Curator’s statement
To say that Banff National Park takes your breath away would be an understatement. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it is one of the most spectacular natural destinations in the world, where turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife create postcard-worthy views around every corner. What makes Banff so special is its balance of adventure and relaxation. You can spend the morning hiking to alpine tea houses and glacier-fed lakes, then unwind at a luxury spa or mountain resort in the afternoon, followed by a fancy dinner and a nightcap in the evening. The charming and historic town of Banff offers excellent restaurants, boutique shopping, and a lively atmosphere that complements the surrounding wilderness. Few places combine dramatic scenery, outdoor adventure, wellness, and small-town charm quite like Banff. It’s always a hands-down winner for me and will forever have my heart.
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Things to do in Banff
Canoeing on the Bow River (rentals from The Banff Canoe Club)
Best hikes & scenic walks
Lake Agnes Tea House: One of Banff's most popular hikes, leading to a charming tea house overlooking a picturesque alpine lake. Open seasonally, typically from June to early September.
Plain of Six Glaciers: A breathtaking trail with glacier views, mountain scenery, and a historic tea house at the end. Open seasonally.
Ha Ling Peak: A challenging but rewarding climb with panoramic views over Canmore and the Bow Valley. One of the most recognizable peaks from Highway 1 as you enter Banff National Park.
Johnston Canyon: An easy-to-moderate walk featuring waterfalls, catwalks, and stunning canyon scenery.
The Valley of Ten Peaks Hike: This hike starts at the trailhead at Lake Moraine, one of the most photographed lakes in the Canadian Rockies, known for its vibrant turquoise waters, and leads you to a gorgeous valley surrounded by 10 mountain peaks.
Sulphur Mountain: Take the gondola or hike to the summit for spectacular views of Banff and the surrounding peaks.
Bow River Trail: For a more leisurely and easy hike, enjoy a scenic stroll along the paved Bow River Trail, which winds through Banff with beautiful views of the river and surrounding mountain peaks.
Banff Gondola
Take the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of six mountain ranges. At the top, walk the scenic boardwalk to Sanson's Peak and enjoy the observation decks.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa
On your way in or out of Banff National Park, stop at a relaxing hydrotherapy experience surrounded by mountain scenery. This circuit of hot and cold plunges will be sure to leave you totally rejuvenated.
Canoeing on the Bow River
Rent a canoe from the Banff Canoe Club and paddle through some of the most scenic landscapes in the Rockies.
Glacier & Icefield adventures
Explore the famous Icefields Parkway and experience some of the most dramatic scenery in the Canadian Rockies.
BASIN Glacial Waters
Relax at the brand-new thermal wellness sanctuary located within the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, offering a unique experience focused on restoration and vitality through hydrotherapy and natural elements. It is exclusively accessible to overnight guests of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel.
Places to eat & drink in Banff
The Grizzly House
A local institution known for fondue and its uniquely quirky Banff history. Once an old speakeasy, each table now has a telephone that you can use to call (or prank call) other tables. Pro tip: Order the hot rock in place of the fondue; it comes with delicious garlic butter to sear your meats with. Sub the salad/soup for their famous French onion soup. Reservations highly recommended.
Rocky Mountain Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Banff Springs
Enjoy afternoon tea at this iconic hotel daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., accompanied by a selection of scones, pastries, and loose-leaf teas.
The Balkan Restaurant
A Banff classic serving Greek cuisine in a lively atmosphere. On certain nights, they have live entertainment, including Greek music and plate smashing.
Park Distillery Restaurant + Bar
A local favorite with locally distilled spirits (such as maple rye and Banff whiskey) paired with hearty mountain-inspired cuisine.
The Block Kitchen + Bar
A favorite for creative small plates and globally inspired flavors.
The Bison
Great choice for a fine dining farm-to-table experience that feels distinctly Canadian.
BeaverTails Banff
A must-stop for Canada's famous pastry treat.
Sky Bistro
Located at the top of Sulphur Mountain, offering incredible views alongside elevated Canadian cuisine. The way to get there is part of the experience, as you take a stunning eight-minute gondola ride up to the skydeck where the restaurant is located.
Rose & Crown Banff
For a lively atmosphere, often with live music and entertainment, grab a pint of beer at Banff's local watering hole for the past 40 years!
Need to know
Arrive at popular trailheads and lakes early in the morning to avoid crowds and parking issues. To access Moraine Lake, you must use a shuttle service, as personal vehicles are not allowed.
Reservations are highly recommended for restaurants and spa experiences.
Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers regardless of the season.
Wildlife sightings are common. Certain hiking trails require groups of four or more for safety reasons. Carrying bear spray is a good idea.
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Suzanne Monte
Suzanne Monte
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Banff page.