Banff National Park is one of the most breathtaking natural playgrounds on earth. From brilliant glaciers and pristine lakes to towering mountains and vast wildlife, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not to be missed!
The park is an incredible place to visit whether you’re on vacation or a local. Here are our tips to make your trip as memorable as possible.
Hiking
Banff National Park is home to some of the world’s most incredible hiking trails that are sure to satisfy both novice and seasoned hikers. With jaw dropping mountainous terrain and routes that take you to glaciers, spectacular alpine forests and sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains, it’s no wonder this Canadian national park is a favorite destination for adventure seekers.
There are hundreds of miles of trails in Banff National Park, so you’re bound to find one that’s right for you! However, it’s important to note that some of these trails are highly popular and can get very crowded.
Sightseeing
Banff National Park is a world-class destination that offers so much to see and do. It’s one of the most popular parks in Canada and attracts three million visitors a year to explore the mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, picture-perfect mountain town and village, abundant wildlife and scenic drives.
You can hike, horseback ride, fly, raft, bike, kayak or canoe throughout Banff. If you’re a fan of thrills, take a white-water rafting trip along the Kicking Horse River or venture on a via ferrata tour where you’ll be guided up fixed iron ropes.
Camping
Whether you want to relax in a pristine mountain campground or head off into the backcountry, there are a number of options for camping in Banff National Park. Frontcountry campgrounds offer amenities like electricity hookups and showers, while backcountry camping can be rough and wild, but with a little planning and the right gear, you’ll have an amazing experience!
There are several campgrounds near Banff and Lake Louise. If you prefer riverside camping, there’s also Mosquito Creek campground. And if you want to take in some of the best views in the area, there are plenty of places to pitch your tent on Tunnel Mountain or Protection Mountain.
Shopping
The town of Banff is a spirited hub, full of top-class restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a place that's genuinely connected to the inspiring natural environment around it.
The best shopping is found along the main street, Banff Avenue. Here you'll find a range of fashion boutiques, art galleries and gift stores.
The town's public transport system, called "Roam," offers convenient bus rides throughout Banff and to some of the area's attractions, such as the gondola. Fares are affordable and easy to purchase.
Dining
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or something more sophisticated, Banff National Park has it all. From steaks to seafood towers, there’s a restaurant for everyone here.
You can even take your meal to the top of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola for some breathtaking views. The gondola has a boardwalk path and two renowned restaurants to choose from, including Sky Bistro at the summit.
Whether you’re visiting in spring, winter or summer, Banff National Park is an experience that’s worth every minute of it. With so many things to do and see, there’s never a dull moment!
Nightlife
Banff National Park is known for its spectacular natural playgrounds, and it’s no secret that the area attracts a lot of visitors. As a result, many hotels and lodges fill up quickly during peak season, so it’s best to make a reservation as early as possible.
One of the top places to visit for a night out in Banff is High Rollers, a bowling alley-beer hall-pizza joint that serves New York-style thin-crust pizzas and 40 craft beers on tap. The venue also has a lively vibe and a fun atmosphere that’s sure to get you talking!
