10 Things to Do in Banff 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.

1. Catch a sunrise and/or a sunset

Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover or just someone who loves to take in the simple pleasures in life, sunrises and sunsets here in Banff will not disappoint. Why not start the day with a hot cup of coffee and watch the day unfold (Evelyn’s Coffee Bar located on Banff Ave do delicious drinks early in the morning). Or finish the day watching the sunset while reflecting on your day exploring the park. With mountain peaks in every direction it’s hard not to find a good location but Two Jack Lake and Vermillion Lakes are certainly two favorites.

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!

2. Drive along the Icefields Parkway

If you only have a day to spend here in Banff and you want to see as much as possible, then a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway will leave you speechless. The Parkway takes you along Highway #93 from Lake Louise to Jasper and offers scenery like no other. If it’s endless mountain ranges, ancient glaciers and turquoise coloured lakes you’re after then this is the road for you.

If you don’t plan on driving all the way to Jasper then a good turn around point would be Peyto Lake. From the start of the road to Peyto Lake you can admire Herbert Lake, Hector Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake and The Lodge at Bow Lake that sits on Bow Lake shoreline.

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.

3. Canoe on Lake Louise or Moraine Lake

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are two of Canada’s most iconic lakes. On a warm summer day the lakes are a perfect place to visit. But don’t be fooled! As enticing as the water looks, glacial water is very cold so swimming is not an option. Instead, rent a canoe for a couple of hours. Canoeing allows you to be out on the water, absorbed by the beautiful vibrant colours while seeing the area from a new perspective. If time permits, there are endless hiking trails around the lakes too. At the end of your activities, a cool refreshment awaits inside one of the eateries at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Lodge.

Check the transit and shuttle schedule for Banff National Park before visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Personal vehicles are no longer allowed to access Moraine Lake, and Lake Louise parking is limited and in high demand during the summer months.

4. Bike the trails

Biking is a perfect way to explore Banff National Park and, whether you’re an avid mountain biker, road biker, or simply riding to unwind, there are trails for all.

The Banff Legacy Trail is a local’s favorite. The 26.8km paved trail starts from the Bow Valley Parkway and runs all the way to the Canmore information centre located on the edge of Canmore. The trail was built in honour of Banff National Park’s 125th Anniversary and the interpretive information signs, rest stops and picnic areas make it a fun, leisurely trail to ride on.

5. Go Hiking

There’s no better smell than the smell of pine trees on a warm summer’s day! If you’re a lover of the outdoors who worships spending time in nature, then hiking the trails in Banff is probably high on your list. Depending on what you want to gain out of your hiking experience (meadows, wild flowers, waterfalls, lakes, summit views), there are trails for all. Check out the Parks Canada website for trail reports and conditions and stop in to the visitor center for any questions you may need answering.

6. Enjoy Downtown Banff

Downtown Banff is an exciting place to be. From shops to restaurants, coffee hangs to bars, art exhibitions to museums and trails along the river, there is something that appeals to everyone. Be sure to head down to Bear Street to check out the Banff Farmers Market (every Wednesday from May – October) where there’s lots of fresh food, baked goods, and locally made arts-and-crafts available. If you’re looking for a good place to eat, I recommend the Park Distillery + Restaurant – the restaurant serves campfire-inspired meals and house-made spirits (the Cheese & Whisky fondue is a treat) or head over to the Banff Ave. Brewing Co. for some nachos and a locally brewed beer.

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

A favorite sight from way up high is the bird’s eye view of Banff from Sulphur Mountain. What’s even better is that the view can be easily attained by riding the Banff Gondola in 8 minutes. If you’re feeling energetic, you can also hike to the top of the mountain (and if you’re feeling tired after going one way, you can always catch the gondola ride back down). Visitors can enjoy the scenery from the observation deck, two dining options, and an interpretive center including a multi-sensory cinematic experience – how cool is that?!

8. Soak in Banff’s Upper Hot Springs

End your day relaxing and unwinding in natural hot springs. Depending on the weather and what time of day you plan to visit, you can watch a sunset over the mountains, soak in the hot water while a late afternoon shower falls, or lay in the shallow end and gaze up at the night sky. What a perfect way to reflect on your day in Banff National Park and plan your activities for your next visit.

9. Gaze up at the night sky

During the summer months, the night sky in Banff is phenomenal. With it being prime Milky Way season, star gazing is a treat. If you are lucky and timing is on your side, the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights, can be seen from the park. One of the popular places to stargaze and view this spectacle is at Lake Minnewanka, but depending on where your day’s activities have taken you, they can also be seen looking back towards the Fairmont Chateau at Lake Louise, Castle Junction near the Bow Valley Parkway, and sometimes at Vermillion Lakes. Set up your camera and take a few pictures or simply gaze up and watch the magic of the night sky unfold before your eyes.

10. Camp

Camping in the Rockies is a unique experience and if you are coming to Banff for a couple of days, I highly recommend camping as an accommodation option. There are a couple of camping spots close to the Banff town site such as Tunnel Mountain Village and Two Jack Lakeside. For those interested in a true wilderness experience, consider hiking and camping as a combination!

Camping out at one of Banff’s backcountry sites is a great way to meet new people, share stories, and have a mini adventure. With lots of backcountry trails to choose from, you don’t have to hike far to get away from the crowd.

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.