16 best things to do in Banff, Canada

Canada’s first national park remains a posterchild for the country’s awe-inspiring scenery.

The word ‘Banff’ has become shorthand for Canada’s sheer natural beauty, with its snow-capped mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, alpine meadows carpeted in wildflowers, and over 1600 kilometres of hiking trails teeming with wildlife. It’s little wonder that Canada’s first official national park, right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is a bucket list-worthy destination.

Since Banff National Park was established in 1887, it’s been a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with swathes of wilderness to explore. Nowadays, this pristine stretch of southern Alberta attracts more than three million visitors each year, from holidaymakers to serious mountaineers. Its majestic scenery changes with the seasons, making it a year-round destination.

Here are our top things to do when visiting Banff.

1. Ride the Rocky Mountaineer train to Banff

They say it’s about the journey and not the destination, but if you’re travelling on board the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train to Banff National Park – it’s about both. The two-day ‘First Passage to the West’ journey follows a legendary cross-country rail route.

Gush over breathtaking landscapes aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train.

The once-in-a-lifetime adventure sets off from Vancouver before the blue and gold train winds its way deep into the Rocky Mountains.

Enjoy stunning views of the Canadian Rockies from the glass-domed bi-level GoldLeaf Service carriage.

Splurge on the bi-level GoldLeaf Service carriage, and expect gourmet cuisine served in the onboard restaurant and stunning views of the Canadian Rockies from the glass-domed carriage.

It’s about the journey and not the destination.

2. Discover Downtown Banff

Nestled in the Bow Valley, the alpine village of Banff is one of the prettiest in North America. The Rocky Mountains look like a film set backdrop to the main street.

Enjoy a cold drink in hand amid the scenic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains at Park Distillery.

Downtown Banff has a buzzy dining scene, plus plenty of artisan shops, cafes, galleries and museums. When it’s time for a tipple, Park Distillery produces craft spirits distilled from melted glacial ice.

Have a glass of gin and tonic at Park Distillery.

3. Take the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain

The Banff Gondola, situated on the outskirts of town, sweeps you up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain where you’re met with 360-degree vistas over six spectacular mountain ranges and the Bow Valley below.

Go cycling along Bow Valley. (Image: Shannon Martin)

Once you’ve reached the mountaintop (it takes approximately 8 minutes) stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy the summit discovery centre. During winter, don’t miss Nightrise – vibrant, digital art installations, created with the participation of the Stoney Nakoda Nation, honouring the magic of the sacred mountains.

Ride the Banff Gondola to enjoy sweeping views of Sulphur Mountain. (Image: Edwina Hart)

4. Dine in the clouds at Sky Bistro

A sunset dinner at the aptly named Sky Bistro perched on the summit of Mount Sulphur will leave you feeling on top of the world. The expansive mountain views make this one of the most talked about dining spots in town. Try to score a table right next to the wrap-around window. Sky Bistro doesn’t rest on its laurels – the fresh, seasonal fare is just as impressive as the lofty location.

Dine above the Rocky Mountains at Sky Bistro. (Image: Edwina Hart)

5. Get your bearings with Radventures

If you want an easy introduction to Banff, Radventures’ ‘Banff Highlights and Wildlife’ small-group tour led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide is an excellent place to start. You’ll be whisked around some of the most popular sights by minibus.

Ski all season at Mt Norquay. (Image: Eric Hanson)

Tick off Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, Hoodoos Viewpoint, Mt. Norquay viewpoint and a few secret spots, chosen based on wildlife sightings for the day. Have your camera ready for elk, deer, bighorn sheep and possibly even grizzly bears.

Lake Minnewanka loop is the perfect spot the northern lights near town. (Image: Robert Massey)

6. Hike one of the many trails in Banff

Banff is blessed with exceptional hiking trails. For a light ramble, opt for the Bow River Loop or the Tunnel Mountain Trail. If you have a little more time: Sundance Canyon, Hoodoos Trail and Spray River Loop are scenic options. Meanwhile, the Sentinel Pass Trail is a must-do during autumn when the larch trees turn gold. The ultimate time for encountering wildlife is at dawn or dusk, but don’t forget to pack your bear spray!

Bow River winds through the Alberta foothills. (Image: Eric Hanson)

7. Stay at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs

Canada’s most celebrated resort, also known as the “Castle in the Rockies”, is straight out of a fairy tale.

Fairmont Banff Springs is set amongst snow-covered pine trees.

The historic Fairmont Banff Springs opened in 1888, built by the pioneering president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, Sir William Cornelius Van Horne, who famously said “Since we can’t export the scenery, we’ll have to import the tourists”.

Take in the views from the Terrace Suite balcony.

The grand edifice stands in prime position in Banff National Park, adding to the storybook scenery and making it the ideal base for exploring the region.

Take in the storybook scenery from your room.

8. Soak in Banff Upper Hot Springs

Indigenous peoples sought the healing powers of the mineral-rich waters long before three Canadian Pacific Railway workers “discovered” a natural hot spring in 1883, but it’s humble beginnings as a bubbling hot spring reserve put Banff National Park on the map. At 1600m in elevation, Banff Upper Hot Springs are the highest operating baths in Canada, and worth visiting if you want to soak up the scenery starring the jagged peaks of Rundle and Cascade Mountains. For a more exclusive experience, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a wellness sanctuary with an outdoor hot tub and a mineral pool, as well as waterfall whirlpools and a eucalyptus inhalation room.

9. Go horse riding with Banff Trail Riders

If you feel like channelling your inner Canadian cowboy, Banff Trail Riders is just the ticket. Riders convene around the big red barn before saddling up. The most popular booking is the Bow River Ride, which is perfect for beginners as the one-hour trail takes you gently through some of the park’s loveliest landscapes.

More advanced riders can elect a multi-day backcountry trip for wilder terrain, staying at lodges along the way and spending evenings around a crackling campfire. For some good old-fashioned family fun, there’s the three-hour wagon ride with a cowboy cookout BBQ dinner.

Experience Banff on horseback. (Image: Edwina Hart)

10. Go ice skating on the jewel-like Lake Louise

Banff National Park is famed for its turquoise-blue glacial lakes, and Lake Louise is the jewel of the Canadian Rockies.

Swoon over the turquoise, glacier-fed Lake Louise.

In the summertime, rent a bright red canoe and paddle out for the Instagram-famous tourist experience. When the lake freezes over in winter, it transforms into an otherworldly ice-skating rink.

Paddle across the famed Lake Louise. (Image: Travel Alberta)

To do Lake Louise in the lap of luxury, stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise located right on the shoreline. If you’re feeling particularly fancy, there’s an exquisite afternoon tea served in the true British tradition, with a peerless outlook over the Victoria Glacier from the Fairview Restaurant.

Partake in a delightful afternoon tea at Fairview Restaurant.

11. Afternoon tea at Agnes Teahouse

Adventurers are rewarded for their efforts at Agnes Teahouse on the shores of Lake Agnes, where nature lovers pause for a pot of tea and a piece of pie during summer. The cabin-like pitstop has been serving tea since 1905, when it was built as a refuge for hikers.

Lake Agnes is a small mountain lake that offers incredible views. (Image: Roam Creative)

They now offer over 100 types of loose-leaf teas and a small selection of delectable items from sandwiches made with homemade oatmeal bread to apple crumble.

Partake in an afternoon tea at Agnes Teahouse. Image: Roam Creative)

12. Delight in the Northern Lights

If you’re not already completely enchanted by Banff, you will be if you’re lucky enough to witness the extraordinary natural phenomena light up the night skies. The Aurora Borealis can be seen throughout Canada, but this location has the added bonus of the green glow against the silhouette of the Canadian Rockies and as a reflection on the glass-like lakes. You’re most likely to catch a glimpse during autumn when the sky is most active.

Gaze upon the starry Aurora Borealis landscape. (Image: Travel Alberta)

13. Fondue with a view at Waldhaus Restaurant

You’ll find the Waldhaus Restaurant in the picturesque grounds of the Fairmont Banff Springs. The Bavarian-style cottage sits right above the Bow and Spray Rivers, and on the doorstep of a major wildlife corridor, so it’s the perfect place to eat fondue with a view. Diners have been known to spot a grizzly bear to two mid-meal. Decadent Emmental & gruyere fondue, schweineschnitzel, and freshly-baked pretzels with whipped butter and beer mustard are all on the menu. Best paired with a refreshing German Pilsner. It’s especially cosy by the fireplace when Banff is blanketed in snow.

14. Embrace forest bathing

Many travellers come to Banff to connect with nature. The Fairmont Banff Springs offers guests a unique opportunity to book a private two-hour session of “forest bathing” – a mindfulness practice known as ‘shinrin-yoku’, born in Japan during the 1980s. The therapy has proven to reduce stress levels and have benefits for heart health. The resort’s professional wilderness guide leads slow-paced meditative walks in the woods, encouraging participants to connect with their senses and develop a deeper appreciation of their natural surroundings.

Deers are free to roam around Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course. (Image: John Doherty)

15. Take advantage of the top-notch ski resorts

We’ve all heard about the “champagne powder” of Whistler, but it turns out that Banff has its fair share too. From mid-November to May the area boasts some of the finest skiing in North America and one of the longest seasons.

Canada’s big 3 ski resorts are spread across three mountains. (Image: Grant Gunderson)

Buckle up your boots and hit the skiable terrain of the “big three” resorts – Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village and Mount Norquay.

Glide through deep-powder runs at Banff Sunshine Village. (Image: Reuben Krabbe)

16. Treat yourself to the Johnson Canyon Icewalk

Traverse the elevated iron catwalks firmly bolted to the canyon walls, and paths that lead through limestone cliffs towards roaring waterfalls. The lower falls is a family-friendly hike where you can feel the force of nature.

Navigate the cantilevered catwalk at Johnson Canyon Icewalk. (Image: Roam Creative)

During winter, Discover Banff Tours run the Johnson Canyon Icewalk where you can witness a wonderland of cascading icicles. The Upper Falls look like a tower of glittering ice, keep an eye out for climbers scaling the giant frozen pillars.

It’s freezing cold out there at the Lower Falls. (Image: Marck Gutt)