10 Things you MUST do in Banff National Park, Alberta
We were so excited to head out to Alberta this summer, as I had never been and Ben hadn’t been since he was young. We spent so much time prior to our trip researching the best things to see and do; some of them worth while, others not so much. Given that we only had 4 days in Banff National Park, we had to be incredibly selective and cautious of time. We’re already planning our next trip out there, and we can’t wait to discover more places that we can add to this list!
This is our prioritized list of the top 10 things you MUST do if you’re in Banff National Park.
1. Moraine Lake
To be honest, we could do a whole blog post on this one. There is so much to know about this little gem! So, stay tuned!
Our alarms were set for 3:30 AM (yes, 3:30 in the morning) to head out for Moraine Lake! We had heard from so many people that if you are not there BEFORE sunrise, you won’t get a parking spot. We were not about to take that risk, so we were up super early!
We arrived at Moraine Lake around 5 AM, and GOT THE LAST PARKING SPOT! (I did a little celebratory dance in the parking lot, despite the dirty looks from people who came in after us).
Upon arrival, I completely understood why this place was so highly recommended. Even in the dawn light before sunrise, the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. We spent hours here walking the little trails, and simply admiring the stunning water and incredible mountains. We recommend spending time on the Rock Pile Trail, which was the perfect spot to watch the sunrise, and enjoy the sights.
2. Big Beehive Hike at Lake Louise
Lake Louise has an incredible view from its shores. You have the Fairmont behind you, stunning blue waters in front of you, and mountains surrounding you. What could be better? WELL, there are so many stunning hikes that make the view even better! Plus, when you move away from the shores of the lake, you also move away from the crowds.
On the Big Beehive hike you actually see three pretty cool spots. Firstly you come across Mirror Lake, which offers an incredible view of the Beehive from below. Secondly, you find yourself at the Lake Agnes (named after Canada’s first Prime Ministers wife), which offers stunning views, and a lovely little tea house to refuel. Lastly, we hiked the big beehive which took us around Agnes Lake, and up, up, up!
A quick note to anyone traveling with Ben… Don’t trust that he is reading the signs correctly. We had originally intended to do the Little Beehive Hike (an additional trail to take after getting to the Lake Agnes Teahouse above Lake Louise), but Ben read the sign wrong and took us on a WAY longer hike. But, I admit… it was totally worth it! The views were stunning! (Just make sure you are wearing non slip footwear, as parts of the trail are a little steep and sketchy for my Nike sneakers)
3. Lake Louise Gondola & The Whitehorn Bistro
There are so many mountains to see, and such little time! We chose to go up the Lake Louise Gondola over the Banff Gondola for two reasons: price & crowds. We had heard from many people that the Banff gondola is very busy and often crowded, while the Lake Louise Gondola is quieter, offers a cool view of Lake Louise in the distance, and it is cheaper- woot woot! We enjoyed a nice dinner & drinks at the top of the mountain at the Whitehorn Bistro, and WOW WHAT A VIEW. Hint** We went a little over an hour before they closed, and were able to snag an incredible spot right by the glass. It was only us and a few other couples enjoying the sights. Our server had said that 4 Pm onward is their quietest time.
4. Just Drive!
We highly recommend renting a car for your trip to Banff due to the flexibility it provides and the views you’re able to see. You’re able to enjoy all the sights without having to rely on bus schedules (if they even go to the places you’re interested in). Plus, the mountains that you are driving through are absolutely gorgeous! With your own car, your able to stop where you’d like and explore everywhere!
We rented our car with Enterprise in Calgary, and loved every second with our little Hyundai Accent.
5. Hoodoos Viewpoint
The Hoodoos Viewpoint offers incredible views of hoodoos, the Bow river, Rundle Mountain, and more! It was a spot that we actually found by accident on our way to the Tunnel Mountain Reservoir in Banff, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for other hidden gems. The viewpoint has lots of designated vantage points, including plaques informing you what mountains you’re looking at and other interesting facts. There are also lots of little trails along the mountainside, each one providing you with different stunning views.
6. Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon offers visitors lots of options when it comes to what you’d like to see on your hike, and how long you would like to hike. We chose to hike all the way to the Upper Falls, which took about 2 hours round trip. You simply follow a clearly designated path along the river, which has railings in place for your safety. Afterwards, be sure to grab a bite to eat at the shack, lodge or bistro. We enjoyed some yummy burgers and fries before hitting the road back to Calgary. Also, this is where we saw our first (and only) bear of the trip!
7. Explore the town of Banff
We spent time exploring the main streets of downtown Banff, popping into stores and restaurants. In true tourist fashion, we stopped for dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory- yum!
8. The Mount Norquay Viewpoint
The Mount Norquay Viewpoint is an beautiful green space overlooking the town of Banff, offering a different perspective from the others we’d seen. We simply drove up, parked in the lot, and relaxed in the sunshine on the mountain side. If you bike, there were many people biking up to this incredible view… but let’s be real, I’m far too lazy for that option.
9. The Tunnel Mountain Hiking Trail
This was a perfect afternoon hike for the whole family. We did this hike with four children (ages 13, 11 & 9), and had no problems at all. The hike consists of a moderate trail, with lots of long switchbacks, leading to an incredible view of the town of Banff on one side and Banff Springs Golf Course on the other.
10. Tunnel Mountain Reservoir
The Tunnel Mountain Reservoir is an incredible meadow surrounded by towering mountains (real talk: I totally had a Mario Von Trapp moment here- spinning in circles with my arms above my head and everything). It is actually a very popular wedding ceremony location, so try to go midweek to have the place to yourself. They also have a sign outlining when wedding ceremonies are going to be taking place that week, so you’re able to check in advance when the space is unavailable.
Well there you have it, our top 10 list of things you must do while you’re in Banff. If you have any recommendations of places that we need to see on our next trip, be sure to let us know!
Bon Voyage!
- Becks