Banff Vacation Planning Guide

If you're itching to experience the lifestyle of a Swiss skiing village, but don't want to fork over the cash for a transatlantic flight, consider Banff. Thanks to its location in the heart of the Canadian Rockies near the southeastern border of Banff National Park – Canada's first national park – taking trips here will decrease not only your flight time from the U.S., but also your expenses. Banff caters to everyone from intrepid explorers who prefer to end the day in an upscale hotel, to tent and RV campers who fill the campgrounds from summer to fall. There’s even one campground that’s open year-round: Tunnel Mountain Village 2.

Opportunities for adventure abound, so pick your sport: Ski down Mount Norquay, mountain bike along Healy Creek or take a day hike to admire the massive, free-standing limestone pillars known as the Hoodoos from a distance. When you are exhausted, retreat to your cozy (and warm) resort, and replenish yourself with a delicious bison burger or a chocolate fondue.