Banff National Park was the first national park (third in the world) in Canada. It was established in 1885 as Banff Hot Springs Reserve. It is located in the Rocky Mountains and is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage site. The park was expanded in 1887 and was then named Rocky Mountains Park,later to be known as Banff National Park. Hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails traverse high mountain passes, turquoise glacial lakes, plunging waterfalls and steep canyons.

1. Peyto Lake

The lake is fed from the Peyto Glacier to the left of the viewpoint and this gives the lake a magnificent blue color in the summer months due to the mineral content. This glacier is part of the extensive Wapta Icefield, which straddles the Continental Divide and extends into the northern reach.

The best views of the lake are from the Bow summit

• Bow Summit Lookout Trail starts at the Peyto Lake viewing platform and is around 6 km roundtrip. From the parking lot, follow the trail up to the Peyto Lake viewing area(wooden platform), then turn left and head up the hill on the paved trail. At a 3 way junction, take the middle path. As the trail levels off you will pass a signpost. Straight ahead a gravel road leads off the paved trail. Follow this old fire lookout road as it switchbacks up the mountain with ever increasing panoramas of the valley below. There are several trails leading off the road to various impromptu viewpoints, but the best is saved for the old lookout spot, at which point your views are south to Bow Lake and beyond, and north past Peyto to the Waterfowl Lakes and beyond.

Note: To avoid the crowds arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon or early evening when the tour buses have gone through for the day.

2. Moraine Lake

The Twenty Dollar View. Moraine Lake, a glacier-fed lake is located in the beautiful Valley Of The Ten Peaks. Though the view is more than a million dollar but the iconic image of the Lake and the Valley Of The Ten Peaks was used on the back of Canadian twenty dollar bills issued between 1969 and 1979.

Trailhead: starts from the lower end of the parking lot across the bridge on the outlet stream.
Distance: 350 meters
Elevation: easy elevation of 30 meters
Time: 40 minutes of return trip

The Rockpile Trail Offers the Best View of Moraine Lake. It is a short trail of less than half a kilometre with minimal elevation gain. The trail switchbacks along the back of the moraine bringing you to the top of the rocks where there are fantastic views overlooking the lake.

3. Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon trail is like a magical walk through the forest, following a creek with cool waterfalls and pools that are super pretty. The best parts are the Lower and Upper Falls, where the canyon gets all narrow, and you can see how the water made the rocks look amazing over a really long time. The trail has safe paths and bridges, so you can get really close to the water without any worries. Johnston Canyon Trail is perfect if you want a not-too-hard walk and love seeing the beauty of Banff’s mountains and nature up close. It’s a must-visit if you’re into cool outdoor stuff!

4. Bow Valley Parkway

Bow Valley Parkway is a scenic stretch in the heart of Banff National Park, offering a picturesque drive through the stunning Canadian Rockies. This road winds its way alongside the Bow River, providing travelers with breathtaking mountain views, dense forests, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as elk, bears, and various bird species. Unlike the busier Trans-Canada Highway, the Bow Valley Parkway offers a more relaxed and immersive experience, inviting visitors to take their time, explore viewpoints, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature. The parkway is also dotted with trailheads leading to hikes, making it an ideal route for those seeking a serene journey through one of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes.

5. Lake Louise

The lake is like a sparkling jewel, with clear blue-green water reflecting the snowy peaks that stand tall all around. Many people visit Lake Louise to take in the breathtaking views, go for peaceful walks along the shoreline, or even try canoeing on the calm waters. In the winter, the lake freezes and becomes a magical ice skating rink, adding another layer of beauty to this already picturesque spot. Whether you’re an adventurer or just looking for a tranquil escape, Lake Louise is a must-visit destination where nature’s beauty takes center stage.

6. Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is like a scenic adventure road that runs through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks. The 232-kilometre Icefields Parkway, is one of the world’s most famous drives. Breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife like bears, elk, and even bighorn sheep. There are plenty of places to stop and take pictures, like the Athabasca Glacier, where you can see a massive sheet of ice. The Icefields Parkway is a magical journey for nature lovers and anyone who wants to experience the beauty of the mountains in a simple and awe-inspiring way.

7. Banff Gondola

Soar to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a stunning bird’s eye view of six incredible mountain ranges. Popular all year round Banff Gondola offers the best view of Banff. View more mountains in a moment than most see in a lifetime.
Enclosed boardwalk section with a souvenir shop and cafe. 4 seat gondolas provide all window seats and in 8-minute rise to 7500 ft upper terminal. At the top, every view is staggering.

Book you tickets here

8. Cave and Basin National Historic Site

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is like a time machine that takes you back to the beginnings of Banff National Park. Visitors can explore the natural thermal hot springs, which are warm and bubbling. There is a cave to discover and a basin with unique, colorful minerals. Inside the site, you can also find a historic building that tells the story of how the park came to be. It’s a cool place to see how people in the past appreciated the beauty of nature and worked together to protect it.

9. Downtown Banff

Downtown Banff is a charming and lively area nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It’s a small town surrounded by stunning mountains, and the streets are lined with cozy shops, restaurants, and boutiques. The atmosphere is welcoming, and you can easily explore the area on foot. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll down Banff Avenue, where they’ll find a mix of souvenir shops, art galleries, and cafes. The town is also home to the historic Banff National Park Information Centre, providing information about the nearby natural wonders and outdoor activities. With its picturesque surroundings and friendly vibe, downtown Banff is a delightful place to experience the beauty of the mountains while enjoying the charm of a small mountain town.

10. Upper Hot Springs

The Upper Hot Springs in Banff is a relaxing and warm place surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. It’s like a natural bath where visitors can soak in hot mineral-rich water while enjoying the fresh mountain air. The hot springs are located in a nice building with big pools, and you can see amazing views of the mountains while you relax. It’s a great spot to unwind and have fun, especially after a day of exploring Banff National Park.