Banff National Park is a vast untamed territory that begs to be explored. Wild animals roam the valleys, eagles soar over the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and pure water streams into rivers from 1,000 glaciers. Hundreds of years ago aboriginal natives first discovered its beauty, quickly followed by explorers, map makers, and mountain climbers. Even the odd celebrity or royal type have popped by.
Where you sleep in Banff National Park can be a rare alpine experience in itself. Rough it at a campground in the deep wilderness or pamper yourself at a five-star resort. Choose between that friendly bed and breakfast in Banff, a rustic cabin in the hamlet of Lake Louise, or a hotel in any price range. Maybe your taste runs more to a quirky boutique inn, hostel, or a remote mountain lodge reached only by foot, on skis, or on top of a horse.
Cherished by Canadians, Banff National Park is renowned around the world as a protected paradise with 6641 square km of mountains, forests, and lakes to explore. But in the middle of this vast wilderness you will also discover Banff and Lake Louise, two small communities that literally open their doors to the world.
You hope to see at least one wild animal, can’t miss a photograph on the shores of Lake Louise and are wondering what to pack. A visit to the unspoiled surroundings of Banff National Park takes just a little forethought but it’s essentially a breeze.
Celebrate with the local residents in all four seasons and join in on any number of unique festivals and fun events in Banff National Park. Get an overview of what's on during your visit right from the Calendar of Events.
We love to see and hear about the experiences you've enjoyed while visiting Banff, Lake Louise, and Banff National Park. You can upload your own photos or view and comment on the images of others who have enjoyed a spectacular Canadian Rockies Vacation.