Banff 2 weeks

Canada's oldest natural history museum, housed in a historic log building. It showcases exhibits on Banff's wildlife, geology, and human history.

• Check for guided tours to enhance your understanding.

The vibrant main street of Banff, lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, souvenir shops, and restaurants. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Look for local artisan crafts.

A popular mid-range restaurant offering authentic Greek cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Known for its fresh ingredients and generous portions.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

World-renowned for its stunning turquoise waters set against the Victoria Glacier and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. A paradise for photographers and nature lovers.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
• Rent a canoe for a classic Lake Louise experience.

A historic teahouse accessible via a scenic hike from Lake Louise. Enjoy a cup of tea and a treat with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

• The hike is moderately challenging; wear sturdy shoes.
• Bring cash as they may not accept cards.

Famous for the 'Twenty Dollar View' from the Rockpile, showcasing the Valley of the Ten Peaks and its vibrant blue waters. Access is restricted to shuttle or Parks Canada transport.

• Book shuttle tickets well in advance, as private vehicle access is limited.
• The light is best in the late afternoon for photography.

A scenic alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, bears, and bighorn sheep.

• Drive slowly and use pull-offs to observe wildlife safely.
• Early morning and late evening are the best times for sightings.

A popular hike through a deep limestone canyon, featuring catwalks suspended over the river and leading to stunning waterfalls. The Lower and Upper Falls are easily accessible.

• Wear appropriate footwear as the catwalks can be slippery.
• Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.

A short, steep hike offering panoramic views of Storm Mountain and the surrounding Bow Valley. It's a rewarding stop for photographers.

• The trail can be rough; good hiking shoes are recommended.

A casual and popular spot in Banff known for its delicious pizzas and relaxed pub atmosphere. A great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

• Try their signature 'Bear's Paw' pizza.

Ride the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking 360-degree views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and Banff townsite. Explore the boardwalk to Sanson's Peak.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time.
• The summit can be windy and cooler, so bring layers.

Located at the top of the Banff Gondola, this restaurant offers fine dining with unparalleled panoramic views. Perfect for a special lunch.

• Reservations are highly recommended.

Relax and rejuvenate in the natural mineral hot springs with stunning mountain vistas. A perfect way to soothe muscles after hiking.

• Bring your own towel and swimsuit to save on rental fees.
• It can get busy, especially on cooler days.

A beautiful, easily accessible lake along the Icefields Parkway, known for its reflections of the Crowfoot Glacier and Mount Thompson. The historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge is located here.

• The reflection of Crowfoot Glacier is particularly striking in the morning.

Home to one of the most photographed viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies, offering a stunning vista of Peyto Lake, shaped like a wolf's head, surrounded by forested mountains.

• A short, paved walk leads to the main viewpoint.
• The colors of the lake are most vibrant under direct sunlight.

The gateway to the vast Columbia Icefield, the largest ice cap in North America. Here you can learn about glaciers and book tours onto the ice.

• Consider the Ice Explorer tour or the Glacier Skywalk for unique experiences.

Board a massive Ice Explorer vehicle for a tour onto the Athabasca Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers of the Columbia Icefield. You can step onto the ancient ice.

• Wear warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures on the glacier are low.

A powerful waterfall where the Athabasca River plunges through a narrow gorge, carving out the rock below. Numerous viewpoints and short trails offer different perspectives.

• The spray from the falls can make pathways wet; be cautious.

A beautiful waterfall where the river narrows and plunges over a rocky ledge. A footbridge offers a great vantage point, and a short trail leads to the upper falls.

• Accessible via a short walk from the parking lot.

A short hike leads to a narrow, sculpted canyon where the Mistaya River flows through a slot. The powerful erosion creates unique rock formations.

• The viewpoint is a short, easy walk from the parking area.

A convenient dining option located at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, offering hearty meals with views of the surrounding wilderness. A good stop on the return journey.

• It can be busy during peak tourist season.

A world-class facility offering hiking and biking trails with stunning views of the Three Sisters and Mount Lawrence Grassi. Excellent for photography.

• Trails range from easy to challenging; choose according to your fitness level.

A relatively easy hike leading to two stunning, emerald-green lakes. The trail offers beautiful forest scenery and viewpoints.

• The 'easy' trail is more accessible, while the 'more difficult' trail offers better views.

A charming mountain town with a vibrant main street featuring art galleries, boutiques, and numerous cafes and restaurants. It offers a more local feel than Banff.

• Explore the local art scene.

A popular gastropub in Canmore offering a diverse menu of elevated pub fare and craft beers. Known for its lively atmosphere and good food.

• Try their signature burgers or fish and chips.

The largest lake in Yoho National Park, renowned for its stunning emerald-green color, framed by the President Range. The historic Emerald Lake Lodge sits on its shores.

• Rent a canoe for a unique perspective of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• The walk around the lake is relatively flat and offers beautiful views.

Enjoy a meal with views of the breathtaking Emerald Lake. The lodge offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local ingredients.

• Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.

One of the highest waterfalls in Canada, cascading dramatically from a hanging valley. The drive to the falls is scenic, though the road is steep and winding.

• The road to Takakkaw Falls is typically open from mid-June to mid-October.
• Be prepared for switchbacks on the final stretch.

Considered by many to be the most beautiful place in the Canadian Rockies, Lake O'Hara offers pristine alpine lakes, meadows, and stunning mountain scenery accessible via a limited bus service or a long walk.

• Reservations for the bus are essential and extremely difficult to obtain; book months in advance or be prepared to walk the road (11km one way).
• The network of hiking trails around the lake is world-class.

A small, rustic day lodge offering basic refreshments and a place to rest. It's a central point for exploring the trails around Lake O'Hara.

• Pack your own lunch and snacks as options are limited.

A moderate hike offering spectacular views over Lake O'Hara and the surrounding peaks. It winds through alpine meadows and offers numerous photo opportunities.

• This is one of the most popular trails in the Lake O'Hara area.

The birthplace of Canada's National Parks, this site features natural thermal mineral springs within a cave and basin. Interpretive displays tell the story of its discovery and significance.

• You can walk boardwalks around the thermal features.

Offers an iconic, postcard-perfect view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Bow River valley, especially beautiful in the morning or late afternoon light.

• Easily accessible by car or a short walk from town.

A series of shallow lakes and wetlands west of Banff townsite, offering stunning reflections of Mount Rundle. Excellent for wildlife viewing and photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

• There are several pull-offs along the scenic drive for photos.
• Best light for reflections is early morning or late evening.

A unique establishment that distills its own spirits and serves them in creative cocktails, alongside a menu of campfire-inspired dishes. Lively atmosphere.

• Try their signature 'Rundle Mountain' cocktail.

A short but steep hike offering excellent views over Banff townsite, the Bow Valley, and Mount Rundle. It's a popular local trail.

• The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels.

A relatively easy and scenic hike starting from the Moraine Lake parking area, leading to two beautiful subalpine lakes with stunning mountain backdrops.

• Access requires shuttle or bus to Moraine Lake (see Day 2 notes).
• Be aware of bear activity in the area.

Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle along the Bow River, enjoying unique perspectives of Banff town and the surrounding mountains from the water.

• The river current is gentle in this section, making it suitable for beginners.

Continue exploring the breathtaking Icefields Parkway, heading north towards Jasper. Numerous viewpoints and short hikes await along this world-famous scenic drive.

• Allow ample time for stops; the drive is as much about the journey as the destination.

A moderately challenging hike offering spectacular panoramic views of the Saskatchewan Glacier and the surrounding icefields. It's a popular choice for its rewarding vistas.

• Can be windy and exposed; dress in layers.
• The trail is well-marked.

A unique roadside waterfall that cascades over a cliff face right next to the highway. It's a beautiful and easily accessible stop.

• Be cautious of traffic when stopping.

A popular brewpub in Jasper offering a range of craft beers brewed on-site and a hearty pub-style menu. A great spot to refuel after a long drive.

• Try a flight of their different beers.

The deepest canyon in Jasper National Park, featuring a series of bridges that cross over the rushing turquoise water. Explore the different levels and viewpoints.

• Wear sturdy shoes as the trails can be uneven.
• Consider visiting during winter for a unique ice walk experience (guided tours available).

A unique lake known for its disappearing waters, which drain through underground sinkholes. The surrounding landscape is dramatic and scenic.

• The lake's water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year.

Jasper's largest natural lake, famous for its stunning turquoise waters and the iconic Spirit Island. A boat cruise is a popular way to experience its beauty.

• Book the boat cruise in advance, especially during peak season.
• The cruise offers incredible photo opportunities.

A powerful waterfall where the Athabasca River plunges through a narrow gorge, carving out the rock below. Numerous viewpoints and short trails offer different perspectives.

• The spray from the falls can make pathways wet; be cautious.

A beautiful waterfall where the river narrows and plunges over a rocky ledge. A footbridge offers a great vantage point, and a short trail leads to the upper falls.

• Accessible via a short walk from the parking lot.

Enjoy a final Canadian Rockies meal in Jasper before departing. This restaurant offers a diverse menu in a relaxed setting.

• A good option for a hearty lunch.