14 Reasons Banff Is the Outdoor Capital of Canada
A skier’s haven in the winter and a nature’s playground for adventure seekers in the summer, Banff is a year-round destination that’s worth a spot on your bucket list.
We’ve curated a list of the top things to do in Banff — there’s no way you’ll be able to check all these activities off in just one day!
1. Take in the Views at Peyto Lake
You know the saying, it’s not about the destination it’s about the journey…why can’t it be both!?!
Peyto Lake is one of the most stunning destinations and is one of the top things to see in Banff National Park.
Its turquoise waters, a gift from glacial magic, shimmer from an impressive 1800m high.
The journey to the lake will take you through the Icefields Parkway and is rated as one of the most scenic drives in the world.
There’s an easy and short nature trail that leads to the viewing platform. Here, you’ll see a lot of visitors from bus tours but they generally leave after half an hour or so.
If you’re keen to dodge the crowds, you can hike further up to the Bow Summit lookout for breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding area.
Not many people will go past the first viewpoint so you’ll have a nice quiet hike up to the summit.
2. Ride the Banff Gondola
Soar high above Banff on a gondola ride, climbing over 7000m above sea level!
In just 8 minutes, you’ll reach the top of Sulphur Mountain, where stunning views of Bow Valley and the mountain ranges await.
There is a massive building at the top that offers a 360-degree lookout, some eateries, and a souvenir shop.
For the adventurous souls, you can hike up Sulphur Mountain and take the gondola ride down instead.
During the winter season, riding down the gondola is free!
3. Go for a Soak at Banff Upper Hot Springs
After trekking through Banff’s nature paths, nothing beats soaking in the Upper Hot Springs.
Winter makes it extra special, as snowflakes dance around you in the steamy air.
The hot springs are clean and shared, perfect for easing those tired muscles from skiing or hiking.
It’s a hit with grown-ups, too, making it a top pick for senior travelers. Just don’t forget your swimsuit and towel!
4. Cave & Basin National Historic Site
The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is a treat to both nature fanatics and history buffs.
This historic site was unexpectedly discovered by two Pacific Railway workers back in 1883 and is the birthplace of Banff National Park.
Located on Sulphur Mountain, the Cave and Basin is one of nine hot springs in the area and the only one that is big enough for large groups of people.
The site is complete with interactive displays and exhibits that tell the story of how it all began.
Before you stroll through the short tunnel en route to the main attraction, you’ll learn about the local wildlife as well as the site’s historical significance to the town.
Note: For those that have a sensitive nose, the sulphuric odor can be quite strong. Be warned that your furry pets aren’t allowed on-site.
5. Stay at the Fairmont Château at Lake Louise
Fairmont Château at Lake Louise is one of the most famous Banff attractions, located right in the heart of Banff National Park.
This luxury resort is one of the best places to stay if you want to explore the town and all the areas surrounding the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
From Downtown Banff to Lake Louise is only a 40-minute drive.
Just a 40-minute drive from Downtown Banff, the rooms offer amazing views of Victoria Glacier and the bright blue Lake Louise.
Being such a popular tourist attraction, it’s no surprise that the common grounds of the Fairmont Château can get extremely crowded during the day and parking is very limited.
If you’re just visiting for the day, you may have to park in the overflow lot and take a shuttle to the lake.
Don’t miss out on kayaking on the lake, where the water’s whisper and bird songs create a peaceful scene.
6. Hike to Lake Agnes Tea House
If you’re searching for things to do in Banff this weekend, hiking to Lake Agnes Tea House should be on the top of your list.
This charming tea house is only accessible by foot and the trail is fairly tough, but your efforts will be highly rewarded with amazing scenery and astounding views from the high elevation.
You don’t have to be an avid hiker to conquer the trail — as long as you’re fit enough to walk uphill for approximately 3.5 km, you’ll be fine!
7. Columbia Icefield Skywalk
The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass-floored deck that sticks out 30 meters from a cliff, way up high—over 900 meters above Sunwapta Valley.
If thrills are your thing, this spot will make your heart race. You’ll see mountains, glaciers, and the wild beauty of the valley.
This experience is usually part of a tour where you’ll learn more about the geological history and wildlife in the area.
8. Explore Downtown Banff
The bustling streets of Downtown Banff are filled with lively bars and restaurants, quaint shops, museums, and a wide selection of art galleries, making it a great break away from nature and a chance to interact with fellow travelers.
Sample the social scene in one of the many bars and lounges dotted across the town.
Or if that’s not your jam, taste the local mountain food. Or maybe hit Bear Street and Banff Avenue for some shopping fun. There’s always something to keep you smiling here!
9. Take a Scenic Drive
Ranked among the most beautiful drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway stretches from Lake Louise in Banff to Jasper National Park.
The 232 km long road is graced with over a hundred glaciers, weaving through dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and emerald lakes tucked in sweeping valleys and forests.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring the Icefields at a leisurely pace by renting a car — there’s plenty of wildlife encounters along the way!
This mini road trip takes at least three hours, not counting any cool stops you might want to make. If you’re up for this adventure, be sure to clear your schedule!
10. Go Canoeing at Moraine Lake
Gliding through the spectacular waters of Moraine Lake in a canoe is a top choice for things to do, especially if you want to enjoy smaller crowds — about half of what you would find at Lake Louise!
Located in the Valley of Ten Peaks and standing at an elevation of 1885m, this glacier-fed lake sets you perfectly between the sparkling turquoise water and the slopped rugged peaks of the surrounding mountains.
11. Go Hiking at the Athabasca Glacier
Located on the border of Jasper and Banff National Park in the Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca Glacier is one of the most famous and most visited glaciers in North America.
This attraction is easily accessible with a tour that will take you aboard an Ice Explorer, engineered specifically to ride over glaciers, before dropping you off to take a walk on the glacier.
This guided tour of Athabasca will cost a pretty penny but the experience is totally worth it.
If you‘re traveling on a tight budget you can hike to the Toe of the Glacier, a trail that leads you right to the foot of Athabasca — equally fascinating and it’s free!
12. Go Biking at the Bow River Trail
This tranquil riverside trail is located just a few miles from Downtown Banff which makes it a great spot for an afternoon or early morning adventure.
The trail stretches along both sides of the scenic Bow River and boasts breathtaking views of the mountains.
The trails are pretty easy to access, beginner-friendly, and straightforward enough for anyone not to lose their way.
13. Hike at Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is very popular in Banff, with its twisted path that takes you by waterfalls, deep cuts in the earth, and cliffs by icy lakes.
For those who love the outdoors, it’s a must-see spot where water has shaped the rocks for ages.
Johnston Canyon is divided into different sections and the out-and-back trail will lead you to three dimensions of absolute beauty: the Upper Falls, the Lower Falls, and the Ink Pots.
The trail gets more rugged as you make your way closer to the Upper Falls, where you’ll see the waterfall cascading down over 30 meters.
The hike to the Ink Pots is just under 6 km long and moderately difficult with an elevation gain of 335 meters.
These five mineral pools are tinted varying shades of aquamarine and remain at a constant temperature of 4°C throughout the year.
14. Spend the Day at Lake Minnewanka
Travel 5 km from the town of Banff and experience a day in the Canadian Rockies!
Lake Minnewanka stretches an eye-popping 21 km in length and is home to wildlife such as bighorn sheep and deer.
There’s plenty of activities to fill your day such as picnicking, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, and boating.
This is the only area in Banff National Park that allows powerboats and you can rent one on-site!
Things to Do in Banff in Winter
peyto lake in winter
When the snow starts falling, so do the prices and crowds.
Banff and Lake Louise along with the rest of the Canadian Rockies transform from nature’s vibrant playground to a winter sports wonderland.
- If you loved Johnston Canyon in the summer wait till you see it in the winter! Princess Elsa would be proud to call this place home.
- Looking for an adrenaline rush? Spend the day skiing or boarding at Sunshine Village Ski Resort.
- If you’re feeling festive nothing beats a sleigh ride — this guided tour will take you on an adventure through the snow-covered landscape.
Be prepared for wintry conditions as the only constant with the weather here is the unpredictability.
A warm down jacket rated for -40°C or below is recommended.
If you’re renting a car or planning to drive, be sure to get an all-wheel-drive vehicle with snow tires.
Final Thoughts
Banff represents what Canada is all about. World-class hospitality, unforgettable sights, and countless outdoor activities among the Canadian Rockies.
We hope this guide has helped you plan out your Banff to-do list or crossed out some items on your bucket list!
