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Top Reasons to Visit Banff: A Year-Round Adventure in the Heart of the Canadian Rockies
Banff, the resort town jewel of the Canadian Rockies, is a year-round destination that offers breathtaking landscapes, exhilarating adventures, and cozy retreats. For us, this magical place marked a special milestone - our first road trip across Canada.
Taking the 30+ hour drive from Ontario to Alberta, we really did marvel at the incredible beauty of Jenn’s home country. For Leon, it was an exciting new discovery; for Jenn, it was a nostalgic staycation that many Canadians themselves don't do all that often. It is the 2nd largest country in the world right?!
The trip really was special, and honestly we would take the drive over flying every time. There is just too much beauty in the landscape that you would miss on a plane. The highway is immaculate, safe and easy to drive, and well the views - they speak for themselves. In this post we will delve into all the reasons why Banff has to be on your vacation list, what Banff has to offer, and why it is an all-year-round destination.
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Why Banff is Perfect for Year-Round Travel
Ok, so we'll get straight to the point - why is Banff an all-year hit? Well, Banff’s charm transcends seasons, offering something unique no matter when you visit. Its iconic Canadian Rockies backdrop, diverse wildlife, and excellent tourist infrastructure make it a bucket-list destination for travelers and Canadians.
● Iconic Canadian Rockies: Towering peaks and serene lakes create an unforgettable setting. Much of the time you are either driving up, down, or towards them, and it is absolutely spectacular.
● Diverse Wildlife: Spot bears, elk, and mountain goats in their natural habitat. We did spot a baby bear, but that was it. Plenty of goats though, and their ability to scale mountains is fascinating to see.
● Tourist-Friendly: From luxury resorts to well-maintained trails, Banff caters to every type of traveler. There are plenty of options, but being a resort town, bear in mind prices can vary wildly in peak seasons.
One might automatically think skiing and bears in Banff, and they are indeed there and awesome, but there is also a host of other things to enjoy about this wonderful spot in Alberta. Let's take a Closer look at some of our top highlights from our time there, plus a few things you can do that we sadly missed out on.
Winter Wonders in Banff
⪢ World-Class Skiing and Snowboarding
In winter, Banff transforms into a snowy playground. Resorts like Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village, and Mount Norquay offer slopes for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.
⪢ Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking
Prefer a slower pace? Snowshoeing and winter hiking let you explore the tranquil beauty of snow-covered trails. Johnston Canyon Icewalk is a must-see, where frozen waterfalls and frosty landscapes create a magical experience.
⪢ Athabasca Glacier
One of those 'must-do' locations, the Athabasca Glacier is a spectacular natural phenomenon that will not be around forever. Indeed the opportunity to walk on an actual ice glacier does not come around often! Not to mention the taking the steepest road in all of North America to get there, in a million-dollar Snowcoach no less! Find out more about the Athabasca Glacier here.
⪢ Columbia Icefield Skywalk
There is a debate as to whether it is worth paying extra to head here, but we would just about recommend it if you can make it work within your budget. The views are of course spectacular, albeit a little scary if you aren't a fan of glass floors and major heights. That being said, this is also where we spotted those cute mountain goats doing their thing, which is a nice added bonus to this experience! Find out more.
⪢ Hot Springs in the Snow
Nothing beats soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs after a chilly day outdoors. The contrast of steaming waters against the snowy backdrop is both relaxing and invigorating. You don't get more Canadian than this!
Summer Adventures in Banff
⪢ Hiking the Rockies
Summer in Banff is all about exploring its iconic trails. The likes of Plain of Six Glaciers, Tunnel Mountain, and the serene Moraine Lake are amongst the top rated on the planet.
⪢ Horseback Riding
For a unique way to experience Banff’s beauty, try horseback riding. Guided tours through Banff National Park offer a romantic and family-friendly activity that connects you to nature, literally and figuratively.
⪢ ATV on Top of the World Rockies Tour
For adrenaline junkies, ATV tours provide an unforgettable adventure. Riding through rugged trails and taking in panoramic views of the Rockies is something you really have to experience to truly understand. Honestly, the views are just breathtaking, and well, ATV's are just fun! It is important to book in advance as this activity is extremely popular here, and for good reason!
⪢ Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
Two of the most iconic lakes in Alberta, each one has its own unique take on the definition of nature and beauty. The stunning waters and backdrops will never leave you. And trust us, pictures honestly do not do them justice. Two 'cannot miss' destinations right here.
With waters coming directly from Fay Glacier, Moraine Lake sits proudly in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, just outside of the hamlet of Lake Louise, in Banff National Park. Surrounding glaciers continuously deposit 'rock flour' into the lake, the refraction of light from this flour giving the lake its incredible azure blue color, all year round. Find out all you need to know here.
Lake Louise is a natural wonder that has captured the hearts of travelers and locals alike. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, majestic mountain views, and year-round recreational opportunities, Lake Louise is a crown jewel destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. Plan your trip with our guide.
⪢ Banff Gondola
If you are looking for views and fine dining, this gentle gondola ride takes you to the top of Banff's Sulphur Mountain. The gondola itself is designed for comfort, allowing you to relax and fully appreciate the majestic landscape that unfolds around you.
During the ride, you will have the chance to observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, and as you rise higher, the views become increasingly spectacular, revealing the vast expanse of the Bow Valley and the surrounding peaks, which are often dusted with snow, even in the warmer months.
Once you reach the summit, you will find yourself at an elevation of over 2,400 meters, where a stunning observation deck awaits. Here, you can take in the 360-degree views that are simply unparalleled, providing the perfect backdrop for your fine dining experience. The restaurant at the top of Sulphur Mountain is known for its exquisite menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients that highlight the flavors of the region. You can indulge in a variety of gourmet dishes, expertly prepared by skilled chefs, while enjoying the breathtaking scenery through large panoramic windows.
Cultural & Culinary Highlights
⪢ Banff Townsite
Banff’s vibrant townsite is a hub for shopping, dining, and local arts. From unique souvenirs to Canadian-inspired arts and crafts, these shops provide an opportunity to find that perfect memento to remember your visit, whether it's a hand-painted ceramic piece, a cozy wool sweater made from local materials, or a stunning piece of jewelry that reflects the natural beauty of the area.
⪢ Canadian Cuisine
Enjoy the savory delight of poutine (Not Leon's favorite but certainly a staple that Jenn enjoys!), sweet maple treats like Beaver Tails, and the succulent Alberta beef at Banff’s top restaurants, which is renowned for its exceptional quality.
⪢ Baker Creek Lodge
This charming retreat offered cozy cabins perfect for couples seeking tranquility and stunning mountain views. Akin to a remote retreat, there is no television here, no internet or phones. Baker Creek Lodge is all about nature, rest and recouperation. A place of peace, calm and reflection, this is a spot we will definitely write more about in the future, and highly recommend. It is just a short drive from Lake Louise. Find out more here.
Planning Your Trip to Banff
⪢ Getting to Banff
Located just 90 minutes from Calgary International Airport, Banff is easily accessible. Whether you drive or take a shuttle, the journey itself is part of the adventure.
⪢ Best Times to Visit
Winter offers snow sports and cozy retreats, while summer provides hiking and lake adventures. For fewer crowds and great deals, consider visiting during shoulder seasons, which typically fall between the peak winter (February) and summer months (July - August).
⪢ Find Hotels in Banff
Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Tips for a Memorable Visit to Banff
● Pack Smart: Prepare for varying weather conditions in both winter and summer.
● Book Early: Accommodations and tours fill up quickly during peak seasons.
● Choose Wisely: Decide between guided or self-guided tours based on your preferences.
● Responsible Tourism: Remember to admire wildlife from a safe distance, and be aware and considerate of your impact on the environment and local ecosystem.
Our Banff Experience Rating
Our road trip to Banff was filled with unforgettable moments - from chilling on the deck at Lake Louise to conquering ATV trails. Banff is more than a destination; it’s a place that strengthens bonds and creates lifelong memories. It certainly did for us!
Banff’s year-round appeal lies in its ability to offer something for everyone. Banff is a world of thrilling adventures and serene landscapes; it’s a destination that promises to captivate your heart. If you’re planning a trip to Canada, make Banff a part of your journey - you won’t regret it.
FAQs
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Your FREE Interactive Map of Canada
Check out all of the places we visited in Canada courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.
Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use!
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