Top 10 Things To Do In Banff, Alberta
A charming resort town nestled in Alberta is located within the breathtaking Banff National Park. Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade, proud members of the Rocky Mountains, dominate the skyline.
Walking down Banff Avenue, the lively main street of the town, you’ll find a charming mix of shops, restaurants, Château-style hotels, and souvenir stores.
The sprawling 6,500 square kilometers of surrounding parkland provide a haven for diverse wildlife, from elegant elk to the mighty grizzly bear.
We will be covering the following things in this blog:
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1. Banff Upper Hot Springs
The Banff Upper Hot Springs, long revered by aboriginal peoples as sacred healing waters, have become a place of relaxation for modern visitors. These hot springs are a true gem among the attractions in Banff National Park and offer year-round recreation.
Each natural pool resembles a well-equipped public bathhouse, complete with modern amenities such as railings, ladders, lockers and even a charming café.
What really sets them apart is their source — the natural hot springs themselves. This unique feature makes it particularly soothing. Coupled with the stunning beauty of the surroundings, these hot springs have the power to relax body and soul.
2. Banff Sunshine Village
Sunshine Village offers exciting year-round experiences set against the breathtaking backdrop of Banff, so there’s never a dull moment, no matter the season. Sunshine Village is just a short 30-minute drive from Banff and is best known as a premier ski resort. It can proudly claim the title of being one of Canada’s earliest winter season openings, operating from November to May.
With its vast 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and a network of 12 chairlifts, it’s undoubtedly a world-class destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The Sunshine Meadows come to life and offer some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the entire region. There are also exciting mountain bike trails to explore. And the best part? Hiking here is free, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. This makes the Sunshine Meadows an absolute must-see attraction in Banff.
3. Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake, one of the most famous and most photographed places in Canada, is a breathtaking sight. Its shimmering waters, reflecting the impressive backdrop of ten majestic peaks, offer a reflective spectacle that has captured the hearts of many. Moraine Lake is so famous that it once graced the Canadian twenty-dollar bill — an honor reserved for the most picturesque of places.
Located just an hour’s drive from the town of Banff, Moraine Lake offers access to some of the best hiking trails in the region. These trails are suitable for varying levels of difficulty, making the lake an ideal destination for beginners and experienced hikers alike. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Consolation Lakes Trail, which takes about 2 hours, is a popular choice.
No matter which trail you choose, you’ll experience the breathtaking alpine beauty of the Canadian Rockies, and well-marked trails will lead the way. Due to the popularity of Moraine Lake, the government has restricted public vehicle access to the area. The only way to reach this natural wonder is therefore to book a shuttle — a small price to pay for the opportunity to experience such awe-inspiring beauty.
4. Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola offers a serene and immersive experience amidst the enchanting natural beauty of the town. The eight-minute climb to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, which sits at an elevation of 7,500 feet, rewards visitors with breathtaking views that stretch across the Bow River Valley and include the charming town of Banff.
Once at the summit, a number of attractions await, including a scenic boardwalk, a selection of delicious restaurants, a well-stocked gift store, interactive exhibits that teach you about the ecology of the region, a multi-sensory theatre that heightens your senses to the local environment, and a remarkable 360-degree rooftop observation deck that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The Banff Gondola is your ticket to a serene journey through the natural wonders of Banff, culminating in an elevated experience that captures the essence of this breathtaking region.
5. Lake Louise Ski Resort
Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the best ski resorts in Banff and one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Spanning three majestic mountains, it offers an impressive array of attractions, including 145 runs with a remarkable 3,250 feet of vertical drop. With 10 lifts and its own terrain park, the ski resort is suitable for ski enthusiasts of all levels.
In addition, we know Lake Louise Ski Resort for having one of the longest ski seasons in North America, starting in early November and lasting until mid-May.
In addition to skiing, the resort offers a variety of activities, such as snowshoeing and thrilling tubing experiences. When the temperatures rise, visitors can go on guided hikes, explore a wildlife information center and board a scenic sightseeing gondola. Whether you’re an avid skier or looking for year-round mountain adventures, Lake Louise Ski Resort has something extraordinary to offer.
6. Columbia Icefield
Encompassing a sprawling 130 square miles along the southern periphery of Banff National Park, the Columbia Icefield stands as the largest expanse of ice in the Canadian Rockies. While it does require a bit of travel from Banff Town (approximately 2 ½ hours by car), the breathtaking vistas you’ll encounter make the journey truly worthwhile.
Renowned as one of the most picturesque routes globally, this journey treats travelers to the sight of pristine turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and magnificent glaciers, making it an absolute must for nature enthusiasts and road trip aficionados alike.
7. Cave and Basin National Historic Site
The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is a beloved destination for both enthusiasts of nature and history. Often heralded as the very birthplace of Banff National Park, this site has been a magnet for travelers seeking solace for generations. While the original springs are no longer accessible to the public (with the Banff Upper Hot Springs now being the preferred spot for relaxation), the Cave and Basin National
Historic Site offers interactive exhibits that enlighten visitors about the area’s native wildlife and the captivating history surrounding the park’s inception. It’s a remarkable blend of natural wonder and historical significance that continues to captivate those who venture here.
8. Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies
Nestled just one block inland from Banff Avenue on Bear Street, the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies stands as a unique and singular institution. Its moniker pays tribute to its benefactors, Peter and Catharine Whyte, whose unwavering commitment aimed to enrich Banff’s cultural landscape.
This museum is a vibrant celebration of Canadian Rockies’ art and culture, offering a captivating blend of artistry, history, and regional lore. For those with an affinity for scenic landscapes, the Whyte Museum is a treasure trove, showcasing a rich collection of landscape paintings, both from the past and contemporary works that capture the spirit of this majestic region.
9. Johnston Canyon
Undoubtedly, the most beloved day hike within Banff National Park leads through the breathtaking Johnston Canyon, a mere half-hour drive from downtown Banff. This easy 5-kilometer trek to the Upper Falls and back guides you along the picturesque gorge carved by Johnston Creek, a prominent segment of the renowned Bow River.
The trail seamlessly alternates between well-maintained pathways and a wooden boardwalk, ensuring accessibility for individuals of all ages and physical capabilities. Don’t be discouraged by the crowds – the sheer beauty of this location makes it well worth a visit.
10. Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
The Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum, established in 1952, has been a beacon of education for over five decades, shedding light on the significant contributions of the indigenous people in the region. For history enthusiasts and cultural aficionados, this museum is a treasure trove of information.
It features a wealth of exhibits showcasing the daily routines, hunting strategies, and way of life of the region’s inhabitants before their interaction with European culture. Additionally, it explores how these communities adapted to European influences over time.
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