10 Things to Do in Banff this Summer

Biking in Banff National Park
Biking in Banff National Park
Summer in Banff National Park

10 Things to Do in Banff this Summer

Wake up to an epic mountain sunrise, take in the views on a hike, or paddle your way through turquoise waters in Banff National Park this summer.

Whether it’s waking up early to catch a sunrise, taking in the pristine views while out day hiking, paddling your way through turquoise coloured waters, or simply laying by the river with a book in hand - there’s something for everyone here in Banff National Park! Located just a short 90 minute drive from Calgary, Banff is a perfect day trip destination to escape the city buzz.

Here are 10 things to do while visiting the park this summer from my perspective as a Banff local.


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1. Catch a sunrise and/or a sunset

For those of you with an adventurous side, why not combine a sunrise or sunset with a hike?
The end result is a lot more satisfying when you know you have worked to achieve it!

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Banff sunset over a lake

Vermillion Lakes

 

2. Take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway

Remember to stick to the speed limits! Not only do you want to slow down to take it all in but Banff is home to a lot of wildlife which you may be lucky to encounter. Be sure to check the Parks Canada website for proper wildlife etiquette.

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Road near Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway

 

3. Canoe on Lake Louise or Moraine Lake 

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Canoe on Lake Louise

Canoe on Lake Louise.

 

4. Bike the trails

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Banff Legacy Trail

Banff Legacy Trail

Couple biking in Banff

Biking in Banff.

 

5. Go hiking

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Hiking in Banff

Hiking in Banff National Park.

Descending a mountain in Banff

Great hiking trails in Banff National Park.

 

6. Enjoy downtown Banff

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Restaurant in Banff

Park Distillery + Restaurant in Downtown Banff. 

Banff Gondola

Banff Gondola

 

7. Take the Gondola ride for a bird’s eye view of Banff 

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Banff Hot Springs

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Banff Hot Sptings

Banff Upper Hot Springs

 

9. Gaze up at the night sky

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Aurora Borealis and the Northern Lights in Banff

Views of the Northern Lights in Banff. 

 

10. Camp

No matter what you end up doing your time in Banff will be well spent and we are assured that you will be back to explore again in the not so distant future.

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Camping in Banff

Camping in Banff National Park.

By
Faye Baldock

My name is Faye and I arrived in Banff from the UK back in October 2013. I have fallen completely in love with Banff, the Canadian Rockies & everything they have to offer. When I’m not working, you will find me out hiking summits, back country camping, long distance running & volunteering for the park. I love connecting with nature, being in the outdoors and capturing my adventures through photographs. Please jump on board & follow my journey on Instagram @fayealice22