Banff National Park Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Banff National Park, including places to visit, activities to do, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations and much more.


Introduction to Banff National Park

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park boasts of pristine wilderness, soaring mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. Established in 1885, Banff is Canada’s oldest national park and covers over 2,500 square miles of protected wilderness.

List of Places to Visit in Banff National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the town’s past, Banff offers a range of attractions and museums for you to explore. We recommend visiting:

  • Banff Park Museum: Originally a wildlife display for visitors to the park, the Banff Park Museum was transformed into a museum in 1895. Today it houses a collection of over 5,000 species of flora and fauna, as well as information about the park’s history and geology.
  • Cave and Basin National Historic Site: The birthplace of Canada’s national parks system, Cave and Basin is the place where Banff’s hot spring was first discovered. The site also features exhibits on the history of the park.
  • Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies: Dedicated to the art and culture of the Canadian Rockies, the Whyte Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, photographs, and artworks that portray the park’s history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Banff National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Banff National Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowshoeing. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Banff Gondola: Take the scenic gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff.
  • Lake Louise: One of the most iconic destinations in the park, Lake Louise is a turquoise gem surrounded by soaring peaks and glaciers.
  • Johnston Canyon: A popular hiking destination, Johnston Canyon features a series of waterfalls and canyons that are accessible through a well-marked trail.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Banff National Park

With over 1,000 miles of trails, Banff National Park is a hiker’s paradise. From leisurely strolls to challenging multi-day hikes, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Banff:

  • Plain of Six Glaciers: A moderate hike that offers stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding glaciers.
  • Sunshine Meadows: A high alpine meadow that can be hiked or biked during the summer months.
  • Banff Legacy Trail: A 22-mile paved bike path that connects Banff and Canmore, passing stunning views of the Bow Valley along the way.

Best Things to Do in Banff National Park: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Banff National Park offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Icefields Parkway Tour: A guided tour that takes you along one of the most scenic highways in the world, featuring stops at the Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake.
  • Horseback Riding: A unique way to explore the park’s backcountry, horseback riding tours are available for all skill levels.
  • Canoeing on Bow River: Rent a canoe and paddle along the tranquil waters of Bow River, enjoying the serene natural beauty of the park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Banff National Park

Day 1: Arrive in Banff, explore the town, and visit the Banff Park Museum.

Day 2: Hike up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola and enjoy the stunning views from the top.

Day 3: Visit Lake Louise and hike the Plain of Six Glaciers trail.

Day 4: Take a guided tour along the Icefields Parkway, stopping at the Columbia Icefield and Peyto Lake.

Day 5: Rent a canoe and paddle along Bow River or try your luck at fishing for trout.

Day 6: Visit Johnston Canyon and hike to the Upper Falls.

Day 7: Relax and unwind in the town of Banff, visiting the local shops and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Banff National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Banff boasts of a thriving food scene with a range of culinary options. Some of the must-try dishes in the park include:

  • Bison burger: A local specialty, the bison burger is a delicious and sustainable alternative to beef.
  • Maple-glazed salmon: Made with locally caught salmon and drizzled with maple syrup, this dish is a Canadian classic.
  • Poutine: A Canadian comfort food, poutine is a dish of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Local Beverages

Banff also has a thriving craft beer scene, with a range of local breweries producing unique and flavorful beers. Other local beverages to try include:

  • Icewine: A sweet dessert wine made from grapes harvested in sub-zero temperatures.
  • Caesar: A Canadian cocktail made with vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

Where to Stay in Banff National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, Banff offers a range of accommodation options for every budget. Some of the top hotels in Banff include:

  • Fairmont Banff Springs: A historic luxury hotel known as the “Castle in the Rockies.”
  • Banff Park Lodge: A centrally located hotel that offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • HI-Banff Alpine Centre: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory-style lodging and a communal kitchen for cooking.

What to Buy in Banff National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home from Banff National Park? Here are some of the top local products to buy:

  • Maple syrup: A classic Canadian souvenir, maple syrup is sold in many shops and stores in Banff.
  • Canadian Rockies art: The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies has a gift shop that offers a range of locally made artworks.
  • Bison jerky: A delicious and protein-packed snack, bison jerky can be found in many shops around Banff.

Local Culture and Customs of Banff National Park

Banff is home to the indigenous Stoney Nakoda First Nation, and visitors are encouraged to learn about their culture and customs. Other cultural events and festivals in Banff include:

  • Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival: An annual festival that celebrates mountain culture through film screenings, book readings, and presentations.
  • Banff Indian Trading Post: A historic trading post that sells indigenous crafts and artwork.

Best Time to Visit Banff National Park

The best time to visit Banff National Park depends on what you want to do and see. For hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is during the summer months from June to September. For winter sports, visiting Banff during the winter months from November to February is ideal. Spring and fall offer quieter crowds and lower prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Banff National Park

Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Banff National Park:

Do:

  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
  • Stay on marked trails and follow posted signs.
  • Leave no trace and pack out all garbage.
  • Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.

Don’t:

  • Feed wildlife or approach them.
  • Leave food or garbage unattended.
  • Litter or damage natural features.
  • Ignore weather warnings or trail closures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Banff National Park

While Banff is generally a safe destination, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with wilderness travel. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
  • Check weather forecasts before heading out and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
  • Carry a map, compass, and other essential gear, and know how to use them.
  • Tell someone your travel plans and expected return time.

Health in Banff National Park

Banff’s high altitude and cold climate can pose health risks for some visitors. Here are some health tips to keep in mind:

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
  • Wear sun protection and protect your skin from the cold.
  • Be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, dizziness, and nausea, and seek medical attention if needed.
  • Carry any necessary medications and keep them in a safe and secure place.

Getting to Banff National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Banff National Park

The closest airports to Banff National Park are Calgary International Airport and Edmonton International Airport, both of which offer flights to major destinations in Canada and the U.S.

Bus Stations Near Banff National Park

Greyhound Bus Lines has a station in Banff, which offers connections to other major cities in Western Canada.

Other Options

Another popular option is to rent a car and drive to Banff. Banff is located about 1.5 hours from Calgary, and the drive is scenic and straightforward.

How to Get Around in Banff National Park

There are several options for getting around in Banff National Park, including:

  • Car: Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around the park, as it allows you to explore at your own pace.
  • Bus: Roam Transit operates bus routes in Banff and the surrounding areas, including routes to Lake Louise and Canmore.
  • Shuttle: Several companies offer shuttle services between Banff and Calgary or other nearby destinations.

Where to Go Next from Banff National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore other destinations in the Canadian Rockies, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Jasper National Park: Banff’s neighbor to the north, Jasper National Park offers a range of outdoor activities and scenic drives.
  • Calgary: The largest city in the region, Calgary offers a thriving arts and cultural scene, as well as many shopping and dining options.
  • Icefields Parkway: A scenic drive that connects Banff and Jasper, the Icefields Parkway is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

Conclusion

Banff National Park is a destination unlike any other, offering stunning wilderness, outdoor activities, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or history buff, Banff has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to this incredible destination!

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