Banff at a glance
Banff National Park covers 6,600km2 of some of Canada’s most dramatic and beautiful scenery. The Canadian Rockies that run through the park are home to an incredible amount of wildlife, often seen in the park, as well as glaciers, lakes and rivers. The town of Banff sits squarely inside the park. The town offers a great choice of bars, restaurants and shops, while the national park offers an endless list of activities including trekking, horse riding, rafting and caving. Unwind after an active day at Banff Upper Hot Springs are located in a 1930s heritage bathhouse and provide breathtaking views of Mount Rundle as relax.
Lake Louise is located inside Banff National Park and known as ‘the hiking capital of Canada. The main attraction here is, of course, the emerald-coloured lake itself. Various marked trails wind their way along the shoreline. You could also hire a canoe and paddle out on the lake for a spectacular view of the famous Château Lake Louise. The region is also a world famous fishing destination. Getting away from the crowds is easy with a fantastic choice of hiking trails through the heart of the Rockies.
Highlights
Walking and Hiking
Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is a well-established pursuit - the trails are superbly maintained and well-marked. The resorts may be popular during the summer months but there is always a route to get you away from the crowds. If you prefer guided walking, there are several local mountain guide companies to choose from.
PRE-BOOKABLE ACTIVITIES
FROM BANFF
Lake Tour & Cruise
The tour takes you past Mount Norquay to Cascade Falls before arriving at Lake Minnewanka for a guided lake cruise where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Palliser and Fairholme Mountain Ranges and local wildlife such as deer, bears and eagles on the shoreline. Available: Daily, 22 May-4 Oct Duration: 21/2hrs Price: £43*
Discover the Grizzly Bears
This guided sightseeing tour to the Grizzly Bear Refuge in Golden includes stops at Lake Louise, Takakkaw Falls and Kicking Horse Canyon. Take the gondola at Kicking Horse Mountain for an bird’s eye view, walk the summit trails and enjoy a gourmet lunch at Canada’s highest restaurant. Available: Daily, 12 Jun-13 Sep Duration: 10hrs Price: £114*
Kananaskis River Family Whitewater Fun
The stunning Kananaskis River makes the perfect environment for an introduction to white water rafting. The tour is rated Grade II-III and is suitable for those with little or no rafting experience as well as families. Available: Daily, 1 May-15 Sep Duration: 4hrs Price: £54*
FROM LAKE LOUISE
Lakehead Horseback Riding
A guided trek along the shoreline of the spectacular emerald-coloured Lake Louise. Available: Daily, 30 May-28 Sep Duration: 2hrs Price: £65*
*Price per adult, subject to change
EXPLORE
Bankhead Ghost Town
An easy 1km trail leads through the ruins of this deserted, early 1900s mining town. You can also walk 2.5km along the disused railway to the Cascade ponds.
Cascades of Time Gardens
Terraced gardens are filled with a colourful array of over 50,000 flowers, trickling tranquil pools, scenic mountain vistas and regal pavilions – a favourite attraction.
Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
Discover the cultural history of Canada’s native Indian people, from richly ornamented costumes to beautifully decorated teepees, colourful quill work and hunting equipment.
Banff Park Museum
A visit to this century-old showpiece of architecture and early natural history is an enchanting way to discover Banff's mammals, birds and insects.
Activities & excursions are operated by independent local companies outside of Neilson’s control. Unless stated otherwise (with our Book Now logo), activities & excursions cannot be booked through us. See our Holiday Information pages for more details.