Banff National Park - The jewel of the Rocky Mountains

Banff National Park, located in the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains, will bring you unforgettable experiences. Established in 1885, Banff is one of the first national parks in the world and is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

With an area of more than 6,641 km², Banff possesses wild and majestic natural beauty. The towering Rocky Mountains, clear blue lakes reflecting clouds and sky, white glaciers and lush green forests create a beautiful natural picture. Visitors can freely explore winding trails, admire majestic landscapes and enjoy the fresh air.

Each year, millions of visitors come to Banff to marvel at the emerald waters of Lake Louise, walk amongst the flower-filled heavens at Sunshine Meadows, and drive beneath the towering jagged peaks lining the Icefields Parkway.

How to get to Banff National Park

The closest major airport to Banff National Park is Calgary International Airport (YYC), located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) to the east. The drive from Calgary to Banff takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), making it the most convenient airport for reaching Banff National Park.

From Calgary International Airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use public transportation to reach Banff.

Banff National Park The jewel of the Rocky Mountains

Contact Details

Address: 43 Prestwick Place Southeast, Calgary, AB, Canada
Offical website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff
Phone: +1 403-762-1550

Banff National Park Fees 2024

Daily Admission:

Adults (18-64): $10.50 CAD
Seniors (65+): $9.00 CAD
Youth (0-17): Free
Family/Group (up to 7 people in one vehicle): $21.00 CAD

Discovery Pass (Annual Pass for all Canadian National Parks):

Individual: $72.25 CAD
Family/Group: $145.25 CAD

To update : https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/tarifs-fees#admission

Things to do in Banff National Park

Lake Louise: One of the most famous lakes in the world with emerald green water and a backdrop of Victoria Glacier. This is an ideal place for boating in the summer and ice skating in the winter.

Moraine Lake: Another lake with beautiful blue water caused by melting ice, located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
Town of Banff: The small town of Banff offers a variety of lodging options, restaurants, shops, as well as trails and outdoor activities.
Sulfur Mountain: Accessible by cable car, it offers panoramic views of the Bow Valley and surrounding mountains.
Icefields Parkway: A scenic route connecting Banff with Jasper National Park, with views that include glaciers, lakes and wildlife.
Wildlife: The park is home to many species of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, deer, and mountain goats.
Hiking and outdoor activities: Banff offers many summer and winter activities in Lake Louise such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and hot springs.

Hotels and Accommodations

Banff offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, from luxury lodges to cozy cabins.

Luxury Accommodations:

Fairmont Banff Springs: Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” this historic hotel offers an iconic stay with stunning views, world-class dining, and a renowned spa.
Rimrock Resort Hotel: Located just outside the town of Banff, the Rimrock offers luxury rooms, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Mid-Range Options:

Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa: Located on Banff Avenue, this lodge provides comfortable rooms, a full-service spa, and easy access to the town center.
Banff Ptarmigan Inn: A cozy mid-range hotel with a friendly atmosphere, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to Banff’s shops and restaurants.

Budget Accommodations:

HI Banff Alpine Centre: A great option for budget travelers and backpackers, this hostel provides dorms and private rooms in a friendly, rustic setting.
Samesun Banff: This affordable hostel in the heart of Banff has a social atmosphere and offers dormitory and private room options, making it ideal for solo travelers.

Camping:

Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds: Located close to the town of Banff, these campgrounds provide a range of options for tents and RVs and offer basic amenities in a beautiful, natural setting.
Lake Louise Campground: A great option for those looking to stay near Lake Louise, this campground offers both tent and RV camping with scenic views.

Weather in Banff National Park

The weather in Banff varies significantly throughout the year, and each season offers a unique experience for visitors.

Spring (March to May): Spring is a transition period where temperatures slowly rise from winter lows, averaging between -4°C (25°F) and 10°C (50°F). Snow can linger well into May in higher elevations, making this a quiet season as the park prepares for summer. Springtime is perfect for those seeking fewer crowds and peaceful hikes.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the most popular season in Banff, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 22°C (72°F). This is the prime time for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and climbing. However, the park can be crowded, and hotel prices are at their peak. Long daylight hours allow visitors to maximize their time exploring.

Fall (September to November): As temperatures drop, the park becomes quieter, with fewer tourists. The fall foliage, especially in September and early October, is spectacular, with vibrant golden larches contrasting the rugged mountains. Temperatures range from -3°C (27°F) to 14°C (57°F), and some higher elevation areas may start to see snow.

Winter (December to February): Winter transforms Banff into a snowy paradise, with temperatures between -15°C (5°F) and -5°C (23°F). Skiing and snowboarding are popular, particularly at resorts like Lake Louise Ski Resort. Winter is also perfect for ice skating on frozen lakes, snowshoeing, and spotting wildlife.

Tips for Visiting

Best time to visit: Banff is an ideal destination year-round. Summer (June to August) is a great time for hiking and lake activities, while winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
Crowded: The park can be very crowded, especially in the summer. Visiting during the spring and fall seasons can provide a quieter experience.
Safety: Always be cautious of wildlife and follow park regulations, especially in bear areas.