Banff National Park

Canadian Rockies Banff, Alberta
Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada, is one of the country's most iconic and visited national parks. Banff National Park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. Established in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park and the third oldest in the world. Its creation was spurred by the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which recognized the area's scenic and recreational value.


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Things to Do in Banff National Park



Columbia Icefields

Jasper Columbia Icefield

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Banff National Park notes:
Jasper and Banff National Park's Columbia Icefields. Explore Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefields.


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Banff Gondola Ride Admission

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Banff National Park notes:
Enjoy stunning panoramas of six different mountain ranges on the state-of-the-art Banff Gondola. Soar to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird's-eye view of town and vistas of Canada's first national park.


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Banff Lake Minnewanka Cruise

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Banff National Park notes:
Majestic views of the Canadian Rockies while cruising beautiful Lake Minnewanka on this panoramic 1-hour interpretive cruise. Learn Native folklore while scanning the lake shore for big-horned sheep, deer, bald eagle and even the occasional bear. Cruise over to Devil's Gap for incredible views of the Prairies and surrounding mountains.


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Rocky Mountain Train Tickets

Jasper Rocky Mountain Train Tickets

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Banff National Park notes:
6-Day Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff, Icefield, Jasper, Lake Louise. OR 6 Day VIA Rail Banff - Jasper Rocky Mountain Train Tour from Calgary to Vancouver.


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Tour Moraine Lake

Tour Moraine Lake

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Banff National Park notes:
Moraine Lake is a stunning glacially-fed lake located in Banff National Park, in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada. Famous and iconic, Moraine Lake in the Canadian Rockies and is renowned for its breathtaking turquoise-blue waters and stunning surrounding mountain peaks.


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Banff National Park's Lake Minnewanka

Banff National Park's Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is one of the most popular and scenic destinations in Banff National Park, offering visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Here's what you need to know about Lake Minnewanka:

Lake Minnewanka's Location

Lake Minnewanka is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) northeast of the town of Banff, making it easily accessible by car. The lake is situated along Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, which follows the shoreline and offers opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Size and Depth of Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park, stretching approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) in length and reaching depths of up to 142 meters (466 feet). Its name means "Water of the Spirits" in the Nakoda language, reflecting its importance to Indigenous peoples.

Recreation on Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. In the summer, popular activities include boating, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. Boat tours are available for those who wish to explore the lake's pristine waters and scenic shoreline.

Lake Minnewanka Boat Tours

Several boat tour operators offer guided cruises on Lake Minnewanka, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about the lake's history, geology, and wildlife from knowledgeable guides. Boat tours typically run from May to October, with options for sightseeing tours, interpretive cruises, and private charters.

Lake Minnewanka Fishing

Lake Minnewanka is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities to catch trout, whitefish, and other species. Fishing is permitted in designated areas of the lake, and anglers must possess a valid national park fishing permit. Ice fishing is also popular in the winter months when the lake freezes over.

Hiking near Lake Minnewanka

The Lake Minnewanka area offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, ranging from short interpretive walks to longer backcountry treks. Popular trails include the Lake Minnewanka Trail, Stewart Canyon Trail, Aylmer Pass Trail, and Cascade Amphitheatre Trail, each offering unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.

Lake Minnewanka's Scenic Beauty

One of the main draws of Lake Minnewanka is its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, forested shorelines, and towering mountain peaks providing a picturesque backdrop. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains from various viewpoints along the shoreline.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lake Minnewanka offers something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to explore this iconic destination during your visit to Banff National Park and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

Banff National Park Home

Booking Banff National Park Adventures and Attractions

Banff, located in the Canadian Rockies, offers stunning natural landscapes and a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Banff National Park

Explore the pristine wilderness of Banff National Park, Canada's first national park. Take scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway and Bow Valley Parkway for breathtaking views.

Lake Louise

Visit the iconic Lake Louise, known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Enjoy activities like hiking, canoeing, or simply taking in the scenery.

Moraine Lake

Marvel at the striking beauty of Moraine Lake, surrounded by ten towering mountain peaks. Take a hike around the lake or rent a canoe to experience its splendor up close.

Banff Gondola

Ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the Bow Valley. Explore the boardwalk and visit the interpretive center.

Hiking Banff

Banff offers a plethora of hiking trails for all skill levels. Some popular trails include Johnston Canyon, Plain of Six Glaciers, and Sentinel Pass.

Banff Wildlife Viewing

Keep an eye out for wildlife such as elk, deer, bears, and bighorn sheep. Wildlife spotting tours are also available.

Banff Hot Springs

Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs while enjoying mountain views.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Paddle along the Bow River, Lake Louise or Bow Lake for a peaceful and scenic experience. Banff has some spectacular places for Canoeing and Kayaking.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Banff

In winter, Banff transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay.

Banff Dog Sledding and Ice Walks

Experience the thrill of dog sledding or join an ice walk to explore frozen canyons and waterfalls during the winter months.

Town of Banff

Stroll through the charming town of Banff with its shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visit the Banff Park Museum and the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies for cultural insights.

Columbia Icefield

The Columbia Icefield covers an area of approximately 325 square kilometers (125 square miles). It is one of the largest icefields in North America and is the source of several major glaciers.

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93, is a world-renowned scenic highway that stretches through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connecting Jasper National Park to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada.

Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake is famous for its unique shape that resembles the head of a wolf. It is named after Bill Peyto, an early trail guide and trapper in the Banff area.

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Learn about the history of Banff National Park and the discovery of the hot springs at the Cave and Basin historic site.

Banff National Park by Horseback

Exploring Banff by horseback is a classic and enjoyable way to experience the stunning landscapes and scenic trails of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff National Park

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