banff travel cost

• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Banff Visit Banff on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Banff Costs

• Banff Hotel Prices
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Banff
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Banff
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Banff
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Banff
• Best Hotels for One Week in Banff
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Banff
• Best Hotels for Skiing in Banff
• Best Hotels for One Night in Banff
• Best Business Hotels in Banff
• Is Banff Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Banff cost?
• Is Banff Worth Visiting?
• Canada Costs
• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island
• Quebec City
• Niagara Falls
• How much does it cost to travel to Banff? (Average Daily Cost)
• Banff trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Banff expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Banff?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Banff?

You should plan to spend around $85 (CA$116) per day on your vacation in Banff. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $29 (CA$39) on meals
• $5.22 (CA$7.13) on local transportation
• $77 (CA$106) on hotels

A one week trip to Banff for two people costs, on average, $1,192 (CA$1,630) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 85 CA$ 116
• One Week Per person $ 596 CA$ 815
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,192 CA$ 1,630
• One Month Per person $ 2,554 CA$ 3,492
• One Week For a couple $ 1,192 CA$ 1,630
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 2,384 CA$ 3,259
• One Month For a couple $ 5,108 CA$ 6,984

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Banff cost?

A one week trip to Banff usually costs around $596 (CA$815) for one person and $1,192 (CA$1,630) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Banff on average costs around $1,192 (CA$1,630) for one person and $2,384 (CA$3,259) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Banff will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Banff on average costs around $2,554 (CA$3,492) for one person and $5,108 (CA$6,984) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Banff has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Banff is a reasonably affordable place to visit. Located in Canada, which is a moderately priced country, visitors will appreciate the relatively low cost of this destination. It is in the top 25% of cities in the country for its affordability . If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Banff is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Vernon, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Banff Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Banff?

The average Banff trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Banff travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Banff

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Banff is $39 (CA$53). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Banff is $77 (CA$106). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 39 CA$ 53
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 77 CA$ 106

Hotel Prices in Banff

Looking for a hotel in Banff? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Banff based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $161. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Banff Boutique Inn - Pension Tannenhof Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 172
• Fairmont Banff Springs Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 441

Transportation Budget in Banff

The cost of a taxi ride in Banff is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $5.22 (CA$7.13) per person, per day, on local transportation in Banff.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 5.22 CA$ 7.13

Recommended Services

• Banff to Calgary YYC Airport (Private Transfer with Tesla) Get Your Guide $ 275
• Banff: Private Banff National Park Tour with Hotel Transfers Get Your Guide $ 870

Flights to Banff

Rental cars in banff, food budget in banff.

While meal prices in Banff can vary, the average cost of food in Banff is $29 (CA$39) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Banff should cost around $11 (CA$16) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Banff is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 29 CA$ 39

Recommended

• Banff Food Tour: Eat the Castle Viator $ 154

What did other people spend on Food in Banff?

Typical prices for Food in Banff are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Banff, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Tea House Lunch for Two CA$ 45
• Hostel Breakfast CA$ 37
• McDonalds CA$ 6.38

Entertainment Budget in Banff

Entertainment and activities in Banff typically cost an average of $12 (CA$17) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 12 CA$ 17

Recommended Activities

• Canmore: Wilderness & Wildlife Walking Tour - 2hrs Viator $ 64
• Icefields Parkway & Ice Bubbles of Abraham Lake Adventure Viator $ 190

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Banff?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Banff are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Banff, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Hot Springs CA$ 7.32

Alcohol Budget in Banff

The average person spends about $9.41 (CA$13) on alcoholic beverages in Banff per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 9.41 CA$ 13

Water Budget in Banff

On average, people spend $0.82 (CA$1.12) on bottled water in Banff per day. The public water in Banff is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 0.82 CA$ 1.12

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Banff.

What makes Banff a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We spent more than we had planned to while we were in town, but it was still worth it. Some of the restaurants are pretty expensive.

How can you save money during your time in Banff?

There are actually a couple of hostels in town so we stayed at one. It was convenient to everything and pretty social, which was nice.

Are you an experienced traveler? Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. + Add Comment

Related Articles

Banff on a budget.

Food and Dining

Transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Search for Travel Costs

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

Travel Cost Data

You are welcome to reference or display our travel costs on your website as long as you provide a link back to this page .

A Simple Link

For a basic link, you can copy and paste the HTML link code or this page's address.

Travel Cost Widget

To display all of the data, copy and paste the code below to display our travel cost widget . Make sure that you keep the link back to our website intact.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Caitlyn's Adventures

Exploring the World, One Adventure at a Time

The Ultimate Cost Breakdown for a Trip to Banff

Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world! It’s no wonder that it’s a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. The question most travelers ask before planning a trip: How much does a trip to Banff cost? The truth is, it depends on your travel style and budget. But in this blog post, I’ll give you a breakdown of the how much we spent for a week in Banff.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about the cost of a week-long trip to Banff!

Trip to Banff Cost- Overview

For a break down of these numbers, what’s included in each, and where to save money continue reading!

Flights are going to vary in price depending on when you’re traveling and where you are flying from. We booked our flight during Black Friday with Air Canada and paid $306 per person plus $30 each way for one checked bag.

A few ways to save money on flights:

• Be flexible with your dates & check the price calendar to see which days are cheaper
• Visit during the shoulder season: September – October or May – June. The summer is the busiest time also making it more expensive.
• Look for flight deals during Black Friday.
• Book a flight with a layover- typically direct flights are going to be a little more expensive.

Accommodation

The average cost for a hotel in Banff is around $350/night. This can range depending on where your staying (more expensive next to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake). To save money consider:

• Looking at Airbnbs
• Stay in Canmore instead of Banff
• If traveling alone or only with one person look into hostels
• Travel during shoulder seasons

We stayed at an Airbnb in Harvie Heights , only 5 minutes from the entrance to Banff. We paid around $180 usd a night. The Airbnb wasn’t anything fancy but it was a great home base for our adventures! For 5 nights we paid $911.

At the end of our trip we stayed at an Airbnb in Calgary for two nights before heading home and paid $223 total.

To the left is the view from our Airbnb in Calgary.

Transportation

We paid $435 for our rental car for 7 days. We rented off of  Turo  instead of traditional options, such as Hertz. It was cheaper and very convenient to pick up at the airport. We didn’t have to wait for the car either which is a large bonus. Also included in transportation is:

• $75 for parking our car at the airport in Atlanta
• $45 for parking in Banff. This includes street parking and parking at Lake Louise.
• $94 for gas

This brings out total transportation cost to $650 for the week.

Excursions/Activities

Pursuit has a lot of great attraction options to choose from. They have options in both Banff & Jasper. Since our trip was only in Banff we choose the package with the Gondola to Sulfur Mountain and the Lake Minnewanka. On our last day in Banff, we decided to relax at Kananaskis Nordic Spa . Which was much needed after hiking around 6-7 miles everyday! We choose the twilight option, which was cheaper and allowed us to explore some more in Banff before heading over. The final cost in the excursion area is the park pass to get into Banff everyday. The cost are listed below:

• Gondola & Cruise package: $164
• Kananaskis Twilight Spa: $122
• Park Pass: $75

Depending on where you eat, cost for food can definitely add up quickly. Like most of our trips, we stopped by a grocery store on the first day to get the necessities. We grabbed bagels, cream cheese and yogurt to eat for breakfast. Instead of grabbing breakfast out, we prefer to eat breakfast either at our Airbnb or on the go so it saves us time and money in the morning. We also grabbed stuff to make sandwiches and snacks for our hikes. We ate sandwiches on the trail everyday and had snacks such as granola bars, chips, and something sweet. Our total cost for groceries was $77.

We ate dinner in the town of Banff most nights. Some days we were able to save on cost by eating during happy hour. We splurged one night at Sky Bistro for our anniversary and it was 100% worth it. Our total cost for restaurants was $565, this includes coffees, ice cream and beaver tails.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Caitlyn | Travel + Hiking 🌈 (@_caitlynsadventures_)

Misc/Souvenirs

If you’re like me, you can’t go to a new place and not come home with at least a t-shirt. We spent $189 on a few t-shirts, magnets, stickers, and a few misc things. Depending on how much shopping you like to do on vacation, this can vary greatly per person.

Trip to Banff – Is the Cost Worth it?

100% yes! Banff is an incredibly gorgeous and magical place and I would definitely recommend everyone to visit. As you start planning your trip to Banff, be sure to check out these ten things you should know before visiting ! Once your ready to start planning your trip, checkout this 7 day itinerary !

2 responses to “The Ultimate Cost Breakdown for a Trip to Banff”

[…] These are just the basics things to do, checkout this article for 10 things to know before visiting Banff! […]

[…] How Much a Trip to Banff Cost […]

Join the newsletter to be the first to hear about the latest travel tips, trail advice, and trip inspiration!

Email address:

By continuing, you accept our privacy policy

How Much Will a Banff Vacation Cost in 2024? (Crazy Numbers!)

Dreaming of visiting Banff National Park is free. But how much does a vacation in Canada’s oldest national park actually cost? In this article, you’ll find a handy overview of average low and high season prices for car rental, hotels and tours, and admission fees for attractions.

I can imagine that you’re looking forward to visiting Banff National Park. It is always exciting to explore new horizons. The good news is that this stunning destination never fails to impress. The bad news is that you need a big wallet to spend time in Banff.

As with any major tourist destination, prices tend to be very high . This article will give you an idea of what to expect; in other words: What is your budget for one, two, three or even four weeks in the park?

Of course, this article can only provide a general overview as prices fluctuate daily. How much your Banff holiday will cost is ultimately up to you. One thing is for sure: you can always make it more expensive.

I have included average car hire, hotel and tour prices in the table. I have also included entrance fees for paid attractions .

PLEASE NOTE: All prices are in Canadian dollar (CAD) .

How Much Does Car Rental Cost in Banff?

A car is pretty much essential when visiting Banff National Park. It is possible to visit some of the major attractions by public transportation, but you will need a (rental) car to get around.

In the table below you’ll only find Avis car rental prices at Calgary Airport. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get prices from other car rental companies for all dates. That’s why I haven’t included them in the table.

Although prices may vary, the table below will give you a quick idea of what you can expect to pay for an economy or midsize car .

Of course, there are many possible extras when renting a car, such as insurance, navigation, child seats, etc. The prices below are just the car rental prices. I’ve included them for three countries because Avis charges a different rate depending on your country of residence.

Cheaper Alternatives

There are somewhat cheaper options in downtown Calgary. If you want to save on your car rental spendings, it can be worthwhile to check prices in the city. However, it will add the hassle of getting there after having arrived at the airport. 

How Much Do Hotels Cost?

Hotel costs will comprise the most biggest part of your Banff vacation budget. You’ll find the average prices for summer, winter, and the shoulder seasons in the tables below.

I selected dates representing each season. I picked one date in July and one in August for summer, for example.

The averages are based on the prices of 31 hotels and bed and breakfasts in the park. I selected hotels in all categories: low-end, intermediate and high-end.

Looking to book a hotel in Banff? I recommend reading the extensive post about hotels in the park and their facilities .

About These Tables

It is difficult to provide average hotel rates as they fluctuate constantly with many variables at play. Booking prices depend on the time of booking – booking well in advance can be cheaper, booking closer to your intended stay can be more expensive.

Furthermore, the average price is calculated without any promotions. One drawback to these tables is that not all hotels had rooms available on all five dates (most only had rooms available on two or three dates).

As a result, some dates have more data (prices) on which I calculated the average than others. The more data I was able to include, the more reliable the average.

Nevertheless, these averages will give you a good idea of hotel prices in Banff National Park for 2023 and 2024. They will be updated each year.

It’s also good to know that:

• Prices for all hotels were collected from Booking.com
• Prices are in  Canadian dollars (CAD)
• The search was for a basic room for two adults (no suites)
• Prices were all checked on  11 May 2023
• You’d probably be able to get  slightly cheaper rates  when you book directly at the hotel 

Selected dates per season:

• Summer: 07/28 and 08/14 2023
• Fall: 10/28  2023
• Christmas:  12/25  2023
• Winter: 02/10  2024
• Spring: 05/01  2024

From this table we can conclude that hotel prices are highest in July and that spring and fall are much cheaper than in summer (as expected). Prices are slightly less than half the average for July.

All these dates combined result in an average hotel price of a whopping CAD 739 .

You might wonder why hotel rooms in Banff are so expensive . I wrote an entire post about it to answer this question. Click the link to find out.

There are two cheaper alternatives if you want to cut your accommodation costs. Hostels are usually about a third of the average price of a hotel. However, for this price you will have to share your room with three, four or more people.

If that’s still too expensive for you, or you don’t like sharing a room with strangers, there’s an even cheaper alternative. You’ve probably guessed it: camping. The average price per night for a campsite in a (frontcountry) campground is CAD 25.50 .

As you can tell upon the tables above you’ll be spending less in the shoulder seasons. There are some pros and cons to staying in Banff in spring and fall . I highly recommend you check them out.

How Much Do Restaurants Cost?

Food is another big part of the money you’ll shell out during your stay at the park. If you’re eating out three times a day, it adds up quickly. It proved too difficult to come up with a reasonable average as the menus vary greatly. However, if you eat breakfast, lunch and dinner in a restaurant or hotel, you can expect to spend an average of CAD 175 per day for two people .

The obvious alternatives are fast food restaurants. There are many in Banff and a few in Lake Louise. If you want to cut down on the cost of eating out, this is the way to go. Maybe not the healthiest option, but who doesn’t like a Big Mac now and again?

How Much Do Tours Cost? 

This is probably the most difficult question to answer. There are literally hundreds of tours to choose from, and prices vary widely. Especially for activities like helicopter rides, snowmobiling and dog sledding, the prices can add up.

I have used the prices of the two main tour operators for the Banff area: Discover Banff Tours and Banff Adventures . All prices are per person.

I would like to stress that comparing these companies is not an exact comparison. Their tours can vary greatly. These tables are only meant to give you an idea of the average cost of different tours and the average price of a tour in Banff.

Also, please note:

• All averages exclude prices for private tours (as they are much more expensive than regular tours and would therefore distort the average significantly).  
• Where a tour had ‘starting prices’, I included the lowest price.
• For horseback riding, I excluded multi-day trips from my calculations.

About the tables: In each column you’ll find the average price for the type of tour and operator. Between brackets you’ll find the number of tours used to calculate the average.

The cheaper alternative here is to do it yourself. It won’t cost you a penny and you only need to hire the necessary equipment (such as snowshoes). You can easily have a lot of fun on your own and be amazed by the park’s stunning beauty.

Looking to book an activity in Banff? I sorted some of the most exciting tours in Banff for you.

Park Attractions

Several attractions in the park require an entrance fee. The table below gives an overview of the attractions and their prices.

I’ve included the prices for adults and seniors :

* Price is from price as you can buy combined packages.

So What About the Actual Cost of a Banff Vacation?

Answering this question is still complicated, despite the numbers above. There are so many variables involved that it is impossible to give valid figures. I haven’t even included airfares, as people come from all over the world to visit the park.

Nevertheless, let’s try to get an informed average for the peak summer season:

First, accommodation . The average summer hotel rate for 2023 in the town of Banff is CAD 738 (to get this number, I added the average rates for 07/28 and 08/14 and divided by two).

Add to this the cost of eating out three times a day for two people (breakfast, lunch and dinner), which is about CAD 175 .

Add to that the average price of CAD 178 for a summer tour , multiply by two and add it all up. That comes to a whopping CAD 1091 .

This does not include gas, snacks, souvenirs and other things you might buy during the day. Not to mention plane tickets and car rental.

Multiply CAD 1091 by 7 and you’ll spend CAD 7637 (!) for a week in the park this summer. This EXCLUDES car rental and your airfare.

At that price, you can see why it might be worth checking out Banff holiday packages.

Final Thoughts

As I said in the introduction to this article, you can always make your stay in Banff more expensive, depending on your wishes and desires. I hope that the averages above will at least give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay during your stay in the park at different times of the year.

It might be good to know there are some activities you can do in the park that don’t make you pony up big amounts of cash. Want to know what they are? Read cheap things to do in Banff .

Banff Travel Guide and FAQ

Where is banff national park, canada.

Banff National Park is in the southwest of the province of Alberta. It’s home to the towns of Banff and Lake Louise and borders the province of British Columbia in the west of Canada. You can easily access famous places like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake and the stunning Icefields Parkway from these locations.

Banff and Lake Louise are situated in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, close to the boundary with British Columbia, as shown on the map of Banff National Park below.

Is Banff, Canada safe?

Generally speaking, yes. Like most areas, Banff has crime, but it’s still a safe travel place. But Banff has a lot of wildlife, including bears and cougars, so you should always carry bear spray and exercise caution when hiking in the mountains.

What is the best time to Travel to Banff, Canada?

The best time to travel to Banff, Canada, depends on your reason for visiting the park . If you’re going for the stunning nature the park’s famous for, you’d better visit from June to September. The best months to ski are from January through March. 

WEATHER IN BANFF, CANADA: AVERAGE TEMPERATURE

The worst months to visit Banff National Park are November, April and May. It’s too chilly to go sightseeing in November, and there isn’t enough snow on the slopes yet. The iconic lakes in the park are still frozen in April and May, and it can still be quite cold.

How do I travel to Banff, Canada?

Want to fly to Banff ? Calgary International Airport (Code: YYC) is the closest airport. It’s 130 kilometers (81 mi) to the east of Banff.  

Several cities, including Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, and Dallas/Fort Worth, have direct flights into Calgary.

Pick up a rental vehicle at Calgary International Airport, or take a private transport service to your destination. The trip to the park takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. 

Viator has several good options . Click the link to check the options and latest rates.

Banff Car Rental

Want to rent a car during your stay in Banff National Park? Rent one at Calgary International Airport or in the city of Calgary. Yep, there are rental firms in Lake Louise and Banff, but as these are small towns, your rental options can be limited.

Avis is a reputable car rental company, which I’ve used many times. Book now with Avis

What do I pack for Banff, Canada?

The time of year will affect what you should bring with you on your trip to Banff, Canada. If you plan to spend your summer vacation in Banff National Park, you should be okay with light-colored, breathable clothing. Bring a few sweaters, too, as Banff’s summer evenings can be chilly. You’re in the mountains, after all. 

When visiting in winter, bring a heavy jacket, such as a parka, and other winter clothing, such as warm pants, long underwear, and (fleece) s

Banff Travel Planning Guide

Do i need a visa for banff.

Most likely not. Citizens of the US, most European countries, Australia and New Zealand don’t need a visa to enter Canada. Not sure? Click  the link  to see whether you need a visa or not. The typical length of stay in Canada for people with visa-exempt passports is 90 days.

Do I need travel insurance for Banff ?

You bet. Feel confident while traveling with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the top names in travel insurance, for just USD 10 on average per day.

What’s the best way to book my Banff accommodation?

If you plan to book a hotel, hostel or bed & breakfast,  Booking.com  is your best bet. It has the most hotels listed and often offers the best rates.

Do I need to rent a car in Banf?

Absolutely. While Banff is one of the few national parks in North America with a sizeable public transport network, I strongly advise renting a car if you want to make the most of your visit.

Will my phone work in Banff?

It depends. In the towns of Banff and Lake Louise, you should have good to excellent reception. However, in more remote areas, the signal is spotty. In many places, there will be no signal at all.

What’s the best site to buy Banff flights? 

If you’re looking for cheap flights to Banff, I recommend Skyscanner. No surprises with suddenly increased rates (for taxes, seats or luggage) upon checkout. What you see is what you get. 

As a former Banffite, I love writing about my favorite part of the world. I keep coming back to enjoy the park's mesmerising beauty. It never fails to impress me. With my extensive knowledge of the area, I aim to provide you with the best information on Banff that you can find on the internet.

One thought on “ How Much Will a Banff Vacation Cost in 2024? (Crazy Numbers!) ”

“As it goes with major tourist destinations, prices tend to be high, very high.” Uh.. no… Unfortunately, as a newcomer to Canada I have found that sadly this is only true here in Canada for some reason. Sure, normally prices are a little higher everywhere based on time of the year, but here in Canada the prices are crazy ALL YEAR… I have travelled al over the world, and even during high season you will find reasonable places (talking within the $100-150 range -and even some sub-100). Honestly do not understand how these places are even in business, because while just for right now I cannot travel outside of Canada, as soon as I can again there is no way on earth I will spend a dime here when I can go to places like Hawaii, California, heck even Mexico for a fraction of what they want to charge at places like Banff or even “Kelowna”… (KELOWNA FFS…). Anyway, not really sure I will ever understand people option to be robbed like this, but to each their own I guess…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Articles

Biking in Zion National Park: Routes, Riding Tips and Safety

Sure, you can drive through Zion National Park by car or RV, do lots of great hiking and have the time of your life. But there’s another way to explore the park that’s often overlooked and soooo...

Glamping in Zion National Park: A First-Timers Guide

Want to camp in Zion but with a bit of luxury? Say hi to glamping! The park offers several options for this camping experience while enjoying hotel-like amenities. Read on to learn all about glamping...

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

BanffandBeyond

The Canadian Rockies Through A Local Perspective

How To Visit Banff On A Budget

The Canadian Rocky Mountains and Banff in particular have a reputation for being expensive.  There’s certainly no shortage of establishments catering to deep pockets, but there are ways to help keep your vacation costs down. This is a guide for the average visitor coming to Banff that wants to keep their expenses to a reasonable level, but still try to have an enjoyable trip.

Skip The Paid Tourist Attractions And Stick To Free Or Lower Cost Activities

One way to save money is to avoid the high priced tourist attractions. Adding these pricey activities into your itinerary can quickly escalate the cost of your visit. The parks are a vast area consisting of some of the most beautiful nature and mountain scenery in the world. Visitors were attracted to the beauty of the area long before there were any gondolas, boat cruises and glacier rides operating. Once you have purchased your park pass you can spend time admiring the majestic mountains and glacier lakes, walking along the pathways and hiking trails and driving the scenic roadways for free.

Don’t feel you are missing out if you can’t afford to partake in the paid attractions that are meant to empty tourist’s wallets. There are so many beautiful spots to visit such as Lake Louise , Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway and many other free and low cost activities in Banff to enjoy.

The Cheapest Times Of The Year To Visit Banff And The Canadian Rocky Mountains

If your budget is limited it’s easier to tell you when not to visit the Canadian Rockies and that would be during the summer months. This is peak tourist season and if you plan to stay in Banff during this time, be prepared to pay for it. Budget priced accommodation by Banff standards can be shocking.

Below is a rough breakdown of the seasonal accommodation pricing. These are just general guidelines of what to expect for typical hotel style accommodation at the lower end of the price scale. Higher end and luxury properties will be significantly more. We’ve based the prices on a double occupancy room during the week. Accommodation booked during a weekend, a holiday or during a special event can increase dramatically depending on the demand.

Mid-June through mid-September – accommodation is at premium pricing. Some hotels may have a 2 day minimum stay for weekends. Expect most hotel room prices to be between $400 to $550 a night and go up from there. Consider anything less a bargain.

Mid- to late September . Prices don’t seem to drop as much as they used to for the last half of September. Don’t expect much more than a slight decrease from the summer rates.

Early to mid-October is shoulder season. Prices are still high, but usually cheaper than the summer months. Expect prices from $250 to $400 a night and up, although you may be able to find some better deals.

From mid-October to mid-December is considered somewhat off-season. There are room options available in ranges from $180 to $250 a night. November is considered one of the quietest months in the mountains and you may get deals as low as $150 a night or less.

Mid-December through the first week of January – prices increase and they peak to a premium from the weekend before Christmas through the first week of January. Hotels may have a two night minimum stay over the weekends and up to a four night minimum stay over the Christmas holidays. Rooms will be $400 to $600 or more per night.

The second weekend of January to mid-May – during the peak of ski season which runs from Christmas through early March the prices will be higher. Especially on weekends when skiers flock from nearby areas to stay in the mountains. Expect $180 to $300 a night during the week. The weekends can be $100 to $200 or higher a night compared to the week day prices. If you can visit during the week in the ski season it will not only save you money the slopes will be a less crowded.

Mid-May to mid-June is another shoulder season. The prices start to increase, but are not as high as the summer months. Average prices $250 to $400 per night.

Canadian Statutory Holidays To Take Note Of When Planning A Trip

Take note of the holidays that may affect prices from the averages listed above and may require advance booking due to high demand.

• December 25th Christmas Day and the 26th Boxing Day through Jan 1 st New Years is a busy time
• February – third Monday is Family Day which creates a busy long weekend during the ski season
• March/April – Good Friday through Easter Sunday creates a busy long weekend, the dates fluctuate between late March and April each year.
• May – the Monday before May 25 th is Victoria Day creating a long weekend and is dubbed as the start of the tourist season
• July 1 st – Canada Day. If it’s on a Friday or Monday it creates a busy long weekend. Even if it’s during the week the day is busy in the parks.
• August – Civic Holiday, first Monday of the month. It creates another busy long weekend
• September – Labour Day the first Monday of the month. The last long weekend of the summer tourist season.
• October – second Monday of the month is Canadian Thanksgiving
• November – Remembrance Day the 11 th of the month. Usually not too busy to worry about this date.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Visiting In The Off Season?

If you plan to partake in activities like boat tours or the Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier take note that most of these types of tourist operations close for the season by mid-October. From then until the first week of December is a time of transition or off-season. The summer/fall activities have ceased but the winter ones have not yet started.

See our post on Visiting the Rocky Mountains In The Off Season Of November.

Mid-April through mid-May is another time of transition, especially in places of higher elevation. Winter activities are ending as Spring is trying to take hold. Many of the glacier lakes remain frozen, only the lower valley trails are free of snow for hiking and most tourist activities such as lake cruises don’t start up until the beginning of May. Temperatures can still be quite cold and the weather can be unpredictable with snow storms occurring.

Tour operators offer cheaper rates during this time for visitors coming from overseas. If you’re planning your once in a lifetime dream trip make sure your visit is going to meet your expectations. If you have always wanted to see the beautiful turquoise glacier waters of the Rocky Mountain lakes this is not the time to visit.

For more information on visiting in the spring  or late fall see our post Pros and Cons of Banff and Jasper in the shoulder season of April and May

Tips For Booking Banff Accommodation

Booking accommodation well in advance is a must for July and August and through most of September. Any lower priced rooms are gone early. Start looking six months ahead of time. The longer you wait the less selection there will be. If you try to book last minute or arrive without a place to stay you can expect to pay an exorbitant amount for a room, if you can find one at all.

Weekends and holidays in the summer are the most expensive and book up the quickest. If you’re only staying for a few days try to plan it between Monday and Thursday to save a few dollars. You can search for hotels that offer package deals, some have rates that include the Banff Gondola or ski passes.

Consider A Room With A Kitchenette To Save On Food Costs

Having accommodation with a small kitchenette or full kitchen can allow you to prepare at least some of your own meals and cut down costs. In the crowded and busy summer months it can be much more relaxing to come back to your own peaceful space for your evening meal. Some hotels offer BBQ areas for guests to use in the warmer months.

Many of the hotels that offer kitchens have condo or chalet style accommodations with several bedrooms that can sleep 6 or more people. If you’re traveling with family or friends this can be an economical option compared to paying for several hotel rooms.

Here’s a list of some of the properties offering accommodation with a kitchenette or full kitchens.

In the town of Banff

• Fox Hotel and Suites
• Rundlestone Lodge,
• Irwin’s Mountain Inn
• Chareltons Cedar Court

Tunnel Mountain – This location is just a few minutes drive from downtown Banff and about a 20 minute walk. Many of the accommodations on Tunnel Mountain offer their guests complimentary bus passes.

• Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
• Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets
• Buffalo Mountain Lodge
• Hidden Ridge Resort
• Tunnel Mountain Resort

Banff Hostels And Budget Hotels

There’s four budget friendly hostels in Banff. The first three are within a few minutes walk from the core of downtown Banff.

• Banff International Hostel – 449 Banff Avenue. Dorms, private rooms and a guest kitchen.
• YWCA Hostel – 102 Spray Avenue. Dorms, private rooms and family rooms with kitchenettes. Café and guest kitchen.
• Samesun Backpackers – 433 Banff Avenue. Dorm rooms and a bar.
• HI Banff Alpine Center – 801 Hidden Ridge Way. 1.8 km from town. Dorms, private rooms and cabin suites, guest kitchens and a restaurant and bar. They offer guests complimentary local bus passes.

There’s far too many Banff hotels to supply a list, but any google search of “budget Banff accommodation” will bring up the options. Remember that the price of a “budget” hotel in Banff might be a lot higher than what you’re expecting. If being located right downtown is not a priority try some of the properties that skirt the edge of town. They may have cheaper rates. Do your research and read reviews. Lower cost hotels may be older properties that have not been updated for quite some time.

Canmore Accommodation Can Be An Alternative To Staying In Banff

Canmore serves as a good base to explore the Rocky Mountains. It’s a 15 minute drive east from downtown Banff. There’s more selection for lower to moderately priced accommodation in Canmore. They have a large number of vacation condos that are a good option for longer stays. Many of them are like a home away from home with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms and in-suite laundry.

For a full comparison between the two locations see our post on Staying In Canmore Versus Banff As A Base .

Canmore might not be the best choice if you plan on doing a lot of trips back and forth heading west to places like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Icefields Parkway or into Yoho National Park. The extra driving can become a nuisance. If you plan on exploring east to Kananaskis Country then Canmore is the perfect base as it sits right on the back door to everything the area has to offer.

The majority of the Canmore hotels are along Bow Valley Trail. It’s a convenient location to get to downtown. There’s a large amount of vacation condos located along Kananaskis Way, a few minutes drive or a 15 minute walk to downtown. One of the cheapest options in Canmore is the Hostel Bear, don’t you just love the name. It offers dorm style and private rooms as well as a kitchen for guest use.

Accommodation And Dining In The Lake Louise Area

The amount of accommodation in Lake Louise is limited and there’s not much that fits into the budget category. During the summer months and early fall it’s extremely expensive and books up fast.

The lowest price option would be the HI Lake Louise Alpine Center. If you don’t usually stay in hostels don’t be so quick to dismiss this option. It’s situated in an attractive log cabin style building and offers some private rooms. You might be surprised that in the summer months the cost is $70 a night to stay in a shared 4 to 6 bed dorm room. Private rooms for two people are over $200 or more if you want a private bathroom.  However, this is a bargain compared to other options in Lake Louise.

The Mountaineer Lodge and the Lake Louise Inn would be the mid-range options ranging from $150 a night at the lowest demand time of November up to $500 a night in the peak summer months.

Deer Lodge is a property very close to the lake, just a few minutes walk but it is closed for the next 2 years because it is housing staff from the ski hill due to a fire at their accommodation.

The only accommodation right at Lake Louise is the Fairmont Chateau Hotel which is in the luxury category of pricing. The cheapest basic room is $300 a night in the off season of November and in the summer months expect rooms to be $1500 a night. That won’t even be what’s considered one of their high end rooms.

There’s another property in the village of Lake Louise that’s in the luxury category called the Post Hotel and Spa. Their lowest price is $350 in November and then starting at $700 a night in the summer months.

There’s only a dent of dining options in Lake Louise compared to Banff. Finding low cost places to eat can be a challenge.

Details for budget food have been covered here: Cheap Eats In Lake Louise.

The Town Of Field As An Alternative To Staying in Lake Louise

The small town of  Field can be an excellent base in the Rocky Mountains . It’s situated in the center of Yoho National Park allowing easy access to explore the highlights such as Emerald Lake , the Natural Bridge and Takkakaw Falls. Consider it as a cheaper alternative to staying in Lake Louise, it’s just a 15 minute drive west. You can easily visit other areas of Banff National Park from Field, such as Moraine Lake and it has quick access to the Icefields Parkway.

Field doesn’t have a lot of amenities and it’s not the place to be if you are looking for any nightlife. There’s only a couple of places to eat and many of the accommodations are part of a house with access to a full kitchen. The town has an excellent visitor center full of information about the area and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

Camping In the Rocky Mountains

Camping is one of the cheapest ways to stay in the parks. It’s a great option if you have your own RV or tent. Late May to mid-September is the best time to camp in the Rockies. At the early and later ends of that time frame you need to be prepared for night time and early morning temperatures that can drop below freezing. Snow is always a possibility. The rest of the year you need to be fully equipped for cold weather camping.

From July through early September make sure you have reservations for campgrounds that accept them, especially if you need full hookups for your RV. Information can be found at Parks Canada Camping Reservations.   Backcountry hiking in the parks requires the advance purchase of a wilderness pass. Backcountry campsites and shelters can be reserved up to 3 months in advance. Reservations can be made through the same camping link above.

Show up early in the day for campsites that are first come, first served. The check in time for most campgrounds is 2pm, but it’s probably best to show up around the check out time of 11 am. The campsites will start to fill up for a summer long weekend as early as Thursday night.

If you want to be close to the town of Banff the Tunnel Mountain Campground is the best option. It’s just a few minutes drive or a 15 to 20 minute walk from downtown. It’s also on the local bus route. The Two Jack Lake campground is not too far from town, with more of a wilderness feel to it.

Near the  Lake Louise area the Mosquito Creek Campground is a nice option, it’s 24 kms north of Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93). There’s also a campground in the village of Lake Louise, but be warned if you’re a light sleeper it’s right near the train tracks.

Further up the  Icefields Parkway the Wilcox Creek Campground is near the Columbia Icefields. It makes a good base for exploring that area of the park. Closer to Jasper there are the Wapiti and Whistler’s Campgrounds.

Camping equipment can be purchased at places in Calgary such as Canadian Tire or Walmart at fairly reasonable prices. MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op) tends to have higher prices, but the selection is excellent. Renting camping equipment is possible through Camping Banff.  There’s also a Canadian Tire in Canmore.

Renting A Recreational Vehicle In The Canadian Rockies

Renting a recreational vehicle otherwise known as an RV in the Rocky Mountains and anywhere in Canada is generally not a cheaper way to travel as it is in other parts of the world. A rental of an RV in the summer can be anywhere from $200 to $400 a night.

You need to do your research and thoroughly check what the rental includes. There can be extra charges for insurances, bedding and linens, kitchen cookware and propane. Unless you pay for extra mileage, you may be limited to 100 kms a day. That’s not a lot if you plan to explore different areas of the parks. Driving an RV from Calgary to Banff is 120 kms one way. The distance between Banff and Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is 60 to 70 kms each way. The drive from Banff to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is over 300 km’s one way.

When you start adding on all the extra fees your rental cost can skyrocket. Don’t forget this does not include your fuel or the fees for your camping spots.

If all your looking for is a vehicle that has a bed and basic camping supplies there is a company called Wicked Campers. They have pick up and drop offs available in Calgary and Vancouver. That makes for a great option if you want to do a one way drive between the two destinations. The vans are very compact, but offer everything you need to function for around $90 to $100 per day.

Budget Priced Dining And Drink Options

Besides the accommodation in Banff your dining costs can be your next largest expense. A typical hamburger with fries can be $20 to $25 and higher. Check the daily specials at various restaurants and happy hours and food specials offered in the pubs. As with many things in Banff the word “budget” food is a relative term.

It’s not a complete list, but here are some dining options that are budget to moderately priced or offer regular specials:

• Rose and Crown, 202 Banff Avenue – cheaper eats and drinks with a rooftop patio for the summer months and often has live music.
• St. James Gate, 207 Wolf Street – a classic Irish style pub offering hearty food.
• Tommy’s Neighbourhood Pub, 120 Banff Avenue – pub fare at a reasonable price.
• Magpie and Stump, 203 Caribou Street – Mexican/southwestern food and drinks. Check out their happy hour specials.
• Bear Street Tavern, 211 Bear Street – pizza and typical pub fare

Restaurants

• Coyote’s Deli & Grill, 206 Caribou Street – locals love having breakfast here, French toast and huevos rancheros.
• Pad Thai, 110 Banff Avenue at the backside of the Clocktower Mall – tasty Thai food at reasonable prices
• Sushi House Banff, 304 Caribou Street – sushi and dumplings delivered on a train!
• Chaya, 118 Banff Avenue – Japanese noodle and sushi dishes
• The Old Spaghetti Factory, 317 Banff Avenue on the 2 nd level of Cascade Plaza, complete pasta meals at a low price that include bread, soup or salad, ice cream and tea or coffee. The kids meals are the same and very reasonably priced.
• Ramen Arashi 2nd floor #213 Sundance Mall, 215 Banff Ave – Ramen variations and Japanese appetizers.
• Block Kitchen and Bar, 5 Banff Avenue #201 – creative tapa style menu with asian flair
• Eddie Burger Bar, 137 Banff Avenue – very popular place with creative burgers

Fast Food And Take Away

• The Food Court in the lower level of Cascade Plaza, 317 Banff Avenue has various quick food options.
• McDonald’s – 116 Banff Avenue
• Subway, 37 Banff Avenue and in the Cascade Plaza food court
• Tim Horton’s, 100 Gopher Street
• Aardvark Pizza and Sub, 304A Caribou Street– Pizza, poutine and wings. Popular late night spot. 

Café’s/Coffee Shops

The cafes and coffee shops in Banff can be of good value. In many of them you can satisfy your hunger with a sandwich or hearty soup along with the caffeinated beverage of your choice for far less than you would pay at a restaurant. In addition to chain operations like Tim Horton’s and Starbucks, Banff has several locally owned and operated cafes with in house baked breads and pastries and high quality coffee.

For an extensive list see our post on Coffee Shops and Cafes in downtown Banff.

Use Grocery Stores For Self Catering And Picnics

Preparing your own meals can save a lot of money. Skip expensive breakfasts and buffets at your hotel. Buying a couple of cheap bowls, cutlery, a knife and cutting board can go a long way. Many hotel rooms have a small fridge, stock it up with fruit and yogurt, grab a container of milk and cereal. Buy a loaf of bread or bag of buns and deli cheeses and meats to make sandwiches. If you don’t want to make your own you can still save money by purchasing pre-made sandwiches and salads available at the grocery stores. If you’re going to be out sightseeing all day you can pick up a small cooler or insulated bag and fill it with some ice to help keep things cold.

Banff Grocery Stores

Banff has two main grocery stores where you can find most items that you would in a larger city grocery store.

• Nestors – 122 Bear Street
• IGA – 318 Marten Street

The Banff Farmers Market 

The farmers market in Banff is another great place to buy produce and locally made artisan foods, baked goods and fruits and vegetables. From late May to early October, every Wednesday from 10 to 6pm. Located at 110 Bear Street, where it meets up with Buffalo Street.

Lake Louise Grocery Stores

The Village Market, 101 Village Road – Lake Louise has a small grocery market in the Samson strip mall in the village. It has most everything you need to get by in a pinch, but it’s quite expensive and there’s not a lot of variety. Produce and popular grocery items can easily run out of stock in the busy summer months and during holidays. The mall also has a small liquor store.

The Petro Canada gas station in Lake Louise sells some basic grocery items like milk, cheese, cereal and pop and snack foods. Prices tend to be a little better than the market. It’s on 100 Village Road, diagonally across the intersection from the Samson Mall.

Canmore Grocery Stores

The two main grocery stores in Canmore are Safeway and Save On Foods. They are much larger than the ones in Banff and offer more selection.

• Safeway and liquor store – #200-1200 Railway Avenue
• Save On Foods – 950 Railway Avenue

Nutters Everyday Naturals, 900 Railway Avenue – a smaller grocery store offering bulk, natural and organic foods.

Mountain Mercado, 817-8 Street. This is a gourmet market and deli, so it’s not in the budget category. However, if you want to cook yourself a fancy meal or pack a special picnic this is the place to go. It will be cheaper than eating in a fancy restaurant in Canmore or Banff.

The Canmore Mountain Market  

The Canmore Mountain Market Market offers regional and local produce, meats, jam, baked good as well as artisanal goods. It runs every Thursday from 10am to 6pm at the Elevation Place parking lot. 100-700 Railway Avenue

Calgary Grocery Stores

Almost any type of grocery item can be found in Banff and Canmore,  including some gluten free, organic and ethnic food options. Only very hard to find items may need to be sought out in Calgary. The Safeway, Save On Foods, IGA grocery store prices in Banff and Canmore are the same as in Calgary. The cheaper options in Calgary that are not available in Banff and Canmore are the big box stores that offer lower food prices like Superstore and Walmart. There’s also two Costco Warehouses, one in south Calgary and one in the north.

Buying Supplies In Calgary, Canmore And Banff

Calgary is your best bet if you are wanting to pick up any supplies such as camping gear, coolers, plates, cutlery or any other kitchenware or clothing you didn’t bring with you. There’s many sporting good stores like M.E.C. (Mountain Equipment Co-op) and places like Canadian Tire and Walmart that have camping and kitchen wares. Canmore has a Canadian Tire and and Valhalla Pure Outfitters and Banff has Monod Sports.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Banff on a budget – how to save BIG bucks on your trip to Banff National Park 

Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world and has everything you could want from a vacation, but it can be an expensive place to visit!

The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it.

With a little planning and research, you can find ways to save money on your trip, and we tell you how.

Here we list tons of ideas on where to go, what to do, and how to travel cheaply once you’re here, so you can enjoy the beauty of Banff National Park without spending a fortune.

How do we know you can do Banff on a budget? We do it all the time, and we spend a lot of time in Banff National Park.

That’s why we put together this comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip affordably. 

Here are some of our favorite free or inexpensive things to see and do in the Canadian Rockies.

1. Plan your trip well in advance to save money

The majority of the cost of your trip will be on transport and hotels, so book everything , including your flights, hotels, and other transportation, as far in advance as possible.

This will save you money, sometimes a considerable amount.

We go to Banff for New Year’s every year, so I always book our hotel accommodation by mid-March of that year at the very latest for a couple of reasons:

1) It is far cheaper than leaving it to be booked a couple of months before you go.

b) The hotels have lots of availability and are not fully booked yet. This gives you the best rates and means you have lots more hotel room choices within your price range.

If you’re bringing your dog, book as early as you can because the pet-friendly hotels in Banff get booked up quickly.

2. Don’t get ripped off when hiring a car

The first cost you’ll need to consider is transportation.

Whether you’re flying into Calgary airport and renting a car or driving from another location in Canada or the US, you’ll need to factor in the cost of gas, park entry, and potentially parking.

If you plan on hiring a car when you get to Calgary Airport, it will (likely) be more expensive than renting one from outside the airport, so don’t mention that you just got off the plane.

A short Uber or taxi ride from the airport to one of the car rental locations in NW or NE Calgary can save you a lot of money.

And you should be able to return the car to the airport without paying extra.

Booking your car rental MONTHS in advance will also save you a fair amount of cash, and you’ll have more choices, meaning you’re more likely to find a car within your budget.

Related reading: How to get to Banff National Park and the Rockies

3. Save on car hire and take an airport shuttle to Banff

You might not want or need to rent a car, as you can get to and around Banff without one.

There are no public transit buses running from Calgary Airport to Banff , but there are several private companies that pick you up at the airport and take you to the hotels in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise, and Jasper.

Once you’re in Banff, you can get around easily and cheaply by using the popular local Roam transit service.

4. Use credit card points or online hotel booking companies

Do you use a credit card that lets you earn points toward travel? This is one way of keeping costs down for one of the most expensive parts of your trip.

One option is to use your credit card points to book a hotel room. Another way is to use points earned through online booking companies such as Expedia or Booking.com.

I find, more often than not, that Expedia has rooms at cheaper rates than Booking.com.

Signing up for newsletters from travel websites like Expedia, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Hotels.com, etc., can sometimes also save you money. For example, when booking accommodations through one of these sites, they usually offer discounts to new users. You’ll also get notified of the latest deals available.

In addition, you can easily find out which hotels in the Banff area have the best rates, so you won’t waste time looking for the cheapest place to stay.

And if you find a lower price elsewhere, you can usually price match or cancel your reservation free of charge.

Points earned on some store loyalty cards will let you use them towards flights, car hire, and hotel rooms, so it’s definitely worth looking into what they can save you.

Saving your points over time and using them toward your trip can significantly lower your costs when traveling on a budget to Banff.

5. Sign up for hotel newsletters for discounts

If you have a particular hotel in mind that you want to stay at but don’t want to book through one of the online travel sites, you can often save some money by signing up for the hotel’s newsletter.

If you book with the hotel direct, they may offer a discounted room rate and other exclusive offers such as free breakfast, which often isn’t included when booking through a travel website.

6. If Banff is too expensive, stay in Canmore instead.

Canmore, a 20-minute drive from Banff, is another touristy but less crowded small mountain town.

Many people, including us, love Canmore because it is quieter than Banff and offers access to the same activities, such as hiking and endless outdoor opportunities.

You also have the same beautiful mountain scenery in every direction.

As Canmore is just outside of Banff National Park, you don’t need a park pass to stay there, and the town has all the same things as Banff, such as restaurants, bars, and hotels, but it’s more affordable.

You can also enjoy the convenience of being close to the park and other attractions, like Lake Louise, while still having access to the amenities.

I would say Canmore is only slightly more affordable during peak seasons because it is becoming more popular, which, of course, means prices are rising accordingly.

But, as an alternative base for visitors to the town of Banff, there are some great places to stay that are budget friendly and have great views of the Rockies, but you must book early to get the best rates and choices, just like in Banff.

There are also numerous Airbnb and VRBO properties in Canmore that can offer you a lot more space than a hotel room, especially if traveling with kids, and still cost you less than a hotel in Banff.

7. Consider camping instead of staying in a hotel

If staying outside the park isn’t for you, then camping is another way to do Banff on a budget.

Camping is not only a great way to see Banff National Park and get back to nature, but it is far cheaper than staying in a hotel.

Here are some reasons why camping is a better option for you if you want to save some cash:

• Camping is much cheaper than staying in a hotel, and Banff National Park has some great campsites. There are even equipped campsites where a tent is already provided if you don’t want to bring your own.
• Camping allows you to see the park up close and personal, where you can wake up to views of the beautiful Rocky Mountains right outside your tent.
• Prices range from CAD 11.50 a night for a basic no-frills site through to CAD 74.75 for an equipped campsite plus CAD 9.25 for a fire permit, if you want a fire pit.

As you can see, camping instead of staying in a hotel can give you a lot more for your money.

Depending on what campground you choose, you’ll still have access to all the amenities of a hotel, but at a fraction of the cost.

8. Banff’s hostels for cost-effective lodging

There are plenty of places to stay in Banff, but if you’re looking for a lower-cost option, it’s worth checking out Banff’s hostels.

These offer dorm rooms and private rooms at lower prices, especially in the high season.

There are four hostels in Banff. Three are centrally located, and one is a little further outside of the downtown area.

Banff International Hostel – 449 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB, T1L 1A6. This hostel has both dorm rooms and private rooms and offers special packages and discounts to save you money.

Samesun Backpackers – 433 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB, T1L 1B4. This is the closest hostel to town and has private rooms and dorms.

YWCA – 102 Spray Avenue, Banff, AB, T1L 1A6. This hostel also has both private rooms and shared dorms.

Hi-Banff Alpine Centre – 801 Hidden Ridge Way, Banff, AB, T1L 1B3, is 1.9 km from downtown Banff, which is about a 25-minute walk or less than 5 minutes by car or the Roam Transit Banff local route 2 bus.

9. Visit during Banff’s off-seasons

We all want to save money, and by visiting from mid-September to November, and mid-March to June, which are outside the peak seasons, you can get a great deal on hotels in Banff.

You will pay significantly less than the peak season rates, and there are plenty more hotel rooms available.

During the summer months and over Christmas in Banff , the prices skyrocket, and many hotels have a 2-night minimum stay at weekends.

If you visit during these times, try to stay on weekdays as they are usually less expensive than on weekends.

Prices start rising in June, but the high season in Banff is generally July to mid-September and December to mid-March. Banff National Park sees over 4 million visitors a year, the majority visiting during the summer months and slightly fewer during the winter.

I love going to Banff during the off-peak, shoulder months, as it is an especially great place to visit during this time.

Yes, summertime is awesome with long, warm, sunny days, but when you want a cheaper way to do Banff, out-of-season is the way to go.

And this comes with some advantages, as the crowds are smaller, the mountains aren’t quite as crowded, and the trails are definitely less busy.

If you’re looking to save money, consider traveling during the spring or fall instead.

Take my word for it, Banff is equally as beautiful during these times as well.

10. Avoid staying during a statutory holiday

Another consideration when booking your Banff vacation is that you will be charged more for your stay during some of Alberta’s nine statutory holidays: New Year’s Day, Alberta Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Remembrance Day, and Christmas Day (Boxing Day is not considered a holiday in Canada), as well as two general holidays, Easter Monday and Heritage Day.

Hotels charge a premium for stays during the main ones being Christmas and New Year and Canada Day on July 1st.

Canada Day is a very busy holiday in Banff because of all the activities the park puts on.

If you’re planning to book a room during these holidays, check what the price difference is as it can be a lot!

11. Food is pricey in Banff – shop before you arrive

It can be hard to buy food in Banff that isn’t expensive, but there are ways to save money.

One way is to shop before you get here.

If you’re coming from Calgary, stop at one of the many supermarkets there, such as Walmart, No Frills/Canadian Superstore, or Costco, and stock up on food and drink.

You could also take a slight detour on the way to Banff and drive into Cochrane, which has several supermarkets where food will be cheaper than in Banff and Canmore.

Most hotels have a microwave and fridge in the room, but there are several that do not so be sure to check when you book, as you don’t want any food that you’ve bought on the way to spoil.

Better still, book a room that has a kitchenette, such as at Banff Rocky Mountain Resort or Tunnel Mountain Resort.

We’ve found that both provide everything you need if you want to cook a few meals and save money by not dining out.

I know you don’t want to have to cook when you go on vacation, but it is cost-effective and does save you money.

It doesn’t mean you have to cook every day, either.

There are a couple of small supermarkets in Banff, but their prices are higher than what you will pay outside the park. However, they are great if you need some last-minute items.

The supermarkets in town are IGA Banff, 318 Marten Street, and Nesters Market, 122 Bear Street, Banff.

12. Eating out without breaking the bank

As I said above, planning ahead can help you keep costs down, and looking online at the many restaurants and places to eat before your visit can also help.

You’ll find that lots of the restaurants and pubs in Banff offer food and drink specials at certain times, such as Happy Hour.

Booking a table is definitely recommended in the summer and winter seasons. The cheaper places to eat fill up quickly, leaving you with little option but to eat in one of the more expensive ones.

As for cheap dining, there are a couple of Subways, one is at 137 Banff Avenue, and is open until 3 am. The other is downstairs inside the Cascade Plaza and closes at 8 pm.

I won’t bore you with what you can eat at Subway, but they offer food at a reasonable price.

One of the ways we save money is by downloading the A&W app, or you could sign up for offers on their website.

Click on the ‘coupons’ tab to see the deals. Those of you not from Canada might not have heard of A&W, it’s a fast food outlet similar to Mcdonald’s.

In Banff, it’s a short distance from the town centre at 601 Banff Avenue.

We often get their breakfast deals. As well as being filling, the cost for the four of us comes to less than $30—far less than what you would pay in your hotel or restaurant.

There is also an A&W in Canmore at 606 Bow Valley Trail.

Mcdonald’s, which is right in the town on Banff Avenue, has similar breakfast options, but A&W offers the best deals, and we think it tastes better.

For lunch and dinner, there are a few places to eat in the heart of the town, and all serve good, affordable food. These are:

• The Old Spaghetti Factory (especially the ‘It’s All Included’ meals)
• St James’ Gate Irish Pub on Wolf Street
• Tommy’s Neighborhood Pub. Both pubs allow children in until 9 pm.

13. Take a hike, it’s free!

Hiking is an excellent way to enjoy nature and get away from the crowds. It keeps you fit, and best of all, it doesn’t cost you anything.

Many of the park’s best-known hikes are easily accessible from the town of Banff itself and the village of Lake Louise. [1]

Banff National Park has so many trails that you’ll be spoiled for choice.

In fact, you’ve got somewhere in the region of 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) of maintained trails to choose from, and while some are short and easy hikes , others are longer and definitely more challenging.

Many of these paths lead to viewpoints where you can marvel at the mountain scenery. You can also take part in guided hikes if you want to learn more about what you’re seeing.

A bit of advice – remember to take bear spray with you if you plan on hiking especially between the beginning of April to the end of November.

Take it from me, for your own piece of mind, you’ll be glad you have it should you come face to face with a bear.

Several trailheads start just a few minutes walk from downtown Banff. These include Tunnel Mountain and Sundance Canyon Trail, and both are good if you want a day hike.

14. Watch a Movie at the Lux Cinema

Go catch a movie after a day hiking in the mountains at The Lux , located on the corners of Wolf and Bear Streets.

The cinema has four screens showing all the latest movies, classic films, documentaries, and foreign language films.

Go on a Tuesday evening and get the discounted ticket deal.

15. Take a leisurely walk around the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

I’ve lost count of the number of times we’ve walked around this magnificent hotel. I love strolling around it just as much as our teens do.

The best part is that you can take a walk around a lot of this world-famous hotel without actually having to be an overnight guest.

The hotel is known for its historic architecture, breathtaking views, and luxurious accommodations.

It is VERY expensive to stay here and not within a lot of people’s budgets, but just being able to walk around the “Castle in the Rockies” is an experience in itself.

16. Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs

The hot springs in Banff are naturally heated and mineral-rich.

They are also a great way to relax and rejuvenate while surrounded by nature. You can sit back and soak in the hot springs while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

We think relaxing in the springs is especially nice on a snowy winter’s day , and just watch the snow gently fall down around you—it really doesn’t get much better than this!

The hot springs are open all year round, including statutory holidays, and are located near the top of Sulphur Mountain at 1 Mountain Ave, Banff AB T1L 1K2,

Taking a trip here is definitely reasonable as it’s less than $16.50 for an adult, and under $53 for a family of 4.

17. Do some wildlife watching

Let’s face it, (nearly) everyone who comes to Banff wants to see the park’s wildlife. There is the opportunity to spot bighorn sheep, elk, moose, bears, wolves, and so much more.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a grizzly bear!

The best chance of seeing Banff’s wildlife is early in the morning and then from late afternoon going into the evening.

Related reading: where to see wildlife in Banff

The scenic Bow Valley Parkway is considered a wilderness corridor, so take it slower on this road as you never know what might run out in front of you.

Lake Minnewanka Loop is another area where you are likely to see various animals.

18. Drive or cycle the scenic Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway is an alternative road to driving on the Trans-Canada Highway and is a much more leisurely way to see the mountain scenery between Banff and Lake Louise.

Stop off at the many viewpoints for spectacular views. There’s also a good chance of seeing wildlife here, so if you’re walking about, especially in the summer, remember your bear spray.

One of the most popular places to visit along the Bow Valley Parkway is Johnston Canyon.

Johnston Canyon

It gets busy here, so finding a parking spot can take a while, but it’s definitely worth the wait.

In both summer and winter, Johnston Canyon is equally breathtaking , and adults and kids alike love this place.

The canyon has both lower falls and upper falls that you can walk to, and there are some great photo opportunities along the way.

If you’re visiting during winter, you’ll definitely need ice cleats/microspikes as it can get super slippery here.

19. Buy a day pass and explore using Roam Transit

Explore sites such as Johnston Canyon, and Lake Minnewanka or travel between Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise by hopping on one of the local Roam Transit buses for around only $5 for a day pass.

20. Explore Banff Avenue and Bear Street in downtown Banff

Banff might be a fairly small town, but it has a vibrant downtown area, so it’s worthwhile taking time to stroll along Banff Avenue and Bear Street and explore the many souvenir shops as well as the local art, jewelry, and clothes shops.

One place I recommend visiting on Banff Avenue is The Spirit of Christmas store. visit this shop regardless of the season.

All year round, it is completely dedicated to all things Christmas and has the most amazing ornaments and gifts.

Another great shop is Rocky Mountain Soap which is an all-natural skincare company that makes its products in Canmore.

All of their stuff smells fantastic, and you’ll find their shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel in several hotels in Banff now.

21. Take in the incredible views of Banff’s beautiful lakes

No trip to Banff National Park would be complete without visiting one, or a few, of the lakes, especially the world-famous Lake Louise.

Trust me when I say the scenery at all of the lakes is spectacular, and no matter how stunning they look online, nothing compares to seeing them in person.

Here are just a few of the must-see lakes in Banff National Park that will cost you nothing to visit except for paying for gas, parking, or a shuttle.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise isn’t just one of the most popular tourist destinations in Banff National Park, it’s one of the most popular in all of Canada.

And it’s no wonder why, the lake and its surroundings are simply stunning.

The turquoise-blue water and the mountainous backdrop make it a truly breathtaking sight.

Lake Louise gets super busy in the peak seasons. We go in all seasons, and there are always lots of visitors, but don’t let that put you off.

Once you’ve enjoyed the views from the lakeshore, you can escape to the quieter areas and enjoy a variety of activities in and around the lake, including hiking, canoeing, ice skating, and many others.

Taking the Parks Canada shuttle would be easier than trying to park here in the months mentioned above, as parking is extremely limited.

You also now have to pay to park at Lake Louise from May to October.

Lake Agnes Tea House

Lake Agnes is another gorgeous lake in Banff National Park, and its trail starts at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (make sure you wander around this luxurious hotel).

This super popular hike will take 1-2 hours to get to the tea house, which serves tea and coffee along with sandwiches and soups.

You can always pack your own snacks to save a bit of cash and still enjoy the views.

Lake Agnes is smaller than Lake Louise but still very picturesque.

The Lake Agnes Tea House is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm June 4 to October 10 and accepts Canadian and US cash only, or travelers cheques.

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is an extremely popular spot for tourists visiting the park.

The lake is located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, and aside from being known for its stunning turquoise waters, it is also known for being on the back of the Canadian $20 bill years ago.

You can take in the magnificent views of this lake by enjoying one of the area’s hikes, or you can just sit and gaze at the rugged scenery and take lots of pictures.

Parks Canada is no longer allowing personal vehicles access to the lake starting this year, 2023, but you can still get to Moraine Lake by booking either a Parks Canada Shuttle known as Park + Ride, the Roam Transit bus from Banff, or through one of the local tour operators.

Fares are also in addition to the park’s pass. For those of you that want to see the sunrise at Moraine Lake, the only option now is to either bike there or use one of the tour providers as they have been given permission to take tourists.

Disabled visitors with a parking hang tag can use the parking lot at Moraine Lake.

Your best bet is to book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. Park’s Canada is releasing 40% of the tickets for reservation in the spring, and the remaining 60% are released 48 hours before departure dates.

Vermilion Lakes

The Vermilion Lakes are a set of three lakes located near the town of Banff.

The lakes are known for their stunning views of the Canadian Rockies which you can see from a canoe or by just strolling around.

You can walk the 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) from the town of Banff to get to the lakes, and once there, you’ll get the most amazing views of Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain.

This area is so peaceful and relaxing that it’s no surprise that couples choose to marry here.

This lake is located on the Icefields Parkway, about 40 km (25 miles) north of Lake Louise, and should be on everyone’s “must-see” list.

It’s glacier-fed, so it has beautiful turquoise water as well as stunning mountain scenery.

Peyto Lake is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Banff National Park.

22. Learn about the park at western Canada’s oldest natural history museum

You can visit the Banff Park Museum to learn about the area’s history and natural environment.

There are also stuffed animals on display, so if you’ve got kids, they’ll love it. There’s a lot to learn and see here, and it only costs a few dollars to get in, while youths under 17 get free entry.

23. Don’t miss out on free activities provided by the town

Banff National Park is home to lots of free activities throughout the year, such as the SnowDays Festival every January, the Banff Marathon in June , and of course, Canada Day celebrations on July 1st .

There are many other free things to do in Banff, but these just give you some idea of what you can do for free in this mountain town.

24. Check Groupon for deals in Banff

Groupon sometimes has some good offers on tours and other activities.

We’ve found discounts for sleigh rides and the Banff Gondola from Groupon in the past, and it really saved us a fair amount of money.

It might not have what you are looking for at the time of your visit, but it is definitely worth checking out Groupon just in case.

Another site worth looking at is Travelzoo , they sometimes have deals at good prices.

Enjoy the Rocky Mountains without the expense

The Rocky Mountains provide some of the most beautiful views on the planet, but just like the rest of Canada, they can be such an expensive place to visit.

We certainly wouldn’t be able to spend the amount of time in Banff that we do if we didn’t find ways of keeping costs low, and we seem to have got this down to somewhat of a fine art now.

Everyone should be able to enjoy this special place and not have to sell the family heirlooms to be able to afford it – okay, I know that was a bit over the top, but you know what I mean.

I hope you found our tips on how to vacation in Banff National Park on a budget useful.

If you have any further ideas, please leave them in the comment section below; we’d love to hear them.

Thanks for reading!

[1] https://www.pc.gc.ca

Related Posts

Experience the magic of winter in Banff with these 33 must-do activities

How to get to Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies from anywhere [2024 Guide]

Leave a comment.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please enter an answer in digits: ten + 11 =

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

3rd time's the charm: Finally taking a Canadian dream trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper

Like many travelers, we had epic plans for the summer of 2020. We had mapped out a highly anticipated multigenerational family trip to Canada with my parents and kids for June 2020. It was a big trip that would let us tick off several bucket-list destinations while simultaneously giving us the chance to escape Texas' summer heat.

But then, we all know what happened: The coronavirus pandemic swept the globe. Suffice it to say, the trip couldn't happen.

So, we rebooked the trip for June 2021 hoping, like many, that the Canadian border would reopen by then. Much to our disappointment, though, it remained closed to U.S. tourists, prompting us to cancel the trip once again.

Fast forward to June 2022, and luck was on our side. The third time was indeed the charm, as restrictions lifted and we were finally able to use our flight vouchers that had collected dust for two years to head across the border.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Our merry band of travelers (which now included a range of ages, from my 6-year-old daughter to my 73-year-old father) took off for points north, bound for Alberta and all it had in store. We may have all aged by two years by the time the trip became a reality, but it was just as grand as we had hoped — and well worth the years of planning, waiting and replanning.

Here's how we booked our trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, Alberta, including what we did, where we stayed and what we ate.

How to plan an epic Alberta adventure

Since we had a week to work with, we wanted to enjoy Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper on the same trip.

Adding Jasper definitely makes the trip longer and more involved, so if you're pressed for time or just want to move at a slower pace, know that there's plenty to see and do in Banff and Lake Louise.

With prices at their peak from July through August (the region's busy season), we decided to plan our trip for June to save money. From our experience, visiting a month before the peak travel season didn't lead to any major sacrifices on our part, so the cost-cutting move proved worthwhile.

We knew we'd need a rental car (and, specifically, a harder-to-book minivan to accommodate our large group), so we immediately started looking for a reservation. Luckily, we began planning our trip far enough out to snag a rental car without any trouble. Had we waited until we arrived at Calgary International Airport (YYC) in June, we would've discovered they were sold out.

With our dates and the rental car settled, we began to plan our trip. We started our adventure in Banff before moving on to Lake Louise and briefly checking out Jasper. We rounded out our Alberta visit with a one-night stay at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis Country, a region located about an hour west of the Calgary airport.

Assuming you visit in the summer, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are where you head to look at pretty lakes, streams and waterfalls and enjoy a number of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, canoeing and horseback riding.

There are plenty of options for all of these activities, but here are the ones we recommend:

Explore Cave and Basin National Historic Site

This destination in the heart of Banff was not only instrumental in the creation of Canada's first national park but is also a place that's held special meaning for thousands of years for people tied to Canada's First Nations community. Cave and Basin National Historic Site's rich history makes it a must-visit destination in Banff.

The actual cave is very short and small, with the pungent smell of sulfur. It is still cool though — both literally and figuratively.

While you'll likely only be inside for no more than five minutes, you can also look around outside, view the historic site's movie and peruse the site's exhibits to extend your visit to about 30 minutes.

Children 17 and younger can visit for free, but adults are required to pay 8.50 Canadian dollars (or about $6.50) each to enter. Travelers ages 65 and older are eligible for the reduced senior rate of CA$7 (less than $5.50).

Ride the Banff Gondola

Experiencing the Banff Gondola was a lot of fun, but we had sticker shock when we strolled up to the ticket office and found out that adult gondola tickets cost a whopping CA$70 (about $54) each during the warmer months.

Fortunately, the kids were free, as admission is waived for each child 15 and younger who is with an adult and rides before 10 a.m.

To save yourself from being stunned upon arrival, try to reserve your tickets online in advance, as you may have luck snagging a lower rate.

Despite the high price, the views were exceptional and worth the hit to our budget. We loved taking in the stunning scenery while strolling along the extensive boardwalk at the top.

In total, we spent about 90 minutes here, which felt like the right amount of time for most families.

Take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

Our stop at the Banff Upper Hot Springs was also a little different than what I imagined. These historic natural hot springs looked like a pretty basic swimming pool.

Still, at only CA$29 (roughly $22) — which is what a family pass for two adults and two children costs — we found the springs to be a fun spot to enjoy a dip.

Try to arrive first thing in the morning to beat the crowds, as your experience will be much more enjoyable if you're not rubbing elbows with hordes of visitors.

To dial up the nostalgia and avoid hauling around a wet bathing suit all day, I opted to rent the "old-timey classic" swimsuit. A clean and well-appointed locker room was available on site, so we could comfortably change and safely store our belongings while in the springs.

Go for a hike in Johnston Canyon

A popular Banff destination for hiking is Johnston Canyon, a stunning natural wonder in Banff National Park.

Our hike through this impressive canyon, which was carved into the limestone bedrock by water over thousands of years, was easy enough for everyone in our crew to complete. We did the 1.1-kilometer (a little more than a half-mile) hike to the lower falls, which took no more than an hour to complete.

More challenging trails are available as well, should you find yourself wanting to break a sweat.

Sign up for an Open Top tour

While we didn't actually go on an Open Top tour, we found ourselves wishing we had, as the classically styled vehicles we kept spotting at our hotel caught our eyes.

Priced at CA$42 (about $32) for adults and CA$24 (approximately $18.50) for kids, these tours help you see some of the area's top sights in just 90 minutes without having to do any driving or planning. Based on recent reviews, you'll also get some great stories along the way.

Hit the trails on horseback

Another activity we didn't have time to do in Banff was horseback riding. If we had stayed more than one night at the Fairmont Banff Springs, we would have found a way to fit in this activity, as there are trails conveniently located next to the hotel.

You can choose a one- or four-hour ride, which cost CA$89 (a little more than $68) and CA$249 (nearly $191), respectively. The minimum age is 8 years old for the shorter ride, while every member of your party will need to be at least 10 years old for the four-hour ride. If you're traveling with a younger kid, note that there are trail rides with lower age minimums in Jasper.

To save money, book in advance online to get the 10% discount. There's also a package discount available, should you find yourself also visiting places like local hot springs and the gondola.

Get an eyeful of Peyto Lake

Several lakes in varying shades of hard-to-believe colors are worth visiting while in Alberta, but Banff's Peyto Lake is one of the most breathtaking.

To get to this beautiful lake, which is free to visit, you need to embark on an easy 10-minute hike. We thoroughly enjoyed the brief hike thanks to the snow that was still on the ground during our mid-June visit. We found ourselves having an impromptu snowball fight before arriving at the lake.

Once Peyto Lake came into view, we were floored by the color. It was, without question, the richest hue of blue I've ever seen.

Rumor has it that, on sunny days, the lake takes on a brighter, turquoise appearance, so know that the color may vary slightly depending on when you visit. It gets its color from suspended rock flour in the water.

Related: Planning the perfect Banff summer vacation

Lake Louise

Marvel at moraine lake.

One of the absolute highlights of our trip was unquestionably our time in the Lake Louise area at Moraine Lake.

While Peyto Lake wowed us, the mesmerizing blue-green color of Moraine Lake's glacier-fed water was equally as impressive. Photos simply don't do this lake justice.

The lake is free to visit, though you'll need a bit of luck (or lots of strategizing) to avoid paying for transportation.

If you arrive early (or late) or just happen to time your visit perfectly, you can park right at Moraine Lake. We pulled up late in the morning just as the "parking is full" sign was being put out, so we had to head to the parking lot near Lake Louise Ski Resort's gondola and pay to take a bus back to the lake.

For what it's worth, Lake Louise's Fairmont also had a shuttle to Moraine Lake, but it was very expensive compared to the bus option, which only cost CA$8 (about $6) for adults and less for kids and seniors. We read that you needed advance reservations to use the bus, but we had no problem getting walk-up tickets during our visit.

No matter how you get to the lake, don't miss it. We walked around and admired it for about an hour. Be sure to wear hiking boots, as the trail can be slick.

Hop on the gondola

Lake Louise's gondola is said to be the best way to spot wildlife in the area from a safe distance.

However, the weather was rainy, overcast and generally not good the day we tried to ride, so we ultimately passed on this attraction.

If you don't want to do multiple gondola rides during your Alberta vacation, consider prioritizing this one, as it's much more affordable than the Banff gondola. Tickets cost CA$54.99 (approximately $42) for adults, with CA$10 (less than $8) discount cards easy to find everywhere there's a stand with tourist brochures.

Paddle around Lake Louise

While the weather was also not cooperative for this activity, we powered through the less-than-ideal conditions. That decision ended up being the right call, as our canoeing adventure was one of the highlights of our trip.

Renting canoes from the Fairmont's dock is an expensive activity at CA$95 (about $73) for an hour or CA$85 (a little more than $65) for 30 minutes. Prices are even higher for non-hotel guests.

Still, nothing beats watching those iconic red canoes out on the blue water except being in one with a paddle in your arms. The wind put our canoe skills to the test, so we didn't make it more than 20 minutes before heading back to shore, but had the water been calmer, we would have loved exploring for a full hour.

Saddle up at the Jasper Riding Stables

Next to canoeing and seeing some of the gorgeous lakes, my favorite activity was riding through the forest on the back of a horse.

While we didn't have time to go horseback riding in Banff, we made sure to go riding in Jasper at the Jasper Riding Stables. Because it was less expensive — CA$79 (about $60.50) for a one-hour ride — and had a lower minimum age of 6 years, this stable was the perfect place for our crew to spend some time with horses.

Unlike other parts of our trip when I found myself worrying about bear encounters (despite carrying bear spray with us at all times), I found myself able to truly relax while on horseback. The guides seemed more than comfortable handling the possibility of coming across bears, which helped put my mind at ease.

With one less thing for me to worry about, I was able to focus on the lovely scenery. On this particular day, our ride included no one but our party of four and our two guides, which was an absolute dream scenario.

Take a scenic drive full of impromptu stops

Like Banff and Lake Louise, Jasper had lots of lakes featuring an array of blue and green colors, but I'll give a special shoutout to a particularly green body of water we stopped at on the way to the Jasper East Cabins. I don't know its name, but we discovered it while driving around the area.

Besides pulling over for the lake, we made frequent stops to watch wildlife. We saw bears, moose and more on the side of the road as we drove through Jasper.

Roadways here offer enough space to safely slow down and pull over to enjoy the view, so we took full advantage of this free show. You'd be remiss if you didn't do the same when you visit.

Explore Maligne Canyon and the bridges in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-see destination on its own, but its bridges and Maligne Canyon, the park's deepest canyon, can't be missed.

From the bridges, you'll enjoy phenomenal views of the park. You're almost guaranteed to spot wildlife, too, while exploring the area around the canyon.

Check out the Columbia Icefield

For around CA$90 ($69) for adults and CA$60 ($46) for children, you can explore the Columbia Icefield.

With the tour fee, you get the chance to walk out onto the Athabasca Glacier and enjoy a skywalk experience. Know, though, that this isn't the only way to see the glacier.

If you're looking to save money (like we were) or the tour option sells out (as is often the case), you can instead park farther away and walk toward the glacier to see it up close. Don't attempt to walk onto the glacier on your own, though, as access to the actual icefield is only for those who pay for a tour.

Where to stay

Fairmont banff springs.

For most first-time visitors to the area, the Fairmont Banff Springs is probably at least in the conversation when debating where to stay in Banff. The 100-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed "Castle in the Canadian Rockies," as it's lovingly called by many, is a bucket-list destination in and of itself.

We only stayed at the 745-room property one night due to the high room rates, but we enjoyed our visit overall and wholeheartedly recommend hanging your hat here — or, at the very least, visiting for a drink, a meal or maybe a spa treatment.

That said, if you only have the time and budget to pick one iconic Fairmont while in Alberta, this shouldn't be the one.

The views were phenomenal, and the convenience of being by the lake and having an array of amenities available at your fingertips was great. However, these highlights weren't enough to justify the close-to-$1,000 a night price tag for a room.

The room itself looked more like a $125-per-night budget-brand option desperately in need of renovation than what you expect to find at a high-end hotel.

Still, I'm glad we tried it for a night.

The Dorothy Motel

For less than a third of the price of the Fairmont, you could instead stay at a fresh take on the traditional motel concept.

My parents decided to stay at The Dorothy Motel (also in Banff) using their Capital One miles from their Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (which is currently offering a 75,000-point welcome bonus after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of opening your account). This meant that rather than pay more than $200 for a one-night stay, they had zero out-of-pocket costs for their room.

It was far from a full-service resort, but if you want to try something a little different and conserve your cash a bit, it was a more-than-suitable option.

Canmore accommodations

If nothing in Banff proper is meeting your needs, you can stay in nearby Canmore, Alberta, and drive the 20 minutes into Banff. In Canmore, you'll find more abundant vacation home rentals, cheaper hotel rates and some traditional hotel points properties from brands such as IHG and Choice Hotels .

To balance out our Fairmont extravaganza, we spent a night at the Quality Resort Chateau Canmore using Choice Privileges points we purchased during a Daily Getaways sale . While our points got us some larger room types that sounded cool on paper, one night was the right length of time to spend at the property.

Go in with modest expectations, and you'll probably be OK for a short stay.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

You don't need to splurge on your lodging in Banff if you don't want to, but if there is one hotel worth paying up for, it's the Fairmont in Lake Louise.

Granted, we got a suite to share with my parents, so that helped keep us away from the very small entry-level rooms (some of which don't have air conditioning), but we all quickly agreed that the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was worth the big price tag.

Staying right on the blue-green lake was not only a dream come true, it was a reality that lived up to (and exceeded) our expectations.

The views from our suite were awe-inspiring, and the decor was much more elevated than what we found at the Banff location.

If you are on the fence about which of the two Fairmonts to pick, know that you'll have access to fewer amenities at the Lake Louise property if you're not staying the night, so you shouldn't show up and expect to enjoy the same perks as paying guests.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

There is also a Fairmont in Jasper, if you want to hit the trifecta of the three luxury resorts.

But remember, this location is often sold-out for long periods of time due to passengers from the Canadian Rocky Mountaineer train staying here while in the area, so you'll want to look into making reservations as far in advance as possible. We weren't able to snag a coveted room during our visit, so we only had a chance to walk around the grounds.

It was a cute property that I would have loved to try for a night, though it didn't seem like a property that would overtake the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the top Fairmont in Alberta, so I quickly got over my disappointment.

Jasper East Cabins

Because we weren't able to stay at the Fairmont, we instead chose to book a more affordable cabin. There are a few options more centrally located, but we reserved a cabin at Jasper East Cabins , a spot a little east of town. It was by no means the Fairmont, but it had a classic look we enjoyed. Not to mention, availability wasn't an issue.

A three-bedroom cabin set us back about $500 per night, with smaller cabins costing less. You're a bit removed from civilization here, but you will find a brewery within walking distance, should you crave something to do outside your cabin. There's also a well-stocked general store on site that had a great selection of basics and even some organic, higher-end options.

Related: TPG's guide to the Canadian provinces

What to eat

A fancy meal at the fairmont.

Even if you don't stay at a Fairmont while in town, you'll want to try a fancy meal at one (or more) of the Fairmont properties — if you can swing it.

At the Fairmont Banff Springs, we dined at 1888 Chop House one night for dinner and loved everything we tried.

It wasn't cheap, but the classic steakhouse offered excellent service and divine dishes. And don't discount it if you're not a huge meat eater, as even the vegetable plates and sides were outstanding. It's probably no surprise the Wagyu and the scallops were fantastics, but the sides (a flavorful beet salad, sautéed mushrooms and Brussels sprouts), seriously stood apart.

Appetizers here start at CA$20 to CA$30 (about $15 to $23), while entrees generally cost anywhere between CA$50 and CA$80 (or roughly $38 to $61).

If 1888 Chop House isn't in your budget, don't fret: You can enjoy an equally memorable bite while grabbing a drink at the Rundle Bar. Most happy hour drinks (think: wine, beer and select cocktails) cost around CA$10 (less than $8) while offered from 3 to 5 p.m. There is a short menu of appetizers and small bites, too.

At the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, we failed a little bit in the dinner reservation-making department, so we weren't able to eat at any of the higher-end sit-down spots, but we were able to order drinks and snacks in the Lakeview Lounge, which showcased jaw-dropping views of the lake from its windows. Since there was still snow on the ground, I warmed up with a mulled wine made of red wine, brandy with hints of honey, cinnamon and cloves.

If I had to do it all again, I'd be better about planning and make dinner reservations for the adjacent restaurant. There is also a spot for fondue and a lively restaurant called Alpine Social, should you find yourself feeling more adventurous.

A pastry and a slice of pizza

In our experience, Alberta excelled at bakery items and pizzas.

The Bear's Paw Bakery in Jasper was a sublime spot for morning pastries and all things baked and delicious. (If you're going to Bear Paw Bakery, don't be creative, get the bear paw. Trust me.)

We also really enjoyed Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. in nearby Canmore, which had both indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of great pizzas for about CA$20 (approximately $15) each. I loved my fig, bison and brie pizza that also had caramelized onions, mushrooms and arugula scattered on top.

Casual pub grub paired with a cold brew

Next to our cabins in Jasper was the Folding Mountain Brewing Taproom and Kitchen, which had a not-to-be-missed kitchen to go along with its taproom.

We were pleasantly surprised by our meal here, as there's not a lot available in this part of Alberta, so the venue could easily get away with being mediocre due to the lack of options. But the food was solid, and it was great to have a selection of beers on tap to enjoy with dinner.

At this point, I'd had enough "on-the-go" food and ordered the Hikers Veggie Bowl which contained couscous, spiraled beets, arugula and yams. It might not sound great, but after days of basics, it tasted like (vegetable) heaven. Plus, you can add meat for a few extra dollars, if that's your thing.

A picnic lunch

No visit to Alberta would be complete without enjoying a meal outdoors.

There's no need to eat every meal in a restaurant when you're surrounded by stunning natural wonders, so we found ourselves preparing at least one picnic a day (often lunch) to set up on a random rock, picnic table or chair.

If you stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs and are feeling extra bougie about your picnic lunch, you can order one with your breakfast via room service to save for later. We did this during our stay and found the meal to be incredibly convenient and tasty. The cost was on the higher end at CA$40 (nearly $31), but there was enough food for two to enjoy — including a ham-and-cheese sandwich on a baguette and a gooey chocolate chip cookie — making the price easier to stomach.

Bottom line

When I look back through our collection of lake, stream, mountain, wildlife and waterfall images stashed away in our trip photo album, I admittedly find everything blending together in my mind.

But that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? You often don't have just one thing you are planning a whole trip around. Instead, you typically have an abundance of can't-miss activities and sights to experience throughout your vacation to create countless memories you'll cherish forever.

Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper more than delivered in terms of things to see and do. Although some of what we did involved preplanned routes and stops, many of our favorite memories from the trip happened organically while exploring this beautiful part of Canada.

This may have been my first trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, but it most certainly won't be my last.

A 2 Day Banff Itinerary That Actually Makes Sense

We hope you’re ready for a packed 48 hours in Banff if you want to see all the highlights quickly. You may get a bit tired from seeing so much beauty, but the good news is that with even with two days in Banff, you can see sights like Moraine Lake, the Icefields Parkway, and Peyto Lake.

You can also enjoy activities like paddling a canoe, riding in a scenic gondola, and climbing a mountain (Banff’s smallest). During this quick trip, you’ll use one of Canada’s most picturesque towns as your base, filled with wonderful shops, restaurants, hotels, and art galleries.

Day 1 – Downtown Banff Day

Early morning up the banff gondola.

One of the first things to do in Banff is get a sense of the place, and the best place to do this is from the top of the Banff Gondola . You get amazing views of the Bow Valley, Banff, and Cascade Mountain from the top. If you look hard, you can even see the Banff Springs Hotel , the most luxurious hotel in Banff.

The Banff Gondola is this region’s most renowned gondola. It takes visitors 2,292 ft up Sulphur Mountain in just 8 minutes. At the top is an elevated boardwalk where you can walk safely to Sanson’s Peak.

It’s a great activity for all ages and abilities, especially if you have never been on top of a mountain before! We highly recommend doing this first thing in the morning in the summer. Try to book the 8 a.m. upload time for the most crowd-free experience—you won’t regret starting your day here!

You can book your Banff Gondola tickets here . If you don’t have a vehicle, look into Roam Transit Route 1. If you want to combine tickets with an activity mentioned later, you can book a Banff Gondola + Lake Minnewanka Cruise ticket here.

Walk to Bow Falls

When you are done at the Banff Gondola, head back to downtown Banff and enjoy a nice stroll down the Bow Falls Trail to Bow Falls. The walk will take just 20 minutes, and once at the falls, you’ll get a nice view of the most famous waterfalls near the town center. As parking is limited in this area, we highly recommend walking to Bow Falls .

Stroll Downtown Banff

After your morning on the Banff Gondola and Bow Falls, it’s time to explore Banff Avenue . This is where all the best shopping and some fantastic restaurants are. If you want to shop, Rocky Mountain Soap , Monods , and Cool As a Moose are some of our favorite shops in town! If you want a coffee, head to Wildflour or Whitebark , but chances are you’ll probably be ready for lunch after such an eventful morning.

Lunch Downtown

If you visit Banff in the summer, you’ll enjoy the pedestrian-only Banff Avenue. Shutting down the street to vehicles means there are so many patios where you can enjoy the sunshine. A few of our favorites are Banff Ave Brewing , Anejo , and Nourish (over on Bear Street).

*Two Options*

We’re giving two options for your afternoon in Banff because, in reality, you probably won’t have time for both on your two-day Banff itinerary unless you are a quick hiker or do just a short walk around.

If You’re Up for A Hike

If you want to hike for the second half of your day, there are a few easy and moderate hikes around town. Let’s break them down.

Johnston Canyon

I’m listing this because most people want to see Johnston Canyon on their trip. However, the hike is extremely busy in the summer, especially in the afternoon. The trailhead is also located about 30 minutes from downtown Banff. The hike will take about 2-3 hours to complete. It’s a wonderful hike on elevated platforms with amazing views, but don’t say I didn’t warn you about the crowds.

Tunnel Mountain

If you want to summit a small mountain in Banff, look into climbing Tunnel Mountain . The hike takes less than an hour, and once at the summit, you have astonishing views of the Bow Valley and the iconic Mount Rundle. Although it’s similar to the Banff Gondola, you’ll be surprised by the new perspective—particularly of Rundle Mountain.

Sundance Canyon Trail

The Sundance Canyon Trail is a great trail that starts at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site . It’s fairly popular because it’s readily accessible and follows the Bow River for a few kilometers. Along the way are some great views of the Bow River and the surrounding mountains.

READ MORE: 30 Easy Hikes In Banff For The Whole Family

If You Want To See Lakes

If you want a trip full of lakes, this afternoon will be full of them! If you have a car, now is the time to hop in and begin your trip to Vermilion Lakes, just a few km from Banff.

Vermilion Lakes

Just a bit out of town, you can head here for a quick stop with a beverage or stay longer with a good book. Some nice docks are here to relax and enjoy the Mount Rundle Views.

Lake Minnewanka Scenic Road

After Vermilion, get back in the car and start your drive on Lake Minnewanka Scenic Road, one of the most scenic drives in Western Canada . Following this itinerary, you will pass four stunning bodies of water.

Cascade Ponds

Cascade Ponds  is a fantastic place to head if you want to enjoy nature and the beautiful surroundings below Cascade Mountain. What I love about Cascade Ponds is that there are plenty of picnic benches and fire pits to enjoy with friends. It’s also a calm place to paddleboard if you want to get out on the water.

Johnson Lake

Continue on the scenic drive and look for the turnoff for Johnson Lake . Johnson Lake is one of our favorites because it’s often overlooked by the more popular Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka. Head here for a pleasant stroll around the lake and enjoy the mountain scenery. If you don’t get enough walking in the morning, you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon walking around the lakeshore.

Two Jack Lake

Once you’re done at Johnson Lake, continue to Two Jack Lake . Two Jack is one of my favorite lakes in Banff, mainly because it has gorgeous views of Mount Rundle. If you are a bit more of a novice paddler, this is a great lake to get out on the water (you must have your own paddleboard).

Lake Minnewanka

Last but not least is Lake Minnewanka , which is just a few km past Two Jack. Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park, which is 21 km long! In the summer, you can rent a motorboat here with friends, as it’s one of the only lakes in Banff that allows motorboats. However, the most popular thing here is a cruise on the lake . If you’re only in Banff for two days and follow this itinerary, this is your only chance to enjoy a cruise on the waters of Banff.

Want an adult version of the cruise? Looking into the Beer Voyage cruise that operates every day, This 90-minute cruise runs daily at 5pm and allows guests to enjoy local craft brews while enjoying the views. Guests of 2 are given 4 beers total for the tasting, and you can bring home any unopened cans you don’t consume. If this will affect your driving to and from Lake Minnewanka, consider taking public transit to Lake Minnewanka.

Keep in mind that if you plan to bring your own watercraft or rent a stand-up paddleboard to these lakes, you can only put it in one body of water every 48 hours. More information is here .

Dinner Downtown

End the day back in downtown Banff. If you want a low-key dinner option, we recommend heading to The Block (walk-ins only, and it’s a tiny restaurant) or Three Bears Brewery (amazing pizzas!). If you want something more memorable, we recommend Brazen , The Bison , or Saltlik (these are expensive, more “upscale” restaurants, and reservations are recommended).

Day 2 – Lake Day

Sunrise at moraine lake.

Wake up early – and by early, I mean you’ll probably not get much sleep. That’s because today is the day you’ll catch the sunrise on Moraine Lake . Sunrise on Moraine Lake happens as early as 5:30 am in the summer, meaning to get to the area for the Alpine Start Shuttle or to take a tour, you’re going to have a 2 or 3am wake-up call – trust me, though, it’s worth it.

You cannot drive your personal vehicles to Moraine Lake anymore, so to see the sunrise, you’re going to have to book the Alpine Start Shuttle by Parks Canada, book a private shuttle service like the Moraine Lake Bus Company , or look into a private tour like Radventures Earlybird Explorer Tour .

No matter which option you book, you’ll end up at Moraine Lake between 5 and 6 a.m. (depending on the tour you booked). Make sure you have a camera, and head up the Rockpile Trail to witness an incredible sunrise over the Ten Peaks.

Optional (if you think you have time)

• Canoe on Moraine Lake : You can rent canoes at the Moraine Lake Boathouse
• Hike : A nice short hike would be around the lakeshore, or you can enjoy a hike to Consolation Lakes.

Lake Louise

Now it’s time to head to Lake Louise, which is possible via the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle, and it’s also included in many Moraine Lake Tours . Once at Lake Louise, most people just walk the lakeshore, though if you think you have time, you can enjoy a few optional activities.

Canoe or Hike

• Canoe: Canoe rentals at the Fairmont Boathouse are expensive. Still, there is always a line to rent a canoe and enjoy this epic lake from the water.
• Hike: The Fairview Lookout Trail is a nice short hike, but if you want something a little more iconic and harder, you should try hiking up to the Lake Agnes Teahouse . It all depends on how much time you think you have, how fast you hike, and how much uphill walking you are up for!

Lunch at Trailhead Cafe

After Lake Louise and once you have your vehicle back (if you drove), we recommend heading to the Samson Mall in Lake Louise Village for lunch at the tiny but delicious Trailhead Cafe . This is our favorite place to eat in the small village. They make great coffee and innovative wraps (my favorite is their Greek wrap)!

If you have a car and it’s summer, you still have plenty of daylight hours left. The sun doesn’t set until 10 pm or later in June and July! If you have the energy, we recommend hopping on the Icefields Parkway for a little drive to a few more lakes!

Bow Lake will be the first large lake on the Parkway. It is another glacier-fed lake in Banff with bright blue colors. From the shore, you have terrific views of the Bow Glacier, which feeds the lake in the summer months and is the source of the Bow River.

If you can get the right angle, you may even be able to see Bow Glacier Falls. It is a tremendous hike, but with only two days to go, you’ll have to save it for your next trip. If you missed a snack at Trailhead Cafe, there’s a place to grab a bite at the small cafe attached to The Lodge on Bow Lake.

Your next stop is another bright blue lake! We hope you’re not laked out yet; however, this is the last lake of your trip! Peyto Lake is another glacier-fed lake in Banff. Peyto Lake is likely the third most famous lake in Banff, mainly due to its distinctive shape of a fox, strikingly blue water, and the easily accessible scenic overlook near the parking area.

It’s a 10-minute uphill walk from the parking lot, but the view is more than worth the effort. To make the experience even more inclusive, there is a dedicated section accessible for people with disabilities, providing everyone with the opportunity to take in the breathtaking view.

The Bow Valley Parkway

Although it’s probably tempting to keep driving the Icefields Parkway, it’s time to turn around and return to Banff. If you’ve followed this entire 2-day itinerary for Banff, you are probably pooped by now. There’s much more to see here, but this gave you a small taste of the Canadian Rockies.

If it’s not dark, the best way to drive from Lake Louise to Banff is via the Bow Valley Parkway . This scenic drive runs parallel to the Trans Canada Highway. As it’s a scenic drive, you’ll go much slower on this road, taking in the sights. If you want to stop for a good view, look for Morant’s Curve on your right side.

Once you return to Banff, you might be tired from your big day out and not in the mood for a grand meal or reservations. For a quick and easy meal, we recommend Saffron (great Indian food), Hankii (Korean street food), Bear Street Tavern (pizza), or Banff Sushi House !

How to Get From YYC to Banff

Whether you’re driving, traveling by bus, or booking the Banff Airporter, there are so many ways to get between Calgary and Banff. We break down all the best ways to get between the city and the mountains here.

Things to Keep in Mind

Two days is just not enough time to visit the highlights of Banff, and you’ll likely want to return. This 2 Day Banff itinerary is jam-packed because of the short time, though if you don’t mind waking up early and staying out late, you’ll be able to see it all. We get nearly 17 hours of daylight in June and July!

Where To Stay: If you only have two days, you should stay in Banff over Lake Louise . We recommend staying on Banff Avenue at The Moose Hotel or the new Peaks Hotel on Lynx Street.

Consider a Tour: This itinerary may seem a little daunting, especially on the second day, as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are difficult to visit. There’s no parking at Moraine Lake, and Lake Louise is extremely limited. We recommend booking the Parks Canada Lake Louise shuttle or taking a tour like this one .

Moraine Lake Road to Moraine Lake opens on June 1st. This is also when the shuttles and tours start running to the lake. Lake Louise is accessible all year.

Consider the Hop On Hop Off Bus : The Hop On Hop Off Bus has become super popular in recent years. That’s because you can get to Johnston Canyon, Moraine Lake, and Lake Louise all in one day and on a pretty flexible schedule.

If you are visiting Banff without a car , we recommend looking into the Roam Transit. You can also get the one-day Roam Super Pass for $25.

This is a summer-focused itinerary. Please keep that in mind.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com . Or embark on an epic campervan trip, we like to compare camper prices on Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

An Ideal Banff Itinerary For Those Without a Car

The ULTIMATE Banff Itinerary You Should Follow (2024)

How to Spend One FULL Day in Yoho National Park

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Get fresh, hand-crafted updates and news from the Casual Travelist delivered straight to your email.

Casual Travelist

Travel and food, with a dash of adventure

Banff Travel Guide – Tips for your First Trip to Banff National Park

By Brianna | August 2, 2019

Sharing is caring!

• Facebook 558
• Pinterest 1917

Banff National Park tops many travel wish lists for good reason. Stunning mountain landscapes are dotted with breathtaking glacial lakes and blanketed with evergreens as far as the eye can see. Whether you choose to view Banff from the comfort of your car or go on an epic backcountry hike there is an adventure for everyone. With such majestic scenery it’s no surprise that more people are traveling to Banff than ever before; and with so much to see and do in Banff planning a trip to Banff can be a bit overwhelming. Armed with these tip you can make your trip to Banff one to remember.

This post contains affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small  commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you.

Traveling to Banff

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the nearest airport to Banff National Park and you should expect a 1.5 hour drive in typical traffic. There is regularly scheduled shuttle bus service from Calgary International Airport to Banff but for the greatest flexibility in getting around Banff I suggest renting a car. You can also arrive by train, either by Canada Rail (you can travel all the way across Canada by train btw) or the luxury Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver. Banff is also a must stop for any trip through Canada.

Getting Around Banff National Park

While having your own car offers the most freedom there are some public transportation options. Roam Transit offers a hybrid bus service linking Canmore and Banff to some of the most popular sites throughout the park. Alternately you can take a hop on/ hop off bus which stops at Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine.

When to Visit Banff

Late June through early September is the high season for Banff. Sunny days and mild temperatures draw crowds looking to experience Banff’s beautiful glacial lakes and adventurers seeking to hike the back country of the Canadian Rockies; along with the crowds come higher lodging prices. Banff’s three ski resorts are the big draw during the winter months with skiing, snowboarding and plenty of apres-ski activities for everyone.

Spring and autumn are Banff’s shoulder seasons, the crowds thin out but if you come during this time be prepared for unpredictable weather. It’s not uncommon for it to snow in May or September.

Entrance Fees for Banff National Park

Adults and seniors can purchase a day pass to Banff ($9.80/$8.30 CAD or $19.60 for groups up to 7 traveling in the same vehicle) that will give you entrance not only to Banff but to Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay and Waterton Lakes. Kids 17 and younger can visit for free!

If you plan on staying in the Banff area for an extended amount of time or plan on visiting multiple Canadian national parks the Discovery Pass ($67.70/$57.70/$136.40 CAD for adult/senior/group) is a great deal. The Discovery Pass grants access to over 80 Parks Canada sites.

Weather in Banff

Weather in Banff can be highly variable, even in the summer months. Summer days are usually sunny with high temperatures that range from 60-75 degrees Farenheight ( 15-24 degrees Celsius) but it’s not uncommon for cooler temperatures and rain, even in July and August. From October to April snow (and lots of it) are a given.

Where to Stay in Banff National Park

Whether you want a cozy cabin, a family friendly condo or five star luxury there’s a place for everyone in Banff. Accommodations can be pricey in the high summer season but you can find deals by visiting in the off season. Most of the lodging options in the national park are centered around Banff and Lake Louise, but the town of Canmore just outside Banff has a lot of options and a great mountain vibe.

Hotels in Canmore

Basecamp Lodge

Grand Rockies Resort

Solara Resort and Spa

Creekside Villa

Lamphouse Hotel

Hotels in Banff

Fairmont Banff Springs

Canalta Lodge

Elk + Avenue Hotel

Hidden Ridge Resorts

Banff Caribous Lodge and Spa

Brewster’s Mountain Lodge

Hotels in Lake Louise

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Post Hotel Lake Louise ( Read my review )

Lake Louise Inn

Things to Do in Banff National Park

Banff is all about the outdoors and experiencing the splendor of the Canadian Rockies. I’ve listed the sites here in order of distance from the park entrance. Since the vast majority of Banff is wilderness it’s best to keep your gas tank on the higher side. There are far more hikes, sights and activities in Banff than I can list but I think the following sites highlight the best of the Canadian Rockies.

Lake Minnewanka

Banff National Park has no shortage of beautiful glacial lakes and Lake Minnewanka has something for just about everyone. Located just 5 km from the town of Banff this 21 km (13 mile) long lake is big on size and adventure. Trails along the rocky shore offer plenty of opportunity for hiking, mountain biking and picnicking. Lake Minnewanka is also your best bet for getting out on the water; the guided scenic boat cruise is a popular way to explore the lake  and learn about it’s cultural history (including First Nations’ archeological artifacts ) or you can rent a canoe for a fraction of the price of Lake Louise.

Town of Banff

Banff offers a lot of lodging and restaurant options with a great view of Mount Norquay, but can get quite crowded during the busy summer season. While you’re in town make sure to take a stroll along the scenic Bow River Trail and check out the grand Faimont Banff Springs Hotel.

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular attractions in Banff. Flanked by a lush evergreen forest, Johnston Creek has carved a winding limestone canyon to dramatic effect. An easy hike can bring you to the Lower Falls, and the crowds thin out if you continue on to the Upper Falls. If you have several hours continue 3km to the Inkpots, seven emerald colored mineral springs set in an open meadow.

Lake Moraine

Located 14 km from the village of Lake Louise the stunning aquamarine waters of Lake Moraine are one of the most iconic views in the Canadian Rockies (so much so that Lake Moraine was once featured on the back of Canada’s twenty dollar bill). The most popular view can be had from a quick 15 minute hike to The Rockpile for a view of this beautiful glacial lake but there are a variety of hikes (including Constellation Lake and Sentinel Pass) for those looking for a bit more adventure.

Aim to get to Lake Moraine before 7am as the parking lot fills up and Parks Canada staff will turn cars away ( a shuttle is available from Lake Louise of the Lake Louise Park and Ride later on in the day). Lake Moraine is accessible May-October and is closed during the winter due to high avalanche risk.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most photographed places on the planet and it’s not hard to see why. Carved by the Victoria Glacier, massive peaks flank beautiful turquoise water and the palatial Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise welcomes everyone. Summer brings crowds looking to enjoy this mountain paradise and your best bet is to get here early (the tour buses start to arrive at 8 am and the parking lots fill up).

What to do while you’re at Lake Louise ? Canoeing Lake Louise is a bucket list item but at $135/hour this experience doesn’t come cheap. If hiking is more your style Lake Louise has a trail to suit everyone. The Lakeshore Trail is flat and hugs the lake but there are plenty of options if you crave a bit more elevation and adventure.

The Lake Agnes Teahouse hike from Lake Louise is one of the most popular hikes in Banff. The trailhead is a few minutes walk from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and is a moderately steep hike on a packed dirt path but the payoff for your effort is well rewarded. Plan for 2–3 hours roundtrip with plenty of time to stop at Mirror Lake as well as Lake Agnes and it’s famous teahouse where you can stop for a cup of tea, hot soup and a pastry (the teahouse accepts cash only and waits can be up to 45 minutes during the busy summer season). Hike past the teahouse to the Little Beehive, a rocky outcrop with a bird’s eye view over Lake Louise.

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway go from Banff to Jasper National Park has been lauded as one of the world’s most scenic road trips and I’d have to agree. Many people take this epic drive as a day trip from Banff ending at the Columbia Icefields, but if you want to continue onto Jasper be sure to take a look at this comprehensive guide to the Icefields Parkway and check out this guide for things to do in Jasper .

Located 37 km north of Lake Louise Bow Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park. Easily viewed from the Icefield Parkway, this lake owes it’s beautiful turquoise color from glacier runoff from Bow Glacier. The blue water is especially strking against the backdrop of Bow Summit when it’s sunny but is still impressive if it happens to be overcast. Park at Num-Ti-Jah Lodge for great views or to walk along the lake.

Just 5 minutes from Bow Lake the bright blue of Peyto Lake is stunningly surreal. Follow signs for “Bow Summit” (there are no signs that say “Peyto Lake”) and a short, but steep hike brings you to one of the most beautiful views on the planet. Peyto Lake is extremely popular so be prepared for crowds.

Mistaya Canyon

67 km from Lake Louise Mistaya Canyon was one of my favorite stops along the Icefields Parkway. A short hike takes you where the power of the Mistaya River has cut a beautiful swirling gorge into the limstone. Set against the backdrop of towering evergreens and snow covered peaks Mistaya is just stunning.

Columbia Icefield/Athabasca Glacier

The largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, the Colombia icefield is 130 km from Lake Louise and while it is located in nearby Jasper National Park many people visit as a day trip from Banff. Athabasca Glacier is the most visited glacier in North America and is receeding at an alarming rate of 15 feet per year. Stop at at the Columbia Icefield Discover Center to check out exhibits on the glaciers, purchase tour tickets or grab a bite to eat in the cafe.

There are several ways you can get close to the glacier. You can take a guide Snocoach tour onto the glacier where you are then allowed to walk around the glacier for about 20 minutes. If you are a bit more adventurous you can opt for a guided ice walk tour (walking on the glacier without a guide is prohibited), these last between 3-6 hours depending on the tour you choose. Alternately you can do a self guided hike to the toe of the glacier (this is what we chose to do). The hike to the toe of the glacier takes about 40 minutes but is steep with loose rocks and is not appropriate if you have any mobility issues.

Tips for visiting Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the top tourist destination in Canada and parts of the park can get extremely crowded in the summer months, especially when the tour buses roll through. Expect to have trouble finding parking in both the town of Banff and Lake Louise as well as waits at more popular sites like Johnston Canyon and Lake Moraine.

Canoeing in Banff

Canoeing the beautiful glacial lakes tops many Banff wish lists but it can be pricy, especially at Lake Moraine ( $100/hour CAD) and Lake Louise ($135/hour CAD). Consider canoeing at Vermillion Lakes ($40 CAD), Lake Minnewanka( $65/hour CAD) or Emerald Lake in nearby Yoho National Park ($80/CAD).

With altitudes of 5,000 feet and up, you may need some time to adjust especially if you live at or near sea level like me. While the altitude didn’t prevent me from doing anything the hikes I did on my first full day felt more strenuous than the ones after a few days of being able to acclimate.

Don’t ask the Australian server for hiking tips

I’d often chat with servers and staff during my trip, most of whom were from Australia. Without fail whenever I’d ask for hiking tips I’d get a recommendation for a 20 mile 2 day ridgeline hike. I’m sure it’s a great hike but not quite what I was looking for.

Stay in Canmore

On the recommendation of a few friends who live in Calgary we stayed in Canmore for the first half of our trip and I’m sure glad we did. Hotels and restaurants in Canmore were less expensive and it wasn’t at all crowded. We loved the laid back mountain vibe here and I wish I had more time to check out the hikes, biking and rafting in Canmore.

Wear good shoes

Unless you’re walking the sidewalks around town Banff is not the place for flip flops. Many trails are steep and uneven with loose rocks. Nothing ruins a trip faster than a sprained ankle.

Wildlife in Banff

Wildlife sightings are very common in Banff but use common sense and keep your distance, both for your safety and that of the animals. Elk, deer, bighorn sheep, groundhogs and chipmunks are commonly spotted; you may also see bears (more on bears below), mountain goats, coyote or wolves.

Banff is home to both grizzlies and black bears. Do not approach bears or get out of your car to view them (common sense) and if you’re hiking more remotely take bear spray.

Check hiking trail conditions before you go

Hiking trail conditions can be highly variable, especially higher altitude backcountry trails or if there’s been a lot of snow earlier in the year. Check for current trail conditions before you hike.

About the Author

Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

3 Meals:Where to Eat in Virginia Beach

One Day in Yosemite National Park – The Best Itinerary and Tips

From Cane to Table – Getting a Little Sugar in Louisiana’s Plantation Country

Reader interactions, leave a comment cancel reply.

Helpful comments include feedback on the recipe or changes you made.

Get new posts and travel tips delivered right to your inbox!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Nancy Williams says

August 3, 2019 at 10:23 am

I absolutely cannot wait to visit Banff someday. Reading this and seeing your pictures makes me want to go now!

August 3, 2019 at 10:30 am

Banff has been on my personal bucket list for a very long time, but I think I missed my window as it is becoming increasingly popular, I like the idea of Banff alternatives nearby. This region is 1000% gorgeous and I will get there some day!

Sue Davies says

August 3, 2019 at 10:39 am

The water looks so blue/green in all of the lakes. Very helpful post. And so sad to hear how quickly the glacier is retreating. Definitely, need to get there soon before it becomes even more crowded.

Laureen Lund says

August 4, 2019 at 1:00 pm

Your photos are stunning. It’s one of my favorite places in the world. Thanks for the walk down memory land!

Tamara says

August 5, 2019 at 11:07 pm

I’m so happy to see that most of what I had on my itinerary has been included in your post!

Rashmi K says

November 10, 2019 at 6:15 am

Banff National Park is on my travel wishlist. Awesome pics. The natural beauty of this place is absolutely captivating. I hope to visit this national park soon.

• Privacy Policy

Cost of a Trip to Banff, GB & the Cheapest Time to Visit Banff

The average price of a 7-day trip to Banff is $1,406 for a solo traveler, $2,525 for a couple, and $4,734 for a family of 4 . Banff hotels range from $54 to $244 per night with an average of $95, while most vacation rentals will cost $220 to $400 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Edinburgh Airport ( EDI ) are between $604 and $977 per person for economy flights and $1,895 to $3,066 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $41 to $80 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Banff, GB

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to EDI and stay in a Banff hotel:

• January 8th to March 25th
• April 23rd to May 27th
• October 1st to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Banff is usually late January .

Average Banff Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Banff for a week is $1,039-$2,046 ($148-$292 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $41 to $80 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $344 to $850 for economy

Lodging : $68 to $93 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $86 to $106 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Banff for a week is $2,190-$3,710 ($313-$530 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $82 to $160 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $688 to $1,700 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Banff for a week is $3,340-$6,756 ($477-$965 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $164 to $320 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,376 to $3,400 for economy

Lodging : $136 to $186 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $138 to $170 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Banff

How cheap can you make a vacation to Banff? The cheapest trip to Banff is about $109 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 0% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $160 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $47.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Banff for a week is $766-$2,277 ($109-$325 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $20 to $41 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $47 to $54 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $160 to $190 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Banff for a week is $1,250-$3,414 ($179-$488 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $40 to $82 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Banff for a week is $2,500-$6,372 ($357-$910 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $80 to $164 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $94 to $108 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $240 to $304 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is possible but not easy to travel to Banff cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Banff Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Banff.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Banff for a week is $2,006-$8,748 ($287-$1,250 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $90 to $176 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $716 to $2,236 for first class

Lodging : $110 to $244 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $400 to $880 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Banff for a week is $3,352-$12,216 ($479-$1,745 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $180 to $352 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,432 to $4,472 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Banff for a week is $6,704-$21,792 ($958-$3,113 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $360 to $704 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,864 to $8,944 for first class

Lodging : $220 to $488 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $560 to $1,320 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Banff Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Banff is about average than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Banff due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Banff Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Banff hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Banff.

Flight Costs to Banff

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $977 average in early August to a low of $604 in late January. Median flight price is $787. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Banff our data includes 344 originating airports, and 128 airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Banff from an airport like Stewart International ( SWF ) in Newburgh/Poughkeepsie, NY (the United States) for an average $8,716 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Dublin ( DUB ) in Dublin (Ireland) at an average of just $83.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Banff, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $374, so you can easily save about 62% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Banff can easily cost $300 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $20 per person. Private tours can cost $609 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Banff Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Turriff, the United Kingdom
• Buckie, the United Kingdom
• Inverurie, the United Kingdom
• Aberdeenshire and Moray, the United Kingdom
• Alford, the United Kingdom
• Fraserburgh, the United Kingdom
• Keith, the United Kingdom
• Ellon, the United Kingdom
• Banchory, the United Kingdom
• Aboyne, the United Kingdom

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Antalya, Turkey
• Palermo, Italy
• Kandy, Sri Lanka

Train From Vancouver To Banff: How To Take This Scenic, Bucket-List Journey

• Travel in style on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff and see Canada's incredible natural beauty and rich history firsthand.
• Marvel at breathtaking sceneries, hand-crafted regional fare, and plush reclining chairs while traversing Kamloops en route to Banff.
• Timing of travel on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff is crucial - choose the best season based on your trip preferences and potential cost savings.

Vancouver is heavily populated by laid-back and environmentally conscious people and is situated directly on the coast of British Columbia. The legendary resort town of Banff , located in the adjacent province of Alberta, is renowned for its mountainous landscape, turquoise waterways, and some of the nation's greatest skiing and other outdoor activities.

With a height of 4,537 feet (1383 meters) , Banff also happens to be Canada's highest town. The 560 miles (900 kilometers) that separate these two Canadian locations traverse three mesmerizing mountain ranges: the Coast, Columbia, and Rocky Mountains.

From Vancouver, visitors may choose to fly, brave the Canadian motorways, or even board a train that passes through some of the country's most breathtaking scenery on its journey to Banff. Visitors can see the Canadian wilderness up close by taking the train from Vancouver to Banff.

UPDATE: 2024/05/09 21:04 EST BY ERYNN RUIZ

This feature has been refreshed throughout with current links, pricing information, and insights into the train experience while traveling from Vancouver to Banff.

Rocky Mountaineer: A Journey From Vancouver To Banff

Hop aboard the rocky mountaineer for a scenic trip all the way to banff.

The renowned Rocky Mountaineer is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience — it's also worth the investment, though there are ways to make the trip more affordable . This opulent sightseeing train only passes through the Canadian Rockies during the day, stopping to emphasize the region's natural wonders.

Passengers will savor hand-crafted, regional fare, top-shelf drinks, and an unending supply of snacks and sweets while listening to knowledgeable guides who will highlight Western Canada's stunning natural beauty and tell about the region's illustrious history.

10 Scenic Train Rides In Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer makes an overnight stop at Kamloops, a lakeside community, so travelers can rest comfortably and prepare for the remainder of their voyage from Vancouver to Banff.

Every level of service on the Rocky Mountaineer train from Vancouver to Banff has unique windows that provide scenic panoramas. Passengers can contemplate the wildlife, mountains, and vibrant flowers. You can even see some of Canada's renowned greenery if you travel during the fall.

Rocky Mountaineer trains from Vancouver to Banff are renowned for providing an upgraded experience, regardless of the level of service you select. Oversized windows, excellent food, and plush reclining chairs are all available for their enjoyment during the trip.

The Scenic, Bucket-List Train Itinerary From Vancouver To Banff

The two-day trip offers plenty of sights (and accommodation in kamloops).

A breathtaking two-day trip on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff includes Kamloops hotel accommodations.

Day 1: Vancouver To Kamloops

Passengers will travel from the coast to central British Columbia aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train, which departs from Vancouver. They will enjoy traveling through the Fraser Valley, the province of British Columbia's agricultural heartland.

The Fraser River, which is home to many salmon, winds through this ancient valley, which is surrounded by beautiful green mountainsides.

The scenic train passes distinctive geographical features like the roaring waves of Hell's Gate as it goes through marvelous river valleys cut into the lofty Coast and Cascade Mountains.

As the train ascends onto the parched interior plateau and makes its overnight stop in Kamloops, the atmosphere progressively changes. On board the train, breakfast, and lunch are complimentary.

• Hotels: Fairmont Waterfront, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Pan Pacific, Sutton Place Hotel, and Sheraton Wall Centre

10 Affordable Yet Scenic Train Rides In Canada

Day 2: kamloops to banff.

As it draws closer to the breathtakingly beautiful snow-capped Rocky Mountains, the train progressively departs the ranchlands of south-central British Columbia. Passengers will traverse three national parks of Canada on the route from Vancouver to Banff: Glacier, Yoho, and Banff.

They will travel across the Kicking Horse Canyon and Spiral Tunnels to Rogers Pass and beyond Craigellachie, the historic location where the Canadian Pacific's last spike was driven rail was installed.

On the way to gorgeous vacation spots in Banff , you pass by the Continental Divide. On board the train, meals are served for breakfast and lunch.

• Hotels: Banff Caribou Lodge, Rimrock Resort, Moose Hotel & Suites, Fairmont Banff Springs, and Elk & Avenue
• Cost: Price varies according to the month, with rates ranging from $1,720 to $2,782

Optional add-ons increase the price, but you can schedule sightseeing tours to explore Banff, the icefields in Banff, and more through the Rocky Mountaineer's add-ons page . Note that Banff's weather will impact the availability (and enjoyment) of add-ons.

Best Time To Travel On The Rocky Mountaineer

The best time to take a train trip from vancouver to banff might be the summer.

There is no best time to travel from Vancouver to Banff. It all depends on the passenger’s preferences. A snowy mountain background and significant financial savings may both be experienced in April.

If passengers want to take home a camera roll full of images that look like postcards and yet save money compared to the peak season pricing, which typically goes into effect in the latter week of May/early June, May is a terrific month to take a Rocky Mountaineer train trip from Vancouver to Banff .

7 Bucket List Amtrak Vacations In Canada

If passengers want to experience some of the warm summer weather, beautiful scenery, and animal-watching opportunities, but avoid the full summer rush of tourists traveling to the well-known mountain towns of Lake Louise, Jasper, and Banff, June is a perfect time to take the Rocky Mountaineer train.

Warm weather and beautiful landscapes make July and August a top choice for those who wish to go trekking and enjoy the outdoors. The Rocky Mountaineer's most popular month for travel is September since it is such a wonderful time of year.

The golden hues of the larch and poplar trees provide a lovely setting to the low light of the sun glistening off the blue lakes as the leaves begin to change color. Finally, the last of the fall colors may be seen in October while avoiding the heavy tourist traffic. As the Rocky Mountaineer rail travel season ends in October, rates decrease once again.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Rare White Grizzly Dies After Being Struck on Canadian Highway

Grizzly Bear 178, or Nakoda, as she was known to her fans on social media, was hit in Yoho National Park, hours after her cubs were struck and killed in a separate accident, officials said.

By Sara Ruberg

A white grizzly bear known as Nakoda became a popular presence on social media since she first appeared in public near Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies in 2020. Her frequent roadside appearances endeared her to visitors, who were enchanted by her rare blonde coat and the black streak running up her back.

But that fame came at a cost, according to members of Parks Canada’s regional wildlife management team, who saw a vehicle strike Nakoda on the Trans-Canada Highway in Yoho National Park in British Columbia on June 6. She was confirmed dead on Saturday, likely from the injuries she sustained, according to the team.

Her two cubs, born this past winter, were struck and killed hours earlier on the same highway, Parks Canada said.

Officials believe that Nakoda gradually became habituated to humans since she first found social media fame, causing her to be less wary around people and highways. She often ventured near roads despite efforts by wildlife management officials to keep her away. The team members, who knew Nakoda as Bear 178, began tracking her in 2022 after she learned to climb the fence by the highway.

Since 2022, the wildlife management team had trapped Nakoda and moved her away from roadsides three times. Also in 2022, Parks Canada instituted a no-stopping zone and reduced the speed limit on a section of the Trans-Canada Highway to discourage people from slowing down to photograph her and other wildlife.

Saundi Stevens, a Parks Canada wildlife management specialist, said at a news conference on Monday that her team was devastated by the grizzly’s death.

“Our Parks Canada wildlife management team has actually spent a significant amount of time, and I mean hundreds upon hundreds of person-hours, managing Bear 178,” she said, adding that the work involved being with her from “dawn to dusk” at times.

“Habituated bears rarely survive,” Ms. Stevens said in an interview on Tuesday. “Unfortunately, it’s all too common.” Ms. Stevens noted that the bear’s mother was also struck and killed by a vehicle in 2021.

At the time of the accident on June 6, members of the wildlife management team were nearby fixing a fence that had been built specifically to prevent the bear from getting near vehicles. The team members saw her become startled by the screech of a train, causing her to run out of a ditch and into the road in front of two vehicles. One was able to swerve out of the way, but the second struck the bear.

The staff members reported that they saw the grizzly climb back over the fence after being hit and run away with only a limp, giving them some confidence that she would recover. They believe Nakoda died from internal injuries, but were unable to perform a necropsy because of her position in the backcountry.

Since 2019, 23 bears, including seven grizzlies, have been killed on railways and roads in Yoho National Park, according to Parks Canada.

Ms. Stevens said that bears with highways in their home range often venture to roadsides. It is also common, she said, for bears and other wildlife to become habituated to humans in the area around Banff National Park in Alberta, which receives about four millions visitors every year. She encourages visitors to view wildlife from a safe distance of 100 meters, or about 328 feet.

“We recognize people come to see wildlife,” she said, “but there’s safe ways to view wildlife to prevent this.”

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Flight Deals

This Low-Cost Airline Has One-Way Flights From $30 — but You'll Have to Book Soon

The deal ends on June 13.

Matt May/Getty Images

Low-cost airline Breeze Airways has slashed prices on many of its popular routes for summer travel starting at just $30.

“Looking for a great deal on a last-minute flight? Do you have the flexibility to travel just about anywhere? We've got you covered,” Breeze shared about the sale on its website . 

The sale, which ends on Thursday, June 13, at 11:59 p.m. PT, is available for travel dates between July 31 and August 14. There’s no promo code required to find these flights on Breeze’s website or app, as the airline has already discounted the fares for eligible routes. 

Travel + Leisure found fares ranging from $30 to $39 on the following flights: 

• Charleston to/from Cincinnati and Louisville, Kentucky
• Evansville, Illinois and Mobile to/from Orlando
• Raleigh-Durham to Tampa
• New Orleans to Orlando
• Phoenix to/from Provo
• Hartford to/from Norfolk and Pittsburgh
• Cincinnati to Providence
• Akron-Canton, Ohio, to/from Myrtle Beach
• Pittsburgh and Westchester to/from Raleigh-Durham
• Orlando to/from Springfield
• Norfolk to/from Providence
• Provo and San Bernardino to/from San Francisco
• Richmond and Springfield to/from Tampa

Travelers who book these tickets will be in Breeze’s new “No Flex Fare” class, similar to basic economy fares on other airlines. There are additional charges for carry-on bags and seat assignments, so it may be worth upgrading to the “Nice” class for more flexibility.

Frequent fliers of Breeze Airways can earn even more rewards by booking flights with the new Breeze Easy® Visa Signature Credit Card , which offers up to 10x BreezePoints that can be used for future travel.

Breeze, created by JetBlue founder David Neeleman, operates a unique route network with point-to-point connections from smaller airports to popular tourist destinations across the country. A relatively new carrier, the airline has spacious new aircraft with fast Wi-Fi and USB-C outlets at every seat. 

Related Articles

The Definitive Voice of Entertainment News

Subscribe for full access to The Hollywood Reporter

site categories

Paramount+ canada backs banff spark accelerator for women entrepreneurs in media.

The relaunch of the program was announced at The Hollywood Reporter’s women’s breakfast at the Banff World Media Festival on Tuesday.

By Etan Vlessing

Etan Vlessing

Canada Bureau Chief

• Share on Facebook
• Share to Flipboard
• Send an Email
• Show additional share options
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on Reddit
• Share on Tumblr
• Share on Whats App
• Print the Article
• Post a Comment

Paramount+ in Canada has stepped forward with key financial backing to relaunch the Banff Spark Accelerator for Women in the Business of Media: Producer Edition.

Related Stories

Rihanna's 'smurfs movie' reveals demo track and first footage at annecy  , andy serkis brings 'lord of the rings' anime movie's first footage to annecy.

“Paramount+ strongly believes that gender equity in Canadian media is imperative to advancing our industry,” said Vanessa Case, vp, content at Paramount+ Canada, said in a statement. “That is why we are proud to partner with the Banff World Media Festival to continue the Banff Spark program. We must continue to uplift the incredible women leaders we have and provide opportunities for them to progress to the next level in their careers,” Case added.  

The Banff Sparks program is open to Canadian women and aims at elusive gender parity in the media industry by supporting growth, investment and sustainability of careers pursued by women in media companies. Participants will receive a 2025 Banff World Media Festival pass and a travel stipend to offset costs of attending the festival.   

“We applaud our new partner, Paramount+, for their commitment to advancing gender parity in our industry through their support of Banff Spark. This first-of-its-kind program has already generated positive career growth for more than 200 women participants by helping them form strategic partnerships, hone their business skills and gain a foothold in the global market,” Jenn Kuzmyk executive director of the Banff World Media Festival, said in her own statement.

THR Newsletters

Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Sage steele sues caa over alleged conflict of interest in free speech standoff with espn, broadway musical ‘& juliet’ recoups investment, caa promotes 15 employees to agent, iatse labor negotiations to resume june 24, global ad revenue to surpass $1 trillion in 2025 as groupm boosts 2024 forecast for u.s., china, paramount co-ceos secure change-in-control pay plans, granted cash bonuses in connection to promotion.

Where Lonely Planet staffers are traveling this summer

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is one of the places Lonely Planet staffers plan to visit this summer © Paul Zizka Photography / Banff Tourism Board

Summer is around the corner in the northern hemisphere, and the team at Lonely Planet is already making (or has made) their travel plans.

If you're wondering where to go and what to do this summer, why not follow one of our leads and discover a new destination or rediscover an old favorite? I, unlike my colleagues, have yet to make plans, so finding out where everyone else is going has lit a fire under me. Likewise, I hope these trip plans inspire you to make some of your own – and that you'll turn to Lonely Planet for help when plotting your next getaway.

Here are just some of the places the staff at Lonely Planet traveling this summer.

"I'm going to a backcountry lodge in Banff . It's only accessible by hiking in. I’ve wanted to do one of these for ages, so this is how I’m celebrating my 40th!" – Jessica Lockhart, Senior Editor, Oceania

Banff and Jasper National Parks have several rustic backcountry lodges surrounded by unparalleled scenery. Each lodge has its own unique setting, hosts and history, but all have simple amenities, minimal (or no) electricity and running water, and welcoming common spaces where travelers can gather to read, play cards or recount the day’s adventures. Advance bookings are key – prices may seem steep, but factor in the included home-cooked meals and freedom from setting up camp or worrying about weather and wildlife, and the cost suddenly becomes worth it. 

Keen to go hiking in Canada? Here's our guide to the best trekking routes

"I will be visiting Makarska Riviera , including Brela , Makarska, Tucepi and the island of Korčula . The trip is all about promoting Croatia ’s great outdoors , so the itinerary includes kayaking, rafting, buggying and lots of hiking !" – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Croatia’s tourism peaks between June and August, when the Adriatic’s warm waters charm countless visitors. It’s great fun, though afternoons are roasting hot, the lines at attractions are at their longest, and accommodation costs rise. Inland, temperatures are higher, but crowds are less noticeable. June is the quietest month of high season, but with clear skies, music festivals and the promise of early summer, it's a strong contender for Croatia’s best month. 

Ready to plan your trip to Croatia? Choose the right time for your visit with our seasonal guide

"I'm going island hopping  in Greece for four weeks in June. I'll be spending most of my time on Serifos (to start) as it's where the local Greeks holiday  – doing a pottery class, vineyard tour, taking boats to secluded coves, going to cooking school and generally trying to be as fabulous as possible – with additional stays on Santorini and Paros . – Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Trade Sales and Marketing

Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy Aegean lapping an endless coastline and a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities. Summer is when most travelers choose to explore its countless islands, and June affords the longest days of sunshine, peaking in the second fortnight. It’s also an opportune time for your first, refreshing dip of the summer. 

Going to Greece for the first time? Here our our top tips on things to know before you go

"I'm heading to Tuscany and the island of Elba ." – Annie Greenberg, Creative Director  "We are doing a girls' trip to Tuscany." – Aly Yee, Senior Director

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy ’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around.  The island of Elba comes to life during summer, and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba offers both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

Ready to plan a trip to Tuscany?  Check out our regional guide  

"I'm off to car-free Isla Holbox , Mexico for a relaxing beach getaway. I'm planning on horseback riding and wataflow therapy, which I've never done, but should be interesting."  – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

Isla Holbox (hol-bosh), meaning "black hole" in Mayan, lives up to its name – it's like a portal to one of Mexico’s last unspoiled tropical islands. Golf carts and bicycles serve as the main forms of transportation, and visitors will discover sandy streets, colorful Caribbean buildings, lazing, sun-drunk dogs, and sand so fine its texture is nearly clay. The greenish waters are a unique color from the mixing of ocean currents, and on land there's a mixing too: of locals and tourists, the latter hoping to escape the hubbub of Cancún .

Using Cancún as a base? Here are the best day trips into the wider area

"I'm heading to Granada , Spain for a week or so, maybe getting in Málaga too. This will be my second visit, so I'm hoping to take a more relaxed approach this time and also catch up with friends." – Alison Killilea, Production Support Editor

With serene Islamic architecture, monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art, Granada is Spain’s cultured, creative southern city; a place with a storied past centering on the Alhambra , one of the world’s great human-made wonders. While Granada can be scorching in summer, the city of Málaga is deemed to have the best climate in the country, with about 3000 hours of sun a year – the most in all of Spain. 

Seen the Alhambra? Here are Granada's other top experiences

Switzerland

"I'm also going to Zürich , Lucerne , Grindelwald  and Zermatt . I will mostly be hiking and doing lots of outdoorsy activities. My number one priority while I am in Switzerland is to do the highest hiking trail in Europe , the Barrhorn."  – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it, Switzerland gets pretty darned close. With its supermodel looks, fine weather, easy-peasy public transport , multilingual mindset and penchant for cheese and wine, this is a country where it’s easy to get comfortable – even if it is a bit on the pricey side.  Peak summer in Switzerland is  tip-top , to borrow the Swiss German phrase. Barring the odd storm, it’s nearly always hot and sunny – oppressively so, sometimes, meaning the best place to be is in the cooler air of the high mountains.

Ready to experience the best of Switzerland? Here's our guide to the top things to do

The Bahamas

"I'm heading to Eleuthera  in the  Bahamas for our annual family trip – there are 16 of us so it's always an exciting week! With age ranges of 7–70, I can report that we are all excited to do a beach bonfire and barbecue, and go sailing to swim with some piggies." – Amy Nichols, Senior Marketing Manager

The sapphire waters and  sun-soaked sands  of the Bahamas beckon travelers with warm weather that never fades. Just a short flight from the east coast of the US, this island nation is a magnet for repeat visitors and last-minute bookers alike. Eleuthera, however, is a bit tougher to get to, but is well worth the expense and effort if you're looking for vacation bliss. With its pink-sand beaches, Atlantic-battered reefs, weather-warped rock and dense subtropical scrub, this incredibly narrow 109-mile (175km-long) crescent also offers boutique hotels, revered surf breaks and some fabulous restaurants. 

Can't decide where to go in the Bahamas? We can help with this guide to the best places to visit 

"I'm heading to Naples , Florida  on a family vacation for 2 weeks. I'm planning to relax mostly, with lots of trips to the beach and eating good food! But I'm hoping to take a trip to the Everglades , too." – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

For upscale romance and the prettiest, most serene city beach in southwest Florida, come to Naples, the Gulf Coast's answer to Palm Beach. The soft white sand is backed only by narrow dunes and half-hidden mansions. More than that, though, Naples is a cultured, sophisticated town, unabashedly stylish and privileged but also welcoming and fun-loving. With spectacular year-round sunshine, there's certainly no bad time to visit Florida . Summers can be pretty hot, but you'll probably spend less on lodging than the winter or summer months.

Traveling to Florida on a budget? We've got some money-saving tips for you

Massachusetts

"My friends and I are going to Martha’s Vineyard , Massachusetts in July. We’re planning a Midsommar -esque garden dinner one night and will spend the rest of our time beach hopping and strolling through Edgartown." – Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

Martha's Vineyard remains untouched by the kind of rampant commercialism found on the mainland – there's not a single chain restaurant or cookie-cutter motel in sight. Sunny skies and consistently hot weather make July and August the best time for a traditional beach holiday with sunning, swimming and sand-digging. The tradeoff, of course, is that July and August are the months everyone goes to the Vineyard and it's likely to be jam-packed, so plan ahead.

Want to see more of Massachusetts? Here are the best road-trip routes

"My family is headed to Northern Michigan this summer. We're excited to paddleboard to a shipwreck, relax on the beach and sail on Lake Michigan. We'll hike and run down all the sand dunes, explore cute artsy towns full of galleries and good eats." – Sarah Stocking, Digital Editor

Summertime buzzes with travelers when draws like the  Great Lakes , charming islands and unspoiled wilderness are at their most accessible. Michigan’s high season kicks off on Memorial Day (the last Monday in May). Ferries start to depart more regularly to popular spots and while summer-only establishments lift their shutters. The weather is mostly sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). This means lots of summer-only outdoor activities begin.

There are loads of great beaches in Michigan. Here's our guide to the very best

North Carolina

"My wife and I are going to Kure Beach, North Carolina for the 4th of July for five days — my favorite things to do there are take a yoga class on the beach with Kure Beach Yoga (no need to bring a mat, bring a towel!), watch the sunrise from our hotel (The Lighthouse Inn, a very laid-back and recently revamped spot right by the water so you don’t have to stress about parking, which is awful every summer), and see if we can find the boardwalk cat, Bibi." – Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager

The height of summer in North Carolina is beach time, and with 322 miles (518km) of ocean shoreline reaching from the  Outer Banks  in the north to the  South Carolina  border in the south (and 12,000 miles/19,000km of estuarine coastline along the way),  North Carolina has plenty of beaches to choose from . Kure Beach has 6 miles (10km) of protected shoreline as well as lagoons teeming with wildlife that you can explore by renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard.

Explore some of North Carolina's epic landscapes by foot with our guide to the best hiking routes

Rhode Island

"I'm off to Newport , Rhode Island for Memorial Day Weekend and planning on going to restaurants, wineries, mansion tours, walking and hiking." – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

It may be the yachting capital of the world, but you don’t need nautical stripes – or a summer cottage – to enjoy the seaside retreat of Newport, Rhode Island. With its fresh briny air, expansive sea views and stunning bays, it's obvious why cityfolk continue to follow in the footsteps of the American industrialists here. Enjoy a taste of the good life by touring Newport's Gilded Age mansions built in the late 1800s, taking sailing lessons, or going wine tasting.

Explore related stories

Jun 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Dazzling Santorini is the instantly recognizable supermodel of the Greek islands. Here’s what you need to know for your first trip to Santorini.

May 31, 2024 • 4 min read

May 28, 2024 • 8 min read

May 20, 2024 • 5 min read

May 9, 2024 • 9 min read

May 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

How to get a certified copy of a death certificate

Many organizations require a certified copy of the death certificate when someone dies. How you get copies depends on whether the person died in the U.S. or abroad.

Death in the U.S.: how to get a certified copy of a death certificate

Contact the vital records office of the state where the death occurred to learn:

• How to order a certified copy of a death certificate online, by mail, or in-person
• How to get a copy fast
• The cost for each certified copy

Can anyone get a copy of a death certificate?

Only certain family members may be able to obtain a death certificate when someone dies. This includes a spouse, siblings, and children. But death certificates can be requested by anyone when they become public record. In some states, death certificates are released 25 or more years after death. Check with your state’s vital records office to find out when death certificates become public record.

When to use a certified copy or a photocopy

You will need to purchase a certified copy of the death certificate for tasks such as:

• Notifying the Social Security Administration and other government agencies
• Closing or transferring credit cards and bank accounts
• Claiming a person's life insurance or pension

You may only need a photocopy for other tasks, such as canceling a subscription. Check with the agency or organization handling each account.

Death of a U.S. citizen abroad: how to get death records

When a U.S. citizen dies in another country, the U.S. embassy or consulate should get a death certificate or notification from the foreign government. It will then issue a  Consular Report of Death Abroad (CRDA) . Use the CRDA in the U.S. as proof of death for closing accounts and handling legal tasks.

You can get up to 20 free certified copies at the time of death.  Order more copies of the CRDA from the Department of State.

Find more resources to help you settle your loved one's affairs.

Dealing with the death of a loved one

LAST UPDATED: January 30, 2024

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.