As any outdoor enthusiast will attest — there are countless recreational pursuits to enjoy in Banff National Park.
Thanks for reading my guide to the finest free things to do in Nashville! And if you’re hungry while you visit, see my guide to the distinguished restaurants in Nashville.
How do I know? Because I resided in Alberta for an entire year! Living in Alberta, not far from Banff, gave me the chance to explore the land extensively and uncover the finest things the region has to offer.
In this article, we’re not only going to cover the best activities in Banff National Park, but I’ll also provide my insider tips on where to stay,how to access Banff, and much more! Oh, and before we start, be sure to bookmark my perfect Alberta road trip itinerary to aid your planning.
Notification: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!
Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Banff National Park
Fairmont Banff Springs
Visit the iconic establishment.
📍 Map website | Phone: +1 403 762 2211 | Hotel website | 👉 Reserve rooms at The Fairmont Banff Springs on Booking
Considered one of the most historically noteworthy hotels across Canada, the luxurious Fairmont Banff Springs was built between 1911 and 1928 at the base of Sulphur Mountain. Recognized as a “Canada’s Castle in the Rockies” UNESCO World Heritage Site, this location offers visitors the chance to learn about its past as well as experience high-end accommodations surrounded by nature`s beauty.
While highly recommending staying at minimum one night, if another lodging is selected then I`d still propose visiting the spa, the golf course, the art galleries, or one of the award-winning restaurants. Furthermore, having afternoon tea in the hotel’s Rundle Bar is an absolute spotlight and the perfect day to warm up after a day spent externally.
The off-season allows for cheaper pricing on airfare and top-rated hotels as well. Witness the Gay Head Lighthouse and the gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, a place of national historical significance.
Icefields Parkway
Drive one of Canada’s most famous routes.
Stretching for 230km, the Icefields Parkway connects Banff National Park to Jasper National Park in Canada, and is commonly viewed as one of the most scenic roadways globally.
To fully experience the beauty of Icefields Parkway, I recommend bringing your camera and stopping at places like Peyto Lake, the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and Glacier Skywalk viewing platforms, Sunwapta Falls, and Athabasca Falls.
Be certain to allot no less than a full day for the duration of this drive!
I’ve been a nomad for 7 years and it’s one of my fave methods to travel affordably.
Lake Minnewanka
A scenic location to swim, hike, or scuba dive.
Tourists typically depart Lake Tahoe after Labor Day each year. Swimming may still be possible in early September depending on cold tolerance! Boating provides pleasant recreation as does hiking in one of California’s premier mountain locales. Nearby Nevada offers impressive restaurants and casinos as additional incentives.
Lake Minnewanka is the second-largest lake in all the Canadian Rockies’ National Parks. A true gem, you`ll see photos of this lake spread across all Banff articles, but did you know there is more to Lake Minnewanka than meets the eye?
In past times, Lake Minnewanka was home to a resort community that attracted many visitors, but due to the construction of a new dam in 1941, that resort town is now submerged beneath the lake’s surface.
It’s still fairly well maintained though so if you enjoy Scuba diving, then rent some gear and visit this amazing underwater ghost city. Around 8,000 divers make the plunge annually!
Lake Louise
Canada’s most renowned lake.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Chances are, if you’re planning a trip to Banff National Park, then Lake Louise is high on your must-see list.
Perhaps the most famous lake in all of Canada, Banff Lake Louise is a glacier-fed turquoise lake that’s an absolute dream to kayak, canoe, swim, skate, or snowshoe.
Nestled on the shore of Lake Louise, you’ll find the beautiful Chateau Lake Louise, another Fairmont Hotel. If staying nearby is your preference, this provides an easy lodging option.
Moraine Lake
A mesmerizing lake fed by glaciers.
Similar to nearby Lake Louise, photogenic Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is another popular spot for lake activities thanks to its brilliant turquoise glacial waters.
However, while Moraine is truly beautiful, it’s also very popular for visitors.
In order to secure a parking space and not have crowds of people in your photographs, I recommend coming here at the crack of dawn or in the shoulder season. The road to Moraine Lake is closed in the wintertime, and can only be accessed by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing when snow covers the ground.
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Learn about the history of Banff National Park at this iconic National Historic Site.
- Recommended Mid-Priced Hotels: Rose & Crown Inn – Stirling Arms – Country Comfort – Quality Bayswater Inn
An insightful guided tour through a Cave and Basin National Historic Site is wonderful for expanding your understanding of indigenous history local to the region, natural phenomena in the area, and the origins of Canada`s park system.
This tour will educate you about natural hot springs, the history of the indigenous peoples of the area, and how Banff National Park came to be developed in the nineteenth century.
However, if guided tours are not entirely your preferred method, you can certainly independently explore Cave and Basin National Historic Site without an escort.
👉 Notice: Banff is situated on Treaty 7 territory — the ancestral lands of Stoney Nakoda Nations of Wesley, Bearspaw, and Chinink; Tsuu T’ina of the Dene people; and three Nations of the Blackfoot Confederacy: Pikani, Kainai, and Siksika. Banff is also shared space of the Metis Nation of Alberta Region 3.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Take a soak in these geologically-heated springs.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: +1 800 767 1611 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 10 pm daily
Located near the peak of Sulphur Mountain, the geothermally-warmed Banff Upper Hot Springs is Canada`s highest thermal spring open to the public, fed solely by natural mineral waters.
The temperature of the hot springs depends on the season, generally ranging between 27°and 47°C (80° – 116°F) all year round, keeping visitors nicely warm.
A tourism staple of Banff, the facilities at the springs offer conveniences such as a cafe, locker storage for personal items, and towels for use.
Situated at 1 Mountain Ave, Banff Upper Hot Springs doesn`t have extensive parking facilities. Hence, I recommend taking the ROAM bus Route 1 to get there.
Sulfur Mountain Trail
Get an incredible birds-eye view of downtown Banff.
📍 Google Maps | Difficulty: Challenging | Parking: Banff Gondola Parking lot
If you’re looking for a downtown Banff hike that will take you to one of the most superb bird`s-eye vistas in the whole park, then I must propose the Sulfur Moutain Trail. The starting point is just a stone`s toss from the Banff Gondola (see the next item), and is a 6.8 mile (10.9km) out-and-back route.
The hike will lead you to the Sanson Peak Boardwalk, which is where the Gondola will also take you. However, when I did this hike, I hiked up and then took the Gondola down. Given that it’s an out-and-back trail, you won’t really miss anything by doing it this way. In fact, I’d must say that this combo is one of the best Banff activities to do.
Not up for a big hike? Then take the…
Banff Gondola
Take a ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
You are able to traverse Nara Park from this location, procuring noodles for your midday meal at the rustic Mizuya Chaya restaurant before strolling up to the revered Kasuga Grand Shrine, a striking sacred site that is another major attraction of Nara. It is worth paying the fee to access the inner enclosures, lined with approximately three thousand bronze lanterns. Kasuga is also renowned for the two thousand stone lanterns that border its main approachway and the wisteria trees (“sunazuri-no-fuji”) that burst into bloom in late spring. Paths lead further into the atmospheric Mout Kasuga Primeval Forest from here, often utterly devoid of people.
The most renowned of the Gondolas, The Banff Gondola takes passengers on an 8-minute glass-enclosed trip upwards to Sulphur Mountain, dropping them off at one of the best scenic overlooks found throughout the entire park. Situated at the summit are an Interpretive Centre, outstanding restaurants, and a scenic overlook path.
The Banff Gondola is situated in Banff at the conclusion of Mountain Avenue. If you don’t have use of a car, then you can easily get to it by taking the Bow Valley ROAM Transit bus, on Route 1. This cable car is effortlessly one of the most famous things to do in Banff!
Lake Louise Gondola
See Canada’s most famous lake from above.
Griffith Observatory is considered one of the must-see landmarks listed among the best activities to engage in within Los Angeles. It sits within the lower elevations of Griffith Park. Whether you hike one of the park`s trails or join a tour of Griffith Park,, you`ll want to allot sufficient time to take in the scenery.
Another top Banff gondola experience, the Lake Louise Gondola is a 14-minute ride starting at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
This gondola provides two ride selections: a classic enclosed gondola experience or an open-air chairlift voyage. When reaching the summit (2088m / 6850 ft), restaurants, coffee shops, and scenic views await exploration.
Banff Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift
Get an entirely new perspective of downtown Banff.
We advise renting a vehicle to fully experience Houston, as the city is quite spread out, making sole reliance on public transit very time-consuming and taxis expensive. All major rental agencies have locations at airports. When parking, A Handy Parking App and Another Option can assist in Houston. Alternatively, solely using transport between Downtown and the District of Museums is feasible.
Another amazing way to see Banff from above is the Banff Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift, a 15-minute ride that provides an entirely new perspective of the region.
From the chairlift, spectacular views of the Town of Banff, Bow River, and the imposing cliffs of Mt. Rundle can be seen. When the chairlift reaches the top, the Cliff House Bistro can be found where you can have a meal or a drink and take in the magnificent panoramas.
Town of Banff
Explore the varied experiences found within the park’s urban center.
📍 Location Finder | Phone: +1 403 762 1200 | Site
If you’re looking for a nature break and want a relatively more urban experience for a day, then consider all that downtown Banff has to offer.
Regardless of one`s budget, there are plenty of attractions in Banff including shopping, dining, art galleries, and museums. In particular, if one wishes to learn a bit more about the Rocky Mountains then checking out the Banff Park Museum, the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, or the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum is recommended.
- Chinese New Year Celebration – The largest outside of Asia, featuring lion dances, a parade through the West End, and cultural entertainment in Trafalgar Square, Chinatown, and Shaftesbury Avenue.
Additionally, searching for something a little different, I propose paying a visit to the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity where you`ll find art, festivals, concerts, and workshops.
Johnston Canyon
Hike some of Banff’s most popular trails.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: +1 403 762 1550 | Website | Hours: Open 24 hours | 👉 Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour
Featuring waterfalls, ink pots, and stunning rock crevices shaped by thousands of years of erosion, Johnson Canyon is one of the most popular locations in Banff for hiking.
The treks at Johnston Canyon feature relatively easy trails, with the most well-known routes being Lower Falls (1.1 km/0.68mi), Upper Falls (2.7km/1.67mi), and the Ink Pots (11.7km/7.27mi).
Bow Falls
A waterfall very close to the Fairmont Banff Springs.
Situated on the Bow River (but very near to where it meets the Spray River) Bow Falls is a stunning waterfall very close to the Fairmont Banff Springs and golf course.
While the cascades can be witnessed without much trouble, those craving an added test may tackle the Bow Falls Trail (1.2km/ 0.75miles) for optimum perspective. Or, exert further miles (or handful), hiking the Bow River Trail (7.8km/ 4.9 miles, out and back)
Tunnel Mountain Trail
A moderately challenging trail featuring impressive panoramic perspectives.
🌩️ Hurricane Earl, 2010 – category 2, leaving $2.5 million in indirect damages.
For a hike that’s a little bit more moderate (and with fewer people), check out Tunnel Mountain.
This 2-hour hike is conveniently accessible from downtown Banff and includes trail switchbacks. You’ll get wonderful views of Bow Valley and Mt. Rundle from this path.
👉 Planning your first trip to Canada? Check out these 16 helpful tips from a local resident
Mount Norquay Via Ferrata
A hike sure to get your pulse racing.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: +1 403 762 4421 | Through Ferrata Website
While any Via Ferrata is not for the faint of heart, if you’re seeking a true adrenaline rush in Banff then the Mount Norquay Via Ferrata is for you.
A guided hike allowing experiences one can only have with trained personnel, this trail will take you along Mount Norquay where you may expect suspension bridges, ladders, and being secured by harness while attached to the mountainside.
Rock Isle Lake via Sunshine Meadows Trail
The Rock Isle Lake via Sunshine Meadows Trail located along the British Columbia/Alberta border is rated as easy-moderate.
This is one of the most cost-effective trails in all of California if your goal is to take in coastal views. If you do it as a return hike to the beach, it’s only 3.5 miles and fairly flat.
Helicopter Tour
Take in views of the national park from above.
👉Experiencing the Ice Bubbles of Abraham Lake by Helicopter
To witness Banff`s most spectacular sights from new perspectives, consider arranging a scenic helicopter tour. Flying high above the mountains, towns, lakes and valleys in a helicopter provides remarkable vistas unlike any other view. Visually stunning panoramas await those who book this once-in-a-lifetime experience over the Banff landscape.
While the launch point is just outside the park, this highly regarded helicopter tour over Abraham Lake would offer sublime views of the region.
Dog Sledding
Dedicate the daylight hours among lively creatures.
📍 Website About Dog Sledding in Banff
Initially used as a means of transportation by the Inuit people in Northern Canada, dog sledding is one of the most popular things to do in Banff.
Obviously, to go dog sledding, you’ll need to take an outing. Though most dogsledding companies in Banff are very validated and are held to the highest ethical benchmarks, completely do your due careful consideration when selecting a dog sledding company to travel with.
I’d list some options here but quite frankly, personally investigating is the best way to proceed. Ask questions and only spend your money where you feel at ease.
Peyto Lake
Access via Icefields Parkway.
Another exceptionally beautiful glacier-fed lake, Peyto Lake can be reached from the Icefields Parkway with a 20-minute easy hike afterwards. As with many lakes in the area, its waters shine a vivid turquoise hue, contributing to its popularity as a spot for photographs.
Sleigh Ride
Take a horse-drawn tour through the city of Banff.
👉 Banff Family Friendly Equine-Drawn Sleigh Trip on GetYourGuide
In search of some winter magic on your trip to Banff? Then take a Winter Wonderland sleigh ride!
Every winter, Banff and Lake Louise become covered in snow, and numerous companies in the area offer public and private sleigh trips. Each experience involves visiting the stables to meet the horses and staff, an entertaining guide, and interesting points of interest along the route.
Tubing and Tobogganing
Gracefully descend the mountains.
Racing down a snow-covered mountainside on just a thin plastic tube or sled can stir adrenaline, but the thrill of the experience remains imprinted long after.
While any slope can technically be used for sledding (you can rent sleds downtown Banff) if you want more thrills we highly recommend tubing.
If planning to visit Old Town Trinidad, hike to Salto del Caburní, tour Valle de los Ingenios, and take a trip to Playa Ancón, allocate a minimum of three complete days.
Regardless of your age, I fully guarantee you’ll have an incredible time sliding down the mountainside.
Plan a Wellness Weekend
Organize self-care activities.
Renowned for its reinvigorating attributes, structuring a wellness getaway is one of the finest things to do in Banff National Park.
While nature naturally renews itself, Banff is also home to spa therapies, yoga festivals, saunas, massages, meditation retreats, the aforementioned hot springs, and much more.
Whether you plan one day of pampering, a weekend, or longer, you won’t run out of relaxation in Banff, Alberta.
👉Want some additional Canada travel inspiration? Check out this rundown of 15 Best Places to Visit in Canada (By a Native!)
Horseback Riding
Explore the Rockies on equine.
👉 1-hour Banff Equestrian Tour via GetYourGuide
Equestrians unite! Whether you are an experienced rider or new to horses, horseback riding in the Canadian Rockies is an experience you will not forget anytime soon.
There are plenty of riding opportunities to choose from — from just a couple of hours to week-long trips — and this activity can be customized to your preferences and budget.
Rafting
Get your adrenaline pumping with some rapids.
👉 Morning Whitewater Tour in Horseshoe Canyon on GetYourGuide
Ever dreamed about sailing down some rapids in Banff, Alberta? Then you’re in luck — with rivers and streams galore, there are plenty of options for rafting in the park.
If powerful rivers excite you and you wish to experience the most intense rapids, then definitely visit Banff in spring when mountain snow melts. That said, beginners or those seeking something gentler will find options too.
In either scenario, I highly suggest booking a guided tour as the guides will direct you to the best locations and help you steer clear of hazardous falling snow.
Canoeing & Kayaking
Explore the lakes and get some physical activity.
As you’ve just read, part of the outdoorsy charm of Banff National Park is the amazing glacier-fed lakes. However, they’re more than just picture backdrops.
If visiting Banff in the summer, one excellent activity is getting on the water via canoe, kayak, or even stand-up paddleboard.
Simply rent some gear and head out on the water!
Skiing & Snowboarding
Experience Banff’s most renowned slopes.
Looking to hit the slopes? Then has Banff got a treat for you.
Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts flock to the Rocky Mountains, renowned as some of North America`s premier destinations for winter sports. Right in Banff itself are three large ski resorts: Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay.
What`s nice about these resorts is that a lift ticket at one provides access to all three. The finest in Banff all in a single purchase.
If you plan on traveling to Banff to shred some powder then plan your visit during high ski season — November through May.
📚 Related Reading: British Columbia Road Trip Guide [Iconic 7 Day Itinerary]
Skating
Rent some ice skates and take to the rink.
Skating across the frozen surface of Lake Louise should definitely be included on any winter bucket list for exploring Banff.
One of the most popular activities in Banff is easily renting skates at Lake Louise and gliding on the ice. Just keep in mind the ice needs a certain thickness for safety.
Inquire with your lodging on how to verify ice safety, or check for any signage in the area.
How to Get to Banff
Situated just 204 kilometers or 126.9 miles west of Calgary, Banff is located amidst the Rocky Mountains and stands at the loftiest elevation of 1383 meters or 4537 feet for a town in Canada.
To get here, I recommend flying into Calgary, renting a vehicle, and then driving to the park. Discover Carsis the best place to evaluate rates.
This is the easiest way to get around.
However, if you plan to travel to Banff from Calgary by bus or shuttle, there are a few options: the Brewster Express, Sundog Tours, the Banff Airporter, or the On-It Transit Service.
This private transportation from Banff to the Calgary Airport is also a great option.
Additionally, those planning more extensive travels through Canada should consider the memorable experience of traveling from Vancouver to Banff by rail. The renowned Rocky Mountaineer train is a premier option.
It is important to note that there is no train route connecting Banff and Calgary.
📚 Related Reading:Best Things To Do In Vancouver Island
How to Get Around Banff
If planning to rent a car, then finding parking spots will be easy. The town of Banff itself has abundant street parking and parking lots and many of the hikes and attractions also have parking.
However, if you do not want to rent a vehicle for your whole stay, Banff National Park does have shuttles that will take you to and from the most popular attractions.
For those relying on public transportation, ROAM Transit serves as a helpful option – routes and schedules can be found online or at any visitor centers. ROAM will shuttle you between Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise with ease.
Also, note that there are charges to enter Banff National Park. Check out the Banff Tourism Site for the most updated info.
Where to Stay in Banff
I mentioned a couple accommodation options above, but here is a comprehensive rundown of lodging in Banff National Park:
- Luxury – For excellent upscale accommodations, check out the Fairmont Banff Springs,Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and the Rimrock Resort Hotel.
- Mid-Range – For greatly esteemed mid-range hotel selections, explore the Banff Park Lodge, the Elk + Avenue Hotel, and the .
- Budget – Some affordable options include the Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows, and the Banff Voyager Inn.
If you’re looking for lodging that`s even gentler on spending, then inspect our guide to House Sitting!
***
That concludes the list of top activities to enjoy in Banff National Park! I hope this provides you with many great options for your upcoming trip to the area. To help in planning your trip to Canada, check out our articles on the Best Travel Packsand these awesome things to do in Winnipeg Manitoba.
Have fun in Banff!
