Banff 10 days

Your arrival point for accessing Banff. It's the largest airport in Alberta, offering various car rental services and shuttle options to Banff.

• Book rental cars or shuttles in advance, especially during peak season.

Check into your accommodation in the heart of Banff town. This lodge offers comfortable rooms and amenities for a relaxing stay.

Stroll down Banff's main street, browsing unique shops, art galleries, and souvenir stores. Enjoy the stunning mountain views as a backdrop.

• Look for local artisan crafts and Canadian-made goods.

Enjoy a taste of Mediterranean cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes.

Visit the iconic turquoise lake, renowned for its stunning reflections of the Victoria Glacier. Consider renting a canoe for a unique perspective.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
• Check Parks Canada for shuttle information and reservations, as private vehicle access to Moraine Lake is restricted.

Enjoy lunch or a coffee with breathtaking views of Lake Louise. This historic hotel offers a luxurious setting.

Experience the vibrant blue waters of Moraine Lake, set against the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The Rockpile offers a classic viewpoint.

• Access is via Parks Canada shuttle or guided tours due to road closures for private vehicles.
• The view from the Rockpile is a must-do for photographers.

Hike to this charming tea house overlooking Lake Louise for a well-deserved treat. Enjoy homemade baked goods and a unique mountain experience.

• The hike is moderate, approximately 3.5 km one-way.
• Bring cash as not all tea houses accept cards.

Ascend Sulphur Mountain via a scenic gondola ride for panoramic views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and Banff townsite.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
• Walk the boardwalk to Sanson's Peak for even more expansive vistas.

Dine at the mountaintop restaurant offering contemporary Canadian cuisine with unparalleled views. A perfect spot for a special lunch.

Relax and rejuvenate in the natural mineral hot springs, with stunning mountain scenery surrounding the pools.

• Bring your own towel and swimsuit to save on rental fees.

Enjoy casual dining with a focus on craft beers and creative pizzas. A popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Hike through a stunning canyon with catwalks suspended over a turquoise creek. See the Lower and Upper Falls, and consider continuing to the Ink Pots.

• Wear sturdy shoes, as the catwalks can be slippery.
• This is a popular trail; go early or later in the day to avoid peak crowds.

Enjoy lunch at the lodge overlooking the picturesque Emerald Lake. The lodge itself is a beautiful historic building.

Take in the vibrant green hues of Emerald Lake, surrounded by the Canadian Rockies. Walk the easy loop trail around the lake for different perspectives.

Savor contemporary Canadian cuisine with a focus on regional ingredients. Offers an elegant dining experience.

Embark on one of the world's most scenic drives, connecting Lake Louise to Jasper. Numerous viewpoints and short hikes along the way.

• Allow a full day for this drive; don't rush.
• Download offline maps as cell service is limited.
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

A stunning roadside lake with the Crowfoot Glacier visible in the background. Excellent photo opportunities.

Visit the viewpoint for an iconic, wolf-head-shaped lake with incredibly vibrant turquoise water. A short walk from the parking lot.

Learn about the Athabasca Glacier and the surrounding icefields. Options include the Ice Explorer tour onto the glacier or the Skywalk.

• Book the Ice Explorer tour in advance, especially during busy periods.

Enjoy a casual dinner and locally brewed craft beers in Jasper town. Offers pub fare and a lively atmosphere.

Explore the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park, with trails leading past waterfalls and impressive rock formations.

• Wear good hiking shoes; some sections can be uneven.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the geology and ecology.

Take a scenic boat cruise to Spirit Island, a picture-perfect location on Maligne Lake. The lake is known for its stunning blue color.

• Book the boat tour in advance, as it often sells out.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife along the lake shores.

Visit this unique lake that mysteriously drains each fall and refills in the spring. Its changing water levels create an interesting landscape.

Enjoy creative and globally inspired dishes in a fun, casual atmosphere. Known for its 'wicked good food'.

Ascend Whistlers Mountain for breathtaking views of the Jasper valley and surrounding peaks. Offers a different perspective than the Banff Gondola.

• Check weather conditions before going; it can be significantly colder at the top.
• Allow time to explore the summit trails.

Grab a quick and delicious sandwich or soup for lunch in Jasper town before starting your drive back.

Drive the scenic Bow Valley Parkway back towards Banff, stopping at viewpoints missed on the way up or exploring short trails.

• This route is often less crowded than the main highway and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Check for any seasonal closures or restrictions.

Enjoy locally distilled spirits and campfire-inspired cuisine in a rustic setting. A unique dining experience in Banff.

Hike to the stunningly clear, emerald-colored Grassi Lakes. The trail offers two options: an easy route and a more challenging, scenic route.

• The trail can be busy; consider going early.
• The more difficult trail offers better views but requires more effort.

Explore the charming town of Canmore, known for its independent shops, art galleries, and vibrant downtown area.

Enjoy healthy and delicious organic food, smoothies, and coffee in Canmore. A popular spot for a casual lunch.

Take a leisurely stroll along this scenic boardwalk, offering beautiful views of the creek and surrounding mountains.

Experience elevated pub fare and a wide selection of drinks in a stylish setting in Canmore.

Take a scenic boat cruise on the largest lake in Banff National Park. Offers stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

• Book cruise tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
• Look for bighorn sheep and elk along the shoreline.

Enjoy the picturesque views of Two Jack Lake, a popular spot for photography and picnics. The iconic Mount Rundle serves as a stunning backdrop.

Grab a coffee and a light bite in Banff town. Known for its excellent coffee and relaxed atmosphere.

A beautiful area for a short walk and relaxation, with picnic tables and scenic views of Cascade Mountain.

Indulge in a high-quality steak dinner in a sophisticated setting. A great option for a celebratory meal.

Visit Canada's oldest operating museum, showcasing natural history exhibits from the Canadian Rockies. A quick and informative stop before departure.

Enjoy a final coffee and pastry in Banff. Pick up some treats for the road.

Return your rental car and catch your departing flight.