Welcome to Banff National Park, one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Located in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, Banff is Canada’s first national park and a natural paradise filled with turquoise lakes, towering peaks, vast forests, and wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or unforgettable scenery, Banff offers it all.
Why Visit Banff National Park?
Banff is a dream destination for outdoor lovers. It blends natural beauty with outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Think snow-covered mountains, crystal-clear lakes, scenic drives, and cozy lodges — perfect for every season.
Whether you’re hiking in summer or skiing in winter, Banff invites you to slow down, take in the view, and breathe the fresh mountain air.
Top Places to See in Banff National Park
1. Lake Louise
Known for its stunning turquoise waters and backdrop of the Victoria Glacier, Lake Louise is picture-perfect. In summer, you can canoe across the lake or hike the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail. In winter, it becomes a frozen wonderland ideal for skating or snowshoeing.
2. Moraine Lake
Just a short drive from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is equally jaw-dropping. Surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, it’s one of the most photographed spots in Canada. Get there early — parking fills up fast!
3. Banff Town
The charming town of Banff offers shops, restaurants, and galleries, all surrounded by mountain views. Don’t miss the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak, or take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for incredible panoramic views.
4. Icefields Parkway
Considered one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway stretches from Banff to Jasper. Along the way, you’ll pass glaciers, waterfalls, and scenic stops like Peyto Lake and the Athabasca Glacier.
5. Johnston Canyon
Explore Johnston Canyon’s easy trail that winds through dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and catwalks. In winter, the frozen waterfalls make for a magical hike with the help of ice cleats.
🚶♀️ Things to Do in Banff
- Hiking & Walking Trails: Choose from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging alpine hikes.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot elk, bears, mountain goats, and more (from a safe distance!).
- Canoeing & Kayaking: Paddle across Banff’s pristine lakes in the summer months.
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Visit world-class resorts like Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village.
- Camping & Stargazing: Banff is part of a Dark Sky Preserve, offering some of the best stargazing in North America.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Banff
- Summer (June–August): Perfect for hiking, canoeing, and scenic drives.
- Fall (September–October): Quieter trails, golden larches, and crisp air.
- Winter (November–March): Great for snow sports and cozy cabin stays.
- Spring (April–May): Melting snow, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
Banff National Park isn’t just a place — it’s an experience. Whether you’re hiking to hidden lakes, skiing through powdery trails, or soaking in the hot springs with snowflakes falling around you, Banff will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
At Sunsets and Cities, we believe in helping you find destinations that inspire, heal, and amaze. Banff is one of those rare places that does all three.
