Amazing 4 Day Banff Itinerary: Best Trip for First Time Visitors (Summer)

Are you looking for for an amazing 4 day Banff itinerary this summer?

If you are planning to visit Banff National Park you may be wondering how much time you need and if a 4 day Banff itinerary is enough time to see it all. It can feel overwhelming to plan your trip especially if it is your first time in the area.

I’ve lived about an hour from Banff for over 30 years and every year we plan at at least one 3 or 4 day Banff weekend getaway. The good news is that although Banff National Park and the surrounding Canadian Rockies covers a huge geographical area you can absolutely hit the highlights and see many of the best sites in Banff in one 4 day trip.

This 4 day Banff itinerary includes all the best things to do in summer and how to squeeze it all into a 4 day holiday. There is a lot to see and do around Banff so it is important to prioritize the activities you want , based on your interests, budget, and the type of experience you want.

The key to seeing as much as possible in a short time is to organize your days by areas that are close together geographically. You should also plan to visit certain sites early in the day before the crowds arrive or in the late afternoon or evening. This is most important in July and August because about half of the annual visitors to Banff arrive in those two months.

🤩I highly recommend this wildlife safari tour for people who want to see wildlife during a trip to Banff. A local guide will take you to the best spots to see wildlife while keeping you safe.

Amazing 4 Day Banff itinerary (Summer)

Day 1: Banff Area

• Lake Minnewanka
• Two Jack Lake
• Bow Falls
• Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
• Downtown Banff
• Surprise Corner and Hoodoos
• Sulpher Mountain Gondola

Day 2: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake

• Moraine Lake
• Lake Louise
• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
  Lake Louise area activities (Lake Agnes Teahouse, canoe, gondola, afternoon tea)

Day 3: Yoho & Icefield Parkway

• Emerald Lake
• Takakkaw Falls
• Natural Bridge
• Icefield Parkway
• Peyto Lake View
• Bow Lake
• Glacier Discovery Centre & Skywalk
• Columbia Icefield Adventure

Day 4: Bow Valley Parkway & Canmore

• Johnston Canyon
• Canmore and Banff townsite area activities (hot springs, hike, canoe, horseback ride, bike ride)

This 4 day Banff itinerary assumes you are staying within Banff National Park or Canmore for four full days. If you have less than 4 full days, including the days when you arrive or leave you will need to cut some activities from this itinerary. These are busy, full days with many activities from morning to night so be prepared to get up early if you want to see it all.

Follow this itinerary if you are travelling to Banff National Park between mid-June and Canadian Thanksgiving in mid-October. June to August is summer in the Canadian Rockies and some summer activities are only possible when the weather is warmer from about mid-June until late September.

Some sites can only be visited with a car and for others you will either be required or have the option to take shuttles or a tour to visit. Cars are usually faster and more convenient for stopping on your own schedule but some areas have extremely small parking areas. It may be nearly impossible to get parking or you will need to wait a long time for a spot to open up if you don’t arrive very early or late in the day. I’ll describe your options for each day and the pros and cons of each transport option.

Click the Map below for key stops in this itinerary:

Top things to do in Banff in Summer (printable checklist)

Since the Canadian Rockies are so vast the first thing you need to decide is what sites or activities are a must for you. You will definitely see the main highlights, but there are so many things to do in Banff in summer that it is impossible to include every possible activity in one trip.

This is my printable checklist of all the best places to see and the 21 top things to do in Banff in summer. See all of the top sites and also choose a few of the activities, based on your interests, time, and budget.

Day 1: Explore the area near the town of Banff

Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Bow Falls, Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Banff Downtown, Surprise Corner, Hoodoos, Banff Gondola

Early Breakfast (1 hour)

Wake up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast at Tooloulou’s, a Cajun theme restaurant that is one of the best rated breakfast spots in Banff.  If you are staying in Canmore try one of the best breakfast restaurants in Canmore.

🤩Click here for Lake Minnewanka Cruise prices and scheduled departures

Morning: Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake with optional lake cruise (2.5-3 hours)

Spend the morning exploring the area near Lake Minnewanka for about an hour by driving along the scenic Lake Minnewanka loop.  You are very likely to see wildlife here as mountain sheep, big horns, and elk are frequently spotted in this area.

Your first stop will be at the signed Two Jack Lake day use area where you can take a short walk along the lakeside. This is a really beautiful and peaceful place to view the majestic mountain range.

Prebook your scenic 1.5 hour cruise on Lake Minnewanka with a timeslot as soon as possible after they open at 9am. This area is popular in the summer and the lake has very limited parking so get out early in the day if you want to drive and park. Alberta residents can save about 20% off the regular ticket price with the Pursuit Rewards Admission or anyone can save with a Pursuit Pass.

discounted ticket prices

Pursuit Pass Lite

Save money by purchasing admission to multiple attractions with one pass. Pursuit Pass Lite is valid for 7 days. Passes can be used from the end of May to mid October.

$209.99CDN ($155USD)

book here

Banff Gondola

Glacier Skywalk

Icefield Explorer Adventure

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

If you don’t want to cruise on the lake then then you can swap the cruising time with a hike along the Lake Minnewanka lakeshore. After parking at the Lake Minnewanka parking lot you can walk along the lakeshore for as long as you like and then turn back.

LOCAL SECRET: Lake Minnewanka was named by the Stoney Nakoda people and it means “Water of the Spirits. The Indigenous people who travelled near the lake claim to have heard sounds of spirits coming from the lake. Local legend is that the sounds come from creatures called mermen, half human and half fish that swim in Lake Minnewanka. Mummified remains of a merman can be viewed in the back of the Banff Trading Post, a local store by the Bow River that sells Indigenous handicrafts.

If you don’t have a car or prefer public transit you can catch the Roam Route 6 at the Banff High School transit hub on Banff Avenue to go from Banff to Lake Minnewanka. The Banff High School transit hub is across the street from the Elk + Avenue Hotel and Farm & Fire restaurant. Bus fare is included at no cost if you have pre-purchased a Lake Minnewanka cruise ticket. Route 6 makes stops at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, as well as Johnson Lake so you can spend time at all the same sites that you would have if you were driving.

🤩 If you are travelling to Banff or Canmore from Calgary there is a reasonably priced small group shared shuttle service to and from the airport or downtown Calgary.

Mid-day: Bow Falls and Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (2 hours)

Return to Banff around mid-day and visit Bow Falls and the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. I would allow at least 1-2 hours to visit the area around Bow Falls and the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel depending on whether you are driving, bussing, or walking from downtown Banff.

If you drive, you can park in the lot that is at the viewpoint for Bow Falls. If you want to take a bus, you can ride Roam Bus Route 4 and get off at the Bow Falls stop or Roam Bus Route 2 which stops at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. You can easily walk between Bow Falls Viewpoint to or from the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.

If you have time and energy, I would highly recommend walking to the Bow Falls Viewpoint from Banff’s downtown area. From Banff Avenue, you turn left onto Bow River Trail (just before the car bridge) and cross the river on the Banff Pedestrian Bridge. On the other side of the river the well signed Bow Falls trail will take you directly to the Bow Falls Viewpoint. From Banff Avenue the return walk is about 3km/1.86mi and it will take about 45 minutes. The walk is easy and you can enjoy beautiful views of Bow River and Bow Falls from above and below.

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a short walk from the Bow Falls Viewpoint and you can easily see it as the hotel is directly behind. A National Historic Site of Canada, the Fairmont Banff Springs opened in 1888 and is one of the largest surviving grand railway hotels opened by the Canadian Pacific Railway. Nicknamed the “Castle in the Rockies.” the Fairmont Banff Springs is still one of Canada’s most prestigious holiday destinations

The historic hotel has hosted royalty, famous people, and even the odd ghost. You can walk outside the hotel or inside the public space even if you are not a guest in the hotel to marvel in the grandiose décor and architecture.

🤩 The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel offers a food tour at the castle to learn about the hotel’s history during a small group tasting experience where you will sample the cuisine prepared by the culinary team.

One of my favourite walks is on the pathways  near the Fairmont Banff Springs golf course where you will frequently spot wildlife like elk or deer and on occasion bears. From the Bow Falls Viewpoint you will see people across the river, on a small hill, taking photos.

To get to that hill you will see a small bridge to your right that crosses the river (River Avenue).  Cross the bridge on foot and walk past the Rocky Mountain Raft Tours buildings to get to a paved walking trail.  A short distance along the trail on your left is the hill. This is one of the best spots to get a fabulous picture of the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.

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We often see elk in this area in the fields, walking in the river or laying down on the golf course. You can either keep walking along the paved golf course trail or turn back and return the way you came. We often stop for a drink on the patio at the Waldhaus on the way back. The Waldhaus is one of the restaurants that is part of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and you can walk up the stairs to reach it from the Bow Trail Viewpoint parking lot.

Lunch: Explore Downtown Banff (About 2-2.5 hours)

Return to Banff Avenue, the main street in the town of Banff. This street is a bustling area filled with a wide range of shops and restaurants. Stop for leisurely lunch and enjoy the views at one of the rooftop patios at the Elk & Oarsman, Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant or El Patio Magpie and Stump.

After lunch spend some time browsing the shops on Banff Avenue and enjoy the atmosphere as you walk amongst the crowds along the main street of Banff.

🤩 I love to see the sunset reflecting off the lakes and mountains in the evening and the northern lights and stars near the town of Banff. A guide can take you on a walking tour of all of the best sunset and starwatching locations.

Mid Afternoon: Surprise Corner (1 hour) and optional Hoodoo Trail (1.5-3 hours)

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Banff has numerous viewpoints where you can get pictures of the surrounding valley and landscapes. One of the most spectacular viewpoints is Surprise Corner. There is a tiny Surprise Corner parking lot with a few spots directly across the street from an elevated viewing platform. If you decide to drive to Surprise Corner, located at Buffalo Street and Tunnel Mountain Drive you take your chances at getting a parking spot.

Alternatively, you can turn left from Banff Avenue onto the Bow River Trail or Buffalo Street and walk up the hill to the Surprise Corner Viewpoint. Bow River Trail intersects with stairs up to Buffalo Street so you can get there either way but the Bow River Trail is prettier. It will take about 45 minutes to an hour to walk about 3km/1.86mi to the Surprise Corner viewpoint and back, plus the time you spend there.

There are amazing upper views of the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel from Surprise Corner and the nearby Hoodoos trail. From the Surprise Corner viewing platform you will get a panoramic view of mountain ranges and the valley and river below.

If you have time I would encourage you to continue to walk along the official Hoodoos Trail that is well signed and starts at the Surprise Corner parking lot. Hoodoos are sandstone pillars on a shale base that take millions of years to form and stand about 5 to 7 meters/16.4 to 23 feet tall. From Surprise Corner to the Hoodoos Interpretative Trail is about 4.6km/2.9mi) one way. The entire Hoodoos Trail takes about 1-1.5 hours one-way and double that time to return to Surprise Corner.

There are fantastic views from above along the forested Hoodoos Trail including the Banff Springs Golf Course, the Bow River, Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, and of course the Hoodoos from viewpoints near the end of the trail. You will know you are at the trailhead when you reach a large parking lot. Paved trails with interpretive signs lead to a path that ends at the red Parks Canada Adirondack chairs.

You can return to your starting point by following the same path back to Surprise Corner. To save time you could also take the Roam Route 2 bus back to town from the stop at Tunnel Mountain Village 2 Campground, directly across from the Hoodoos Interpretative trail. If you are really tight for time you can also drive to the parking lot, park, walk a bit down the trail and check out views of the Hoodoos during a brief stop.

🤩 Enjoy a 2-hour fully guided nature walk away from the crowds, but near Banff, and learn about the local wildlife and plants.

Late Afternoon/Evening: Banff Gondola (2-2.5 hours)

The views from the Banff Gondola and the summit of Sulpher Mountain are spectacular and you should not miss this during your visit to Banff National Park. Plan for about 2 hours to visit or longer if you stay for supper.

To access the Banff Gondola you can drive or take the Roam Bus (Route 1) to either the Banff Gondola or Banff Upper Hot Springs parking lots. If you are driving, it will be very busy and you may have to circle the parking lot for a long time before a spot opens up.

You can also take Roam Bus Route 1 from downtown Banff. It is not that walkable from downtown Banff  but if you are staying at the Rimrock Resort Hotel it is near the two parking lots for the Banff Gondola and Banff Upper Hot Springs. Plan for about 2 hours to visit plus transportation time.

You can prebook your Banff Gondola ticket on this website. The Banff Jasper Collection website does have some discounts if you are an Alberta resident or if you are visiting a few different sites in the area.  Alberta residents can save about 20% off the regular ticket price with the Pursuit Rewards ticket.

Alberta residents and non-Alberta residents can save by purchasing the Pursuit Pass Lite . The package includes a Banff Gondola ticket, Columbia Icefield Explorer Tour, Columbia Icefield Skywalk, and Lake Minnewanka Cruise, all of which are included in this 4 day Banff Itinerary. The pass is valid for 7 days from the start date you choose.

Once you arrive at the entrance to the Banff Gondola, you will board your Gondola and ascend over the treetops and up the mountainside for about 10 minutes. At the summit of Sulphur Mountain prepare to be awed by the panoramic views. From this vantage point you will see six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff below.

There is a wooden boardwalk where you can walk and get photos from different view points. The boardwalk ends at the Cosmic Ray Station and you return back to the main building the same way you came.

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The main summit building on Sulphur Mountain includes a coffee shop, the Sky Bistro restaurant, a gift shop, interactive interpretive exhibits, and a multi-sensory theatre. Sky Bistro is a great place to watch the sunset with a drink on the patio, or to enjoy dinner with amazing views. If you want to go to Sky Bistro, and especially if you want to stay for dinner you must plan ahead and make reservations in advance during the summer or it is unlikely that you will get a table.  

If you decide not to eat on Sulpher Mountain make your way back to downtown Banff.  I would highly recommend Hello Sunshine, a Japanese sushi restaurant with delicious dishes. Hello Sunshine is on Wolf Street and has an inviting and modern dining room as well as private karaoke rooms that are booked separately. Make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.

🤩If you are not sure where to eat try this highly rated Rocky Mountain Banff Food Tour where you can nibble on Canadian foods at different restaurants

Getting to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

If you want to see Lake Louise and Moraine Lake during your visit you absolutely must plan your visit and book transportation well in advance or you won’t be going. Getting to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise is challenging as approximately 2 million visitors are visiting at the same time during the short summer season.

The road to Moraine Lake is only open from June 1 to mid-October and the single road is closed to private vehicles. Lake Louise lakeshore has very limited parking that fills up by 5am during the summer and stays full all day.

Visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in one day is possible with some pre-planning in advance. For all the details on how to get there and how much it will cost read 11 best ways to get to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. The most popular options include:

1. Reserve a Parks Canada shuttle (pickup at Lake Louise park and ride)
2. Buy a Roam Transit Reservable Super Pass and reserve a trip on the 8X Banff – Lake Louise Express (pickup in Banff)
3. Reserve a private shuttle through the Moraine Lake Bus Company (pickup at Lake Louise park and ride)
4. Book a group tour or private tour that will take you to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise (various pickup locations)

If you choose one of the first two options you can take the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle between Moraine Lake and Lake Louise on the same day. The Moraine Lake Bus Company will also get you to both lakes in a single day either through a dual lake shuttle, or by booking two separate shuttles to each lake. You must have a car to get to the Lake Louise park and ride lot as there is no public transportation.

There are pros and cons to each option including flexibility, cost, and convenience. Some shuttles book up months in advance and some require a personal vehicle to get to the park and ride. Read my full guide which covers everything you need to know about costs, schedules, restrictions, and how far ahead you must book.

🤩 If you want to visit Emerald Lake on the same day as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake I would highly recommend this tour on day 2 of the itinerary which covers all three lakes.

Early Morning: Moraine Lake (2-3 hours)

Moraine Lake is one of the most popular and iconic lakes in the Canadian Rockies and is famous for being featured on the Canadian $20 bill. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the area around the lake. 

Get an early start, sunrise shuttles start at 4am or 5am, and visit Moraine Lake when it is quieter and less crowded. Another option to avoid the crowds is to arrive near the end of the day, and to go to Lake Louise first thing in the morning instead. If you go to Lake Louise first be sure to leave enough time to explore Moraine Lake before the last shuttle leaves for the day.

Once you arrive at the lower parking lot of Moraine Lake, take the marked trail that winds behind the Rockpile and follow the series of steep stairs to reach the top. The pathway includes informational plaques describing various species and rock formations in the area. At the top of this easy 10 minute walk up Rockpile Trail (0.8km/0.5mi) you can take photos overlooking Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The views are spectacular from this vantage point and this is what everyone comes to see.

Afterwards, I would recommend taking a short hike either walking along the lakeshore which is about 40-60 minutes roundtrip (3km/1.8mi). Another great option is the moderate return hike to Consolation Lakes (6km/3.7mi) with views of Panorama Ridge and Quadra Glacier.  

The hike to Consolation Lakes is about 1.5-2 hours and starts at the lower parking lot, following the pathway past the Rockpile and turning left through the boulder field. The trailhead is marked with a wooden sign and will take you through the lush forest, eventually opening up to the lower lake. A large rock slide separates the lower and upper Consolation lakes and many people describe the climb over boulders to get to the upper lake as a scramble. Some may decide that the climb isn’t worth it to get to the second lake.

There are several other popular and beautiful hikes from Moraine Lake like Larch Valley (8.6km/5.4mi), Sentinel Pass (11.6km/7.2mi) or Eiffel Lake (11.2km/7mi) but these are longer hikes that would take a good portion of the day and they are more difficult. It’s a good idea to check trail conditions before any hike in Banff National Park and to check for any areas closed due to bear activity.

Another option is to rent a canoe at the Moraine Lake Lodge canoe dock and paddle across the serene, turquoise lake. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Rockies, and the canoe rental is not as busy as Lake Louise but there are still lineups. You cannot reserve the canoes in advance so there may be a wait at busier times of the day. Moraine lake is not that large and a one hour rental is plenty of time to explore the whole lake.

Moraine Lake Lodge

Canoe Rentals

Open from mid June to mid September, 9:30am to 5pm daily. Last boat rental is at 4:30pm.

Moraine Lake Lodge rents canoes for about $147CDN/$106USD per hour .

🤩 If you missed the booking date for Parks Canada Shuttles or want to avoid a long lineup at the end of the day I highly recommend the Moraine Lake Bus Company. I took the shuttle on Canada Day to visit Moraine Lake and was impressed by the professional and friendly service.

Lunch: Lake Louise Picnic (30 minutes – 1 hour)

If you did not pack a lunch with you then you will need to eat in Lake Louise Village or the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is more expensive than other lunch spots in Lake Louise but depending on your shuttle or tour schedule you may not have another option.

If you are eating in Lake Louise Village I would recommend stopping at Laggan’s Mountain Bakery and Delicatessen or the Trailhead Café for a to go lunch. We usually go to Laggan’s for sandwiches on fresh homemade bread and Graham particularly likes the sausage rolls. Bill Peyto’s Café offers table service and is located at the HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre. Bill Peyto’s is our go to place for a bargain, no frills, breakfast or lunch in Lake Louise.

At the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise I would suggest purchasing food to go at The Guide’s Pantry  and having a picnic outside overlooking the lake. The Guide’s Pantry offers freshly made sandwiches, pastries, seasonal salads, and gourmet snacks. You can also preorder grab and go picnics. It is open 24 hours and you can pre-order your lunch in advance online and pick up later.

If you want to eat at a restaurant at Chateau Fairmont Lake Louise then the other option is the Lakeview Lounge & Patio. The lunch menu is available from 11am to 4pm and the bar menu is available after 4pm. Lakeview Lounge is the resort’s iconic restaurant and bar with a scenic patio and amazing views of Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier. The patio opens mid-May (weather dependent) and tables at the restaurants are prioritized for registered hotel guests. Day visitors can check with the dining reservations team for restaurant availability.

Afternoon: Explore Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Lake Louise Area (5 hours)

When you arrive at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel and see the view of Lake Louise for the first time it is absolutely breathtaking. I travel here every year and I’m still awed every single time by one of the most beautiful views I have seen anywhere in the world.

It’s also pretty shocking how many people are standing on the lakeshore in front of the hotel. The lakeshore in front of the Chateau Fairmont Lake Louise Hotel is extremely crowded in the summer and you need to go further beyond this area to really enjoy Lake Louise. Many people walk to the lakeshore, take a few pictures, walk around a bit and then leave.  They are missing out big time!

I highly recommend spending the remainder of your day in the Lake Louise area after visiting Moraine Lake. You can also visit Lake Louise first and Moraine Lake later but since Moraine Lake gets more crowded around mid-day it is best to explore early or late in the day.

Nearly every visitor arriving at Lake Louise will take some time to marvel at the view of Victoria Glacier and the crystal clear turquoise waters of Lake Louise. This is the place to take photos or selfies in front of this stunning view. Spend some time walking through the grand lobby of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to admire views from the large arched windows overlooking the lake.

There are a few ways to spend an afternoon at Lake Louise and I would suggest picking a couple of these options:

• Option 1: Hike to Lake Agnes Tea House (2.5 to 3 hours) or Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House (4 hours)
• Option 2: Walk around the lakeshore (1 hour) and hike to Fairview Lookout (45 minutes)
• Option 3: Rent a canoe and paddle across Lake Louise (1 hour + waiting time)
• Option 4: Afternoon Tea at the Fairmount Lake Louise Hotel (1 hour)
• Option 5: Lake Louise Summer Sightseeing Gondola (1 hour)

🤩 If you want to hike but don’t feel confident going on your own try this small group fully guided hike of Consolation Lakes near Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. Your shuttle bus and lunch are included!

Option 1: Lake Agnes Tea House -moderate hike 6.8km/4.2 mi (2.5 to 3 hours return)

The hike to Lake Agnes is a popular and historic hike in the Canadian Rockies and this is my top recommendation for your afternoon. The trail starts on a path that branches off to the right from the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail just past the bronze statue of a Swiss mountain guide on the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise grounds.  

There is a short, paved trail at first which will become a dirt trail through dense sub-alpine forest. The first 2km/1.24mi of the trail is uphill and about halfway up is a clearing through the trees that has a great view overlooking Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The first lake you will see is called Mirror Lake and from here you follow the trail to the right. Mirror Lake is about 15-20 minutes away from the Lake Agnes Tea House.

The original Lake Agnes Tea House was built in 1901 and sits about 400 metres (1312 feet) above Lake Louise. It is open from June to Canadian Thanksgiving (mid-October) from 8am-5pm. The tea house has rustic wooden furnishings and serves over 100 types of tea, hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, soup, and a variety of baked goods like tea biscuits, cookies, loaves, and bars. You must bring Canadian or US cash with you to purchase tea and snacks as there is no debit or credit card machine available.

If you have more energy and time you can continue on from Lake Agnes to the Lake Agnes Lookout at the back of the lake (500 metres/0.31mi), the Little Beehive (1km/0.62mi), or the Big Beehive (1.6km/1mi).

Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House – moderate hike 10.6km/6.6mi (4 hours return)

If you are looking for a longer day of hiking the Plain of Six Glaciers trail up to the tea house is a good alternative.  To get here you walk along Lake Louise Shoreline trail, past the Lake Agnes trail turnoff. The Plain of Six Glaciers trail continues past the lakeshore trail and passes through some of the most interesting glacial scenery in Banff National Park.

Expect to see a glacier, meadows with wildflowers, and walk through piles of ice and rock at the foot of Mt. Victoria. There are also amazing views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and a variety of wildlife can be spotted along this backcountry trail.

At the end of this trail, is another tea house, constructed in 1924. The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House serves sandwiches, soups, sweets, baked treats, and hot and cold beverages including tea. Bring cash with you as there is limited electricity at the tea house.

Option 2: Hike Fairview Lookout – easy hike 2km/1.2mi and Lake Louise shoreline trail – easy hike 4km/2.5mi (1hour 45minutes for both)

Combine a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore with a short hike to see views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from above. It doesn’t really matter which one you do first. 

The trail to Fairview Lookout starts from the boathouse of Lake Louise and is paved at first. Shortly afterwards it turns into a dirt trail through the forest. At the trail junction stay right to continue up the Fairview Lookout trail. It’s an uphill hike that is relatively short and quick. The return distance is 2km/1.2mi it takes about 45 minutes return to complete the hike.

The Lake Louise shoreline trail is not so much a hike but a flat, walkway where you can stroll and enjoy views of the Victoria Glacier, Chateau Lake Louise and the people paddling across the lake in canoes. As soon as you arrive at Lake Louise you are already on this trail which continues along the right hand side of the lake. The distance to walk to the end of the lake and back is about 4km/2.5mi and it takes about 1 hour return.

Option 3: Rent a canoe and paddle across Lake Louise (1 hour + waiting time)

Paddling across beautiful Lake Louise is a once in a lifetime experience in peaceful and serene surroundings. Canoe rentals are available from the Fairmont Lake Louise Boathouse located on the western shores of Lake Louise.  

This experience is very popular in the summer and only hotel guests staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise can make reservations. Day visitors can sign up on a first come first serve basis and you should anticipate a wait to get a boat at most times of the day.

The Boathouse opens sometime in early June and usually stays open until mid-October, depending on the weather conditions. Up to 3 adults can fit in one canoe which is rented by the hour.

Open 8:30am-7pm, June to October

Click for more information

Lake Louise Boathouse

1 hour canoe rental at the Lake Louise Boathouse for day visitors is $165CDN/$122USD +tax or $155CDN/$115USD + tax for 30 minutes.

If you are a guest at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise there is a discounted rate: $105CDN/$78USD + tax for 1hour) or $95CDN/$70USD+ tax for 30 minutes.

Voyageur Tours:

Adults: $78.75CDN/$57USD including tax Youth age 8-12: $42CDN/$30USD including tax

Hotel guests receive a discounted rate of $63CDN/$45.65USD for adults and $31.50CDN/$22.80USD for youth.

Another less expensive alternative is to join a voyageur canoe experience on Lake Louise.  A guide will share local stories about the wildlife, the indigenous people, and the early explorers as you glide across Lake Louise in an authentic 26’ cedar strip group canoe.

Option 4 : Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (1-1.5 hours)

An enjoyable and relaxing way to spend part of the day is Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. If you want to experience an elegant English tradition you can nibble on warm scones topped with strawberry jam and Devonshire cream, savor delicate finger sandwiches with a range of fillings and indulge in sumptuous sweet treats from macarons to chocolate cake. Beverages include an assortment of teas or a glass of Prosecco, Champagne or Canadian sparkling. Dining tables have panoramic views of Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier and mountain peaks.

Afternoon tea reservations are open to registered hotel guests and day visitors between 11:30am-2:30pm. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Option 5 : Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola (1 hour)

The Lake Louise Summer Sightseeing Gondola is located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort (1 Whitehorn Road) so you will need to drive to this location. If you have booked a shuttle the Lake Louise Ski Resort parking lot is the pickup and drop off location for the shuttle.

The 14-minute gondola ride will take you to 6,893 feet (2,101 meters) for spectacular aerial views of Lake Louise, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, alpine meadows with wildflowers, glaciers and mountain peaks. In the summer, it is not unusual to see bears or other wildlife from the gondola.

You can save Moraine Lake Bus Company also offers a discount of 15CDN/$10.90USD per ticket for the sightseeing gondola if you purchase your ticket at the same time as your shuttle.

There are viewing decks at the top of the gondola and the Lodge of the Ten Peaks cafeteria serves snacks and beverages. Your ticket also includes entrance to the Wildlife Interpretative Centre.

🤩 Grizzly bears and other wildlife are frequently sighted below this gondola ride above open alpine areas

Evening: Dinner in Lake Louise Townsite (1.5 hours)

Stay for supper in Lake Louise Village as there are several fantastic restaurants to dine at. Our favourite is The Station Restaurant , which is housed in a heritage railway station. If you make a reservation, the Lakeview Lounge & Patio at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has incredible views overlooking the lake. An upscale dinner option is the award winning Post Hotel Dining Room which is a great place for a special celebration like a birthday or anniversary. Check in advance with the hotel restaurants as some restrict seating to only guests staying at the hotel or there is a restricted menu.

If you are driving back to Banff or Canmore be sure to stop at the pull out viewpoint just before the first Banff turnoff to admire the view of Vermillion Lakes and Mount Rundle as the sun is setting.

Early Morning: Pickup Breakfast (30 minutes)

This day will be a long day of driving and activities with an early start so try to leave Banff or Canmore around 7am. Many Banff restaurants won’t start serving breakfast until 8 or 9am. One exception is the Whitebark Café on Banff Avenue which opens from 6:30am to 6pm daily. Stop here shortly after they open for a coffee, tea, juice, and a light breakfast and you can eat on their outdoor patio or take your breakfast to go. Their menu includes breakfast wraps, sausage rolls, vegan quinoa rolls, frittata, egg cups, banana breads, muffins, vegan coffee cake, or a yogurt parfait.

If you are coming from Canmore stop at Beamer’s Coffee Bar which opens at 6am for coffee and breakfast. Beamer’s offers a variety of specialty hot or iced coffees, smoothies, breakfast buns and wraps, muffins, toast and jam, and pastries.

You will be on the road for most of the day so bring a lunch and snacks that you can eat on the go.

Morning: Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Natural Land Bridge (5 hours including driving time)

Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls and the Natural Land Bridge are all located in Yoho National Park in the province of British Columbia not in Banff National Park.  The two national parks are adjacent, with Emerald Lake just a 30 minute drive from Lake Louise. All three of the Yoho National Park sites are relatively close together and just a short distance off your route to the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93).

There is no public transport to Emerald Lake so the only way to get there is by driving your rental car or personal vehicle or by booking a tour that stops at the lake.

🤩 If you want to visit Emerald Lake on the same day as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake I would highly recommend this tour on day 2 of the itinerary which covers all three lakes.

I think Emerald Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies with a beautiful cloudy turquoise colour created by the reflection from the glacial sill sediment in the water. One of the most photographed locations in the Canadian Rockies is the onsite restaurant Cilantro on the Lake with Emerald Lake and the mountains in the background.

The Emerald Lake Lodge is the only accommodation at the lake. A variety of rustic cabin style lodge rooms with wood burning fireplaces are available on the property.  When we stayed in the we loved the gourmet food at the Mount Burgess Dining room. We soaked in the outdoor hot tub and enjoyed the great views overlooking the lake. Prices are not cheap, and in the peak summer season expect to pay over $1000CDN/$725USD per night for a room.

The public Emerald Lake parking lot is small and fills up very early in the summer months so you must leave very early if you are driving. It is about a 1.25 hour drive from Banff (94km/58mi) or 1.5 hours from Canmore (116km/72mi) to get to Emerald Lake. Try to get there before 8:30am or alternatively, the lake may be quieter at the end of the day after 5pm if you decide to go at the end of the day instead.

🤩 Parking at Emerald Lake is almost impossible to get even if you are there early. If you don’t have a car or don’t want the stress this tour will take you to Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and the Natural Land Bridge as well as a couple of other top sites in Banff National Park.

Option 1: Walk around the lakeshore

Spend about an hour walking the easy loop around the lake (5.1km/3.2mi). This is a peaceful easy stroll with amazing views. It’s the perfect place to get a photo to remember your trip to the Canadian Rockies.

Option 2: Rent a canoe

One of the best ways to explore Emerald Lake is by renting a canoe at the family owned canoe rental business called The Boathouse Trading Co. All of the lakes are beautiful to canoe on so I would recommend picking just one of the three lakes rather than canoeing at all three.

The Boathouse charges about $100CDN/$74USD per hour which is significantly lower than the cost of rentals at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

The season for canoe rentals can vary depending on when the ice melts in the spring and the fall weather. Typically, they open around the third week of May and close around mid-October (Canadian Thanksgiving weekend).

Canoe rentals are available on a first come first served basis and can’t be reserved in advance. There are often big lineups just before they open at 10am and near closing time when the last boat goes out at 4:45pm each day. Have your group ready to go as priority is given to those groups who are fully ready.  Canoes will carry up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children.

Stop at Natural Land Bridge (optional 15 minutes)

The Natural Bridge is an arched rock formation that forms a bridge across the Kicking Horse River. This was created through the erosion of rock by water, sand, and gravel from the river. It can be accessed from a signed parking lot that is just off the single road to and from Emerald Lake. If you have time I would recommend a quick stop.

Lunch: Takakkaw Falls or Bow Lake (30 minutes) + 1 hour and 25 minutes of driving from Takakkaw Falls to Bow Lake

Enjoy a short picnic lunch at either Takakkaw Falls or Bow Lake. You should leave Takkakaw Falls by 12-12:30pm at the very latest and follow Yoho Valley Road to return back to the Trans Canada Highway (Highway 1 eastbound). From Highway 1 take the signed turnoff to the Alberta Highway 93 North exit toward Jasper/Rocky Mountain House.

Highway 93 is also called the Icefield Parkway and its one of the most scenic drives in the world with amazing views of the surrounding mountain ranges, impressive glaciers, sparkling blue lakes, and waterfalls. A variety of wildlife roams this area so you are likely to spot animals like bears or elk during your drive.  

You will be awestruck by the stunning mountain ranges, and there are several viewpoints off the road at Herbert Lake, the Crowfoot Glacier, and Bow Lake. Take the signed turnoff to Bow Lake and drive to one of the two day use parking lots. Walk along the gravel path, over the small bridge, along the lakeshore of Bow Lake, a glittering glacier fed lake. Unpack your lunch, relax, and enjoy the turquoise hues and the peaceful natural beauty of the lake.

The Lodge at Bow Lake is also located on the lakeside and they have overnight lodging as well as a restaurant where supper is served every night. From June to early October a café, gallery, and gift shop is open where you can get a coffee and a treat. Café hours are from 9am to 5pm daily during the summer.

The Lodge at Bow Lake

The restaurant serves a 4-course set dinner menu for a price of $130CDN (GST included)/$96USD at 6:30pm every night in the summer.

Advance reservations are recommended.

Continue driving towards the Glacier Discovery Centre which is about an hour and 10 minutes away from Bow Lake. Be sure to stop at Saskatchewan River Crossing when you see the signs and gas pumps. This is the only gas station around until you return to Lake Louise so make sure your tank is full, even if the gas is overpriced, as there is also no cell service on the road to call for help. This is also a good place to browse in the gift shop, take a restroom break, or get a bite to eat at the convenience store or cafeteria.

🤩If you don’t have a car or prefer to get a ride and enjoy the view I would recommend this Icefield Parkway tour which stops at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.

Afternoon: Glacier Discovery Centre, Columbia Icefield Adventure, Glacier Skywalk (1-3 hours)

From Bow Lake to the Glacier Discovery Centre is about a 1 hour and 10 minute drive plus any time spent stopping at Saskatchewan River Crossing.

There are several activities in this area and you can decide to book one or more tours. If you decide to book multiple activities you will likely not arrive back in Banff or Canmore until quite late in the evening. The sun does not set until around 9 or 10pm in the summer months though so it is unlikely you will need to drive in the dark.

Alberta locals save on Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Columbia Icefield Adventure admission with Pursuit Rewards. Alberta residents and non-Alberta residents can save by purchasing a Pursuit Pass. The Pursuit Pass Rockies Lite package covers admission to the Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefield Explorer Tour, Columbia Icefield Skywalk, and Lake Minnewanka Cruise, all of which are included in this 4 day Banff Itinerary.

Plan for a bit of buffer time to find parking and make your way to the Glacier Discovery Centre if you have pre-booked a tour.

Option 1: Glacier Discovery Centre (20-30 minutes)

View the free interpretative display at the Glacier Discovery Centre which describes the history of how these massive icefields formed and have evolved over the years. There is a large outdoor deck facing the Athabasca Glacier and this is a great place to get a photo.

Option 2: Columbia Icefield Skywalk Only (Approximately 1 hour)

The shuttle for the Columbia Icefield Skywalk tour is a popular attraction that departs from the Glacier Discovery Centre every 15 minutes from 10am – 6pm during the summer.  Your ticket includes a shuttle to and from a 1km/0.6mi interpretive walkway including a suspended glass bottom platform. You can stay as long as you want and use a free audio guide which will tell you about the glaciers and sights along the trail.

The views of the mountain landscapes and the Sunwapta Valley are incredible from this platform. It’s a great place to get photos but I’ll admit we felt it was a bit overpriced for the views since these similar views can be seen for free from the Glacier Discovery Centre deck or pullouts along the Icefield Parkway as you are driving. You also don’t get a great view of the Athabasca Glacier from this platform.

The clear glass floor on the platform is kind of cool though as it feels like you are walking in mid air 280 metres/918 feet above the valley. If you are scared of heights or are nervous about the slight swaying of the platform you might want to opt out of this tour.

Option 3: Columbia Icefield Adventure – Ice Explorer and Glacier Skywalk (2 hours)

The Columbia Icefield Adventure includes both the Ice Explorer and Glacier Skywalk. This tour departs from the Glacier Discovery Centre every 15 minutes from 10am – 6pm during the summer and it last approximately 2 hours.

The Columbia Icefield Adventure includes a ride on a massive Ice Explorer all-terrain vehicle which ascends the Athabasca Glacier, a 10,000-year old sheet of ice. You will have an opportunity to leave the vehicle for a short walk on the glacier.

A shuttle bus will take you to the Glacier Skywalk where you can walk along a glass-floored walkway that juts out over the cliff’s edge. Its pretty exhilarating to see through the floor to the canyon below.

Option 4: Toe of the Glacier Hike (30 minutes)

If you want to check out the Athabasca Glacier at your own pace there is a short trail called the Toe of the Glacier that you can hike. The trail is about 1.4 km/0.87 mi and it can be accessed by car from a parking area across from the Glacier Discovery Centre. Turn left from the Icefield Parkway to Glacier Road which is on the opposite side of the highway from the Glacier Discovery Centre. Follow the road to Toe of the Glacier parking area and the trailhead begins from the parking lot just after crossing the wooden footbridge.

This trail is short but steep and ascends up a rocky hill with interpretative signs about glaciers and where the Athabasca Glacier used to end before it retreated. If you decide to hike the trail be sure to bundle up as it is cold and windy at the top of the hill. Once at the top you will be close enough to view the glacier but you can not actually walk on it without a guide tour. Stay behind the roped area at the Toe of the Glacier.

Late Afternoon or Early Evening: Peyto Lake Viewpoint (45 minutes to 1 hour + 1 hour driving time)

Its about a one hour drive (86.2km/53mi) from the Glacier Discovery Centre to the Peyto Lake Viewpoint trail. Watch for a sign that says Peyto Lake Viewpoint or Bow Summit and take the turnoff on the road to the parking area. The parking lot and trail is normally really busy but if you arrive late in the afternoon it should be less crowded.

Peyto Lake is an unmissable stop at one of the most beautiful and most visited lakes in the Canadian Rockies. The best place to see it is from the upper viewpoint where there are wooden decks to view the long, cloudy turquoise coloured lake from above, surrounded by mountain peaks and glaciers. The glacial till forms a flour like sediment which causes the unique cloudy looking water in Canadian Rockies lakes.

At the Bow Summit/Peyto Lake Viewpoint parking lot there is a sign that marks the trailhead to the Peyto Lake Viewpoint.  The hike takes about 45 mins to walk 2.4km/1.5mi to and from the viewpoint. Look for the shape of a wolf’s head and body in the outline of Peyto Lake.

Evening: Dinner in Banff (dinner + 1-1.25 hours driving time)

It will take a little over an hour to drive 100km/62mi from the Peyto Lake Viewpoint to Banff.

I would recommend a late dinner at Brazen at the Mount Royal Hotel or at The Balkan Greek restaurant on Banff Avenue. These are two of our favourite restaurants and both are located on Banff’s main street. Make a reservation in advance.

🤩 If you want a full day to explore the Icefield Parkway from Banff or Calgary this reasonably priced tour stops at all the key sites including Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.

Day 4: Johnston Canyon, Canmore, & Banff

Breakfast: Banff or Canmore

Start your day with breakfast at Coyotes Southwestern Grill on Caribou Street in Banff or one of Canmore’s best breakfast locations . Coyotes has a varied breakfast menu that includes Tex-Mex favourites like huevos rancheros, breakfast burritos, and southwestern frittata.

🤩 Bikers will love this guided trip to Johnston Canyon with an e-bike ride back to Banff along the stunning Bow Valley Parkway and past Vermillion Lakes.

Morning: Drive the Bow Valley Parkway and Hike Johnston Canyon (2 hours + 30 mins driving time)

Johnston Canyon is another must see location in Banff National Park and if you have to shorten your itinerary this is one location you should not miss. The whole canyon is filled with a series of spectacular waterfalls that have carved through the limestone rock from Johnston Creek over thousands of years.

It’s a relatively short walk on a paved pathway to metal catwalks that take you inside the lip of the canyon to the lower and upper falls. The lower falls are about 2.3km/1.4mi return and the upper falls is about 5.5km/3.4mi return from the parking lot.  Plan for about 2 hours to hike to and from the upper falls.

Getting to Johnston Canyon

It is extremely busy at Johnston Canyon in the summer so plan to arrive either early in the morning or early evening for less crowds.

Drive north from Banff for about 10 minutes until you see the signed turnoff for the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). Its about another 20 minute drive (17.5km/11mi) along the scenic roadway until you reach the signed parking lot for Johnston Canyon. This is one of the most popular hikes in Banff National Park so it is important to get here early or you won’t find parking after about 10am.

If you don’t want to drive or worry about parking it is possible to catch a Hop-On Hop Off Bus or Roam Bus Route 9 – Johnston Canyon from the Banff High School Transit Hub directly to and from Johnston Canyon.  Plan for a bit of extra transit time if you take the bus.

🤩 Parking at Johnston Canyon fills up very quickly. This Hop-On Hop-Off Bus will drop you off at the start of Johnston Canyon Trail and other top sites on your own schedule.

• 

Visit Canmore

Canmore is a beautiful town in the Canadian Rockies with a vibrant downtown area, green spaces, hikes, recreation and a wide range of restaurants and accommodations.

Canmore is a great place to stay in Banff National Park because there are so many more options for accommodation, such as VRBO’s or AirBnB’s, at a more reasonable price compared to Banff or Lake Louise. It is just a few minutes drive from the Town of Banff and is also well connected by the Roam Bus network. If you don’t stay here be sure to visit the area during your stay in Banff National Park.

🤩 Enjoy the scenery while floating along the majestic Bow River on this inexpensive 1 hour rafting tour from Canmore

Option 1: Walk along Mainstreet Canmore (1-2 hours)

Mainstreet Canmore is a great place to stroll, shop or dine at cozy cafes, unique gift shops, art galleries, and restaurants. During the summer the weekly Canmore Mountain Market is where you can find unique local products, art, and gifts. 

Option 2: Take a short walk through Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk Trail (30 minutes to 1 hour)

The Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk Trail runs about 4.0km/2.5mi along the Policeman’s Creek and through forests and ponds. The walkway is relatively flat and well maintained so it is a great place to take a scenic stroll, birdwatch and enjoy nature within the Town of Canmore.

We don’t typically walk the whole trail and instead we walk through downtown Canmore on 8^th Street heading north until reaching the “head” statue near Policeman’s Creek. From here you can go right or left on to the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk Trail. Usually, we cross the street from the head and go along the trail to the right and cross over the first bridge. This is a short stroll with peaceful picturesque scenery and you can easily do a loop back to the downtown area.

Option 3: Hike Grassi Lakes Trail (1.5 – 2 hours)

Grassi Lakes Trail is an easy 3.2km/2mi trail from Canmore where you can view spectacular waterfalls and crystal clear green lakes. It’s a popular location for mountain climbers and even if you don’t climb it is fascinating to watch climbers scaling the rocky mountain walls.

There is a parking lot at the trailhead that fills up in the summer months but you can also take a Roam Bus from town directly to and from the trailhead.

🤩 I love this tour of the caves and canyons near Canmore. A local guide will take you on a hike to explore the ancient pictographs and cave paintings hidden in the nearby mountains.

Option 4: Swim or picnic at Quarry Lake (1-3 hours)

Quarry Lake is pretty lake located in a park on Spray Lakes Road with mountain views, picnic tables, grass lawns, sitting benches, a swimming area, and a walking trail.

The lake is fed by an underground mountain spring and the park was reclaimed from an old mining area. This is the perfect place to spend a relaxing sunny afternoon and it is one of the few lakes in this part of the Canadian Rockies that you can comfortably swim in.

It’s about a 5 minute drive from Canmore to Quarry Lake and there is a pay parking lot that accommodates 60 vehicles. The lot can fill up quickly particularly on weekends so a better option may be to park at Elevation Place and take Roam Bus Route 12 – Grassi Lakes and get off at the Quarry Lake stop. You can also bike the road to Quarry Lake which is about 3.7km/2.3mi from Canmore’s downtown area but it is a steady uphill ascent.

Banff Activities

Option 1: Rent a canoe and paddle through Vermillion Lakes (1 hour)

Banff Canoe Club is located on the corner of Wolf Street & Bow Avenue and you can rent a canoe, kayak or a stand up paddleboard (SUP) to explore the local waterways. The route through Forty Mile Creek to Vermillion Lakes has gentle waters suitable for beginners. There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing as you paddle.

There is also an option to join a Big Canoe Tour on the Bow River in a larger boat with a guide who will share stories and point out local wildlife.

🤩 I highly recommend this Voyageur Canoe Tour on the Bow River! You will often see wildlife and a local guide will tell you about the area and history.

Option 2: Horseback ride from Warner Ranch with Banff Trail Riders (1 or 2 hours)

Banff Trail Riders offers 1 or 2 hour rides for all levels of riders along the Bow River, past the historic Cave and Basin, and winding through the surrounding mountains. They also offer group horse drawn wagon rides or private carriage rides.

🤩 My friend and I are inexperienced horseback riders but we loved this this amazing scenic two hour horse riding trip on Sundance Loop. They also offer a one hour ride if you are short on time.

Option 3: Walk along the Fenlands Trail to Vermillion Lakes (30 minutes)

This is a short, easy nature hike for people of all abilities with pretty views of the Vermillion Lakes and the possibility of seeing animals like birds, deer, or elk in the area. The distance of the loop is 1.9km/1.2 mi and it typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. Free parking is available at the nearby train station. You can also get your picture at the nearby “Banff” sign (101 Mt. Norquay Road) if you haven’t already done so.

Option 4: Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (1-1.5 hours)

If you are looking for a more elegant experience make a reservation for Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel .  Fluffy scones, house-made preserves, pastries and finger sandwich are served on a multi-tiered tea stand during a traditional high tea serving in the grand historic hotel.

Option 5: Bike the Legacy Trail to Canmore (1.5-2 hours one way)

Rent a bike and cycle along the paved 26.8km/16.7 mi Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail that connects Banff and Canmore. The section of the trail from Banff Town to Canmore is a bit shorter at about 20km/12.4mi apart from Banff Avenue to the Visitor Centre. There is not a lot of elevation on this trail but it is slightly easier going from Banff to Canmore as it is downhill.

If you decide to bike the trail one way it is possible to take a Roam bus back with your bike but bike storage is limited so have a backup plan. Ample parking is available at locations in Banff or Canmore if you want to arrange a pickup at either end.

Begin your trip from Banff at the Banff Train Station or Fenlands Recreation Centre parking lots or the Travel Alberta Visitor Information Centre in Canmore. There is also some parking available at the Cascades Ponds Picnic Area and if you start from here it is a few kilometers shorter distance and you can avoid driving through the Town of Banff.

Be sure to reserve your bike in advance as they will sell out during the summer. There are several places that you can rent bikes from in Banff and Canmore:

Banff

• Banff Cycle & Sport 
• Banff Adventures
• Ultimate Sports

Canmore

• Rebound Cycle
• Gear Up Mountain Sports
• Rundle Bike Sales and Rental

Option 6: Soak in the Banff Natural Hot Springs or visit the Cave and Basin Historical Site (1 hour)

The Banff Natural Hot Springs is a great place to end the day with a relaxing soak in hot mineral waters with amazing views of the Rundle and Cascade mountain Peaks. Its open from 10am to 10pm each day but is usually less crowded later in the evening. The bath house is a Federal Heritage Building but it has been upgraded with modern amenities.

If you don’t want to swim but want to learn about the famous hot springs that made Banff the first National Park in Canada visit the Cave and Basin Historical Site. The Cave and Basin has been a special place for Indigenous Peoples for over ten thousand years and there are interpretative exhibits, short films and seasonal activities.

🤩 A really fun way to explore the town of Banff is to take the Open Top Tour in a vintage 1920’s style vehicle. They include a variety of photo props for great selfies.

Evening: Supper in Canmore

Canmore has earned a reputation as a year-round culinary destination and boasts a wide range of excellent eateries for a relatively small town. Dine at one of the best restaurants in the region including one of our favourites – Crazy Weed or Kain Tayo.

🤩 Canmore has great eateries and I would highly recommend sampling mouth watering cuisine during a bike ride on the Legacy Trail on this food bike tour.

Best Time to Visit Banff National Park

Mid-June to August is summer in the Canadian Rockies and some summer activities, like canoeing, or locations like Moraine Lake are only possible when ice has thawed. For this itinerary you should visit between mid-June to mid-October to ensure you can visit all of sites. During this time it is the most crowded, but the weather is warmer, you can see the turquoise blue lakes, and there are long hours of daylight so you can see more in a day.

I also love to travel to Banff in the winter but the itinerary is completely different with different sites and activities. The shoulder seasons of fall and winter are great times to visit for lower prices and less crowds but it is cooler and you may not be able to visit all of the places that you want to if the weather is poor or roads are not open. In September the larches change colour and the entire valley is a beautiful rainbow of colours.

Where to Stay in Banff National Park

There are many options for your stay in Banff depending on whether you want to be in a hotel, B&B, your own condo, or at a remote cabin in the park. Most visitors stay in Banff or Canmore because Lake Louise does not have as much inventory to choose from and what is available is expensive.

Canmore

Luxury: The Malcolm or Stoneridge Mountain Resort
Mid Range: Creekside Villas or Lamphouse by Basecamp or numerous condo rentals
Affordable: The Georgetown Inn

Banff

Luxury: Fairmont Banff Springs or The Rimrock Resort
Mid Range: Mount Royal or Banff Ptarmigan Inn
Affordable: Banff Boutique Inn, At Wits End B&B, or Holiday Lodge B&B

Lake Louise Area

Luxury: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise or The Post Hotel & Spa
Mid Range: Paradise Lodge and Bungalows
Affordable: Mountaineer Lodge or Lake Louise Inn

Cabins

Luxury: Moraine Lake Lodge, Cathedral Mountain Lodge or Emerald Lake Lodge
Mid Range: Storm Mountain Lodge or Baker Creek by Basecamp
Affordable: HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre Hostel

We prefer to stay in Banff, a short distance from Banff Avenue with a hotel that has parking so we can park our car and walk around easily. We’ve stayed at Banff Ptarmigan Inn and the Mount Royal Hotel a few times because they are reasonably priced and we love the central location a short walking distance from bars and restaurants. Banff Ptarmigan Inn has underground parking which is ideal in the winter. Mount Royal is in the best location but parking is very limited and we found it challenging to get a spot most nights the last time we stayed there.

Canmore offers the best value for your dollar and has many different types of accommodation but it is a bit further from some of the locations you will be travelling to so you would need to add about 20 minutes driving time for most of this itinerary. My favourite downtown hotel is The Malcolm, because of its central location to bars and restaurants, and its rooftop pool and amenities but the best value is one of the many condos or a stay at Creekside Villas.

In Lake Louise, if money is no object the location of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise cannot be beat. It will save you a lot of hassle with shuttles and you can get access to Lake Louise anytime you want. They also have some discounts or areas of the hotel prioritized for guests only.

We can’t afford to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise every time though and my favourite alternate location is Paradise Lodge and Bungalows. Paradise Lodge and Bungalows is only about a 15-20 minute walk away from Lake Louise so you can also easily access Lake Louise but it is probably half the price, and has a kitchenette so it is much better value.

If you want a more secluded experience the cabins in or near Banff National Park are fantastic. We loved our stay at Storm Mountain Lodge and Cabins which offers delicious gourmet dining each night. We also really enjoyed Emerald Lake Lodge which has a wood burning fireplace, hot tub, and fabulous dining options in a beautiful setting overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes in the Rockies.

Where to stay near the airport

Over night Stays in Calgary

If you fly into Calgary late and need a place to stay overnight before driving out the next day there are several great hotels near the airport such as Hotel Clique Calgary Airport, The Westin Calgary Airport, or Hampton Inn by Hilton Calgary Airport North.

My best piece of advice is to book as far in advance as possible as this area is extremely busy in the summer and the mid-ranged priced accommodation options in good locations book up very early.

Camping in Banff National Park

Banff has some great campsites throughout the park including within the town of Banff or Lake Louise. There are also more secluded sites near Two Jack Lake or along the Bow Valley or Icefield Parkway.

A great option for accommodation and getting around Banff is to rent a motorhome.  Motorhomes are well equipped with kitchens, bathrooms and everything else you might need to make your trip comfortable plus you can drive them to all of the top attractions in Banff.

Camping spots in Banff National Park are booked quickly, especially on weekends, and some high demand locations sell out within minutes. There are often last minute cancellations, particularly in Tunnel Mountain in Banff. You can also reserve at nearby Alberta provincial parks, private campsites, or campsites that are a bit further away.

Click here for prices

Renting an RV or Motorhome

I highly recommend Motorhome Republic for motorhome and RV rentals. They are one of the world’s largest sites, very reputable, and they have an extensive inventory to choose from. You can easily compare prices of different types of RV’s as well as different rental companies.

Summer is busy and there are limited campground sites available, especially on weekends, so be sure to reserve a spot well in advance. Parks Canada reservations start in January and Alberta Parks reservations can be booked a maximum of 90 days in advance.

Getting Around Banff National Park

Most people travel to Banff or Canmore from Calgary, and once you arrive Banff has an extensive transit service called the Roam Bus that will take you to many of the top sites in this itinerary. The Roam Bus connects Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake and also drops off at popular sites outside the towns where parking is scarce like Lake Minnewanka or Johnston Canyon. The cost is very reasonable and the service is frequent during the summer months.

Unfortunately, you can’t get everywhere on the bus and you will need a way to get to the sites that the bus does not go to. Your options are to either drive or sign up for one of the many tours offered in the Banff area.

Do I need to rent a car for my trip to Banff?

Renting a car is not required but it is highly recommended. Driving your own vehicle or renting a car while you are visiting Banff will allow you the time and flexibility to see and do what you want on your own schedule. There are some places on this itinerary that you will simply be unable to get to if you don’t rent a car.

Local Tips: Visiting Banff

• You must buy a national park pass to visit Banff National Park even if you are not driving a car. You can purchase a pass online, at the kiosk at the entrance to the park if you are driving, at a campground, or at a visitor centre once you arrive. Depending on the size of your group and the number of days you are staying it may be more cost effective to purchase an annual pass instead of 4 individual days. If you are visiting other national parks in the same trip you can also use an annual pass.
• This is a very busy itinerary that packs everything into a short period of time. If you want a more relaxed pace you may need to cut back on some of the activities or do them on another trip.
• The distance between sites can be quite far and it will probably take longer than you think to get from one place to another. The most effective way to visit the area is to group your itinerary geographically by seeing sites that are nearer together on the same day.
• Parking, in many areas of Banff National Park is very difficult. Parks Canada encourages public transit or shuttles to get to popular attractions. Alternatively arriving early in the morning or early will be less crowded.
• Moraine Lake is spectacular but it is a bit of a process to get there. Less expensive options, like Parks Canada Shuttles, are extremely difficult to book. You will have better luck booking a private company shuttle or tour at a higher cost.
• I know that the wildlife are cute but please do not feed them – not even the chipmunks or birds. It is actually harmful when you feed wild animals and sometimes they need to be destroyed because they have become accustomed to human food and become a danger to the public.
• Stay a far distance away from the big animals like deer, elk, and bears and give them plenty of space. Even if they seem passive they can suddenly charge you and you will get seriously hurt.
• Hiking boots are good to have on uneven terrain or unpaved areas but you can probably get by with a good quality pair of runners with good ankle support. Don’t wear flip flops or sandals on hikes as it is unsafe for you.
• Yes, you should have bear spray with you. The animals are not usually close to crowded tourist areas but sometimes they roam in these areas unexpectedly. You should definitely have it on any treks through the forest. You can buy bear spray when you get here at any visitor centre, at many stores in Banff, or some shops will rent bear spray. You can’t take bear spray on a plane so don’t try to pack it.
• Bathroom stops can be few and far between in the Canadian Rockies so always stop when you see one instead of waiting for the next stop.
• Some areas are very isolated and you will not see a gas station for a long time. If you are driving try to always have at least a half a tank of gas. Always stop at a gas station to fill up if you are starting a long drive. Some areas like the Icefield Parkway have almost no gas stations.
• Many areas of Banff are remote and isolated with no cell service or WiFi. For hikes in the wilderness you can purchase a GPS communication device. Always be prepared to travel independently without depending on internet services. Always carry extra food, water, and warm clothing.

2026

Parks Canada National Park Pass Fees

Daily Pass for all National Parks

UPDATE: Canada Strong Pass allows for free or discounted admission and camping in all Canadian National Parks during select dates in 2026.

Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $12.25CDN/$8.80USD
Senior – Person 65 years of age or over – $10.75CDN/$7.75USD
Youth – Person 6 to 17 years of age – Free for age 17 or younger
Family/Group – Up to seven people arriving in a single vehicle in a national park – $24.50CDN/$17.60USD

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Annual Pass for all National Parks

Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $83.50CDN/$60USD
Senior – Person 65 years of age or over – $71.50CDN/$51.50USD
Youth – Person 6 to 17 years of age – Free for age 17 or younger
Family/Group – Up to seven people arriving in a single vehicle in a national park – $167.50CDN/$120.40USD

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You will be able to buy single-location passes in person where available or online starting in Fall 2026.

Can I include a daytrip to Jasper and Jasper National Park in my 4 day Banff itinerary?

Please do not attempt a daytrip to Jasper and back if you only have 4 days in Banff National Park. Banff is not just around the corner from Jasper. I’ve travelled this route dozens of times over the years and my advice is not to visit Jasper in a 4 day Banff itinerary. Jasper National Park is a destination on its own which needs its own 3 or 4 day Jasper itinerary.

The drive from Banff to Jasper is about 4-5 hours each way so it is a long day to go there and back. The scenery is breathtaking and the best way to enjoy the road trip is to stop and spend time at the amazing lakes, viewpoints, and sites along the way. 

If you spend the whole day driving to and from Jasper you will miss virtually all of the top places to visit in Jasper and along the Icefields Parkway. You won’t have enough time to explore and you will just end up losing a day driving that you could have spent in Banff National Park. Instead of including Jasper in my 4 day Banff itinerary I have included a drive along the Icefield Parkway up to the lower area of Jasper National Park. This will allow you to see many of the best locations on the way to Jasper without actually driving all the way to the town and back.

Banff Packing List

Your packing list will vary depending on what activities you decide to do during your trip to Banff. The summer is the warmest time of the year in Banff but the weather can be variable and it even snows in the middle of summer on occasion. These are some of my suggestions based on years of experience exploring the area:

• Hiking boots or comfortable hiking style runners
• Hiking sandals
• Warm clothes for layering including a fleece jacket
• A puffy coat
• A longer waterproof rain jacket with a hood
• Windbreaker jacket
• A lightweight toque or beanie, thin gloves, and a neck warmer (yes – even in summer)
• Shorts and quick dry tank tops or t- shirts
• Hiker style pants and quick dry long sleeved shirts
• Bathing suit
• Bear spray – If you don’t have your own buy or rent it in downtown Banff
• A small backpack for day hikes, to carry water, snacks, and other essentials
• Refillable water bottle
• Maps printed/hardcopy or downloaded onto your phone
• GPS communication device (optional if you will not be hiking in backcountry)
• Camera
• Insect repellant with deet (Off)
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Small flashlight
• Portable charger for your phone
• Kleenex
• Hand sanitizer
• Ziplock bags

🤩 Don’t forget purchase insurance in case of an emergency. Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

FAQs