Have you ever wanted a summer getaway in the Canadian Rockies?
Summer is the perfect season to visit Banff National Park. The sun is shining, the days are longer and the lakes are turquoise blue. It feels like stepping into a postcard and it is a great way to mark off a place from your bucket list. There is so much to do and see when you are in the great outdoors.
History
In 1883, three Canadian Pacific Railway workers came across the Cave and Basin natural hot springs at the bottom of Sulphur Mountain. This attracted the nation’s attention and it became a well-liked tourist attraction. The opposing claims regarding who was the real discoverer of the place led the Canadian government to create a reserve to protect the area in 1885. The surrounding area was later enlarged and named the “Rocky Mountains Park of Canada” in 1887, becoming Canada’s first national park and the world’s third. In 1984, Banff National Park became a part of the “Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks” UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding beauty and natural landscapes.
How to Get There
A View of Calgary Tower from Olympic Plaza. Image by Adriana Herrera.
The closest airport from Banff is Calgary International Airport. From the airport, you can either catch the shuttle bus that goes directly to Banff and Lake Louise or you can rent a car at the airport or in the city of Calgary from Hertz, Avis or Enterprise.
The most convenient and flexible way to arrive in Banff is by renting a car. From Calgary’s airport is a 90 minute scenic drive via Trans-Canada Highway/AB-1 W. While having a car is highly recommended to get to Banff, you do not need a car in Banff. You can explore the town by walking and taking Public Transportation.
“Do I need a pass to access the park?” Yes! Every visitor requires a valid Banff Park Pass. They can be purchased online, at the East Banff Gate when you are driving from Calgary, or in person at the Visitor Centre in Banff and Lake Louise. There are two types of passes you can purchase with different fees.
Five Must-Do and See Attractions
A Walk Down Main Avenue
Main Avenue in Downtown Banff, Alberta. Image by Adriana Herrera.
Banff Main Avenue in the heart of downtown has a wide variety of clothing stores, gift shops, restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and art galleries. This is a very popular destination because you are surrounded by the beautiful and historic architecture and the astounding mountain views. Main avenue is pedestrian friendly and it can be extremely busy when they close vehicle transit in the summer.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Image by Adriana Herrera.
When railroad workers found the natural hot springs, the manager of the Canadian Pacific Railway thought of a way to facilitate railway employees to travel along the railway. This idea led to the creation of Banff Springs Hotel, a historical hotel that opened its door in 1888. Also known as Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies” due to its castle-like architecture, the hotel provides a luxurious experience and it is a member of Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Logo of Banff Upper Hot Springs. Image by Adriana Herrera.
Get ready to relax in mineral-rich water coming from the Earth’s crust! Banff Hot Springs is Canada’s highest hot spring. The place is very well equipped with changing facilities with washrooms, showers, a coffee shop, and a gift shop. You must pay a fee to enter and you can rent towels, swimsuits and a one-time use locker. Keep in mind that entry to the hot springs are first come first serve! So plan your day carefully. The best time to visit in the summer is in the morning (opens at 10am).
Banff Gondola and Sulphur Mountain
Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk. Image by Adriana Herrera
The Banff Gondola is an impressive eight minute ride up to Sulphur Mountain, taking you 7486 ft above Banff. You can also hike to the top of the gondola in two hours! You will enjoy the epic view of the town of Banff, the Bow Valley, and six mountain ranges from the summit of Sulphur Mountain. You may want to begin exploring by walking the boardwalk to the weather observatory in Sanson Peak, the highest point on Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy some food and drinks at Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen, Castle Mountain Coffee, or Sky Bistro. Make sure to check out the rooftop patio to enjoy the warm sun and live music. You can purchase tickets in advance or at the counter. Operating hours are subject to change, so plan ahead.
Canoeing in Lake Louise
Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta. Image by Adriana Herrera.
Enjoy the Rockies on a whole different level by renting a canoe from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Boathouse. Most tourists visit the lake during the summer, so keep in mind that the place will be packed and parking will be limited. Arrive early at 7am or after 5pm to find a parking spot. The boathouse only operates in the summer and it is highly recommended to rent a canoe and paddle for an hour to enjoy the place from different angles. Consider hiking to get some exercise and snap great pictures!
A wonderful and unforgettable place that will never go from my memories.