Banff National Park

Canada's first national park remains the jewel in the crown. How could it not be? It’s got the Rocky Mountains, turquoise lakes, a picture-perfect mountain town and abundant wildlife. Banff is also one of the seven protected areas that make up the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors take in year-round wonders. Winter offers downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing. Summer brings hiking, fishing, camping and paddling. You can visit the hot springs year-round, but they are arguably more of an indulgence in the winter when the steam rises into the frigid air as you sink into the warmth. The picturesque town of Banff offers a range of accommodations and dining options for every budget. The shops lining Banff Avenue sell everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion. There really is something for everyone in Banff National Park. It’s no wonder that about three million people visit annually.