Banff National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the Alberta region in Canada, Banff National Park is a true gem of natural beauty. With its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, this national park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
One of the highlights of Banff National Park is its stunning mountain range, which includes the iconic peaks of Mount Rundle and Castle Mountain. These towering giants provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. The park boasts an extensive network of trails that cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness and discover hidden gems along the way.
For those seeking tranquility and serenity, the glacial lakes of Banff National Park are a sight to behold. Lake Louise, with its turquoise waters, is a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Moraine Lake, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Rockies," is another must-visit destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful atmosphere that will leave you in awe.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of animal species that call Banff National Park home. From elk and deer to black bears and grizzlies, the park offers ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready as you explore the park's diverse ecosystems.
In addition to its natural wonders, Banff National Park also offers a range of cultural and historical attractions. The town of Banff itself is a charming mountain village, filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The Banff Park Museum, a National Historic Site, provides insight into the park's history and showcases a collection of taxidermy specimens.
Banff National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Banff National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, Vermilion Lakes, Bow Lake. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Banff National Park by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Banff National Park.
Active
Sunshine Village
Banff National ParkBig attraction-filled ski resort
Winter sport Ski area 
Mt Norquay
Banff National ParkWinter sport Ski area 
Skoki Ski Lodge
Banff National ParkWinter sport Ski area 
Bow Hut
Banff National ParkHiking Alpine hut
Nature
Moraine Lake
Banff National ParkGlacier-fed lake with a canoe dock
Nature Natural attraction 
Peyto Lake
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Lake 
Vermilion Lakes
Banff National Park3 lakes with wildlife and a bike trail
Nature Natural attraction 
Bow Lake
Banff National ParkGlacial lake with a historic lodge
Nature Natural attraction 
Panther Falls
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Waterfall
Mountain
Bow Peak
Banff National ParkMountain 
Haddo Peak
Banff National ParkMountain 
Bident Mountain
Banff National ParkMountain 
Mount Rundle
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Mountain 
Dolomite Peak
Banff National ParkMountain
Natural feature
Crowfoot Glacier
Banff National ParkLandmark glacier seen from highway below
Natural attraction Natural feature 
Peyto Glacier
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Natural feature 
Bow Glacier
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Natural feature 
Hector Glacier
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Natural feature 
Sundance Range
Banff National ParkNature Natural attraction Natural feature
Other categories
Natural attractionLakeValleyMountain passBanff National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Banff National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kicking Horse Resort, Takakkaw Falls (Yoho National Park), Bow Falls (Banff).
Best Time To Visit Banff National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Banff National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
American Bison, Buffalo
The American bison, often referred to as the American buffalo, is a majestic animal that historically roamed North America in vast herds. These herds once stretched from Alaska to the Gulf of Mexico. Due to mid-20th century conservation efforts, the bison population...
Mammals
Gray wolf
The wolf, also known as the gray or grey wolf, is a captivating and majestic canine native to Eurasia and North America. There are over thirty recognized subspecies of Canis lupus, with the term "gray wolf" generally referring to the wild, non-domesticated varieties.
Mammals
Long-tailed duck
The long-tailed duck, once known in North America as the oldsquaw, is a fascinating medium-sized sea duck and the sole surviving member of the Clangula genus. Initially classified under Harelda, it later became the type species of its own genus.
Birds
Red fox
The red fox, the largest member of the true fox family, inhabits the Northern Hemisphere, including regions in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. This versatile animal thrives in a variety of environments and maintains a diverse diet.
Mammals
Golden eagle
The golden eagle, a majestic bird of prey revered across the Northern Hemisphere, belongs to the Accipitridae family. These eagles are easily identified by their dark brown feathers accented with striking golden-brown patches on their necks.
Birds
Alberta