Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you’re planning a trip to Banff, you’ll want to make sure you include these top 8 activities in your itinerary. From hiking and biking to gondola rides and having a picnic at the lake, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful slice of heaven. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
But first, a quick history lesson. Banff was founded in the 1880’s, and much like other towns in Canada, the construction of the railway was a significant part of the town’s beginnings. Hot springs were discovered near Banff, which helped the town build its reputation and use tourism as an important part of it’s survival. Banff now has over 8,000 residents and continues to rely heavily on the tourism industry, and for a good reason. Anyone who has visited Banff knows the uniqueness of this small mountain town. Now, on to the activities.
1. Reach New Heights on Sulphur Mountain
Sulphur Mountain offers a unique opportunity to adventurers who want to have a mountain-top experience, but don’t necessarily want to spend a whole day achieving that view. A gondola runs to the top of Sulphur Mountain for those who don’t want to do the almost 5.5 km (~3.4 mi) hike to the summit. Or it offers an option to take the gondola one way and hike either up or down. The elevation gain is between 750 and 760 meters (~2,477 ft), but don’t let those numbers daunt you. Sulphur Mountain trail is well-maintained with many switchbacks, so it doesn’t feel like quite as much of a grind as one would think. If choosing to hike the trail both ways, plan ahead and ensure you’re prepared. The average time it takes to complete this trail is approximately four and a half hours. That number, of course, is subject to experience and fitness level.
Oh, and an important note: the views are STUNNING. Not only do you get a bird’s eye view over Banff, but you can also see Lake Minnewanka, the impressive Mount Rundle, and Mount Norquay.
2. Take in Breathtaking Views at Bow Lake
Hop in the car and head an hour North of Banff, and you’ll lay your eyes on a pristine blue-green lake surrounded by towering mountains. Bow Lake offers many activities, such as picnicking, hiking, and stand-up paddle boarding. It also serves as an incredible place to get those perfect photos. Hike the shoreline for a relaxing walk or challenge yourself and head to some of the surrounding hikes, such as the Onion, Bow Glacier Falls, or Cirque Peak. These hikes will be sure to provide you with vistas that will leave you awe-struck. Whether you choose to relax by the lake or challenge yourself with a climb, it is a place that you’ll want to keep coming back to! And, since you’re only a short 5-minute drive from Peyto Lake, you may as well do some exploring there. Peyto Lake is a famous lake known for it’s turquoise blue coloured waters and unique shape. It is a short walk from the parking lot to the lookout, and definitely a worthwhile stop!
3. Bike to Johnston Canyon
There are many biking trails to explore in and around Banff. My personal favourite ride is biking from the town of Banff to Johnston Canyon on the Bow Valley Parkway. This bike ride is not for the faint of heart, however, as it is approximately 50 km (~31 mi) roundtrip. But, those who are ready for the challenge will enjoy a scenic, pleasant ride with the possibility of seeing some wildlife. Once arriving at Johnston Canyon, there are a few different hiking options to choose from. A short 1.1 km (~0.7 mi) walk will bring you to the lower falls, and a 2.6 km (~1.6) walk will bring you to the upper falls. Both are impressive to see. If going to the lower falls, make sure you go through a small tunnel in the rock to get the best view!
4. Challenge Yourself and Try Rock Climbing
Want to be up high, challenge yourself, and give your arms a good workout? Hire a guide and try out some rock climbing! Banff and the surrounding area is known for its excellent rock climbing opportunities. This is an exciting sport and offers a unique opportunity that is a little different than the typical activities offered around the town. Ensure you hire a certified guide so you can fully enjoy your day out. You may find that this exciting sport is for you!
5. Test Your Limits on a Via Ferrata
Not sure about rock climbing, but still want the great view and challenge? Why not try the Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay Ski Resort? Climbing a Via Ferrata involves climbing up a mountain, much like rock climbing, but is assisted. Instead of relying solely on the rock to get up the mountain, the climber uses handlebars that are embedded in the rock. A proper harness and safety device are necessary for this adventure, so book a spot with Mount Norquay Ski Resort and get all the guidance and support needed to create a fun and unique memory!
6. Stretch Your Legs and Hike Tunnel Mountain
Tunnel Mountain is a smaller mountain right in the town of Banff. The trail to the top is well-marked and well-traveled. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy an aerial view over Banff, and get magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. It is a shorter hike compared to Sulphur Mountain, with the distance being only 4.5 km (~2.8 mi) round-trip, and approximately 270 meters (~886 ft) of elevation. This is an easy one to fill your time with and enjoy the splendor of the mountains. Time to get your hiking boots on again!
7. Enjoy Spectacular Views at Sunshine Mountain Village
Another gondola awaits, but this time at Sunshine Mountain Village. Not only does this gondola ride take you up to prime hiking trails, but it will also allow you to see stunning views of the surrounding mountains and possibly some wildlife! Once at Sunshine Village, the opportunity awaits to take the chairlift up to the top of one of the surrounding peaks, Mt. Standish. There you will experience panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. A memory that every person should have at least once in their lifetime! There is something for every person at Sunshine, from moderate to difficult hiking for the more experienced, and easy walking trails for those who prefer to take it easy. See more, here: https://www.skibanff.com/ski-ride/passes/sightseeing
8. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
These lakes have gained massive popularity over the past years and are a bit more difficult to access because of that. However, the shuttles provided make these lakes easier to experience! Cool-aid blue lakes, surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and incredible natural scenery await those who get to experience these places. Not only do these locations offer incredible views and world-class hiking, but they also offer incredible canoeing and other outdoor activities. Want to rock climb right beside Lake Louise? There’s an opportunity for that. Want to hike Mt. St. Piran and overlook not only Lake Louise but also Lake Agnes? Lace up your hiking boots, because there’s a trail for that! Want to get that perfect picture at Moraine Lake? Hike the “Rock Pile Trail” or rent a canoe to get right on the lake, and you’ll be overwhelmed with the photography opportunities.
So there you have it, 8 of the best adventures to be had in Banff, Alberta. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s something for everyone. It’s time to get out there and explore all that this beautiful area has to offer! If you have any other suggestions or must-see things in Banff, be sure to drop a comment!
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