Top Things to do in Banff
Things to do in Banff, Canadian Rockies: The Best Nature & Parks
Flanked on all sides by the Rockies, Banff offers an irresistible combination of perfect powder, luxury lodges, fine dining and lively nightlife. A thriving arts scene and proximity to Lake Louise and Kananaskis County add to its allure. Don’t miss the hoodoos, intriguing rock spires, in Banff National Park.
Restaurants in Banff
1. Parker Ridge Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 554 reviews
Reviewed By hp_hphan - Ontario, Canada
I was very fortunate to see mountain goats. They were running from one side to the other. It was quite windy at the too but the View was amazing. Definitely recommend this hike.
2. Cory and Edith Passes
3. Helen Lake Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By Pinkdresses - Edmonton, Canada
Please be prepared with bear spray and bells. We heard a bear on the beginning of our hike and luckily were close by to other groups who also wore bells and visible spray. Better to be over-prepared than risk it! There have been sightings over the last few weeks as per All Trails as well. Not a path for simply running shoes but we did see it. Blizzard at the top of Cirque peak (beyond Helen lake). You should definitely continue on to get a beautiful view of Helen Lake.
4. Cascade Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By AndrewR396
My Sister Dad and I went here for the Very First time and we had a half day and Just Skied to the First Cascade Bridge but just as Fun and Skied a few Minutes Beyond the Bridge and Beatuiful but might Still Climb Easy but Didn't make it to the Cabin as that was 12 to 13 km One way and First Bridge only 6.6 Km but Return trip would take too long and a full day ski. The Downhill on Return near t Bridge and was fun you can ski just to the first one and go a little distance and turn back Anytime. But the First Bridge area and through the forest is just as interesting trail starts at lake Miniwanka Parking lot Area at Locked gate on the left.
5. Lake Minnewanka
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,734 reviews
There’s no comparing the emerald green waters of Minnewanka with any urban landscape. Mountain ridges stretch as far as the eye can see, eventually blurring into a blissful cascade of colours.
Reviewed By bhavnaandshahaan - Mumbai, India
This place has my heart forever... so beautiful, serene and quiet.... was in love with the natural beauty ... do take the scenic drive after the boat experience and soak in the magic ... on our boat tour we met Mr Tim Cook the ceo of apple which was a total surprise .... for more pics and reviews from our trip to banff follow us on instagram @ bhavnaandshahaan
6. Vermilion Lakes
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 906 reviews
Reviewed By Barbalooni - Overland Park, United States
We hiked near Vermillion Lakes and it is close to Banff Town. The water was blue/green and very clear. We will try to Kayak on it next time we visit.
7. Cascade Ponds
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
Reviewed By ramlahhaider - Calgary, Canada
While the flush toilets were out of order during our visit in June 2020, this is a perfect picnic spot in the mountains. Beautiful lake, right at the start of lake Minnewanka loop. Once covid 19 restrictions are lifted, this place comes with kitchen shelter, flush toilets, picnic tables and a fire pit with each table.
8. Bow Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,095 reviews
Reviewed By dorrym - Pimpama, Australia
You definitely need to do this walk while visiting we thoroughly enjoyed the outdoor life in Banff and these falls are a delight while there visit the Fairmont Hotel too perched above the falls
9. 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.
10. 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.
