12 Amazing Things to do in Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations and is known for its stunning scenery, natural hot springs, and outdoor activities. In this article, we will explore 15 amazing things to do in Banff National Park, from hiking to skiing, and everything in between.

Take a hike

Hiking in Banff National Park is an experience like no other. The park boasts over 1,600 km of trails, offering something for hikers of all abilities. From easy strolls to challenging alpine routes, Banff National Park has a hiking trail to suit everyone.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, which takes hikers on a 14 km round-trip journey to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Victoria and Mount Lefroy, and takes hikers past the impressive Victoria Glacier. The tea house is a popular spot for hikers to take a break and enjoy some refreshments before returning to the trailhead.

Another popular hike is the Johnston Canyon Trail, which takes hikers on a 5.2 km round-trip journey to the Lower and Upper Falls of Johnston Canyon. The trail follows a winding path through the canyon, with metal catwalks and bridges crossing over the creek and offering stunning views of the waterfalls. The hike is relatively easy and is suitable for families with young children.

For more experienced hikers, the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail can be extended to include the Highline Trail, which offers stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains. The 13 km round-trip trail is more challenging than the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, with steep inclines and narrow paths. However, the views from the trail are well worth the effort.

Another challenging hike in the park is the Larch Valley Trail, which takes hikers on a 4.4 km round-trip journey through a subalpine forest to the stunning Larch Valley. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the valley’s golden larch trees in the fall. The trail can be extended to include the Sentinel Pass Trail, which takes hikers to the top of Sentinel Pass for even more stunning views.

For those looking for an overnight hiking experience, the Skyline Trail offers a 44 km trek through the park’s backcountry, taking hikers over mountain passes and through alpine meadows. The trail can be completed in 2-4 days and offers stunning views of the park’s landscape, including the glaciers and peaks of the Continental Divide.

Overall, Banff National Park offers a wide range of hiking trails for all abilities, from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks. With stunning views, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife, hiking in Banff National Park is an experience not to be missed.

Soak in the Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs is a popular destination in Banff National Park, known for its rejuvenating and relaxing hot springs. The hot springs are located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and offer visitors a chance to soak in natural mineral waters surrounded by stunning mountain views.

The Banff Upper Hot Springs are naturally heated by geothermal activity deep beneath the Earth’s surface. The water in the hot springs is rich in minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and sulfate, which are said to have therapeutic properties that can relieve muscle soreness and joint pain.
In addition to the benefits of the mineral-rich water, the hot springs are also surrounded by stunning mountain views. Visitors can soak in the warm waters while taking in the surrounding scenery, including the towering Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain.

The hot springs are open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the warm waters in any season. During the winter months, the hot springs are especially popular, with visitors soaking in the warm waters while surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

In addition to the hot springs themselves, the Banff Upper Hot Springs also offer a variety of amenities and activities for visitors. There are on-site changing rooms, lockers, and showers, as well as a gift shop and snack bar. Visitors can also take advantage of guided tours and interpretive programs that provide insight into the history and geology of the hot springs and the surrounding area.

The Banff Upper Hot Springs are located near the town of Banff, making it an easy and convenient destination for visitors exploring the area. There are a variety of accommodation options in the area, including hotels, lodges, and campgrounds, making it easy for visitors to plan an extended stay and take advantage of all the activities and amenities available in Banff National Park.

Overall, the Banff Upper Hot Springs are a must-visit destination in Banff National Park. With its natural mineral waters, stunning mountain views, and variety of amenities and activities, the hot springs offer a unique and rejuvenating experience for visitors.

Go skiing

Skiing and snowboarding are two of the most popular activities in Banff National Park during the winter months. The park is home to three world-class ski resorts, each offering a unique skiing and snowboarding experience for visitors.

The largest ski resort in the park is Banff Ski Resort, which features three distinct ski areas: Mount Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village. Each ski area offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, including beginner-friendly slopes, challenging black diamond runs, and terrain parks.

Mount Norquay is the closest ski area to the town of Banff and is known for its challenging terrain and steep runs. Lake Louise Ski Resort is the largest ski area in the park, with 4,200 skiable acres and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Sunshine Village is the highest ski resort in the park and offers long runs and deep powder for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

In addition to the ski resorts, Banff National Park also offers a variety of backcountry skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Visitors can explore the park’s rugged backcountry terrain on guided tours or through backcountry permits. The park also offers a variety of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, providing visitors with a unique way to explore the park’s winter wonderland.

Visitors to Banff National Park during the winter months should always be prepared for cold weather conditions and changing weather patterns. It is important to dress in warm layers, wear appropriate winter gear, and stay up-to-date on weather forecasts.

Overall, skiing and snowboarding in Banff National Park is a must-do for winter sports enthusiasts. With its world-class ski resorts, stunning backcountry terrain, and beautiful winter scenery, the park offers visitors a truly unforgettable winter experience.

Visit Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most iconic destinations in Banff National Park, renowned for its emerald green waters and stunning mountain views. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Banff National Park.

The lake itself is a glacial lake, fed by the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The color of the water is a vibrant, bright green, caused by the rock flour that is suspended in the water. The lake is surrounded by soaring mountains, including Mount Victoria, Mount Whyte, and the famous Victoria Glacier. The combination of the bright green water and towering mountains creates a stunning and unforgettable view.
Visitors to Lake Louise can take advantage of a variety of activities, including hiking, canoeing, and skiing. During the summer months, visitors can hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House, a historic tea house located above the lake. The 7 km round-trip hike takes visitors through a subalpine forest to the tea house, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The tea house serves a variety of refreshments, including tea, coffee, and baked goods.

Canoeing on Lake Louise is another popular activity, allowing visitors to experience the lake from a different perspective. Rentals are available on-site, and visitors can paddle around the lake, taking in the stunning views from the water.

During the winter months, Lake Louise transforms into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. The Lake Louise Ski Resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding, with over 4,200 skiable acres and 145 runs. The resort offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it an unforgettable skiing experience.

In addition to the activities on and around the lake, Lake Louise is also home to a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy lodges. Visitors can stay in the heart of the park and take advantage of all the activities and amenities available in the area.

Overall, Lake Louise is a must-visit destination in Banff National Park. With its stunning emerald green waters, soaring mountains, and abundance of activities, Lake Louise is a true gem of the Canadian Rockies.

Take a Gondola Ride

Taking a gondola ride in Banff National Park is an excellent way to experience the park’s stunning mountain scenery and breathtaking views. The park is home to two gondola rides, the Banff Gondola and the Lake Louise Gondola, each offering visitors a unique perspective of the park.

The Banff Gondola is located just five minutes from the town of Banff and takes visitors up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the summit, visitors can explore the boardwalks and hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Summit Walk is a popular trail that takes visitors along a series of boardwalks and staircases to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where they can take in the 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The Lake Louise Gondola is located in the heart of Banff National Park and takes visitors up to the top of Whitehorn Mountain. From the top, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Victoria Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The Gondola also provides access to several hiking trails, including the Top of the World trail, which takes visitors to the summit of Whitehorn Mountain for panoramic views of the park.

Both gondolas operate year-round, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the park’s beauty in all seasons. In the winter months, visitors can take part in snowshoeing and skiing activities, while in the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.

The Banff National Park gondolas are also home to a variety of dining and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants at the summit or take part in a guided tour or educational program.

It is important to note that due to the high altitude and changing weather conditions, visitors should dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear when taking a gondola ride and hiking the surrounding trails. Visitors should also bring plenty of water and sunscreen, particularly during the summer months when the sun can be intense at higher altitudes.

Overall, taking a gondola ride in Banff National Park is a must-do for anyone visiting the park. With its stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and dining options, the gondolas offer visitors a unique and unforgettable way to experience the park’s natural beauty.

Explore the Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway is a scenic drive that stretches 232 kilometers between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. It is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and its glaciers, lakes, and valleys.

The parkway is named after the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest icefields in North America, which is located along the drive. The icefield covers an area of over 200 square kilometers and feeds several glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier, which visitors can access via the Glacier Skywalk and Ice Explorer tours.

The drive itself is an attraction in its own right, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can stop at various points along the way to take in the views, hike one of the many surrounding trails, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Some of the notable stops along the drive include Peyto Lake, a stunning glacier-fed lake with bright turquoise waters; Bow Lake, a beautiful lake with views of the Crowfoot Glacier; and the Weeping Wall, a stunning roadside waterfall that freezes in the winter months.

Visitors can also take part in a variety of activities along the drive, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The parkway is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

One of the best ways to experience the Icefields Parkway is by taking a guided tour. Tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the parkway’s history, geology, and wildlife, providing visitors with an educational and informative experience. Visitors can choose from a variety of tour options, including bus tours, walking tours, and guided hikes.

Overall, the Icefields Parkway is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Banff National Park. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse range of activities, the parkway offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic drive, the Icefields Parkway is sure to leave you in awe.

Go wildlife spotting

Wildlife viewing in Banff National Park is an unforgettable experience, with the park home to a diverse range of species, including bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Visitors to the park have the opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat, making for a truly unique and memorable experience.

One of the best ways to view wildlife in Banff National Park is by taking a guided tour. There are a variety of tours available, ranging from bus tours to guided hikes, and each offers a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife. Guided tours are led by experienced naturalists who are knowledgeable about the park’s ecosystem and wildlife, providing visitors with an educational and informative experience.

For those who prefer to explore on their own, there are a variety of wildlife viewing areas located throughout the park. These areas are designated for wildlife viewing and provide visitors with a safe and responsible way to observe animals in their natural habitat. Visitors should always keep a safe distance from wildlife and never approach or feed them.

One of the most popular wildlife viewing areas in Banff National Park is the Bow Valley Parkway. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as the opportunity to view a variety of wildlife. Visitors may see bears, elk, moose, and other animals along the way, making the drive a must-do for any wildlife enthusiast.

Another popular wildlife viewing area is Lake Minnewanka, located just a short drive from the town of Banff. The lake is home to a variety of species, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bald eagles. Visitors can take a boat tour on the lake or hike one of the surrounding trails to observe the animals in their natural habitat.

Visitors to Banff National Park should always be respectful of wildlife and follow park regulations to ensure the safety of both themselves and the animals. This includes never approaching wildlife, always keeping a safe distance, and never feeding or touching them.

Overall, wildlife viewing in Banff National Park is a truly unforgettable experience. With its diverse range of species and stunning natural scenery, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe some of North America’s most magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Visit Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Banff National Park, known for its stunning glacial lake and breathtaking mountain views. Situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Canadian Rockies.

The lake itself is a glacial lake, fed by the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The color of the water is a bright, iridescent blue, caused by the rock flour that is suspended in the water. The lake is surrounded by soaring mountains, including Mount Fay, Mount Babel, and Mount Wenkchemna. The combination of the bright blue water and towering mountains creates a stunning and unforgettable view.

Visitors to Moraine Lake can take advantage of a variety of activities, including hiking and canoeing. During the summer months, visitors can hike to the top of the Rockpile, a short but steep hike that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The 300-foot climb to the top is well worth the effort, offering panoramic views of the area.

In addition to the Rockpile, there are a variety of hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy strolls to challenging alpine routes. The Larch Valley Trail is a popular hiking trail, taking hikers on a 4.4 km round-trip journey through a subalpine forest to the stunning Larch Valley. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the valley’s golden larch trees in the fall.

For more experienced hikers, the Eiffel Lake Trail offers a challenging 12 km round-trip journey through the mountains. The trail offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Temple, one of the highest peaks in the Canadian Rockies.

Canoeing on Moraine Lake is another popular activity, allowing visitors to experience the lake from a different perspective. Rentals are available on-site, and visitors can paddle around the lake, taking in the stunning views from the water.

Overall, Moraine Lake is a must-visit destination in Banff National Park. With its stunning glacial lake, soaring mountains, and abundance of activities, Moraine Lake is a true gem of the Canadian Rockies. Whether visitors choose to hike, canoe, or simply take in the stunning views, Moraine Lake is a destination that is not to be missed.

Visit the Banff Park Museum

The Banff Park Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the natural history of Banff National Park. The museum is located in the heart of Banff and is home to an extensive collection of taxidermy specimens and exhibits showcasing the park’s rich biodiversity and cultural history.

The museum was established in 1895 and is the oldest natural history museum in Western Canada. It was originally created to showcase the flora and fauna of Banff National Park and to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the park’s natural heritage. Today, the museum has a collection of over 5,000 specimens, including birds, mammals, insects, and plants, and serves as an important educational resource for visitors to the park.

Visitors to the Banff Park Museum can explore the museum’s various exhibits, which cover a range of topics related to the park’s natural history and cultural heritage. The museum’s displays include exhibits on the park’s geology, wildlife, and human history, as well as interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the park’s natural environment and conservation efforts.

In addition to the museum’s exhibits, visitors can also explore the surrounding trails and gardens. The museum is located in the heart of Banff, which means that visitors have easy access to a wide range of hiking and biking trails. The Bow River Trail is a popular trail that runs through Banff and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, and bears.

Visitors can also explore the museum’s gardens, which feature a range of native plants and flowers. The gardens are designed to showcase the park’s biodiversity and to provide visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the park’s natural environment.

It is important to note that the Banff Park Museum has limited hours of operation, particularly during the winter months. Visitors should check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm hours of operation before planning their visit.

Overall, visiting the Banff Park Museum is a great way to learn more about the natural history and cultural heritage of Banff National Park. With its extensive collection of taxidermy specimens and interactive exhibits, as well as its surrounding trails and gardens, the museum offers visitors a unique and informative way to experience the park’s natural beauty.

Go on a helicopter tour

Going on a helicopter tour is an incredible way to experience the stunning natural beauty of Banff National Park from a unique perspective. Helicopter tours offer visitors a chance to see the park’s rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers from high above, providing an unforgettable experience that is sure to be the highlight of any trip to Banff.

One of the most popular helicopter tours in Banff National Park is the Rockies Heli Canada tour, which takes visitors on a scenic flight over the Canadian Rockies. The tour offers a variety of routes and packages, ranging from short flights over the park to longer tours that include landing on a glacier or mountaintop.

During the tour, visitors will fly over some of the park’s most iconic sights, including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Columbia Icefields. They will also have the chance to see wildlife from the air, such as bears, elk, and mountain goats.

The helicopter tour experience is enhanced by the expertise of the tour guides, who are knowledgeable about the park’s natural history and geology. They provide commentary throughout the flight, pointing out interesting features and answering any questions that visitors may have.

The helicopter tour experience is also safe and comfortable. Visitors are provided with all necessary safety equipment and are briefed on safety protocols before takeoff. The helicopters are modern and well-maintained, and provide a smooth and comfortable ride.

One of the unique aspects of a helicopter tour in Banff National Park is the opportunity to land on a mountaintop or glacier. This provides visitors with an unforgettable experience and a chance to explore areas of the park that are inaccessible by foot. Visitors can step out of the helicopter and take in the breathtaking views, while the guides provide information about the area’s natural features and wildlife.

In conclusion, going on a helicopter tour is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Banff National Park from a unique and unforgettable perspective. With stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a safe and comfortable ride, a helicopter tour is an experience that visitors to Banff should not miss.

Visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is one of the most important attractions in Banff National Park. Located in the town of Banff, this historic site is where the discovery of hot springs led to the creation of Canada’s first national park.

Visitors to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site can explore the natural hot springs that inspired the creation of Banff National Park. The site features a boardwalk that takes visitors through a series of caves and pools that are filled with mineral-rich water. Along the way, visitors can learn about the history of the site and the role that it played in the creation of Banff National Park.

One of the most impressive features of the Cave and Basin National Historic Site is the hot pool, which is filled with steaming water that reaches temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius. Visitors can take a dip in the pool and experience the same natural hot springs that inspired the creation of Banff National Park.

In addition to the hot springs, the Cave and Basin National Historic Site also features a museum that showcases the history of the site and the creation of Banff National Park. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and historical displays that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the park’s history and significance.

Visitors to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site can also take part in guided tours, which are led by knowledgeable park rangers. These tours provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and ecology of the site, and are a great way to learn more about the park’s natural beauty and significance.

Overall, the Cave and Basin National Historic Site is a must-visit attraction for anyone who is interested in the history and natural beauty of Banff National Park. With its natural hot springs, informative museum, and guided tours, the site provides visitors with a unique and unforgettable experience that they will remember for years to come.

Go on a horseback ride

For those who want to experience the beauty of Banff National Park from a unique perspective, a horseback ride is an excellent option. Horseback riding is a great way to explore the park’s rugged terrain, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife. Here are some long-tail keywords that describe the horseback riding experience in Banff National Park:

1. Scenic trail rides: Banff National Park offers a variety of scenic trail rides that take riders through some of the park’s most stunning landscapes. Riders can choose from a range of trails that offer breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, glacial lakes, and lush forests.
2. Wildlife viewing: Horseback riding is a great way to get up close and personal with the park’s abundant wildlife. Riders may see elk, deer, bears, and other wildlife along the way, making for an unforgettable experience.
3. Experienced guides: Many of the horseback riding tours in Banff National Park are led by experienced guides who know the park inside and out. They can provide riders with information about the park’s history, ecology, and wildlife, and ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
4. Suitable for all skill levels: Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, there’s a horseback riding tour in Banff National Park that’s right for you. Many tours offer horses that are suitable for riders of all skill levels, and provide instruction and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
5. Half-day or full-day tours: Horseback riding tours in Banff National Park typically range from half-day to full-day tours, allowing riders to choose the length of the ride that suits their schedule and interests.
6. Western-style riding: Horseback riding in Banff National Park often involves Western-style riding, which is a unique and traditional way of riding horses. This style of riding is popular in the Rocky Mountains and offers a unique and authentic experience.

Overall, horseback riding is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of Banff National Park. With scenic trails, abundant wildlife, experienced guides, and options for all skill levels and schedules, it’s an unforgettable experience that’s not to be missed.