Banff National Park is known for its rugged mountain scenery, glacier-fed turquoise lakes and miles of untouched forests. Come for hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Thrill seekers will find no shortage of activities, from white water rafting to mountain biking.
The park’s lakes are a gorgeous aqua-blue color in summer and their surfaces reflect the surrounding mountains. Hike the hills above Peyto Lake and Moraine Lake for two of the most photographed scenes in Canada. Lake Minnewanka isn’t fed by glaciers, but it’s one of only two lakes in the area that allows boats on the water. Take a boat cruise or rent a fishing rod.
Hiking opportunities in the park abound. Tackle rocky mountain paths or enjoy man-made walkways. Johnston Canyon has a walkway built into the side of its sheer canyon walls.
If you don’t want to hike, opt for the gondolas and chair lifts that go up some of the mountains. Banff Gondola rides to the summit of Sulphur Mountain just outside the town.
There are three ski resorts within the national park. Sunshine Village is a short drive from Banff and encompasses three mountains. Skiing areas range from beginners’ slopes to advanced, off-piste areas. Finish the day with après-ski drinks in a restaurant on the mountain.
The national park spans 2,564 square miles (6,641 square kilometers) in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. There are two towns in the park: Banff and Lake Louise. Both towns offer plenty of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury lodges. For an indulgent option, book a room at the century-old Fairmont Banff Springs.
There are many places to rent equipment such as bicycles, skis, kayaks or fishing gear. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one or use the regular bus and shuttle services running between towns and major attractions.
Banff National Park Tours and Activities
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GLOBALSTAY. Modern Downtown Condos. Free parking
Reviewed on Sep. 20, 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 247 activitiesOpens in new tabBanff: Banff Gondola Admission Ticket
Wildlife & nature
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabBanff: Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Private & custom tours
See all 61 activitiesOpens in new tabUltimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff
Water activities
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabBanff: Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabBanff National Park Tour: Lake Louise & Marble Canyon
Popular places to visit
Lake Louise Mountain Resort
If you are a snow bunny or love the exhilaration of taking the slopes with absolute abandon, Canada has what you are looking for at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Lake Louise Gondola
Ride high above the rugged landscapes of Banff National Park, look for grizzly bears and go hiking amid pristine mountain countryside.
Paradise Ski Lift
Enjoy a trip to Paradise Ski Lift and popular activities like skiing in Lake Louise. Wander the area's lakeside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Larch Express Quad Ski Lift
Enjoy a trip to Larch Express Quad Ski Lift and popular activities like skiing in Lake Louise. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its hiking trails.
Ptarmigan Quad Ski Lift
Enjoy a trip to Ptarmigan Quad Ski Lift and popular activities like skiing in Lake Louise. Discover the area's mountain views and top-notch restaurants.
Summit Chair Lift
You can take time to visit Summit Chair Lift during your travels to Lake Louise. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.
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