BANFF & CANADIAN ROCKIES
THE CANADIAN ROCKIES HAVE EVERYTHING FROM HARD HIKES TO DRIVABLE VIEWS
I wish we would have spent more time here, but that just means we’ll have to go back! Check out Jasper if you’re heading to Banff as well. The snowcapped mountains are breathtaking!
WHERE TO VISIT
Here is a map that I put together of all of the places that Google and other bloggers said were enjoyable. Since everyones' taste is different, I wanted to give you options.
Please add locations to this map if you see any I missed!
TOP PLACES TO HIKE AND SEE
The FREE mobile app All Trails is the best for finding hiking destinations. This link below will show you the top hikes in the area.
Moraine lake
You’ve seen this lake all over Pinterest - but I’m sorry the photos were photoshopped. It’s a beautiful lake but you should try to go on a day with no wind so you can see the best reflection. Also, GET THERE EARLY! Like 6am early before the sunrise. The parking lot is small and fills up very quickly.
Lake louise
You can drive up to this lake. There are lots of places to sit and enjoy the scenery. Go in the evening to watch the sunset over the mountains. You can often watch a local musician play acoustic music at the hotel on the lake too. We didn’t have any issues getting a parking spot, but we were also there on the last days of their summer season.
You can rent a canoe on the lake as well.
Ha Ling peak
This hike is crazy hard - I call it the stairmaster. It’s pretty much straight up, but the view at the top is worth it. As you can see from the picture, you’ll never really stand on a flat surface. Look for mountain climbers at the top!
lake agnes tea house
I wish we would have had time to hike to this tea house. The trail gets really busy and frequently has bear activity, so if you decide to hike it, be prepared. The hike is on my AllTrails link below
GONDOLA RIDE
Take a ride up the mountain on a gondola. We went to Sunrise Village, but in hindsight, I would have rather rode Banff Gondola. Either way, a gondola ride is a great way to rest your legs and enjoy the beautiful views.
Photo credit: Franzi Annika Photography
DOWNTOWN WALKS
Downtown is a fun place to shop, eat great food, and just enjoy the quaintness of the town. There is a so much to see and do!
WHAT NOT TO FORGET
WINTER coat - It doesn’t matter what time of year you go, the mornings will be FREEZING, so pack the warmest coat you have
Bear spray - they’re all over so be prepared
Water filled backpack - you will need extra water at these altitudes
Rain jacket - You’re high enough in the mountains that you never know when a pop up shower will occur
Waterproof hiking boots - wear them in before you try hiking for 5-8 hours a day
Stocking hat for the mornings - even if it’s supposed to be warm, the mornings won’t be
Snacks - don’t go on a long hike without packing food or at least a few granola bars
WEATHER
It’ll be cold most of the time. Dress in layers, but you’ll likely never need a tank top or shorts.
THE BIG QUESTIONS
WHERE CAN I FIND THIS PICTURE?
This picture is all over Pinterest, but it is VERY ILLEGAL to get there. The location is in Johnston Canyon but there is a protected bird nesting in the canyon that limits your access to the cave. Sorry, you won’t be able to see it for yourself until restrictions are lifted.
CONTINUE ON TO JASPER?
I hear the Icefield Parkway is worth the drive. Don’t drive it if you have a camper or RV though. That’s why we chose not to. It’s a 3.5 hr drive from Banff to Jasper, but the mountains are beautiful along the trip.
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED?
You’ll need at least 7 days to fully enjoy Banff. We were only there for 3, and we only got to do a couple hikes and see the highlights. We’ll need to go back to see it all better.
Since we didn’t get to see it all, check out this local blogger for even better insights!