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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Blackstone Mountain Lodge by CLIQUE
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Luxurious One Bedroom Suite WindTower
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Tours & day trips
See all 197 activitiesOpens in new tabLake Louise & Yoho (Moraine Lake June - Oct) from Calgary/Banff
Wildlife & nature
See all 34 activitiesOpens in new tabCanmore: 4-Hour Banff Park Safari Drive & Nature Walk
Private & custom tours
See all 47 activitiesOpens in new tabListen to a Tour Guide as You Drive & Walk with our Discover the Rockies Pa...
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabTunnel Mountain Trail: Nature Tour with Audio Guide
Winter activities
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabJasper to Banff One-Way Tour
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.
Herbert Lake
Explore the great outdoors at Herbert Lake and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Lake Louise. Stroll along the area's lakeside, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.
Louise Lake
Explore the great outdoors at Louise Lake, a lovely green space in Lake Louise. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.
Moraine Lake
The view of this turquoise lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks has been immortalized on countless postcards and on the back of 20-dollar bills in Canada.
Johnston Canyon
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Johnston Canyon during your travels in Johnston Canyon. Discover the area's waterfalls and mountain views.
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