Are you planning a trip to Banff and don’t know where to start and what to do? This article gives you a lot of ideas about what to do in the beautiful Canadian Rockies.

Enjoy the ultimate Banff bucket list for your trip to the Canadian Rockies. We’ve gathered the best things to do in Banff National Park all year round, and also a few ideas for Banff’s neighbour Canmore and less popular but equally stunning neighbours – Kootenay, Yoho and Jasper National Parks. When you visit Banff National Park, make sure to go explore just outside its border as well.

During the decade of living near Banff National Park, we’ve done most of these activities ourselves and choosing a favourite would be really hard. Pick your favourites below and start planning a visit to one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Visiting Banff is one of the best day trips from Calgary you can do.

We started our own campervan rental company with the most affordable prices in Western Canada. We’re striving to provide you with everything you need for your Canadian road trip. See more details at Smile Campervans.

 

Where to stay in Banff

Canadian Rockies have plenty of campgrounds, each equipped with (at least) drinking water and picnic tables. Read our tips, detailed breakdown of each campground and where to go when official campgrounds are full in our Banff National Park camping guide.

If you like more comfortable stays and prefer hotels, search through Booking below to find the best deal:

Booking.com

Best things to do in Banff National Park

1. Walk along Bow River

When you come to Banff, familiarize yourself with the area. Walk the path or trail on either side of the Bow River with fantastic views of Bow Valley and surrounding mountain peaks. This walk never disappoints with wildlife as well. Watch out for elk and deer, long-time residents of Banff. (year-round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Walk along Bow River

2. Watch wildlife

It might be once in a lifetime opportunity that you will spot black or grizzly bear with cubs in nature. Banff wildlife includes elk, mountain goats, sheep, wolves, cougars, moose, and bears. And also the newest addition to Banff National park – bison. They have been reintroduced to Banff and now roam free. Enjoy watching them but keep a safe distance, never approach a wild animal or feed them. (some animals year round, best time May-September)

Read post: Wildlife in Canada

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Watch wildlife 2

3. Hike to see the waterfalls of Johnston Canyon

Hike an easy/moderate trail in Banff National Park for a series of several waterfalls. At the beginning of summer waterfalls in Johnston Canyon are the strongest. Don’t forget to continue to Ink Pots further up the canyon, the turquoise bubbling pools that will leave you speechless. (April-November)

Book your guided Johnston Canyon hike here.

Read post: Johnston Canyon Hike to Ink Pots

An epic travel guide to the Canadian Rockies

4. Watch the northern lights

There is a chance of spotting northern lights on the night sky in Banff National Park a few times during winter. Check the news or space weather for recent solar activity and find a good spot (away from light pollution) to see the show and make awesome pictures. Great spots are Lake Minnewanka or Bow Lake. (November-May)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Watch northern lights

TIP
Read our recommendation: A comprehensive Banff packing guide for Canadian Rockies.

5. Bike & hike along Lake Minnewanka

Combine mountain biking and hiking to have a spectacular view of the famous Lake Minnewanka from above. Spring and fall is the only time you can bike along Lake Minnewanka. The trail is closed for biking in summer to prevent bear encounters, seasonal restriction is July 10 – September 15 when no bikes, dogs or camping are allowed and hiking only in a tight group of 4 or more. Leave your bike at Aylmer Pass Junction (8,5 km one way) and hike up to Aylmer lookout (4 km one way) for a scenic view of Lake Minnewanka and surrounding mountains. You can hike and stay in a campground in summer (hiking only allowed in a group of four, carrying a bear spray, check out this website for trail closures.  (hike April-November)

Read post: Aylmer Lookout Hike & Bike Trip

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Bike & hike along Lake Minnewanka

6. Cross country ski to Moraine Lake or Saskatchewan Glacier

Away from the popular tourist attraction, you can cross-country ski on an easy backcountry trail to see the enormous Saskatchewan Glacier.  Or go to the viewpoint of Moraine Lake. The tracks are maintained during winter and end just as you see the 10 peaks above the lake. (December-April)

Read post: Cross-country ski trails in Banff National Park area for all levels

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Cross country ski to Moraine Lake or Saskatchewan Glacier 2

7. Get a bird’s eye view of Lake Louise

Hike the Little or Big Beehive, a moderate trail which starts behind the chateau and gives you an exceptional view of Lake Louise from above and surrounding snow-covered mountain peaks. Since these trails are moderately trafficked, you can get away from the crowds and hike Mount Piran instead. (May-November)

Read post: Mount St. Piran Hike

TIP
Read our recommendation: Hiking packing list for summer in the mountains

Mount St. Piran Hike, Banff National Park

8. Drive Icefields Parkway

Do you have a car? If yes, this is the road trip you will want to take. It’s on the list of many publications as one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world. There are so many natural wonders along the Icefields Parkway that we have a separate article about them. National Geographic included Icefields Parkway in their book Drives of a Lifetime.

We recommend to have 2 days so you can stop along the way for viewpoints and hikes. Read our post below for the best recommendations and all our tips to have an unforgettable trip. (year round, best June-October)

Read post: Icefields Parkway itinerary: scenic drive from Lake Louise to Jasper

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Drive Icefields Parkway

9. Visit the insanely blue Peyto Lake

When people see a picture of this lake, they don’t believe the colour is real and think the pictures must have been edited in Photoshop. The lake is easily accessible from the parking lot along the Icefields Parkway. Watch for a sign for Bow Summit (100 km from Banff). You would want to see the colour yourself. The lookout point is a popular place and you can even hike to the lake itself! Read more about this natural phenomenon below. (June-October)

Read the post: Peyto Lake, Canada: photoshopped or real?

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Visit the insanely blue Peyto Lake

10. Hike up the Sulphur Mountain for a view of Banff

The best view of the Bow Valley is from the top of the Sulphur Mountain. Hike up for about two hours on the trail with many switchbacks and you will be rewarded with a view of Banff and the surrounding peaks of Bow Valley. It is a lesser-known alternative to taking the overpriced gondola up the mountain. (year-round)

Read post: Sulphur Mountain Hike vs. Banff Gondola

11. Learn about the history of Native tribes

The Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum shows artifacts, culture, and traditions of native tribes living in the Rocky Mountains and Prairies, and their trading partners from Europe. It’s located on Birch Avenue and opened from 10 am – 7 pm daily. (year-round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Learn about history of Native tribes

12. Go for a cross-country run

Many hiking trails are ideal for trail running. Our favourite running trail is the Spray River Loop (12km). Since bears frequent the area, it’s a good idea to shout every once in a while to let them know you’re there and carry a bear spray. Read about reasons why to start trail running. (May-November)

10 reasons why you should start trail running

13. Catch the sunrise at Two Jack Lake

Wake up before sunrise, set up your camera to take early morning photos of Two Jack Lake with Mount Rundle in the background and you just sit back and watch the light appear above the Canadian Rockies. A great start to the day. You can stay at Two Jack Lakeside Campground. (year-round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Catch sunrise at Two Jack Lake

14. Paddle on iconic Lake Louise

Lake Louise, one of the most famous lakes in the world, thaws at the beginning of June. You can rent a canoe at the shore and paddle around the lake. Or a budget-friendly option – you can rent a canoe, kayak or SUP in Banff and go for a paddle, no permits or fees required. Come early in the morning or late evening and enjoy the beautiful turquoise Lake Louise with Victoria glacier behind it in tranquillity. It’s a very busy lake during the day when countless tour buses arrive. (visiting possible year-round, frozen in November-May)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Paddle on iconic Lake Louise

15. Play golf with elk

Ok, maybe not literally but elk like to hang around the Banff’s golf course quite often. They are enjoying their picnic while you enjoy your golf game. Banff golf course is right at the edge of the forest. It will quickly change the purpose of the sport once you have such observers. Your game might just get even more interesting in spring when bear cubs play on the golf course and you need to back off and wait until they get bored and leave (which often takes a few hours). (May-October)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Play golf with elk

16. Ski at world-class Lake Louise resort

The world-class ski resort is just on the opposite side of the Trans-Canada Highway from Lake Louise. Canada’s winter is long and makes it a great ski destination. You can ski for up to seven months. Lake Louise has well-maintained tracks for all levels. (November-May)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Ski at world class Lake Louise resort

17. Climb Via Ferrata at Mt. Norquay

If your passion is climbing or you’re just curious beginner and adrenaline is your fuel, hanging bridges of tens of metres above ground are a great way to spend the day in the Canadian Rockies. Try the adventurous climb for spectacular views of the Bow Valley. (June-September)

Book your Via Ferrata adventure here.

18. Bike the Legacy Trail

The Legacy Trail from Banff to Canmore is great day trip for families and sport enthusiasts. You can ride it on bike or even roller blades. It is a 14km paved trail connecting Banff to Canmore mostly along the highway. It belongs to the Great Trail which connects the Canadian east coast with the west coast. (April-October)

Read post: Legacy Trail, biking from Banff to Canmore

20 Things to do in Canmore - Bike the Legacy Trail to Banff

19. Jump in the glacial lake

If you’re brave enough, jump into any picturesque lake and enjoy the mountain fresh water feeling. Temperatures vary from 0 to 15Β°C depending on the season. Your pictures from Moraine Lake or Lake Louise might get even more interesting. (May-October)

Glacier Lake, Banff National Park

Ice cold dip on a hot day. There’s nothing better…..

20. Try horseback riding

Do you like old western movies? Riding a horse on trails brings up a feeling of a true explorer from the 19th century. You can choose from many trails around Banff. (May-September)

Book your horseback riding adventure here.

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Try horseback riding

21. Get some fish for dinner

Fishing in the park is permitted on several lakes. Get your licence at the visitor centre and find out about rules for fishing in the park. Or try ice fishing in winter on the frozen lake. (year round)

22. See the Rocky Mountaineer train

Watch the train pull up to the Banff train station (or take the train across Canada). Trains are the reason Banff National Park was established in 1885. This is the only passenger train that comes to Banff from Vancouver through majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. (April-November)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - See the Rocky Mountaineer train

23. Listen to the stories of the Nakoda People

In the eastern part of Banff every year tribe of Stoney Nakoda people set up their camp and welcome tourists to tell their stories from the past. Search β€˜Nakoda Banff Indian Days’ on facebook for the next event or ask at the Banff’s Visitor Centre.  (August)

24. Climb walls of the Canadian Rockies

Climb with ropes on the famous Cascade Mountain or Castle Mountain. There are lots of easy scrambles or tough blood sweating ascents around Banff. Outdoor rock climbing for all levels is offered by adventure companies in Banff and Canmore. (June-October)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Climb walls of Canadian Rockies

25. Stand up paddleboard on pristine lakes

Bring your stand-up paddleboard or rent one in Banff and your options for stand-up paddleboarding are almost endless. You have at least 10 different sceneries to choose from. The closest lakes to Banff are Vermilion Lakes, Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake but you can go to any lake you like.  (June-September)

Read the post: Best places for stand-up paddleboarding in Banff & around

20 things to do in Canmore - stand up paddleboard on Rundle Forebay

26. Drive the Bow Valley Parkway

Drive from Banff to Lake Louise or vice versa in the morning or late evening and spot various wildlife looking for food around the road. Most common are mountain goats, elk, sheep, and bears. (May-October)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Drive the Bow Valley Parkway 2

27. Skate on frozen Minnewanka or Johnson Lake

If weather permits, you can have mirror-like clean ice at the beginning of the winter. It’s one of the best experiences in the Canadian Rockies. Keep in mind that the ice is not always thick enough to hold you. Use caution, always test it, look for tracks of others who skated before you and skate with a friend. (December-January)

Read post: Ice skating in Banff National Park

Adventure travel guide to Banff National Park

28. See the ice castle & sculptures in Lake Louise

Visit Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival, the competition in creating sculptures from massive ice blocks. Piece of art that takes almost a week to create and a little bit of sun to destroy. Artists create them right on the frozen Lake Louise. (January)

Book your family-friendly sleigh ride here.

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - See ice castle & sculptures in Lake Louise

29. Take a Lake Louise Gondola

Always dreamed about seeing a grizzly bear? The gondola in the ski resort operates for hikers during summer. There are almost daily sightings of the grizzly in its natural habitat from the safe distance of the gondola seat. It is not guaranteed, but it is one of your best chances to spot the beast. (June-September).

Read post: Guide to visiting Lake Louise Summer Gondola

Book a grizzly bear refuge trip here.

30. Visit the most famous building

Banff Springs Hotel used to be the tallest building in Canada and now is the most famous man-made landmark in Banff National Park. You can visit even if you’re not a guest. We’ve heard their spa is exceptional. (year round)

Book your Castle food experience here.

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Visit the most famous building Banff Springs Hotel

31. Relax in Upper Hot Springs

After a day of hiking or skiing there is no better activity than a dip in a hot pool. Outside pools with exceptional mountain views are in the Upper Hot Springs in Banff. You can even rent bathing suits and towels on-site. Since the pool is not very big, it gets very crowded during the winter. (year round)

100 things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Upper Hot Springs in Banff

32. Walk to the Mistaya Canyon

The magnificent Mistaya Canyon is on the Icefields Parkway just before Saskatchewan River Crossing. Short and easy trail leads to the bridge over Mistaya River where you can see how river can cut its way through the rocks in a deep canyon. (year round)

 100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Walk to the Mistaya Canyon

33. Visit the first hot springs in Banff

Cave and Basin is a historic site in Banff considered a birthplace of Canada’s national parks. Hot water pool inside the cave is almost the same as natives used to relax in. It is not allowed to swim here, but you will learn about the history of the mountains.  (year round)

34. Try canoeing & kayaking

Most of the lakes in Banff National Park are suitable for canoeing and kayaking. You can float down the Bow River, the rental company have canoes right next to the river or rent a kayak in town and drive to any lake to try kayaking on calm water. (June-September)

Book your wildlife canoe trip on Bow River here.

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Try canoeing & kayaking

35. Visit the famous Moraine Lake

This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It is only 4 months of the year without ice and snow. You can rent a canoe on the shore or bring your own. Moraine Lake is such an iconic Canadian lake that it used to be on the reverse side of the Canadian 20-dollar bill. There are also hiking trails in the area which require hiking in a group of at least 4 people.

If you prefer not to drive, you can book your bus day pass here. (June-October)

Read post: Moraine Lake Guide (including local tips!)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Visit famous Moraine Lake

36. Enjoy outdoor BBQ by Bow River

Town of Banff and some day-use areas around have outdoor grills for the public with firewood provided. All you need to do is bring some sausages or zucchinis and your friends.  Even if you’re here for a day, make your own BBQ lunch surrounded by mountains. They are located near Birch Avenue in Banff. (year-round)

100 things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Enjoy outdoor BBQ by Bow River

37. Try Canadian beef

Every restaurant in Banff offers great and juicy steaks from the best quality Alberta beef. Stroll along Banff Avenue where most of the restaurants are located. Canadian beef might not be as well-known as Argentinian beef but the quality is very high. Your only task is to decide if you want it rare, medium or well done. Or try these other Canadian dishes. (year round)

38. Make a snow angel on the frozen lake

That untouched surface of white powder is waiting for you to leave your stamp on it.In the middle of the frozen lake or anywhere else.Let your inner child shine through and have fun! (November-March)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Make a snow angel on the frozen lake

39. Take a picture with the Banff sign

The famous Banff sign that every visitor wants to take a picture with is located across from Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre and near a Fenland Loop nature walk. (year round)

40. Go boating across Lake Minnewanka

Take a cruise across Lake Minnewanka. Giant mountain peaks around the lake provide beautiful scenery during the trip. You can go on a fishing trip or rent your own motorboat and go to the edge of Banff National Park. (May-October)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Go boating across Lake Minnewanka

41. Join a running race

It’s one of the best sceneries for running races in Canada. Banff hosts a marathon race in June. If you don’t feel for a marathon you can participate in shorter versions 10k or half marathon. (June)

42. Experience an ice walk in Johnston Canyon

During the coldest months, come to Johnston Canyon and walk on the frozen river. All waterfalls are frozen with a bustling water flow underneath. It’s truly a winter wonderland. You can even spot ice climbers making their way up the waterfall. Don’t forget to bring crampons or spikes so you don’t hurt yourself. (January-March)

Book your Ice walk adventure here.

Read post: Ice walk in Johnston Canyon

100 best things to do in Banff National Park - Experience ice walk in Johnston Canyon

43. Have a morning picnic at Vermilion Lakes

Some places are best to visit at certain times. Vermilion Lakes with the picnic basket at the sunrise is the place to be. (year round, best in summer)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Have a morning picnic at Vermilion Lakes

44. Try the poutine

Quebec dish poutine (fries with cheese curds topped with gravy) can be found in most burger places, ski resorts and even McDonalds. Some Canadians consider it their national meal. (year-round)

45. Ski the fresh powder at Sunshine Village

This ski resort relies on a natural snow. It is located near Banff town and the three mountains receive up to 9 meters (30feet) of light fluffy powdery snow. (December-April)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Ski the fresh powder at Sunshine Village

46. Drink locally brewed beers

At Banff Ave Brewing Co. right on the main street in Banff you can try beer from local beer makers straight from tanks. (year-round)

47. Learn about the Rockies at Whyte Museum

Learn about the heritage and history of Canadian Rockies. Whyte Museum is the largest private museum in Canada with a lot of stories to tell. They also have a wonderful gift shop with Canadian Rockies souvenirs. (year round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Learn about the Rockies at Whyte Museum

48. Photograph the stars and Milky Way

Staying in less populated and remote places gives you an opportunity for dark sky, great condition to make night sky/Milky way pictures. Go to Lake Minnewanka or Sunshine Village. (year round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Photograph the stars and Milky Way

49. Visit Panther Falls

In spring and summer when ice is melting visit Panther Falls on the Icefields Parkway and get sprayed by mighty water mist under them. They freeze in winter when you can easily go up close. Come and see the thick icicles of the waterfall, and don’t forget to wear spikes. (year-round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Visit Panther Falls

50. Sleep in the campground

Banff National Park and the Banff town itself have several campgrounds to choose from.  If you stay away from towns, you can hear wolves howling, owls or elk callings. You can find the list of all campgrounds and the reservation system here. (May-October)

51. Watch pro skiers at the World Cup

End of November and first week of December is time when Lake Louise hosts a world cup in skiing. There’s no entry fee and lots of professional skiers you can watch as they rush down the slopes. (November-December)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Watch pro skiers at the World Cup

52. Celebrate the beginning of winter

WinterStart Festival starts in the beginning of November and lasts for 4 weeks. At the beginning there is Bon Appetit Banff, continues with Italian Kitchen festival and ends with craft beer festival. (November)

53. Try ice climbing

As a part of SnowDays festival in Banff MEC company builds an artificial wall in Banff’s downtown. You can try ice climbing for free with professional instructors. (January-February)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Try ice climbing

54. Welcome bison in Banff National Park

Parks Canada reintroduced bison in Banff National Park after they were missing for over a century. Learn about their importance here. You can go for a multi-day hiking trip to be one of the first to see the herd before they spread in the park within a few years. (May-October)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Welcome bison in Banff National Park

55. Enjoy adventure & outdoor movies

During the slowest season in Banff you can get yourself pumped up with the world’s best outdoor movies. Selection of the best is presented at the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival. (10 days in October-November)

56. Relax at Johnson Lake or jump in for a swim

Johnson Lake is one of the few lakes in Banff where water temperature in summer gets above 10Β°C. It’s a great place for rope jumping, a quick swim or stand up paddleboarding. (July-August)

100 things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Relax at Johnson Lake or jump in for a swim

57. Celebrate Canada’s birthday

On July 1st on Banff Avenue celebrate with locals Canada Day. The celebration starts with breakfast consisting of pancakes with maple syrup and continues with a lunchtime parade crossing through Banff Avenue and ends in the evening. (July 1st)

58. Enjoy the Santa Claus Parade

Before Christmas, streets of Banff host Santa Claus Parade. It has everything that belongs to Christmas parade with lots of attendants, lights and of course Santa. (November or December)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Enjoy Santa Claus Parade

59. Go snow tubing at Norquay

Some may say snow tubing is for kids. But going down the steep slopes in Norquay will give anybody an adrenaline rush. It is a great activity for non-skiers, or for those tired from skiing. (November-May)

In summer, book your sightseeing chairlift above Banff here.

60. Play ice hockey on the frozen lake

Winter is the time for pond hockey enthusiasts to visit Banff. Lake Louise, Minnewanka, Johnson and Vermillion Lakes are all very popular. People play hockey before the snow covers the lakes, although Lake Louise has a maintained patch of ice.  (December-April)

Ice skating in Banff National Park

61. Go scuba diving at Lake Minnewanka

You probably didn’t know but Lake Minnewanka (in the Stoney Indian language means β€œWater of the Spirits) hides a ghost town that was flooded during the construction of the dam. Nowadays you can see it when scuba diving. (June-September)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Go scuba diving at Lake Minnewanka

62. Watch bear cubs

Every year when bears wake up they also find their newborn offspring in the den. Visiting Banff in spring gives you a perfect opportunity to see the tiniest bear cubs playing in the grass with their mama. Make sure to read how to stay safe in the bear country first. (April-June)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Watch bear cubs

63. Experience dog sledding in Lake Louise

Dog sledding is a fantastic activity for all travellers during winter. Experience the speed of Alaskan huskies and try mushing the dogs yourself.  (January-April)

64. Hike & stay in cabins at Shadow Lake

Backcountry cabins close to Shadow Lake give you an opportunity to enjoy the quietness of Canadian wilderness. They are 10 km from the road accessible by foot or horse. If you’re visiting for a day, you can bike 10 km to the junction, lock up your bike and have to continue few more km to the lake on foot. (February-March, June-September are cabins open)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike & stay in cabins at Shadow Lake_

65. Snowshoeing around Banff & Lake Louise

Walk on the snow like Indigenous people in Canada did throughout history. A popular snowshoes spot is going across the frozen and snow-covered Lake Louise. There are many options for snowshoeing ranging in length and difficulty around Banff & Lake Louise, find more winter trails here.  (December-April)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Snow shoeing around Banff & Lake Louise

66. Photograph frozen lake bubbles

Many lakes in Banff National Park emit methane from the bottom. This can be visible through the bubbles trapped in the ice, a truly beautiful winter scene. Most popular lakes with bubbles are Lake Minnewanka and Vermilion Lakes, both very close to Banff. Another one is Abraham Lake which is off of the Icefields Parkway on the way to Jasper. (December-May)

67. Hike up the Tunnel Mountain

That tiny peak in the town of Banff is called Tunnel Mountain. There is actually no tunnel in the mountain but it is a nice and definitely the easiest hike in Banff with scenic views. (year round)

Read post: 20 best hikes in Banff National Park

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike up the Tunnel Mountain

68. Bike or cross country ski along Goat Creek

Goat Creek Trail / Spray River Trail gives you the possibility to get to Canmore through the back side of the Rundle Mountain. Enjoy the breathtaking views along the trail. Starting in Banff is better option as going back is downhill, the trail is 20 km one-way. (year round)

Read post: Biking trails around Banff

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Bike or cross country ski along Goat Creek

69. Visit Banff Centre

Banff Centre has pool, climbing wall and fitness facilities. You can come to create pieces of art or learn a new craft. See what they have to offer for you. (year round)

70. Hike to the Rockbound Lake

 This intermediate hike to the back side of the Castle Mountain hides one really special view of the Bow Valley and a pristine Rockbound Lake. Challenge yourself and take a dip. (June-October)

Read post: Rockbound Lake Hike

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike to the Rockbound Lake

71. Walk to the Banff Hoodoos

Hoodoos at the end of the Hoodoos trail are sedimentary formation eroded to needle-like shape. They were exposed once glaciers started to melt. (year round)

Camping in Banff National Park - Hoodoos

72. Ride the waves of Bow River

Get in a raft or kayak right below Bow Falls in Banff and Bow River will bring you all the way to Canmore. It is an adventurous trip from Banff to Canmore and don’t worry if you don’t have the skills to go by yourself, you can go through a travel agency. (May-September)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Ride the waves of Bow River

73. Visit Banff Farmer’s Market

Happening every Wednesday, Banff Market offers a great opportunity to support local artists and try locally baked goodies. I personally love the natural soap with colours of northern lights. (June 8th to October 5th)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Banff Farmer’s Market

74. Get off the beaten path

If you get tired of the insane crowds of Moraine Lake, Lake Louise and Emerald Lake, go for a hike and you’ll have a beautiful Glacier Lake to yourself. You can stay overnight in a backcountry campground or just visit on a day trip. (May to October)

Read post: Glacier Lake

Glacier Lake, Banff National Park

75. Hike through colourful alpine meadows

While most hikes in the Canadian Rockies are to the mountain top or end by the lake, Healy Pass Hike is a colourful treat for eyes when you hike through a huge alpine meadow filled with wildflowers. (July – August to see wildflowers)

Read post: Healy Pass Hike with Egypt Lake

Healy Pass Hike with Egypt Lake, Banff National Park-39

76. Walk around the Bow Lake

Bow Lake is located along Icefields Parkway and provides a lot of stunning angles or photography. You can walk around, or hike further to the Bow Falls, or enjoy a cake in the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge. You can visit all year round, the lake is by the road. It usually thaws in the beginning of June. (year-round)

100 things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Bow Lake

77. Enjoy the solitude in the Rockies

Canadian Rockies have so many lakes that even after years of living here, we still don’t know a lot of them and haven’t visited yet. Then there are some that are favourites for several reasons. Pictured below is a Boom Lake. It’s located on the border of Banff and Kootenay National Park, only a short hike from the parking lot. And yet, it’s quiet, picturesque and one of our favourites all year round. In the summer for running and swimming. In winter for cross country skiing. (year-round)

Read post: Boom Lake year-round

100 things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Boom Lake

Best things to do near Banff – Canmore edition

For more options in Canmore, read our post: Fun outdoor things to do in Canmore

78. Fly over the Rockies in a helicopter

On the Prairies or in Canmore there are small airports where you can hire a helicopter from a few minutes to an hour and you can see the beauty of the Rockies from a bird’s eye perspective. (May-October)

Book your helicopter tour here.

Read post: Canadian Rockies from above

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Fly over the Rockies in a helicopter

79. Visit old mining town Canmore

A short drive from Banff you can visit old mining town Canmore. Now the mines are closed but the town overcame its past and became one of the nicest places to live in Canada. (year round)

Book your historical walking tour of Canmore here.

20 things to do in Canmore - photograph the iconic peaks of Three Sisters

80. Bike or cross-country ski in Canmore Nordic Centre

One of the best places to bike or cross-country ski in Alberta is the Nordic Centre in Canmore. It was built for Calgary ’88 Olympic Games where athletes competed for Olympic medals. Cross-country ski tracks are maintained and lit at night during winter and as soon as the snow melts, it becomes a popular place for mountain bikers. It might feel strange at first but shout out random things to indicate bears you’re there and carry a bear spray; it is their popular area to hang around. (bike May-October, cross country ski November-April)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Bike or cross country ski in Canmore Nordic Centre

81. White-water rafting on Kananaskis River

Rafting on Kananaskis River is a great half day adventure right at the edge of Canadian Rockies and Prairies. (June-August)

82. Bike around Canmore

Canmore is surrounded by high mountain peaks and you will have beautiful views wherever you go. You can start at Riverside Park, cross the bridge and head south along the river. You will see few old mining sites and wildlife, too.

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Bike around Canmore

83. Explore the Rat’s Nest Cave

A great option to cool down in summer is caving in Rat’s Nest Cave but only if you’re not scared of small and dark places. The cave has a pleasant 5Β°C temperature all year round. (year-round)

84. Hike to Grassi Lakes

A family-friendly hike suitable for all fitness levels in Canmore is Grassi Lakes Trail. There are two options to get to the top with emerald-coloured lakes and a view of Canmore. (May-October)

Read post: Grassi Lakes Hike

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike to Grassi Lakes

85. Stay in Canmore to save money & avoid crowds

While both Banff and Canmore are very popular, staying in Canmore instead of Banff is considered to be cheaper to stay and also have fewer people on the streets. Canmore is right outside the national park and only 15 minutes away from Banff. They also introduced public buses between Banff and Canmore for easier commuting. (year-round)

20 things to do in Canmore - visit sandy Hoodoos

86. Hike up to the summit of Ha Ling Peak

Getting to the top of Ha Ling Peak is a quick 6km round trip hike. You will get fantastic mountain views of Bow Valley. Sometimes there are base jumpers at the top as it’s their favourite place to start. (May-October)

Read post: Ha Ling Peak vs. Mount Lawrence Grassi – which one to choose?

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike up to the summit of Ha Ling Peak

87. Visit Kananaskis Country

This is one of the provincial parks bordering with Banff National Park on the south side. It has similar landscape but it is not so protected. Here you can come for downhill biking or rent an ATV for a spin. There are also endless hiking trails in Kananaskis. (year round)

Read post: Little Lougheed Hike in Kananaskis or Galatea Lakes Hike

Little Lougheed hike in Kananaskis

Things to do near Banff: Kootenay, Yoho & Jasper National Parks edition

88. Explore neighbouring Kootenay National Park

Kootenay National Park doesn’t have any human residents as there is no town. On the other hand, it has plenty of wildlife, hiking and biking opportunities; and nature sightseeing. Most popular are Stanley Glacier and Paint Pots. (year-round)

Read post: Floe Lake Hike

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Explore neighbouring Kootenay National Park

89. Warm up in Radium Hot Springs

On the western edge of the Kootenay National Park, you can find a great place to warm up in the outdoor pool. It makes a great day trip just 90 minutes of driving from Banff. (year-round)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Warm up in Radium Hot Springs

90. Visit Yoho National Park and its capital Field

It’s the smallest national park on the borders of Alberta and British Columbia but probably most intense in beauty. Most of the landmarks are best to visit in summer. (some year-round)

Read post: Adventure travel guide to Yoho National Park

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Visit Yoho National Park and its capital Field

91. Spot rainbow under Takakkaw Falls

Takakkaw Falls are 381m high and are the second tallest waterfall in Canada (after Della Falls in British Columbia). This magnificent waterfall is so tall that water falls down in a form of a spray, not the stream. It is accessible through a set of hairpin turns and an easy and short walk. (June-October)

Read post: Iceline Trail

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Spot rainbow under Takakkaw Falls

92. Stay overnight at magical Lake O’Hara

This remote lake is accessible only by dirt road closed for general traffic. If you want to stay overnight you have to book your stay three months in advance. It has one of the best sceneries in The Canadian Rockies. (year round, camping available only June-September)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Stay overnight at magical Lake O’Hara

93| Hike to Lake McArthur

It is an easy hike with a great reward. Start hiking in the Lake O’Hara area and even if you can’t get a spot at the camp, take a bus for a day tour. Due to its colour, Lake McArthur is one of a kind in the Canadian Rockies. Lake colour from indigo to sapphire changes with the seasons. (June-October)

Read post: Hiking & camping guide to Lake O’Hara in Yoho

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike to Lake McArthur

94. Raft down the Kicking Horse River

Raft launch is just outside the western border of the national park (90 min. from Banff). Kicking Horse River is the only one with class 4 rapids close to Banff and surrounding national parks. (June-September)

Book your white water rafting adventure here.

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Raft down the Kicking Horse River

95. Relax at Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake has been discovered only 135 years ago. It is one of the top spots within The Canadian Rockies and easily accessible by car. You can stay right on the shore at Emerald Lake Lodge, take a canoe to paddle on the lake in summer or snowshoe around the lake in winter. (year-round)

Read post: Hiking in Yoho National Park

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Relax at Emerald Lake

96. Visit another outdoor heaven Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is comparable and much less visited national park and offers more outdoor options than Banff National Park. There is more biking trails, lots of hiking, and swimming in the lakes in summer is more pleasant. It is more spread out than Banff National Park so you will see fewer people on the trails. (year-round)

Read post: Adventure travel guide to Jasper National Park

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Visit outdoor heaven of Canadian Rockies - Jasper national park

97. Hike the Wilcox Pass

It is a lesser-known hike in Jasper National Park. The trail starts near the Icefield Centre, right where you leave Banff National Park and enter Jasper National Park. Easy and well-trodden trail is 8 km long (roundtrip) and elevation gain only around 300m. Once you hike above the tree line, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield.

Read post: Wilcox Pass Hike

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike the Wilcox Pass

98. Walk on the Columbia Icefield

Columbia Icefield is a popular attraction along the scenic road Icefields Parkway on the edge of Jasper National Park. You can take a tour and walk on the Athabasca Glacier with a guide or you can walk at the edge of the glacier by yourself. (May-September)

Read post: 65 adventurous things to do in Jasper National Park

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Walk on the Columbia Icefield

99| Explore the ice caves of Athabasca Glacier

If you’re driving the Icefields Parkway in winter, stop at Columbia Icefield and go explore the ice caves at the toe of the glacier. Bear in mind that it’s not always safe to enter the caves, you’re responsible for your own safety.  Wear spikes to avoid injury. (October-April)

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Explore ice caves of Athabasca Glacier

100. Hike to Mount Edith Cavell

This easy half-day hike is everything that the Rocky Mountains offer in one place. Glacier, lake, meadows and great views. During certain summer days it can be quite crowded, go as early in the morning as possible. (May-September)

For more hiking trails, read post: Hiking in Jasper National Park

100 best things to do in Banff National Park, Canada - Hike to Mount Edith Cavell

*In the spirit of full disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support!

Other small mountain towns in the Canadian Rockies

Fernie in British Columbia, the best kept local secret for outdoor junkies

Golden in British Columbia, close to six national parks

Revelstoke in British Columbia, a year-round outdoor hub

Read more about Canada:

How to get from Calgary to Banff: breakdown of all options

Best time to visit Banff National Park

Western Canada road trip from Calgary to Vancouver

Cheapest way to travel across Canada

 


Are you planning to visit Banff National Park? What is one of the things to do in Banff you like the most?


Spread the word! Pin this to your Pinterest board.

 

About Maya Steiningerova

Heyo, I’m Maya! An adventure athlete currently living near the Canadian Rockies with my partner in crime Michal. I love running in the mountains, jumping in the ice cold lakes, mountain biking and trying not so common activities, such as mountaineering. By showing that an ordinary person can live an extraordinary life, my hope is to inspire you to live an adventurous life and provide you with tips and tools for your own adventure.

Verified by MonsterInsights