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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Gateway Cities to Banff National Park

Gateway Cities to Banff National Park

Banff National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada, and there are several gateway cities that provide convenient access to the park. Here are the main gateway cities to Banff National Park:

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is the largest city closest to Banff National Park, located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) east of the park. Calgary International Airport (YYC) serves as a major transportation hub, offering flights from domestic and international destinations. From Calgary, visitors can easily access Banff National Park by car, shuttle bus, or rental car via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).

Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton is another major city in Alberta, located approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) northeast of Banff National Park. Edmonton International Airport (YEG) offers domestic and limited international flights. While it's farther from Banff than Calgary, Edmonton can still serve as a gateway for travelers driving from northern or eastern locations.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Although farther from Banff National Park than Calgary or Edmonton, Vancouver can serve as a gateway city for travelers coming from the west coast or for those combining a visit to Banff with exploring other parts of British Columbia. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a major international airport with connections to destinations worldwide.

Seattle, Washington (USA)

For travelers coming from the United States, particularly the Pacific Northwest, Seattle can serve as a gateway city to Banff National Park. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers numerous domestic and international flights, and it's possible to drive from Seattle to Banff in approximately 10-12 hours, depending on road and border conditions.

While these are the main gateway cities to Banff National Park, visitors can also access the park from other nearby towns and cities in Alberta and British Columbia. Regardless of where you start your journey, the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park awaits you upon arrival.

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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.