Crafting your Banff itinerary: top things to see and do

Banff isn’t a place you rush through. With glacier-fed lakes, winding mountain roads, and scenic hiking trails, this part of the Canadian Rockies rewards those who travel with a bit of flexibility. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a whole week, this guide focuses on what’s worth your time, how long to spend in each area, and how to structure your Banff itinerary to make the most of your trip. It’s designed with both first-time visitors and return travelers in mind, offering a stress-free plan that leaves room to explore Banff without feeling overscheduled.

Getting to know downtown Banff: culture and history

Banff is more than just a postcard-perfect mountain town. It has deep roots in the story of Canada‘s first national park and the Indigenous cultures that have called this region home for generations. Starting your trip here gives you a chance to appreciate some of the local history before heading into the surrounding wilderness.

You can spend the first day of your Banff itinerary exploring the charm of downtown, which is lined with outdoor gear shops, local cafes, galleries, and restaurants where you can fuel up for the days ahead. It’s a great spot to enjoy a stroll, adjust to the high altitude, and ease into your outdoor adventures.

Must-sees in downtown Banff

• Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies – Get an introduction to the region’s natural and cultural history through rotating exhibits, photography, and archival collections.
• Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum – Learn about the Indigenous cultures of the Canadian Rockies through exhibits on traditional clothing, tools, and storytelling.
• Cascade of Time Gardens – Wander stone pathways through terraced gardens filled with flowers, ponds, and gazebos.
• Banff Park Museum National Historic Site – Step inside this 1903 log cabin filled with preserved animal specimens and early wildlife exhibits.
• Banff Upper Hot Springs – Unwind with a relaxing soak in mineral-rich thermal waters.

Ride the Banff Gondola for bird’s-eye views

The Banff Gondola takes you 2,300ft up Sulphur Mountain in under 10 minutes. At the summit, there’s more than just the view of the Bow Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. You’ll find rooftop observation decks, interactive exhibits at the Above Banff Interpretive Centre, and the Above Banff Theatre. If you’re hungry, enjoy a meal with a view at Sky Bistro or Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen.

A short boardwalk trail leads to Sanson’s Peak, home to a historic weather observatory and the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site. It’s an easy walk with plenty of places to stop and take in the postcard-worthy surroundings.

The scenic beauty of Banff’s lakes: Moraine, Louise, and Minnewanka

Banff’s lakes are iconic. However, they also require some planning, especially during the summer months when it’s peak travel season.

Start early at Lake Louise before the crowds arrive. Take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, or follow one of the nearby trails if you’re up for an adventure. From there, hop on a shuttle to Moraine Lake, which is now closed to private vehicles due to limited access. You’ll need to book transportation in advance, but the incredible views are worth the extra effort.

In the afternoon, head back toward town and stop at Lake Minnewanka. You can rent a canoe, take a guided boat tour, or sit by the shore and take in your surroundings. This lake is much bigger and less crowded than the others, and it’s only about a 15-minute drive from downtown Banff.

Tea house hikes and more scenic trails

If you want to stretch your legs, Banff has plenty of trails to get your heart pumping. One of the most popular hikes is the Lake Agnes Tea House trail, which begins at Lake Louise. It’s a moderate hike that takes around three hours round-trip, featuring a small tea house at the top known for its homemade soup, tea, and scones. Just remember to bring cash, as cards aren’t accepted.

Other great hiking options around Banff include:

• Plain of Six Glaciers – A longer, more challenging hike that offers an impressive view of the mountains behind Lake Louise.
• Larch Valley – Starting from Moraine Lake, this trail is popular in late September when the trees show off fall colors at their peak.
• Johnston Canyon – An easy, family-friendly trail that follows elevated walkways to two scenic waterfalls.
• Tunnel Mountain – A short but rewarding hike from town with panoramic views over the Bow Valley.

Other activities to add to your Banff itinerary: from skiing to water sports

Banff is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There is a long list of activities to choose from for a summertime Banff itinerary, whether you want to get out on the water or explore on two wheels. Rent a canoe at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake for a paddle, or head to Two Jack Lake or Johnson Lake for swimming, paddleboarding, or a picnic.

The Legacy Trail is a paved biking path that runs between Banff and Canmore, stretching about 13 miles one way. E-bike rentals are also available in town if you’d prefer a little extra help on the hills.

In winter, Banff becomes a hub for snow sports. Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay Ski Resort all offer alpine skiing and snowboarding. Off the slopes, you can try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating.

Wildlife-watching: a nature lover’s dream

Spotting wildlife is one of the highlights of visiting Banff, and you don’t have to go far to see it. Elk are frequently spotted near town, and it’s not uncommon to see bighorn sheep or mountain goats along the cliffs by the roadside. Both black and grizzly bears are active in spring and early summer, especially in valley areas.

Some of the best spots for wildlife sightings include the Bow Valley Parkway, Vermilion Lakes, and Lake Minnewanka Loop. You can also join a guided wildlife tour led by local experts who know where to look and how to observe animals safely. These tours often increase your chances of spotting harder-to-find species while learning more about Banff’s ecosystem.

Read more: The best nature experiences in Canada according to local experts

Exploring beyond Banff: top outdoor experiences

If you have time to venture beyond Banff, the surrounding region offers even more to discover. Nearby national parks and scenic drives make excellent additions to your Banff itinerary.

Highlights of Jasper and Yoho National Parks

Located just west of Lake Louise, Yoho National Park makes for a memorable day trip with several must-see sights accessible by car. Highlights include:

• Emerald Lake – An alpine lake surrounded by forest and peaks, known for its vibrant green waters.
• Takakkaw Falls – One of Canada’s tallest waterfalls, plunging over 1,200ft.
• Natural Bridge – A popular roadside stop where the Kicking Horse River has carved through ancient limestone.

Wilderness adventures in Kananaskis Country

Kananaskis Country lies south of Banff and offers incredible hiking without the crowds. Some recommended trails include:

• Ptarmigan Cirque – An easy 2.8-mile loop for families and first-time hikers.
• Rawson Lake – A moderate 4.3-mile return hike, ending at an alpine lake beneath Mount Sarrail.
• Ha Ling Peak – A challenging 4.8-mile out-and-back trail with rewarding summit views over Canmore.

Note that a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required, which you can buy online or at the trailhead.

Marvels of the Icefields Parkway

You can also head north from Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park. Plan for extra time, as the drive is considered one of the most scenic routes in the Canadian Rockies and is full of photo-worthy stops. Be sure to explore:

• Peyto Lake – A short trail leads to a lookout over this bright turquoise lake, known for its unique wolf-head shape.
• Mistaya Canyon – An easy walk brings you to a deep limestone gorge with striking rock formations.
• Columbia Icefield – Take a guided tour of the glacier or visit the nearby Skywalk, a glass platform above the valley.

Once in Jasper, those craving some more epic outdoor landscapes shouldn’t miss Maligne Lake, the Athabasca Falls, and Mount Edith Cavell.

When and how to visit Banff: essential planning tips

The best time to visit Banff depends on what kind of experience you’re after.

• Late June to September is the best time for hiking, paddling, and visiting the lakes. Trails are open, shuttles are running, and the weather is pleasant.
• Mid-September to early October has cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. This is an excellent time for fall colors, especially if you don’t mind bundling up.
• December to March is peak season for skiing and snowboarding. The trails are quiet, and the mountain towns have a cozy winter vibe.
• April to May and late October to November are considered shoulder seasons in Banff. It’s less crowded, but trail closures and snow can limit access to some lakes and hikes.

Getting to and around Banff: transportation tips

Banff is about a 90-minute drive from Calgary International Airport. Renting a car is the easiest way to get around, especially if you plan to visit popular trailheads early or want the flexibility to explore the Icefields Parkway at your own pace.

Shuttle services are available, as the Banff Airporter and Brewster Express operate regular routes between Calgary and Banff. Once you’ve arrived, Roam Transit offers a reliable and affordable way to get around, with routes to popular destinations like Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, and Canmore.

Keep in mind that Moraine Lake is no longer accessible by private vehicle. To visit, you’ll need to reserve a spot on a Parks Canada shuttle or book with a guided tour.

Read more: Why Canada should be on everyone’s bucket list

Make it happen

Are you feeling ready to plan an epic Banff itinerary and experience the best that this Canadian gem has to offer? Whether it makes up the entirety or part of your trip to Canada, Banff is a must-visit for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike. So, get in touch with our locally-based travel experts, who’ll help you dig even deeper into this fascinating gem in Alberta.