Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is Canada’s first and most iconic national park. Established in 1885 and spanning over 6,000 square kilometers, Banff blends soaring mountain peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and abundant wildlife into one unforgettable destination. As part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff offers an unparalleled range of outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and educational experiences for all ages and seasons.

Recommended For

Banff National Park is perfect for:

  • Outdoor enthusiasts—interested in hiking, skiing, paddling, and climbing in the Rockies
  • Families—seeking scenic drives, wildlife sightings, and educational summer programs
  • Photographers and nature lovers—drawn to iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
  • Backpackers and campers—exploring over a thousand miles of trails and remote alpine terrain

Why Visit Banff National Park?

  • See majestic 3,000-meter peaks, colorful wildflower meadows, and turquoise glacier lakes.
  • Visit charming hubs like the town of Banff and Lake Louise village—each offering unique access to nature and culture.
  • Banff is a cornerstone of Canada’s natural heritage and a model for sustainable tourism.

Top Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking and Backpacking: With over 1,000 miles of maintained trails, hikes range from lakeshore strolls to challenging alpine treks.
  • Camping: Choose from 14 campgrounds with 2,462 sites during peak season. Rustic shelters and backcountry lodges are also available.
  • Scenic Driving: Cruise the Icefields Parkway for jaw-dropping views and chances to spot bears, goats, and bighorn sheep.
  • Winter Sports: Enjoy cross-country skiing, ski touring, and world-class ice climbing from November to April.
  • Mountain and Ice Climbing: From glacier walks to expert Grade VI routes, Banff offers year-round challenges for climbers.

Water Adventures

  • Boat Tours: Take a one-hour interpretive cruise on Lake Minnewanka to learn about geology and local history.
  • Canoeing: Popular spots include:
    • Two Jack Lake, Vermilion Lake, Johnson Lake, and Lake Minnewanka
    • Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
    • Herbert, Bow, Hector, and Waterfowl Lakes along the Icefields Parkway
    • The Bow River—ideal for a more relaxing paddle
  • Swimming: Most glacier-fed lakes are too cold, but public pools are available in the town of Banff.
  • Scuba Diving: Try diving in Lake Minnewanka or Two Jack Lake—where you can explore a submerged historic townsite.

Wildlife Watching

  • Spot elk, grizzly bears, wolves, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats throughout the park.
  • Best viewing times are early morning and late afternoon.
  • Always follow wildlife safety rules—check the official website for guidelines and seasonal updates.

Educational Opportunities

  • Banff Park Museum: The oldest natural history museum in western Canada, featuring taxidermized animals and over 5,000 historical specimens.
  • Summer Programs: Includes camping workshops, geocaching, and family storytelling.
  • Xplorers Program: Designed for kids ages 6–11, the program includes activities like hiking, biking, and GPS scavenger hunts in both Banff and Lake Louise.

Planning Your Visit

  • Banff is accessible year-round by car, train, or shuttle, with popular entry points via Calgary and Jasper.
  • For best experiences, plan ahead—campgrounds and lodging fill quickly during summer and ski seasons.
  • Visit the official Banff National Park website for trail maps, activity schedules, and conservation tips.

Plan Your Trip