When railway workers stumbled upon a hot spring in 1883, they unknowingly sparked a movement that led to the creation of Banff National Park—Canada’s very first national park. Nestled within the majestic Canadian Rockies, this vast wilderness offers sweeping views of towering peaks, deep valleys, dense forests, and thriving wildlife like elk, mountain goats, moose, and even bears. With scenery that looks like it belongs on a postcard, it’s no surprise Banff quickly became one of Canada’s top year-round destinations—ideal for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.
Banff caters to every kind of traveler, whether you prefer pitching a tent under the stars or unwinding in luxury after a long day of exploration. Here’s an overview of the top attractions that make Banff National Park truly unforgettable:
10. Bow Falls
Bow Falls has its place in movie history—eagle-eyed film buffs may remember the iconic scene where Marilyn Monroe and Robert Mitchum went over these falls in the 1953 classic River of No Return. These 30-foot falls sit just outside the town of Banff, where the Bow and Spray Rivers converge.
To really take in the thunderous beauty, visitors can walk the short ¾-mile trail along the river. Separate paths exist for walkers and cyclists, though the cliff section is reserved for foot traffic only due to a series of steps.
9. Whyte Museum
The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies offers the perfect starting point for anyone eager to dive into Banff’s rich heritage. The museum began as a personal collection of paintings, photographs, and documents collected by Peter and Catharine Whyte after they moved to Banff in the 1930s.
Today, it showcases the culture, history, and art of the region. The museum grounds also include four charming log cabins and two heritage homes—one of which belonged to the Whyte family themselves.
8. Banff Upper Hot Springs
After a long day exploring trails or carving down snowy slopes, Banff Upper Hot Springs is a dream come true. These mineral-rich waters have been drawing visitors since the 1880s, although Indigenous peoples long revered the site as sacred well before European settlers arrived.
Perched at the highest elevation of any hot springs in Canada, the waters here are consistently kept between 98°F and 104°F (37°C to 40°C), perfect for soaking sore muscles and enjoying the views.
7. Johnston Canyon
Formed by the steady erosion of limestone, Johnston Canyon is one of Banff’s most beloved hikes. Visitors can trek to the Lower Falls, Upper Falls, and beyond to the Ink Pots—blue-green mineral springs bubbling beside Johnston Creek.
The path to the 98-foot-high Upper Falls is 1.7 miles and starts just behind the Johnston Canyon Resort. It’s a busy trail, especially in peak season, but worth it for the views. Keep your eyes peeled for ouzels—small gray birds that bounce along the rocks. Adventurous hikers can continue another two miles to the serene Ink Pots.
6. Lake Minnewanka
Just 8 miles from Banff town, Lake Minnewanka is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by scenic mountains and forests that come alive with wildlife—from elk and deer to mountain sheep and bears.
In summer, popular activities include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and boating. During winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing take center stage. For a relaxing option, hop aboard the 60-minute lake cruise and soak in the views.
5. Banff Gondola
Don’t forget your camera when boarding the Banff Gondola—it’s a photographer’s dream. This four-passenger cable car whisks visitors up Sulphur Mountain, offering jaw-dropping views along the way.
At the summit, an observation deck reveals six different mountain ranges. You can walk along the skywalk to visit a historic meteorological station or explore several interpretive trails. Note: the gondola does not operate during the winter months.
4. Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake’s striking turquoise hue, created by glacier melt and rock flour, makes it one of the world’s most photographed alpine lakes. Sitting 6,100 feet above sea level, it’s located along the Columbia Icefields Parkway and best viewed from Bow Summit—24 miles from Lake Louise.
A short 15-minute paved trail leads from the parking lot to a scenic viewing platform. In summer, the spot gets busy, so arrive early to get the perfect shot of this natural masterpiece.
3. Sunshine Meadows
High in the Canadian Rockies at the Continental Divide lies Sunshine Meadows—an alpine oasis renowned for wildflowers and unbeatable hiking. While it takes a shuttle ride to reach the trailhead, the effort is richly rewarded.
Choose from a variety of trails, including short, easy walks or longer full-day hikes to Quartz Ridge or Healy Pass. In summer, the meadows burst into color, offering one of the most visually stunning hikes in Banff.
2. Lake Louise
Famous for its vibrant green waters and mountain backdrop, Lake Louise is a must-see no matter the season. Named after Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria, this lake is perfect for hiking, canoeing, or simply admiring the view.
Winter transforms the lake into a snowy wonderland, home to one of North America’s largest ski resorts. The historic Chateau Lake Louise hotel, built by the Canadian Pacific Railway, sits right on its eastern shore—ideal for a luxurious mountain getaway.
1. Moraine Lake
Only 7.5 miles from Lake Louise lies Moraine Lake, a glacial gem renowned for its surreal blue water, caused by sunlight bouncing off rock flour in the water.
Surrounded by towering peaks—known as the Valley of the Ten Peaks—this lake is home to numerous hiking trails. The Rockpile Trail is especially popular, offering a relatively easy walk with one of Banff’s most iconic views. From here, you can see Mt. Temple, one of the park’s tallest mountains at 11,636 feet.