Banff  

The wild heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Visiting Banff is a truly unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and a wide range of outdoor adventures. Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, this charming mountain town is one of the most iconic destinations in the Canadian Rockies. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities or serene natural beauty, Banff has something for everyone.

One of the top things to do in Banff is to explore the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. These glacier-fed lakes are among the most photographed in the Canadian Rockies, and for good reason. Canoeing across the calm waters or hiking the nearby trails offers views that are simply unmatched. Just a short drive away, the Icefields Parkway connects Banff with Jasper, winding through some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the Canadian Rockies.

For a panoramic view of the town and surrounding peaks, ride the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain. At the top, visitors can walk along the boardwalk and take in sweeping views of the Canadian Rockies in all directions. Another must-do is relaxing in the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs, where naturally heated mineral waters provide a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or skiing.

Wildlife spotting is also a popular activity in Banff. It’s not uncommon to see elk, mountain goats, or even bears while exploring the park. The Canadian Rockies are home to an incredibly diverse range of animals, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

In winter, Banff transforms into a snowy wonderland. World-class skiing and snowboarding await at nearby resorts like Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay—all offering thrilling terrain with stunning Canadian Rockies backdrops.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, peaceful nature, or vibrant mountain town charm, Banff and the Canadian Rockies deliver an experience that’s both majestic and memorable.

Night sky with stars and Milky Way above dark silhouettes of trees and mountains.
Flowing waterfall between rocky cliffs and lush moss.
Couple taking a selfie by a turquoise lake with mountains and trees in the background.
Turquoise lake with kayakers surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense evergreen forests.
Scenic view of a calm lake with a wooden dock, surrounded by mountains and pine trees, under a partly cloudy blue sky.
Person in a blue beanie and gray coat standing on a dock overlooking a lake with mountains and cloudy sky in the background.
A serene lake reflecting trees and mountains during sunrise with rocks in the foreground, surrounded by mist and pine forest.
Camera on tripod with two red chairs on a lakeside beach during sunset, mountains and pine trees in the background.
Two red Adirondack chairs facing a calm lake with tree-lined shores and a mountain backdrop during sunrise or sunset, reflecting pink clouds in the sky.
Mountain landscape with clear blue sky, forested slopes, snow-capped peaks, and a calm lake in the foreground.
Night sky with stars over a dark silhouette of mountains.
Two people in winter clothing taking a selfie near a turquoise lake, surrounded by pine trees and rocky mountains.
Serene lake landscape with mountains and forest reflecting in the calm water at sunrise. Several rocks are visible in the foreground, surrounded by mist.
Mountain landscape with clear blue sky, rocky peaks, and a lake reflecting the mountains and sky.
Woman standing in front of turquoise lake and mountains with overcast sky, wearing a gray jacket, blue beanie, and carrying a camera.