Overview
Banff is Canada's oldest national park, established in 1885 around the Cave and Basin hot springs. It covers about 6,600 square kilometres of the Rocky Mountains in Alberta.
The town of Banff and the village of Lake Louise are the main bases. The park is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best time to visit
June to September for hiking and lake access; lakes are often frozen until June. December to April for skiing.
Highlights
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1
Lake Louise
A glacier-fed lake below Victoria Glacier, with lakeshore trails and teahouse hikes.
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2
Moraine Lake
A vivid blue lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks; access is by shuttle or bus in summer.
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3
Icefields Parkway
The scenic road north towards Jasper, lined with glaciers and viewpoints.
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4
Banff Gondola
Rides up Sulphur Mountain for wide views over the Bow Valley.
Getting there
Banff town is about 90 minutes' drive west of Calgary International Airport on the Trans-Canada Highway. Airport shuttles and regional buses run to Banff and Lake Louise.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, permits and any fees change, so check the official website before you go.
- Time needed
- Allow at least three days.
Official information: Parks Canada: Banff National Park. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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