Top Things to do in Banff National Park
6 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Banff National Park That You Shouldn't Miss
With Cascade Mountain to the north and Sulphur Mountain to the south, the town of Banff boasts a magnificent Canadian Rocky Mountain setting. Travelers are spoiled for choice by the irresistible combination of luxury lodges, perfect powder, renowned restaurants and energetic nightlife on offer. With both summer and winter appeal, Banff lures visitors to its stores, spas and slopes year-round.
Restaurants in Banff National Park
1. Valley of the Ten Peaks
2. Banff National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 523 reviews
Reviewed By EkMusafir - Pune, India
Banff National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, together with the other national and provincial parks that form the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. There are beautiful mountain landscapes to explore with tall peaks, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, canyons, limestone caves and fossil beds. There is a lot of wildlife in the forested regions which include Grizzly Bear, Black Bear, Wolves, Cougars, Wolverine, Red Fox, Weasel, River Otter, Coyote, Elk, Moose, Deer, Mountain Goat, Bighorn Sheep and many other smaller animals like Beaver, Squirrel and Chipmunks. We took a guided coach tour and first visited the photogenic lakes; Emerald, Louise and Moraine stopping the night in Banff town. Next day we visited Bow Lake, Peyto Lake and drove up to the Columbia Icefields and Jasper National Park via the Icefields Parkway, which is supposedly one of the most scenic motorways in the world, and justifiably so. The scenery on both sides of this Highway No. 93 was spectacular with snow capped peaks even in summer, and many sparkling lakes and waterways glinting between the tall trees in unique shades of blue, green and indigo. It was a truly memorable trip in which we picked up a canvas of beautiful landscape paintings that will forever remain etched in our minds as long as we live.
3. Temple Mountain
4. Sunshine Meadows
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 529 reviews
Located only a short distance, 16km/10m, from the Town of Banff, the pristine beauty of Sunshine Meadows is easily accessible for everyone, and can be best experienced and enjoyed through the relaxed comfort of our facilities. Take a ride up to the skies in Banff’s biggest gondola (8-passenger cabin capacity) with room for the whole family. Start at the base at an elevation of 1,660 m and ride the gondola 4.6km to the top gondola village terminal at 2,164 m where the Alpine Village is located. Take in all the views of the valley, mountain peaks and wildlife. Once you have reached the top – the Sunshine Village area, or just “the Village” – stop in at our new interpretive center before embarking on an exploration of the six diverse, graveled hiking trails, that wind their way through three alpine lakes, waterfalls and flower filled meadows covering more than 12 Km through the Sunshine Meadows. For a more revealing experience, join one of our hosted trail tours and enjoy learning about the wonders of the alpine world of Sunshine Meadows and more as you through some of Banff National Park’s most spectacular spots. Feel on top of the world when you summit Mt Standish via our Standish Express Sightseeing Chairlift. With an elevation of 2,400m/7,875ft, it will give you a full 360 degree view of the area. From here you can enjoy an unobstructed view the famous Mount Assiniboine – the Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies at 3,618m/ 11,871ft – as well as other joys on the horizon, such as Rock Isle, Laryx and Grizzly Alpine lakes. There are three retail stores awaiting you for all your hiking essentials and Canadian Rockies souvenirs. After taking in the captivating views, indulge in one of our six licensed food outlets, including four fully serviced restaurants, including a BBQ deck of outside Mad Trapper’s Smokehouse. Come by to wind down with a drink before making your way back down the gondola.
Reviewed By clarkrica - Banff, Canada
beautiful hike in the summer, so many flowers to see. something to do to get away from the crazy tourist crowd of banff in the summer time.
5. Bow Valley Parkway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,387 reviews
Reviewed By BrittanyMExplores - Winnipeg, Canada
The Bow Valley Parkway is a scenic and beautiful drive through Banff connecting with Lake Louise that runs parallel to the much busier Trans-Canada Highway. The well-maintained paved road is narrow and winding as it meanders through the thick pine-tree forest with gorgeous mountain views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Unfortunately, I did not see any wildlife while driving there, but keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready. There are numerous pull-outs with scenic views along the route. The Parkway offers access to the hikes at Johnston Canyon, which I would highly recommend (although arrive early in the morning to beat the rush and crowds). This drive is very pretty and well worth it. If you're driving there in the early morning, it will likely be peaceful and relaxing. Visited in July 2017.
6. Lake Louise Summer Gondola
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By TonyTiger19 - Montreal, Canada
A must. Great view up and the restaurant is also a must because of the fantastic view. You can hike a little. Shops are grate and there is a wildlife museum un top.
