10 Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Banff National Park Adventure
If you’re looking for some help or more tips to plan your trip, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are the top 10 tips to help you make the most of your visit, including what to know about the Golden Skybridge, the best hikes, and must-see attractions.
1. Plan Your Visit During the Best Time of Year
Banff National Park is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are late spring to early fall (May to September) when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. However, winter (November to March) offers spectacular opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Summer
- Pros: Great for hiking, kayaking on the lakes and for admiring the beauty of the park
- Cons: Very busy, crowded
Winter
- Pros: Great skiing, snowboarding, less crowds and an awesome Christmas celebration in the town of Banff
- Cons: Cold, some roads and hikes are closed off, tougher to get around, lakes are frozen
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for hiking and autumn for fall colors, winter for skiing and holiday festivities
2. Plan the Best Hikes in Banff
Banff is a hiker’s paradise with trails for all levels. Leading to some absolutely breath taking views such as lakes, mountains, wild life and more! Some of the best hikes to consider are:
- Lake Louise to Mirror Lake to Lake Anges to Bee Hive– This moderate to difficult hike takes you through spectacular mountain scenery with views of glaciers and Lake Louise.
- It starts at the bottom of Lake Louise and continually trends up the entire length of the hike. Take a breather at Mirror Lake and take in the gorgeous views. Keep hiking up to Lake Anges and stop at the Tea house to refuel! The hike up to Lake Anges can be difficult as you may have to trek through snow depending on the time of year you go making it a little difficult but getting to the top is absolutely breath-taking and very rewarding.
- The way down is easier. If you wish you can keep on going to the top of the Bee Hive where you can get an incredible view over looking all of Lake Louise and everything else that lies below.
- Sulphur Mountain – A popular but difficult hike offering panoramic views of the town of Banff, the Bow River, and surrounding mountain ranges. Most people opt to take the Banff Gondola to the top which we did. Tickets here
- Johnston Canyon – A family-friendly hike that takes you through a beautiful canyon and past stunning waterfalls. It’s an easy, scenic hike ideal for all ages. the hike to the end and back is about 2.5 miles.
- Parker Ridge: A moderate hike that provides views of the Saskatchewan Glacier. Best visited in the summer or fall when the weather is warmer.
- Sunshine Meadows: A highly-rated hike, especially in the summer months, with wildflowers, stunning alpine meadows, and breathtaking vistas.
- Tip: Wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as trails can be rugged.
3. Make Time for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
These two iconic lakes are at the heart of Banff National Park and are not to be missed.
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are two of the most iconic lakes in the entire park and even in all of Canada. Bets of all they’re pretty much right next to each other as well.
- Tip: Rent a canoe at Lake Louise for a truly memorable experience on the water.
- Spend at least half a day at each location. Check out the Fairmont Hotel for coffee or lunch
- Moraine Lake is only open in the summer so if you wish to see it make sure you go in June or later
- If you’re short on time, take a day tour and see everything! A great option for people who are short on time! Check the tour out here!
4. Take a Bus Tour
One of the best things you can do when visiting a new location in my opinion is to book yourself a bus tour for a day. Whether it be a large bus or a smaller and more intimate tour, I highly recommend doing a day with a guide and a group. There are so many benefits to starting off your trip on a tour:
- Have a guide to inform you and give tips and fun facts about the parks. You can ask tons of questions. All the guides from the different tours i’ve been on have been amazing. They have great personalities, are very insightful and full of knowledge and very nice and welcoming to all.
- Meet with other tourists from around the world. We were the only Americans on our bus tour. Few from Europe and another couple all the way from Australia. Honestly one of my favorite parts is being able to spark up a conversation with someone from a different country and asking about their travels and life back home. People can be very interesting!
- Have a set itinerary. The day is usually planned for you and will take you to direct hot spot locations and drop you off for lunch.
- Transportation: This is a big one especially if you’re not renting a car. The tours pick you up and take you all around the park and the areas you need to go and then drop you back off at your residence.
- Bus Tour Perks: Bus tours usually get special perks like tickets included to an attraction that requires tickets or front row parking spots, or even some that provide meal tickets as well.
Pay the money for at least one nice full-day tour. It is highly worth it. Especially at the beginning of the trip. You can see places you really enjoy and then go back on a later date to spend more time there.
5. Choose Accommodation Wisely (Canmore vs Banff)
Accommodation is one of the most expensive things when planning your trip to Banff, as it usually is when planning a trip anywhere. However there really aren’t too many different places to stay and choose from when visiting the park. The main place that people stay at is in the town of Banff. The center hub of most things going on and of course the big tourist town in the park.
If you are wanting the full Banff experience and choose to stay in Banff then you will most likely have to look for a lodge or hotel as there are no Airbnbs or Vrbo’s inside the town.
The lodging can be very expensive and range from $200 – $400 per night depending on the room and where you stay. If you want the luxury experience then by all means splurge, but if you’re looking to budget and save wherever you can, then skip ahead to the next section. For some of the nice places to stay in Banff check out the list below.
Here’s a concise list of some great places to stay in Banff. The lodges and cabins are generally going to be cheaper
- Fairmont Banff Springs
- The Rimrock Resort Hotel
- Banff Park Lodge
- Tunnel Mountain Resort
- Mount Royal Hotel
- Brewster’s Mountain Lodge
- Banff Aspen Lodge
- Basecamp Suites (Banff)
- Banff Log Cabin Guest House
- Banff Beaver Cabins
Canmore
To save some money on our trip we opted to stay in the nice cozy town of Canmore, about 20 minutes east of Banff.
The upside to staying here is it is generally going to be a lot cheaper than staying directly in Banff, and they have options for Airbnb’s and Vrbo’s. We were able to stay in a nice apartment complex Airbnb for the week for a little over $75 USD / night which was significantly cheaper than any of the nice and fancy hotels they had there. To check it out, here is the link.
Again, if you’re like us and want to cut cost wherever you can then this is the way to go. The only inconvenience of staying in Canmore is that you always have to drive an extra 20 minutes to get to Banff and about another 30 to get into the park.
However Canmore is another really cool and unique town with plenty of stores, shops, restaurants and cafes. We got coffee and breakfast here most mornings and sat outside staring at the mountains. The food and atmosphere was awesome here and you wont miss any of the beautiful scenery staying here vs in Banff. For a more in depth look check out the Official Banff Travel Guide.
Picture below is from Rocket Pie Cafe, if you’re in the mood for pizza and a view, this is the place to be.
Here’s a list of some budget-friendly places to stay in Canmore along with their average prices:
- Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn – ~$120 per night
- The Canmore Hotel Hostel – ~$40 per night (for dormitory-style rooms)
- Ramada by Wyndham Canmore – ~$130 per night
- Quality Resort Chateau Canmore – ~$140 per night
- Silver Creek Lodge – ~$150 per night
- Stoneridge Mountain Resort – $99 per night
Prices vary based on the season, so it’s always best to book in advance to secure the best rates.
6. Visit the Golden Skybridge
A gem of a place that a lot of people don’t know about or don’t want to or don’t feel the need to visit is Golden, BC. In this small town is one of the coolest adventure parks I’ve ever been to. It’s about an hour and a half drive west of Banff and it’s a really incredible thing to do for the adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies!
Golden Skybridge is an awesome adventure course. Take a thrilling ride through the forest, along the canyon edge and down the mountainside on the alpine coaster, do the adventure course through the trees, which is a series of tests and challenges to navigate your way from tree to tree and a few zip lines in there as well.
Either take the other bridge back or take the fun way back and ride on the Zipline all the way across the canyon, over 400 feet off the ground! I have to admit I was a little nervous doing this at first, but I’m so glad I did it. The rush of adrenaline and satisfaction you feel afterwards is a riveting feeling that is unmatched.
You can also ride in the canyon swing where you drop over 90 feet below into the canyon and swing out over the valley!
There’s also plenty for kids to do as well like rock climbing, axe throwing, playgrounds and more! The spot offers food, drinks, live music and is just a blast all around. If you’re planning a trip to Banff you have to check it out!
If you’re interested and want to check it out, click the link here for your ticket and more info
7. Don’t forge the Essential Gear!
The weather in Banff can be unpredictable, even in summer. Here’s a list of items to pack to ensure you’re prepared for any adventure:
(Visit my Travel Resources Page to see everything I recommend using from hiking bags to shoes and more!)
- Layers: Temperatures can fluctuate, so bring lightweight, moisture-wicking layers as well as a good jacket or larger coat if you’re going in the winter.
- Waterproof Gear: A light rain jacket, especially for hiking, can come in handy.
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy boots are essential for hiking trails, particularly if you’re tackling more rugged paths. Most of the trails, especially if you’re hiking up hill will most likely have some snow and ice on them still. A good pair of water proof hiking shoes are absolutely necessary to comfortably manage the trails.
- Hiking Poles(optional): I would recommend bringing some hiking poles with you. especially for the Lake Lousie trails as the entire thing is uphill and then you are going all the way back down hill as well. We didn’t bring hiking poles but looking back on it, I think it would have been a good idea.
8. Use the Banff Transit System
Consider using the Banff Transit System. During the busy summer months, this service provides easy access to major attractions like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Sunshine Village. Banff also offers free shuttle services to some key areas. Not only will this save you money on parking fees, but it’ll also help you avoid the often-limited parking spots in popular locations.
We chose to rent a car, but if you aren’t renting a car then do not fear. Make sure you look at the bus schedules ahead and catch a ride to the location you’re looking to go. There are shuttles for pretty much every main attraction in the park. Some are free and some cost money depending on where you’re going. Some shuttles also require you book in advance to do demand.
If you’re staying in Canmore, then don’t worry because they have shuttles that run through there too.
Be warned if you are driving to your locations, parking can be limited and it is not free. To park at Lake Louise was about $35 USD which is quite a bit. So parking in the Lake Louise shuttle lot and getting transported there for free may be a better option if you’re looking to pinch some pennies.
For shuttle information check out here
9. Explore Lesser Known Gems
While Banff’s major attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are breathtaking, consider venturing off the beaten path to experience Banff’s more serene spots. Places like Emerald Lake, Parker Ridge, Ice Fields Parkway, and Bow Valley Parkway offer equally stunning views but with fewer crowds.
Emerald Lake was a fabulous hike. You will hike about three miles round trip about the crystal clear blue lake. It’s a pretty easy path and not much elevation change on this one.
We did this hike after coming back from the Golden Skybridge as it is on the way back to the town of Banff. you will get beautiful views from pretty much every part of the hike as you can look over the water and see the mountains peering through the back.
Ice Fields Parkway also offers many fun and unique places to stop and visit. Not much traffic is on this road it is ranked as one of the most beautiful drives in all of Canada. Hector, Bow and Peyto Lake are the stars of the show.
Not much walking is required to view these lakes as well. Bow and Hector lake you can just pull off in to the pull out and enjoy the view for a little bit while Peyto Lake requires about a 15 minute hike to the viewing point of the lake. There is parking and bathrooms available at this stop and it is absolutely worth it!
5 Amazing Places to Visit Near Banff that are Off the Beaten Path
If you’re interested in seeing one of the best roads in all of Canada take an Icefields Parkway Bust tour to make sure you don’t miss a thing and don’t have to worry about driving! The tour also includes a glacier walk!
Click this link to get to the tour at a discounted rate
10. Take Time to Relax and Enjoy the Town of Banff and Canmore
While Banff National Park is filled with outdoor adventures, don’t forget to spend some time relaxing in the town of Banff itself.
Banff Avenue is lined with charming shops, cafés, and local restaurants, offering a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or sightseeing. You can also visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs to soak in the natural thermal waters while enjoying beautiful mountain views. In the winter, ice skating on the outdoor rink in the town center or a scenic snowshoeing tour can be delightful.
It is also a beautiful Christmas town and it’s decorated like something you would see out of a Hallmark movie with plenty of activities to do such as horse back rides, a Christmas tree lighting, dog sled rides and Christmas parties happening all around!
Even in the summer there is plenty to do and many places to visit. You can have loads of fun just exploring the main streets of the towns! While Banff is going to be your hot spot and where the majority of the people are, if you have time don’t forget to stop in Canmore as they also have many restaurants, cafes, thrift stores and gift shops that you can hit up! It’s always fun to walk in and shop at the small local stores.
One of my favorite things to do when visiting a new places is to one; Enjoy some freshly brewed coffee from a local spot. Two; To try the local beer and visit the local bars and pubs. I also try to indulge in the culture and try new foods and drinks and you should to!
Pictured below is the Gateway Irish Pub, recommended to us from our tour guide who claims that this place is home of the best fish and chips in Banff
Putin, Beaver Tails, bison burgers, elk and more are just a few things you have to try! Again for a more in depth look into Banff and some of my favorite restaurants, like the link HERE
11. Bonus Tip!
Banff National Park is a breathtaking destination that offers something for everyone, from adventurous outdoor activities to serene moments in nature.
By planning ahead, you can make the most of your visit. Whether you’re hiking through pristine wilderness, soaking in mountain views from a cozy lodge, or enjoying the vibrant local culture, Banff’s beauty and charm will leave a lasting impression.
Remember to pack smart, be mindful of the wildlife, and take the time to appreciate the stunning landscapes that make Banff and the Canadian Rockies so special.
It’s a place that people from all over the world to see! We chatted with a guy from Australia who flew about 12 hours to spend time here. We also talked to another couple at the adventure park who were having their honey moon at the park! Forget the beach and all inclusive beach vacations, this is the way I want to spend my honey moon!
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Happy travels!
Tours
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Banff Secrets. Award Winning Tour
Boat Cruise of Lake Minniwanka
Mountain Walk Carabineer Tour (kind of wish i did this one because it looks awesome!)