Why Go to Banff
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Banff gives you an Alpine mountain-village experience without the transatlantic flight. Tucked into the heart of the Canadian Rockies inside Banff National Park, Canada's very first national park, the town is a shorter, more affordable trip from the U.S. than the Alps, with scenery that's every bit as jaw-dropping.
There's a style of stay for everyone, from adventurers who like to end the day at an upscale hotel to campers and RV travelers who fill the campgrounds from summer through fall. Tunnel Mountain Village 2 even stays open year-round. Pick your adventure: ski the slopes of Mount Norquay, mountain bike along Healy Creek, or hike out to view the Hoodoos, tall rock spires carved by wind and water. Turquoise lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are close by and unforgettable.
After a big day outdoors, warm up at a cozy lodge with a bison burger or a shared chocolate fondue. Banff gets busy, especially in summer, so booking early is key. I'll secure your lodging, plan your lake and hiking days and pair Banff with Jasper and the Icefields Parkway.
BEST FOR
Hikers, photographers, skiers and nature-focused travelers
BEST MONTHS
June–September for hiking; December–March for winter sports
EXPLORE
Banff town is the main services hub; Lake Louise is farther northwest; the Bow Valley Parkway links scenic stops; nearby Canmore offers another lodging base.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Banff
North America › Rockies › Canada › Alberta
Turquoise lakes and dramatic Canadian Rockies peaks
Mountain & Alpine
Lake & River
Hiking
Wildlife
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Reserve accommodation early and check the current transport rules for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake before building your itinerary. Shuttle or tour arrangements may be necessary, and a separate day for each major lake gives you more room for hikes and changing mountain weather.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Parking and shuttle logistics require advance planning in peak season; check Parks Canada updates.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is a glacier-fed alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks and the Victoria Glacier. Its shore path and nearby viewpoints draw visitors year-round.
Private cars are generally prohibited on Moraine Lake Road; reserve an authorized shuttle or licensed transport.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is famous for brilliant turquoise water below the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Scenic viewpoints are accessible during the short seasonal road opening.
Book ahead during busy periods and bring a warm jacket even in summer.
Banff Gondola
Banff Gondola carries visitors up Sulphur Mountain for mountain vistas and ridge-top boardwalks. The summit area offers interpretive displays and viewpoints.
Use signed viewing areas and keep away from river edges.
Bow Falls
Bow Falls is a broad waterfall near Banff town, framed by the Bow River and mountain scenery. It can be appreciated on a short outing.
Parks Canada has closed Johnston Canyon Trail and Day Use Area from October 13 through December 11, 2026 for safety work; verify reopening before travel.
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is a popular gorge with catwalks and waterfall viewpoints along a forested route. Ice, closures and crowding can change access conditions.
Landmark castle-style resort set above the Bow River near mountain trails.
Fairmont Banff Springs
Banff / Bow River
Hotel Tags
Elevated mountain-view hotel closer to the gondola and hot springs area.
Rimrock Resort Hotel
Sulphur Mountain
Hotel Tags
Convenient central base for strolling Banff Avenue.
Moose Hotel & Suites
Downtown Banff
Hotel Tags
Mountain-town lodging along the main approach to downtown.
Canalta Lodge
Banff Avenue
Hotel Tags
Walkable base near downtown dining and Bow River paths.
Banff Park Lodge
Central Banff
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Banff
High 34°F · Low 17°F · Rain 1 in
Ski season begins at the local resorts.
June–September for hiking; December–March for winter sports. Verify conditions, local schedules and reservation policies when arranging your trip.
Best Times to Visit Banff
WHEN TO GO
06
Winter Roads and Wildlife
Mountain weather changes quickly. Check highway conditions and never stop unsafely to photograph wildlife.
05
Walking and Cycling
Banff town center is compact; paved paths connect selected nearby areas. Trails beyond town require proper planning.
04
Shuttles to Lakes
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake access is controlled and parking rules may limit private vehicles. Reserve authorized shuttles as required.
03
Roam Transit
Roam buses serve Banff and selected park attractions, with seasonal routes and reservation rules for some services.
02
Local Transportation
Roam Transit and park shuttles serve several major sites; reserve popular lake routes ahead when required.
01
Arrival and Regional Access
Calgary International Airport is the main flight gateway; Banff is reached by road or shuttle.
Roam Transit and park shuttles serve several major sites; reserve popular lake routes ahead when required.
Getting Around Banff