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 colour 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 kilometres) in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. There are two towns in the park: Banff and Lake Louise. Both towns offer plenty of accommodation, 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
Visit Banff National Park
Tours & day trips
See all 155 activitiesOpens in new tabBanff: Banff Gondola Admission Ticket
9.6 out of 10 with 29 reviews
Wildlife & nature
See all 24 activitiesOpens in new tabCanmore: 4-Hour Banff Park Safari Drive & Nature Walk
Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Private & custom tours
See all 43 activitiesOpens in new tabListen to a Tour Guide as You Drive & Walk with our Discover the Rockies Pa...
Activity duration is 6 hours
2.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabTunnel Mountain Trail: Nature Tour with Audio Guide
Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Winter activities
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabIntroduction to Backcountry Skiing / Riding in Banff, Canada
Activity duration is 8 hours
Free cancellation available
Top Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Banff National Park
Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
1029 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
Baker Creek By Basecamp
Bow Valley Parkway, Lake Louise, AB
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
111 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise, AB
The Fox Hotel and Suites
461 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
Moose Hotel And Suites
345 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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