Banff National Park
Breathtaking mountains and glacial lakes!
Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a natural playground that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the lush valleys and sparkling lakes, every corner of Banff offers something to marvel at. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or just soaking in the hot springs, the sheer beauty of Banff will leave you breathless—and coming back for more.
Fast Facts
Everything you need to know about Banff National Park
Location
Banff National Park is just one hour west of Calgary on Highway 1. The town of Banff is right off the highway and has hotels, restaurants, shopping and more.
Top Summer Attractions
Be sure to check out the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, as well as high alpine hiking, and the Banff Springs Hotel
Top Winter Attractions
Skiing at Norquay, Sunshine, or the Lake Louise ski resort are top of the list.
Difficulty
Easy - Most of main attractions in Banff National Park is accessible by car. There is also a bus system called Roam Transit.
Hidden Jem
Johnston Canyon and the Inkpots. This easy hike will take you up close and personal with two different waterfalls and gorgeous coloured ponds.
History & Stats
Created in 1885 Banff National Park covers 6,641 km2 and sees over 4M visitors per year!
About Banff National Park
Banff National Park is one of those places that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a dream. You’ve probably seen pictures—turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, and wildlife roaming free—but nothing really prepares you for what it’s like to be there in person.
It’s tucked away in the Canadian Rockies, and it’s actually Canada’s first national park, established in 1885. Banff is a place where history, nature, and adventure collide, and whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or just soaking up stunning scenery, there’s something here for everyone. Trust me, it’s worth adding to your bucket list.
Banff in the Summer
Lakes, Peaks, and Adventure Everywhere
If you’re lucky enough to visit Banff in the summer, you’re in for a treat. This place truly comes alive when the snow melts. The hiking here is next level. One of the must-do hikes is the Plain of Six Glaciers. It’s not the easiest hike at 14 kilometers round trip, but the views are absolutely insane. You get a front-row seat to Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier, plus, there’s this charming tea house halfway up where you can stop for a snack. It feels like stepping back in time, and after the climb, trust me, that tea and fresh-baked goodies taste like heaven.
If you’re more into water activities, check out Lake Minnewanka. It’s the longest lake in the park, and you can rent kayaks or canoes to paddle around. Nothing beats floating on those glassy, turquoise waters with the mountains towering all around you. And if you’re into photography, you’ll be snapping away every five seconds.
Wildlife watching is a summer highlight too. You might see elk just chilling by the side of the road or catch a glimpse of a black bear (from a safe distance, of course). Keep your camera handy because you never know when you’ll spot something cool. Banff is a wild place in every sense of the word.
Banff in the Winter
Snow and Ice
Now, if you think Banff is just a summer destination, you’re seriously missing out. Winter here is like stepping into a snow globe, and the activities are just as epic. The three major ski resorts—Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay—are a huge draw for skiers and snowboarders. Whether you’re a pro looking for challenging terrain or a newbie just trying to stay upright, there’s a spot for you.
Sunshine is probably the most famous, with its high-altitude slopes and killer views, while Lake Louise is massive, with a ton of varied terrain to explore. Mt. Norquay is the local’s favorite, especially for night skiing. Skiing under the stars is one of those unforgettable experiences you’ve got to try at least once.
But skiing isn’t the only winter adventure on offer. If you prefer something slower-paced, try Johnston Canyon in winter. The waterfalls freeze into these amazing ice sculptures, and it’s like walking through a winter fairy tale. Then there’s skating on Lake Louise, which is straight-up magical. Skating with those towering mountains all around you? It’s something out of a movie.
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Wildlife in Banff
Will I see a bear in Banff?
One of the things that makes Banff so special is the wildlife. You’ve got grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, wolves, and even the occasional cougar, all calling this park home. Banff is like their backyard, and you’re just a visitor, which makes spotting them feel even more special.
In the summer, you’re more likely to see elk grazing in the valleys or bighorn sheep chilling on the mountainsides. If you’re super lucky (and patient), you might even spot a bear munching on berries. Winter, on the other hand, is prime time for seeing animals like wolves and bighorn sheep. They seem to pop up more often when the park is quieter, and it’s a great reminder that Banff is wild in every season.
Just remember, as tempting as it is to get close for the perfect photo, it’s really important to keep your distance. These animals are wild, and it’s their space, so enjoy them from afar—binoculars are a good idea if you’re really keen to see some wildlife up close.
So will you see a bear in Banff National Park? Who knows! If you do, please keep a safe distance away from them.
Our "must see" items for Banff National Park
We’re lucky to live right here!
We’re very luck to live in Calgary, only an hour away, and so we get to visit Banff man times per year. At the top of our list are:
- Skiing at Mt. Norquay
- Cycling along the Bow Valley Parkway
- Hiking, all the trails are incredible
- Family camping at Two Jack Lake is an annual tradition for us
For a special treat we’ll go to the Banff Hot Springs in the winter, and every once in a while, we visit the Banff Springs Hotel for a hot chocolate!
