And it was too cold to look that cute by the evening. 

People have suggested wearing hiking shoes while in Banff & Jasper, and while it might help in strenuous hikes, it’s not absolutely necessary. We all wore sneakers and were totally okay.

7. WHAT TO SEE & DO IN SUMMER 

In addition to sightseeing, you can also indulge in these fun summer adventure activities –

• Canoe on the lakes
• Boat Ride (Lake Minnewanka and Lake Maligne )
• Hike (Our fav hikes mentioned below)
• Jasper Skytram
• Lake Louise Gondola
• Banff Gondola
• Banff White Water Rafting tour

Find more fun things to do in Banff on Get Your Guide:

Here are my favorite stops with breathtaking views: 

• Lake Moraine – In fact, I wish we went canoeing here instead of the more famous canoeing on Lake Louise. While they both have their reasons, I personally loved the color of the water at Lake Moraine. 
• Lake Louise – A beautiful spot to soak in the glacial beauty. From Lake Louise, stop by Chateau Fairmont for a lunch or a midday treat to warm you up.  If you plan to do the Lake Agnes hike on Lake Louise, know that it’s a 3-hour hike where you can get tea at the top. It closes at 5 pm, so make sure you have enough time to get up there and grab some tea. 
• Lake Maligne in Jasper – Take the boat tour to Spirit Island. It was really beautiful. You can even stop at The View for a Kombucha- vodka-infused drink if you are into that sort of thing, which we were. 
• Peyto Lake – The color is unreal. 
• Bow Lake – And, while you are near Peyto, take the ten min drive to see Bow Lake, which is also stunning. 
• Hector Lake
• Old Fort Point and Beauvert Lake  

TIP: There are no garbage cans, and I encourage you to throw anything out before heading up that slope. We had coffee cups with us on our hike to keep us warm, but carrying them up and down the trail was annoying. 

Where to Stay in Banff

Fairmont Banff Springs (luxury)

Moose Hotel & Suites

Ptarmigan Inn

Royal Canadian Lodge

High Country Inn (sustainable)

Banff Aspen Lodge

HI Banff (budget hostel)

8. HIKING IN BANFF, LAKE LOUISE, & JASPER IN SUMMER

Here are the hikes we did and highly recommend if you like an adventurous vacation.

• The Valley of the 5 Lakes – As I mentioned, we only made it to one of the lakes due to the mosquitos. The hikes did not require hiking shoes. 
• Johnston Canyon Upper and Lower springs – This is a very popular hike in Banff. The hike is less intense but very crowded. The lines to see the waterfalls got pretty long. Since this is a kid-friendly hike, there are many families, so be prepared for the wait. 
• Maligne Canyon – This hike was also pretty short and was paved; very easy if you have 30 minutes to spare. 
• The Lake Agnes trail – This was the most challenging hike we did. The trail starts from Lake Louise and ends at the Agnes Tea House at the top. It is a 3-hour hike, so make sure you have  water, a good spirit, and snacks on the go. Gloves would also be helpful as it was a chilly time at 8 am to be hiking. 

9. SPOTTING WILD ANIMALS

Spotting wildlife in the Canadian Rockies is one of the most exciting things to experience. While driving on Icefields Parkway, we saw 3 bears in the wild! You will notice them easily because people will have pulled over, pulled out their cameras, and taking pictures. 

TIP: I understand you want to see these animals in the wilderness, but remember you are in their home, so making a loud noise, feeding them, and getting too close would not be in your best interest or theirs .

We pulled over, sat quietly in the car, and took some photos and videos. Some people drove by and started yelling (Big No No!).  Remember to respect their space . Sadly, we didn’t see any other animals other than those pesky mosquitos.

10. SAFETY IN BANFF

Finally, while Canada is very safe, we didn’t see any police officers or hospitals along the road from Banff to Jasper. The first hospital we saw was in the town of Banff.  TIP: Remember, if something happens, you might not have cell reception to make an emergency phone call . 

We felt fairly safe the entire time, but we also didn’t have the need for emergency services. 

We were a bit anxious when we got lost and didn’t run into   any other drivers on the road or have any places to stop to ask for directions.  While you can dial 911, you don’t always have cell service inside the National Park. TIP: I would just reinforce what I said earlier, get to your accommodation before the sun sets, have enough gas in the tank, and have a navigation system. 

Lastly, while Richa and Gaurav made their trip in May , I highly recommend going in the summer months of July and August. While they saw frozen lakes, we saw the deep blue views of glacial lakes, and it was so worth it!  TIP: For these summer views of glacial lakes in Banff, plan your trip between the end of June to early-mid September.

I hope this post will come in handy in planning your next summer trip to Banff. Don’t forget to share these tips with friends and family as well.

Happy & Safe Traveling!

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Hello from Gaurav & Richa! An adventurous couple who did NOT quit their corporate jobs to travel the world. On the contrary, we're all about balancing that work-travel life. Our goal is to explore as much as we can in our short vacations and yes, we do go to great lengths to find unique experiences and great food to share with you all. Learn more About Us .

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The Banff National Park Travel Guide: What to see and do

Ready to venture out and discover the unspoiled beauty of nature? From soaring peaks to jewel-toned lakes, you’ll see sights that’ll leave you breathless when you join us on a tour of Banff in the Canadian Rockies. “My wife and I have been to over 120 countries, and we’ve been to all the seven continents, and I can honestly say that the Canadian Rockies rank amongst the very best in terms of being the most pristine and picturesque,” said traveler Art after taking our Canadian Rockies by Train: Banff, Lake Louise & Vancouver tour . “Stunningly breathtaking sceneries abound.” Whether you choose to explore that scenery by glass-domed train, sky gondola, river raft, or all of the above is up to you, but you’ll have your pick when you visit Banff on a trip to Canada with us. Check out our Banff National Park travel guide below to unlock its majesty.

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Where Lonely Planet staffers are traveling this summer

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is one of the places Lonely Planet staffers plan to visit this summer © ronniechua / Getty Images

Summer is around the corner in the northern hemisphere, and the team at Lonely Planet is already making (or has made) their travel plans.

If you're wondering where to go and what to do this summer, why not follow one of our leads and discover a new destination or rediscover an old favorite? I, unlike my colleagues, have yet to make plans, so finding out where everyone else is going has lit a fire under me. Likewise, I hope these trip plans inspire you to make some of your own – and that you'll turn to Lonely Planet for help when plotting your next getaway.

Here are just some of the places the staff at Lonely Planet traveling this summer.

"I'm going to a backcountry lodge in Banff . It's only accessible by hiking in. I’ve wanted to do one of these for ages, so this is how I’m celebrating my 40th!" – Jessica Lockhart, Senior Editor, Oceania

Banff and Jasper National Parks have several rustic backcountry lodges surrounded by unparalleled scenery. Each lodge has its own unique setting, hosts and history, but all have simple amenities, minimal (or no) electricity and running water, and welcoming common spaces where travelers can gather to read, play cards or recount the day’s adventures. Advance bookings are key – prices may seem steep, but factor in the included home-cooked meals and freedom from setting up camp or worrying about weather and wildlife, and the cost suddenly becomes worth it. 

Keen to go hiking in Canada? Here's our guide to the best trekking routes

"I will be visiting Makarska Riviera , including Brela , Makarska, Tucepi and the island of Korčula . The trip is all about promoting Croatia ’s great outdoors , so the itinerary includes kayaking, rafting, buggying and lots of hiking !" – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Croatia’s tourism peaks between June and August, when the Adriatic’s warm waters charm countless visitors. It’s great fun, though afternoons are roasting hot, the lines at attractions are at their longest, and accommodation costs rise. Inland, temperatures are higher, but crowds are less noticeable. June is the quietest month of high season, but with clear skies, music festivals and the promise of early summer, it's a strong contender for Croatia’s best month. 

Ready to plan your trip to Croatia? Choose the right time for your visit with our seasonal guide

"I'm going island hopping  in Greece for four weeks in June. I'll be spending most of my time on Serifos (to start) as it's where the local Greeks holiday  – doing a pottery class, vineyard tour, taking boats to secluded coves, going to cooking school and generally trying to be as fabulous as possible – with additional stays on Santorini and Paros . – Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Trade Sales and Marketing

Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy Aegean lapping an endless coastline and a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities. Summer is when most travelers choose to explore its countless islands, and June affords the longest days of sunshine, peaking in the second fortnight. It’s also an opportune time for your first, refreshing dip of the summer. 

Going to Greece for the first time? Here our our top tips on things to know before you go

"I'm heading to Tuscany and the island of Elba ." – Annie Greenberg, Creative Director  "We are doing a girls' trip to Tuscany." – Aly Yee, Senior Director

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy ’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around.  The island of Elba comes to life during summer, and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba offers both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

Ready to plan a trip to Tuscany?  Check out our regional guide  

"I'm off to car-free Isla Holbox , Mexico for a relaxing beach getaway. I'm planning on horseback riding and wataflow therapy, which I've never done, but should be interesting."  – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

Isla Holbox (hol-bosh), meaning "black hole" in Mayan, lives up to its name – it's like a portal to one of Mexico’s last unspoiled tropical islands. Golf carts and bicycles serve as the main forms of transportation, and visitors will discover sandy streets, colorful Caribbean buildings, lazing, sun-drunk dogs, and sand so fine its texture is nearly clay. The greenish waters are a unique color from the mixing of ocean currents, and on land there's a mixing too: of locals and tourists, the latter hoping to escape the hubbub of Cancún .

Using Cancún as a base? Here are the best day trips into the wider area

"I'm heading to Granada , Spain for a week or so, maybe getting in Málaga too. This will be my second visit, so I'm hoping to take a more relaxed approach this time and also catch up with friends." – Alison Killilea, Production Support Editor

With serene Islamic architecture, monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art, Granada is Spain’s cultured, creative southern city; a place with a storied past centering on the Alhambra , one of the world’s great human-made wonders. While Granada can be scorching in summer, the city of Málaga is deemed to have the best climate in the country, with about 3000 hours of sun a year – the most in all of Spain. 

Seen the Alhambra? Here are Granada's other top experiences

Switzerland

"I'm also going to Zürich , Lucerne , Grindelwald  and Zermatt . I will mostly be hiking and doing lots of outdoorsy activities. My number one priority while I am in Switzerland is to do the highest hiking trail in Europe , the Barrhorn."  – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it, Switzerland gets pretty darned close. With its supermodel looks, fine weather, easy-peasy public transport , multilingual mindset and penchant for cheese and wine, this is a country where it’s easy to get comfortable – even if it is a bit on the pricey side.  Peak summer in Switzerland is  tip-top , to borrow the Swiss German phrase. Barring the odd storm, it’s nearly always hot and sunny – oppressively so, sometimes, meaning the best place to be is in the cooler air of the high mountains.

Ready to experience the best of Switzerland? Here's our guide to the top things to do

The Bahamas

"I'm heading to Eleuthera  in the  Bahamas for our annual family trip – there are 16 of us so it's always an exciting week! With age ranges of 7–70, I can report that we are all excited to do a beach bonfire and barbecue, and go sailing to swim with some piggies." – Amy Nichols, Senior Marketing Manager

The sapphire waters and  sun-soaked sands  of the Bahamas beckon travelers with warm weather that never fades. Just a short flight from the east coast of the US, this island nation is a magnet for repeat visitors and last-minute bookers alike. Eleuthera, however, is a bit tougher to get to, but is well worth the expense and effort if you're looking for vacation bliss. With its pink-sand beaches, Atlantic-battered reefs, weather-warped rock and dense subtropical scrub, this incredibly narrow 109-mile (175km-long) crescent also offers boutique hotels, revered surf breaks and some fabulous restaurants. 

Can't decide where to go in the Bahamas? We can help with this guide to the best places to visit 

"I'm heading to Naples , Florida  on a family vacation for 2 weeks. I'm planning to relax mostly, with lots of trips to the beach and eating good food! But I'm hoping to take a trip to the Everglades , too." – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

For upscale romance and the prettiest, most serene city beach in southwest Florida, come to Naples, the Gulf Coast's answer to Palm Beach. The soft white sand is backed only by narrow dunes and half-hidden mansions. More than that, though, Naples is a cultured, sophisticated town, unabashedly stylish and privileged but also welcoming and fun-loving. With spectacular year-round sunshine, there's certainly no bad time to visit Florida . Summers can be pretty hot, but you'll probably spend less on lodging than the winter or summer months.

Traveling to Florida on a budget? We've got some money-saving tips for you

Massachusetts

"My friends and I are going to Martha’s Vineyard , Massachusetts in July. We’re planning a Midsommar -esque garden dinner one night and will spend the rest of our time beach hopping and strolling through Edgartown." – Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

Martha's Vineyard remains untouched by the kind of rampant commercialism found on the mainland – there's not a single chain restaurant or cookie-cutter motel in sight. Sunny skies and consistently hot weather make July and August the best time for a traditional beach holiday with sunning, swimming and sand-digging. The tradeoff, of course, is that July and August are the months everyone goes to the Vineyard and it's likely to be jam-packed, so plan ahead.

Want to see more of Massachusetts? Here are the best road-trip routes

"My family is headed to Northern Michigan this summer. We're excited to paddleboard to a shipwreck, relax on the beach and sail on Lake Michigan. We'll hike and run down all the sand dunes, explore cute artsy towns full of galleries and good eats." – Sarah Stocking, Digital Editor

Summertime buzzes with travelers when draws like the  Great Lakes , charming islands and unspoiled wilderness are at their most accessible. Michigan’s high season kicks off on Memorial Day (the last Monday in May). Ferries start to depart more regularly to popular spots and while summer-only establishments lift their shutters. The weather is mostly sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). This means lots of summer-only outdoor activities begin.

There are loads of great beaches in Michigan. Here's our guide to the very best

North Carolina

"My wife and I are going to Kure Beach, North Carolina for the 4th of July for five days — my favorite things to do there are take a yoga class on the beach with Kure Beach Yoga (no need to bring a mat, bring a towel!), watch the sunrise from our hotel (The Lighthouse Inn, a very laid-back and recently revamped spot right by the water so you don’t have to stress about parking, which is awful every summer), and see if we can find the boardwalk cat, Bibi." – Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager

The height of summer in North Carolina is beach time, and with 322 miles (518km) of ocean shoreline reaching from the  Outer Banks  in the north to the  South Carolina  border in the south (and 12,000 miles/19,000km of estuarine coastline along the way),  North Carolina has plenty of beaches to choose from . Kure Beach has 6 miles (10km) of protected shoreline as well as lagoons teeming with wildlife that you can explore by renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard.

Explore some of North Carolina's epic landscapes by foot with our guide to the best hiking routes

Rhode Island

"I'm off to Newport , Rhode Island for Memorial Day Weekend and planning on going to restaurants, wineries, mansion tours, walking and hiking." – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

It may be the yachting capital of the world, but you don’t need nautical stripes – or a summer cottage – to enjoy the seaside retreat of Newport, Rhode Island. With its fresh briny air, expansive sea views and stunning bays, it's obvious why cityfolk continue to follow in the footsteps of the American industrialists here. Enjoy a taste of the good life by touring Newport's Gilded Age mansions built in the late 1800s, taking sailing lessons, or going wine tasting.

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