This article was published on October 26th, 2020

The town of Banff, Alberta, tucked into the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, is one of the most iconic destinations in Canada. Within an hours drive of Banff, you can see and explore the most picturesque and postcard-perfect scenery. It is where you can connect with nature, stay in luxury, and enjoy true Canadian hospitality. It’s also the home of Banff Pride.

Explore

Grab your camera and explore some of the area’s most scenic spots!  

Banff National Park

Banff National Park dates back to 1885, making it Canada’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Everything that makes the Canadian Rockies a year-round dream destination converges in symphonic beauty with this stunning park.

With more than 1,600 km (1,000 mi) of well-maintained trails, you can explore it on foot, by bicycle, and even horseback.

In the winter, the region turns into one of the most epic ski destinations. Banff has some of the finest powder anywhere. Moreover, the idyllic alpine towns of Banff and Lake Louise feature all the amenities you need for an unforgettable getaway.

Banff Lakes

Moraine Lake – ROAM Transit 

Tour Moraine Lake using ROAM public transit buses that take you from downtown Banff to Moraine Lake in a non-stop but fantastic journey. Moraine Lake, famous for its azure blue waters, created from the glaciers, is perfect for selfies and photos to light up your social channels. There are beautiful trails and pathways to capture the light, scenery and perfect angles.

Lake Minnewanka

Steeped in history and mystery, Lake Minnewanka offers year-round excursions on covered, heated boats with Pursuit Collection. Take in the fresh air, watch the wildlife, and get adventurous in Banff’s largest lake.

On weekend afternoons, sample the best local beers on the seasonal Beer Voyage cruise. The Black Anchor Snack Shop, located on the shore of Lake Minnewanka, has everything you need to enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, at the beach, or in the boat.

Bow Valley Lakes  

There are many other beautiful, scenic lakes that are easily accessible, each within a few minutes of each other, in the Bow Valley. They all offer incredible scenic vistas of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, with crystal clear water, picnic areas, and trails. The top three must-visit Bow Valley lakes include the Vermilion Lakes, Johnson Lake, and Two Jack Lake.

Banff Gondola

Tour Banff and explore the breathtaking scenes of six mountain ranges, the incredible Bow Valley, and Banff’s beautiful town from the Sulphur Mountain summit from the Banff Gondola. The 10 minute gondola ride from the mountain base to the summit is fun and exciting, passing over the pine-forests and trails, and offering a thrill of adventure.

Begin by exploring from the top by walking the boardwalk to the Cosmic Ray Station and learn more about Canada’s first national park at Sanson’s Peak. While there, check out the world-class mountain discovery center.

The view from the top is simply jaw-dropping. It’s a wholly reimagined summit experience giving you timeless views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

You can enjoy an elegant, mouthwatering meal at the award-winning Sky Bistro or get a warm cup of coffee at the Castle Mountain Coffee. You can expect exceptional service throughout, and the jaw-dropping, mind-blowing vistas leave unforgettable memories.

It gets even crazier – nightly live music, rooftop patio sips, and the most epic sunsets in summer.

Open top touring scenic drive through Banff

Explore and tour Banff than on a unique set of wheels! In this case, open-top vehicles that give you 360-degree views of the stunning sights. Hop onto one of these custom-made Ford Motor Company open top coaches and explore the places, people, and moments that have made the great Town of Banff, well, great.

The coaches have that old school feel from the 1930s, including a completely open roof, guide in period costume, and also come with modern comforts such as USB charging ports for your phone and other electronic devices. You never have to miss a moment.

You’ll be entertained throughout with a mix of rich characters, fascinating stories, and of course, jaw-dropping views, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to snap and glam it up.

Entertainment

The Radiant 

After long days of adventure and exploration, kick back at The Radiant, a parlor and lounge owned and operated by friends that call Bow Valley home. It serves up a dynamic mix of cocktails, drinks, and a boutique menu of shareable food options and, of course, live entertainment—there are certainly no dull moments in Banff.

The Radiant holds a special place in Banff through its audacious, cozy, and comfortable space that celebrates arts, culture, and community.

Relax

Willow Stream Spa

Find peace and calm on your trip at the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. It will bring you life, relaxation, and the healing powers of the alpine air, the hot springs, and the sacred waters to soothe your muscles and refresh your spirit.

The spa follows in the hot springs’ long tradition that attracted travelers more than 100 years ago with the pulsating waterfalls and mineral water to relax you completely. In the middle of the most incredible place, this quiet sanctuary awakens your senses and brings balance to your body.

Book your Banff vacation today

Banff is a year-round destination. There is always something to see and do. This winter, Canadians have the incredible opportunity to explore Banff and the greater Bow Valley all to themselves as international borders remain closed because of COVID19. It’s the perfect time to tour, reflect on the year, take in the sights, and rejuvenate.

If you’re outside Canada, put Banff on your bucket list. It’ll blow your mind. Start planning your trip today with the help of Banff Lake Louise Tourism: https://www.banfflakelouise.com/