Everywhere you look is a perfect picture from a glossy travel book. The elements that make the Rockies a year-round dream destination – dazzling glaciers, big animals, alpine meadows and emerald lakes - are right here in Banff National Park.

A scenic hour and a half drive west of Calgary leads to one of the most popular national parks in the world. Nestled in superb natural settings, the charming towns of Banff and Lake Louise have all the comforts of the big city. Over 7,500 people call the park home, so you’re as likely to encounter the locals as you are the resident wildlife.

After an invigorating day of alpine adventure, nourish your body and soul in the soothing natural waters of the outdoor hot springs. See for yourself why UNESCO declared Canada’s original national park a World Heritage Site.

Big peaks. Big elk. Big caves. Big festivals. Here’s your insider Banff National Park checklist!

Soothing springs

Slip into warm natural hot springs all year at Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Flyin’ high

For a bird’s eye view of endless peaks and valleys, ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola. 

Fore!

Tee off in the alpine paradise of the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Resort. 

Blazin’ blades

Ice skating outdoors is as Canadian as it gets. Glide across a frozen lake or hop on the river and go, right in downtown Banff.

Alpine arts

Take in the Banff Summer Arts Festival, with over 200 events by local and international artists, unfolding over the summer months.

Take a hike

Choose from 1,600 km (1,000 mi) of glorious alpine trails. Local favorites include Plain of 6 Glaciers - Lake Agnes Teahouse, Sunshine Meadows, Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass and Sunshine to Mt. Assiniboine. 

It’s all downhill

Carve the powder at Lake Louise Ski Area , Mt. Norquay or Sunshine Village. 

Boating in Banff

Cruise Lake Minnewanka, the biggest in the park. Canoe to the far shores of Lake Louise, just as the Aboriginals and early explorers did.

Hit the road

See for yourself why National Geographic rated the Icefields Parkway one of the “10 Greatest Drives in the World.”  

Can’t get enough of this addictive mountain getaway? Explore more of the Canadian Rockies.