50 Best Things to do in Banff National Park – Ultimate Banff Travel Guide

Banff National Park is arguably the most famous place in all of Canada, and there’s no surprise why – it’s absolutely stunning!

From the iconic milky turquoise lakes to the incredible mountain peaks, charming log cabins and wildlife galore, there’s just so much to see and do in Banff National park.

I recently spent 8 days exploring this incredible part of Canada and I know how intimidating planning a trip here can be… there’s just so much to do in Banff National Park!

To help make things easier for you I’ve listed and organized the top 50 things to do in Banff National Park and organized them by area.

If you’re visiting the Canadian Rockies you might also want to check out this post:

• 19 Best Hikes in Banff National Park
• 28 Awesome Things to do in Banff in Winter
• 20 Best Spots for Winter Photos in Banff National Park
• Best Restaurants in Banff – 2021 Banff Dining Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Johnston Canyon in Winter
• 23 Best Things to do in Jasper National Park
• The Best Hikes in Jasper National Park

I hope this helps you plan your visit to this incredible part of Canada!

BTW – I’ll also be linking my outfit details throughout for the items that are still available in stores. Just in case you want to shop them!

Best time to visit Banff National Park

Depending on the goal of your trip there are a few different options for the best times to visit Banff.

Hiking & Nice Weather: For those looking to get in a lot of hiking and prefer nice weather, the best times to visit are June to August. However, it is important to note Banff National Park will be very busy during this time.

Avoiding Crowds & Still Decent Weather: My favourite time to visit Banff National Park is in September when the weather is still nice (light jacket only required) but kids have gone back to school. If you visit in the tail end of September you will also get to see incredible fall foliage.

Winter Sports: For those looking to fill their time with winter sports like skiing and snowboarding the best time to visit December to March. This is the peak season for skiing. There are tons of things to do in Banff in winter!

Where to stay in Banff National Park

There are a couple of options for staying in Banff National Park depending on which area you want to focus on. Most people plan most of their activities around the town of Banff and stay there.

I however choose to stay in Canmore most of the time and here’s why!

Staying in Canmore

Although it’s not technically in Banff National Park (it’s just outside of it) Canmore is just a short 20 minute drive from Banff and it’s much cheaper to stay in which is why it’s a favourite for Alberta locals.

Although it’s become much more touristy over the years it’s still a lot cheaper thank Banff and you will save a lot of money staying here and making day trips from Canmore.

Please keep in mind that because Canmore is not technically in Banff National Park this means it is not protected like Banff. It is important to be respectful when visiting not only to the environment, but to the locals and animals living in the area.

Top Canmore Hotel Recommendation: The Malcolm Hotel

My favourite hotel in Canmore is (by far) the Malcom Hotel.

The Malcolm Hotel has a heated outdoor pool with an incredible view of the 3 Sister’s Mountains. The pool also stays open year round, only closing when temperatures drop below -30 celsius so no matter when you visit you’ll be able to go for a swim!

You can check the best available rates for the Malcolm Hotel in Canmore here

Staying in Banff

If you would prefer to stay in the town of Banff I don’t blame you!

The town of Banff is where most tourists like to stay and it’s definitely closest to all the attractions. There are still some great and fairly reasonable hotels in Banff.

Top Banff Hotel Recommendation: Mount Royal Hotel

My favourite reasonably priced hotel in Banff is the Mount Royal Hotel which has been in Banff since 1908!

The Mount Royal has so much history in which makes it a unique spot to stay at. It also happens to be in the heart of downtown Banff right on Banff avenue and there are tons of great restaurants in the area.

Find the best available rates for Mount Royal Hotel here

Alternative Accommodation Option: Airbnb

Airbnb’s are always a great choice and there are lots of them available in Banff National Park of all different price ranges.

If you’ve never used Airbnb before sign up with my affiliate code here and you’ll get up to $95 off your first rental!

Getting Around Banff National Park

Because Banff National park is quite spread out and some places (like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake) are an hour each way from the town of Banff, I do recommend traveling by vehicle.

If you have your own car while exploring Banff it’s not only much easier to get around but you won’t have to deal with possibly crowded buses or shuttles.

I spent my time in Banff exploring in the Mazda CX-30 and it was the perfect vehicle for the mountains. It had no problems going over the rougher terrain up in the mountains but wasn’t a big bulky SUV. It was also really economical on gas which made it perfect for a road trip. I was shocked by how little we spent on gas!

If you don’t have your own car I recommend renting one for your visit to Banff National Park. Check out Economy Bookings for the cheapest car rentals from your departing city or the Banff area!

Weather in Banff National Park

Weather in the Canadian Rockies can be extremely erratic so it’s best to be prepared for anything! Random snow falls can happen even in summer (crazy right) but in general here is what to expect:

Summers: are generally quite comfortable and sometimes even hot. You will get random days where it is much cooler especially if you’re doing hikes up in the mountains.

Make sure you always hike with lots of layers. One moment I would be in a sports bra and the next I would need a fleece and a puffer jacket!

My best tip is to make sure to always have a light and packable puffer jacket with you just in case (I love this one from Uniqlo). Expect temperatures in the peak of summer to be anywhere between 10-22 degrees celsius.

Winters are freezing and snowy! Expect temperatures to be below 0 and be prepared for the cold. It’s best to head with plenty of layers and pack mitten and toe warmers. Temperatures tend to stick around in the -5 to -15 degrees celsius mark but can get both warmer and colder.

Best things to do in Banff National Park – Lake Louise

Now that you’re a little more familiar with what to expect temperature wise as well as the best times to visit Banff National park, it’s time to plan your activities! There are so many things to do in Banff for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking to do some serious hikes, visit the famous lakes, try your hand at fishing, or shop for some authentic Canadian souvenirs there is something in Banff for everyone. I’ve organized this list of things to do in Banff National Park by region to help make your planning process a little easier.

1. Visiting Lake Louise

There are two lakes in Banff National Park that are the most famous lakes in Canada, and one of them is Lake Louise. You’ll definitely want you make sure you visit Lake Louise at some point during your trip to Banff National Park.

Lake Louise gets it’s famous milky blue color from rock flour in the water and it’s truly a sight to see. Besides visiting the lake itself there are some great hikes in the area so I recommend planning on spending a full day here.

Because Lake Louise is so famous and parking is limited, you’ll want to arrive at sunrise to secure yourself a spot. It’s also the best time for photos because of the neat reflection in the water!

Arriving later in the day once every one leaves is also an option but not ideal if you are planning on doing hikes. Sometimes parking stalls free up during the day and you may luck out arriving mid day but I would not plan for that.

Alternatively if you prefer to not drive there are shuttles available from Banff to take you to Lake Louise. Lake Louise is a 40 minute drive from Banff so make sure to plan ahead.

2. Lake Agnes Tea Hike

Lake Agnes Tea hike is one of the most popular hikes in Lake Louise and is at the top of most people’s list when visiting the area.

This hike is a 7.8km (round trip) heavily trafficked and moderate hiking trail that departs from the base of the lake. The trail is uphill the whole way till you reach Lake Agnes Tea House, and you will gain 400m in elevation.

Over the course of the hike you’ll see a waterfall, mirror lake, as well as great view points of Lake Louise below you before reaching Lake Agnes and the tea house!

3. Lake Agnes Tea House

When you reach Lake Agnes you will find the Lake Agnes Tea House which is the perfect place to sit down, rest, and really take in your surroundings and the beautiful Lake Agnes.

The Lake Agnes Tea House is open from early June until just after Thanksgiving weekend. Here you will be able to enjoy a large selection of teas, sandwiches on freshly baked bread, and other treats and light snacks.

Make sure to bring cash (Canadian or US dollars) or credit card for food and drink purchases.

If you would like to continue hiking after reaching the Lake Agnes Tea House you can continue on either the Little Beehive or the Big Beehive trails listed below.

4. Little Beehive Trail

Most people stop at Lake Agnes so if you decide to continue along you will be pleased to find the trails are less busy.

The trail from Lake Agnes to Little Beehive is a short one, coming in at only 1km each way. There is also a shortcut back down from Little Beehive to mirror lake that skips Lake Agnes and the Teahouse should you decide you want a quicker route back down.

5. Big Beehive Trail

The trail from Lake Agnes to Big Beehive is 1.6km long so it’s a little longer than Little Beehive but not too bad.

The view from Big Beehive is incredible and definitely worth the climb! The only reason we didn’t do it is we had other plans later that day and didn’t have the time. I would definitely like to go back and do the Big Beehive hike!

In case you’re wondering why it’s called Big Beehive, it’s because the mountain actually looks like a beehive! And Little Beehive Mountain looks like a little beehive.

6. Plain of Six Glaciers Trail

The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail also continues from Big Beehive and will take you to a second Tea House (the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House) as well as close to the field of glaciers which is so neat! It’s definitely a rare experience to be able to get this close to a glacier.

Overall the Plain of Six Glaciers hike is 14.6 km round trip (from the base of Lake Louise) but is considered moderate. We didn’t get the chance to do this one but it’s definitely on my list for next time!

7. Canoeing on Lake Louise

Beyond hiking the next most popular thing to do while at Lake Louise is canoeing!

Canoeing is run by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and costs $125 per hour for non guests, and $115 for half an hour. Obviously it makes a lot more sense to just pay the extra $10 and go for the full hour!

Hotel guests of the Fairmont get canoeing for $45 per hour. I believe they also offer this price to guests staying at their sister hotel (the Fairmont Banff Springs).

Here are the Fairmont Lake Louise boathouse hours:

• Monday to Friday – 10am – last boat leaves at 6pm
• Weekends – 9:30am – last boat goes out at 7pm

Canoeing at Lake Louise is on a first come first serve basis and guests of the hotel do get priority. Make sure you arrive early to secure yourself a spot if you don’t want to wait too long!

8. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

A visit to Lake Louise is not complete without a chance to explore the stunning Chateau Lake Louise. I’ve had the opportunity to stay at the Chateau once in my life and I can definitely say it is worth the hype.

You can check out the current best prices available for the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise here

Doesn’t the Chateau look so magical at winter time? It definitely makes me want to go back then and spend a couple cozy nights here in winter.

Although the grounds are currently reserved for guests due to COVID, you can book a reservation for lunch or dinner at their restaurant which will allow you access into the Chateau. If you’ve never been it’s definitely worth dining here because the Chateau is truly incredible to see in person!

Best things to do in Banff National Park – Moraine Lake

Although Moraine Lake is just a 20 minute drive from Lake Louise, there’s so much to see and do there that it deserves it’s own section.

In my opinion, you’ll definitely want to plan for a full day at Moraine rather than trying to squeeze it and Lake Louise in the same day. Especially because it’s difficult to get parking at each.

9. Visiting Moraine Lake

Because parking is limited at Moraine it is imperative you arrive before sunrise. We arrived at 5:45 am (sunrise was at 7:15am) and the parking lot was quickly filling up.

If you are visiting Moraine as a photographer with the purpose of photographing the lake you will definitely want to be here for sunrise as the waters are most calm in the morning and you are more likely to get the mirror effect on the lake.

If you don’t really care much for photography you will be able to find parking later in the day once people have left, and I have also heard just before sunset is a great time to visit to easily find parking.

10. Canoeing on Moraine Lake

Canoeing at Moraine Lake is run by the Moraine Lake Lodge and is an experience you definitely don’t want to miss out on. I’ve never in my life seen a lake as stunning as Moraine, and it’s even more incredible when you see it from the water.

Canoeing at Moraine Lake runs from July 1st to mid-September and costs $95 per canoe for one hour.

Honestly I was shocked that it’s cheaper to canoe at Moraine Lake than at Lake Louise because it is definitely the more incredible of the two.

For more information on canoeing at Moraine Lake click here!

11. Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail

The Moraine Lake Rockpile trail is a short 0.8 km heavily trafficked loop that’s good for all ages and skill levels.

The Rockpile trail will take you to the most breathtaking views of Moraine Lake.

The rock pile is where most Moraine Lake photos you’ve seen online are shot.

This is the trail you will take before sunrise and then you can wait on the rock pile for sunrise.

Since this spot is so famous and is one of the most photographed places in Canada, expect to arrive early to stake out your spot.

By the way can you believe the luck I got with the rainbow lens flare in the above photo? I couldn’t believe it!

12. Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail

The Moraine Lake Shoreline trail is a 3km hike that’s rated as easy. You won’t find any difficult uphill climbs on this one so enjoy – hikes like this are rare in the rockies!

The shoreline trail will take you along the shoreline of Moraine lake and it’s a great opportunity to see the lake from a different angle.

13. Consolation Lakes Hike

Consolation Lakes is a short hike from Moraine and it’s 100% worth visiting. I went there based on a recommendation from a friend and I’m so glad I did.

The Consolation Lakes hike is a 5.8km (round trip) hike that’s easy enough for all ages and skill levels.

At the end of the trail you’ll arrive at a rock pile which you can climb over to get to the beautiful lake.

We saw some pretty stunning reflections in the lake and I love the contrast between the lake and all the rocks.

There is also a waterfall along the way so make sure you take the small detour to see that!

Best things to do in Banff National Park – in and around the town of Banff

The town of Banff in Banff National Park is a small resort town with a lot of charm.

You’ll find lots of Canadian settler style log cabin architecture here and tons of charming shops full of all Canadian goodies and souvenirs.

14. Do a Historic Style Tour with Open Top Touring

Open Top Touring is the newest excursion available in Banff and it’s so much fun!

You’ll climb aboard a vintage style open top vehicle and take in some of Banff’s greatest sights while learning all about the places, people, and moments in history that made Banff what it is today.

I loved this tour because I learned so much about Banff’s history that I didn’t know about before.

At only $45 per person (and $25 for kids) the Open Top Tour is a great way to learn about Banff and see some incredible sights without breaking the break.

15. Explore Banff by bike

Rather than driving to each destination why not rent a bike and explore Banff that way?

The Bow Valley parkway is closed to motor vehicles right now making it a paradise for bikers!

You can rent a bike for a full day for just $35-40 at Snowtips-Bactrax.

They also have e-bike rentals available if you want to preserve your energy.

16. The Banff Gondola

You can’t visit Banff without taking a trip up the Banff Gondola!

Take a ride up the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain and you’ll get to experience breathtaking views at the top that include six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff below.

When we visited it was a little smoky due to the fires in British Columbia, but even so the views were incredible.

I would love to go back again on a clear day.

Once you reach the top of the Banff Gondola there’s lots to do.

You can take the short walk up to the very top of the boardwalk, have a seat and hang out by the fire on the rooftop, visit the discovery centre, and have a meal or cocktails at the incredible Sky Bistro.

17. Dine at the Sky Bistro

I’ll be honest, I used to think that restaurants at tourist attractions (like at the top of gondolas or the top of towers in cities) were a tourist trap that are overpriced and not worth what you pay.

The Sky Bistro blew me away and completely changed my mind on this.

The Sky Bistro was so reasonably priced (no different than the rest of the restaurants in Banff and our mains were $20 or below) and the food was SPECTACULAR.

What an incredible experience to get to enjoy such an amazing meal on top of a mountain.

18. Tunnel Mountain Hike

One of the most popular hikes near downtown Banff is the Tunnel Mountain trail.

Tunnel Mountain is located in the Bow River Valley and overlooks the hot springs of Sulphur Mountain.

The mountain itself has a lot of significance in Banff’s history and to the indigenous people that used to live on the land. The Stony People call the Tunnel Mountain “Sleeping Buffalo” because it looks like a sleeping buffalo!

The Tunnel Mountain Trail is a 4.5km (round trip) hike that’s considered moderate but is honestly easy enough for the whole family. We saw plenty of families on the way up.

This hike is probably the easiest summit hike in the area and is the perfect opportunity to get in some incredible views without having to put in too much work. Plus you can say you hiked a whole mountain!

19. Sundance Canyon Trail

Although I didn’t get the chance to do the Sundance Canyon trail myself this time, it was highly recommended to me by the Banff & Lake Louise Tourism board as another local favourite so I had to include it on the list.

Sundance Canyon is a 10km heavily trafficked loop near the town of Banff that’s rated as moderate.

You’ll get to see some cascading falls, as well as a canyon and river along this trail.

A large part of the trail is paved too so it’s a nice easy one to follow. You can also do most of it by bike!

20. Vermillion Lakes

The Vermillion Lakes are a series of lakes located just west of the town of Banff.

Here you will get stunning views of both Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle, and it’s the perfect place to watch for wildlife or witness the sunset.

The Vermillion Lakes are a popular spot for locals seeking a little solace from the busy town.

Head here and spend a few hours sunning yourself on one of the many docks, or walk the Vermillion Lakes trail in search of wildlife!

The Vermillion Lakes are only 2.4km from the town of Banff so you can easily walk, bike, or drive to them!

21. Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is a man-made lake just outside of the town of Banff that has all sorts of things to do. It’s a very popular tourist destination.

Hikes: From Lake Minnewanka you can take the 1.5km Stewart Canyon trail that goes around the shoreline of the lake. If you’re a more experienced hiker you can take the Alymer’s Pass hike from there which is a 23.6km loop that’s incredibly scenic.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise: There’s no better way to enjoy your surroundings and learn a little more about the area than with a guided cruise! Pursuit offers two variations on their Lake Minnewanka Cruise. You can book the classic 1 hour cruise, or book the 1.5 hour craft beer cruise that includes a local craft beer tasting!

Check out the Lake Minnewanka Cruise options here

Lake Minnewanka Loop: Lake Minnewanka is the first stop on the Lake Minnewanka Loop which you can drive on Route 6. Along the loop you will hit Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake and Cascade Ponds before heading back to the town of Banff.

22. Two Jack Lake

Two Jack Lake is a beautiful Emerald Green lake on the Lake Minnewanka loop that’s very popular on instagram.

Just like with the rest of the lakes in the rockies, Two Jack Lake is more calm in the mornings and your chance of getting a mirror effect on the lake is best then.

Head to Two Jack Lake just before sunrise to stake out a spot (don’t worry it’s not as busy as Moraine or Lake Louise) and watch a beautiful sunrise there!

During the summer a lot of people partake in water sports at Two Jack Lake.

You’ll see people kayaking, paddle boarding, and some even swimming although the water is very cold.

There are picnic tables around the lake so it’s the perfect place to have a picnic lunch before heading out on the 3.2km hiking loop around the lake.

23. Cascade Ponds Picnic Area

The Cascade Ponds picnic area is a great place to stop for a picnic dinner with a campfire!

Here you’ll find lots of picnic tables and fire pits surrounding the lake.

There is wood available in the communal lot so bring a small hatchet and something to start it up. (as recommended by Banff/Lake Louise Tourism)

24. Visit the local shops in downtown Banff

Downtown Banff is so incredibly charming and oh so Canadian!

Banff Avenue is loaded with shops and restaurants.

You’ll find classic Canadian stores like the Hudsons Bay, as well as souvenir shops, candy shops where you can get classic Canadian fudge, and all sorts of places offering authentic Canadian goods.

25. Explore the local food scene

The town of Banff has an incredible culinary scene and I was blessed to get to try so many amazing restaurants when we visited.

From local staples like the Maple Leaf and Bear & Bison which have been around for years, to Banff’s latest and greatest like Farm and Fire and the Radiant.

Click here for my complete guide to the Best Restaurants in Banff!

26. Mount Norquay

No matter what time of year you visit Banff Mount Norquay has activities that will give you a thrill.

Summer: The Via Ferrata is an assisted climbing experience that’s sure to give you a rush and incredible views. There’s also the sightseeing chairlift and multiple hikes for you to check out during your visit.

Winter: There’s no surprise Mount Norquay is a must visit in winter for skiing and snowboarding fanatics. There’s also tubing available on Mount Norquay which makes it the perfect spot for winter fun for the whole family.

27. Try Stand Up Paddleboarding

Stand up paddleboarding is not only a great workout but it’s tons of fun too. You can rent a SUP from Banff Canoe Club for $30 per hour or $79 for a whole day. Make sure you bring a life vest as these are required by Transport Canada!

Vermillion Lake & Two Jack Lake would both be great lakes to try SUP. I’ve also seen people do it on Moraine and Lake Louise but you’ll want to make sure you have a wet suit as the water at both those lakes is freezing.

28. Go Fishing

It should be no surprise that there’s a great fishing scene in Banff National Park. I remember going fishing there with my dad and brothers when I was just a kid!

It’s important to keep in mind that you will need a National Park Fishing License so make sure you get one before you head out. These licenses can be purchased at any fishing shops, Park Canada Visitors Centres, and tackle shops.

The best places to go out fishing are Lake Minnewanka and the Bow River.

Catch and release fishing is encouraged in Banff National Park, especially so if you catch an at risk species. It’s better to fish for fun in the mountains that to fish for food.

29. Visit the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Did you know the Banff Springs Hotel is lovingly called the Castle of the Rockies? Well, it is! And that’s basically what it is, a giant castle that overlooks the town of Banff and is an incredible place to visit.

The Banff Springs Hotel opened in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway and was one of Canada’s first grand railway hotels. To this day the Banff Springs Hotel remains an iconic and loved landmark for the area.

I’ve had the opportunity to stay at the Banff Springs Hotel a couple of times and it is such an incredible experience. The hotel itself is so grand and exquisite, it makes you feel like you’re in a castle!

Check out the best available rates for the Banff Springs Hotel here.

30. Golfing

Who wouldn’t want to go golfing surrounded by stunning mountain views?The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in Banff is the place to golf for those looking for an incredible course and stunning mountain views.

Beyond the Banff Springs Golf Course, here are a few golf courses nearby to the town of Banff:

• Canmore Golf & Curling Club Course
• Silvertip Resort Course
• Stewart Creek Golf Club
• Brewster’s Kananaskis Ranch Golf Course

31. Banff Upper Hot Springs

*Currently closed temporarily – Will update once they open!*

Open year round the Banff Upper Hot Springs are a great place to visit for a relaxing afternoon. After bathing in the hot springs which were first discovered in 1888 you’ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

The hot pools of the Banff Upper Hot Springs are located outside and have a great view of Mount Rundle.

I especially love visiting the hot springs during the winter, it’s such a neat experience being in outdoor hot pools while it’s snowing out.

32. Cave and Basin

Cave and Basin is a natural hot spring source set in a cave that’s within walking distance from most hotels in Banff, and it was actually the birth place of Banff itself!

Although the hot springs here are not available for the public to bathe in, Cave and Basin is now a national historic site. At the small on site museum you will learn all about the birth and history of Banff and get to check out the cave itself.

It’s definitely neat to check out the cave and see the natural hot springs but be prepared the smell of sulphur can be quite strong!

33. Visit Surprise Corner

Surprise corner has such a fun name and really is a great viewpoint. It gets it’s name from the “surprise” incredible viewpoint you get along Tunnel Mountain Road of the Banff Springs Hotel.

Surprise Corner is a very popular viewpoint to visit and there’s a parking lot right there so it’s easy to access.

Park your car and head across the street and up the staircase to access the viewpoint.

Once you’re done having a look at the Surprise Corner viewpoint you can head back down where you’ll find the trail heads for the Bow Falls Trail and the Hoodoos Trail.

34. Bow River Falls

Bow Falls are located just below the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and are a very easy waterfall to visit.

The trail for Bow Falls is just 2.7km long and is good for all skill levels so it’s an easy hike to do with the family.

The trail head for these is at the same parking lot as Surprise Corner so it’s easy to do them both in the same day!

35. Hoodoos Trail

The Hoodoos Trail is an extension of the Bow Falls trail and takes you on a 10km adventure to see the Hoodoos of Banff.

This hike is rated as moderate and you’ll get some breathtaking views of the Bow Valley along the way before getting to the Hoodoos which are natural sandstone structures.

Although I haven’t had the chance to do this trail myself I’ve heard it’s very scenic!

Best things to do in Banff National Park – Canmore

As I mentioned above, Canmore is not technically in Banff National Park but is just outside the perimeter and is just as beautiful so it had to be included!

Canmore is just a short 20 minute drive from Banff and is much more affordable which is why Alberta locals tend to choose to stay there. But beyond being a little less touristy than downtown Banff, Canmore also has a lot of things to see and do!

Please be extra conscious when visiting Canmore as it’s not protected like Banff. It is important to respect the land, environment, animals and locals living here when visiting.

36. Visit Downtown Canmore

Downtown Canmore, like downtown Banff, is super charming in a very Canadian way.

Here you’ll find tons of locally owned and operated shops to browse, restaurants to visit, and cafes to stop and have a maple latte.

37. Grassi Lakes Hike

The Grassi Lakes trail loop is a super popular 4.3km loop in Canmore.

Although the trail itself is rated as good for all skill levels on All Trails, there is a moderate/more difficult route or easier route that you can take.

Personally I do not recommend the easier route as it has zero views.

It is a gradual incline through a forest up to the top but is very easy so it’s great for people with mobility issues.

The more difficult trail however has tons of viewpoints along the way and is a very scenic hike!

With the more difficult trail you’ll get incredible views of Canmore and the Bow Valley, as well as a great waterfall along the way.

It’s a really fun hike and the only challenge really is that it’s a constant uphill until you reach the lakes.

The Grassi Lakes themselves are two lakes (the upper and lower Grassi lakes) that lie at an elevation of 1512m above the town of Canmore.

The lakes themselves are absolutely stunning and have a green & turquoise jewel tone to them that’s pretty incredible to see in person.

38. Check out Rundle Forebay

Rundle Forebay Reservoir is lesser known stunning lake in Canmore near the Nordic Center.

If you want a super unique experience that’s a little different than just visiting the lake and walking around you can actually book a stand up paddleboard (SUP) tour on it.

Click here for more information on the Rundle Forebay SUP tours.

At Rundle Forebay you’ll experience a stunning turquoisee lake and incredible views of Mount Rundle, Ha Ling Peak, and the Lady Macdonald Mountains.

39. Bow River Loop Hike

The Bow River Loop trail is a relaxing and scenic walk through the woods that’s perfect for all skill levels.

At only 2.1km long it’s an easy afternoon activity that doesn’t take much of a commitment. Along the way you’ll get some great views of the surrounding mountains as well as the Bow River.

40. Endulge your Tastebuds at The Sensory

The Sensory is a culinary experience unlike no other in the Rockies and I highly recommend booking dinner here.

Although The Sensory does have a regular A-La-Carte menu, we chose to go with the “Trust Us” 3 Course dinner which is their most popular offering.

The Trust Us 3 course dinner changes every day and includes unbelievably mouthwatering and super creative courses created by the chef that day using fresh local ingredients. Every course surprised us more than the next and we were so incredibly impressed by the chef Corey Fraser.

From fresh wild caught pickerel with a sweet corn pudding, to bison tenderloin with wild mushrooms, and a chocolate mousse log with local haskap berry frozen yoghurt gelato, we were in food HEAVEN.

Do yourself a favour and book yourself in for The Sensory‘s 3 Course Trust Me dinner while you’re in the area – it’s only $69 for 3 courses!

41. Explore the Canmore Caves

For a super unique experience while you’re in Banff National Park why not book a tour to explore the Canmore caves?

Canmore Cave Tours has a wide selection of different tours and experiences that will take you on a journey deep inside the caves of Canmore.

Whether you’re looking for more of an adventure expedition and want to climb and crawl in the caves, or prefer a more calming experience like listening to live music – there’s a Canmore caves experience for you.

42. Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk is a scenic trail just steps from downtown Canmore that’s perfect for all ages and skill levels.

The trail itself is 3.9km long and includes a boardwalk through an open grassy area along the creek and a gravel trail in the woods.

It’s a nice, easy, and relaxing stroll that’s perfect to see a little more of Canmore without having to do a strenuous hike.

43. Taste local beers at Grizzly Paw Brewing Co

*Grizzly Paw Brewing Co is currently not running their brewery tours due to COVID. I will update this when they are running again*

Want to try some local beers? The Grizzly Paw is the perfect place to pop by and try a flight of local Canmore brews.

From Powder Hound Blonde Ale to Rutting Elk Red, and Grumpy Bear Honey Wheat to Beavertale Raspberry Ale… Grizzly Paw has a beer that will quench and satisfy every brew lovers palettes.

If beer isn’t your thing not to worry – Grizzy Paw also makes an incredible line of fresh sodas like black cherry cola, cream soda, and root beer.

Best things to do in Banff National Park – Kananaskis

Kananaskis Country is 4000 square km of mountain parks and foothills right next to Canmore and not far from the town of Banff.

Like Canmore, Kananaskis is on the perimeter of Banff National Park and is not actually a part of the park. This means you don’t have to pay to visit, but it also means you need to be extra conscious when visiting.

There is a ton to explore in this area beyond Kananaskis village, including a nordic spa, white water rafting, and some pretty incredible hikes.

44. East End of Rundle Hike

East End of Rundle is an incredibly scenic scramble of a hike that takes you to the top of Mount Rundle. There are some seriously incredible viewpoints both along the way and at the summit.

This hike is rated as difficult and is a pretty steep and strenuous hike, but if you’re up to it you will be rewarded with these incredible views.

This hike requires proper equipment in terms of hiking boots (and I highly recommend poles as well).

Although the hike itself is only 5.6km, it is uphill the whole time and takes a good 5-6 hours.

Most of the hike is a scramble with some parts being quite steep and slippery.

For this hike I highly recommend downloading the All Trails app as the trail is not well marked and it’s easier to find your way with the in-app map.

This app is great to have especially when doing hikes in no service areas as you can download the maps in advance and follow along!

45. Ha Ling Peak

Ha Ling Peak is the pointy mountain you can see from the first viewpoint on East End of Rundle I shared above and it’s pretty incredible!

The Ha Link Peak hike is a 7.9km heavily trafficked trail that’s rated as difficult.

I am told it’s not as difficult as East End of Rundle though.

Although this trail is difficult it’s mainly because it’s a steady climb.

You will not encounter scrambles here.

46. Kananaskis Nordic Spa

Now that we’ve discussed the difficult (but incredibly scenic) hikes in Kananaskis it’s time to talk about something a little more relaxing.

The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is an incredible alpine oasis where you can soak your stresses (and some of that post-hiking muscle pain!) away.

Imagine soaking in hydro-therapy pools surrounded by the most calming and relaxing alpine scenery – sounds great doesn’t it?

Please note the Kananaskis Nordic Spa offers two separate hydro-theraphy sessions per day and you have to book in advance. You can make your booking here!

47. White Water Rafting

White water rafting is such a fun activity that’s great for the whole family, and Kananaskis White Water Rafting offers excellent expeditions that will thrill all – even those as young as 5.

With Kananaskis White Water Rafting a guide will take you and your group down the river through class 2-3 rapids. You’ll get splashed and have the ride of your life!

Best things to do in Banff National Park – Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon makes for a great half day trip from the town of Banff. It will take you about an hour by car each way which is why I included it in its own section.

At Johnston Canyon you’ll get to wander through wooded areas, canyon walls, by waterfalls and deep pools.

There is so much to see here at Johnston Canyon and there are three main trails with different sights so you can choose how far you want to go!

It’s even more magical in winter and you can check out my guide to visiting Johnston Canyon in winter here!

48. Lower Falls Trail

Most of the trails for the lower and upper falls consist of catwalks built into the sides of the canyons which makes it a super unique hike.

The trail to the lower falls is a fairly easy trail that’s good for the whole family.

It will take about 30 mins and you’ll get to see a pretty incredible views of the lower falls.

You’ll even get to walk through a misty rock tunnel before hitting the base of the falls.

If you are traveling with very small children, seniors, or people with low mobility you will probably want to stick to this trail alone.

49. Upper Falls Trail

The Upper Falls Trail at Johnston Canyon is about 2.5km each way and will take you uphill through the forest and out of the lower canyon to the top of the falls.

There are a couple different viewpoints along the Upper Falls Trail, the first being a long catwalk at the middl of the creek just about at water level. There’s another viewpoint at the top of the falls too looking down which is incredible.

This trail is fairly easy although it is a constant incline. It will take you about 1 hour to get to the top if traveling with children.

50. Ink Pots Trail

If you want to get away from the crowds and see more of what Johnston Canyon has to offer then you have to do the Ink Pots trail! The Ink Pots trail continues on for another 3km after the Upper Falls and will take you to some pretty incredible natural sights.

Along the Ink Pots trail you’ll get to see seven pools of emerald green mineral spring pools in a meadow that are absolutely stunning. If you have the time I definitely recommend doing this trail, the color of these spring pools are incredible!

Enjoy your visit to Banff National Park!

I hope you enjoyed this guide on 50 incredible things to do in Banff National Park!

As you can see there is just so much to see and do in this area and it definitely takes more than one trip to get it all done.

Whether you’re looking to get in some serious hikes, visit iconic lakes, see some glaciers, or try your hand at some water sports, there’s definitely something for everyone in Banff National Park.

Let me know if you have any Banff related questions or if you found this guide useful in the comments below. I would love to hear from you!

Visiting the Canadian Rockies soon? Check out these posts:

• 19 Best Hikes in Banff National Park
• 28 Awesome Things to do in Banff in Winter
• 20 Best Spots for Winter Photos in Banff National Park
• Best Restaurants in Banff
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Johnston Canyon in Winter
• 23 Best Things to do in Jasper National Park
• The Best Hikes in Jasper National Park

Or if you’re just looking for some more Canadian travel inspiration you might enjoy these posts:

• 25 Awesome things to do in Kelowna
• Best Wineries in Lake Country
• 6 of Most Instagrammable places in Kelowna

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