Discover Banff.

Overview

Founded in 1885, Banff is Canada’s oldest national park. It protects a vast stretch of the Rocky Mountains, with glacier-fed lakes, alpine meadows and wildlife that still roams freely through the valleys.

What Makes It Special

The colour of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise comes from fine rock flour carried down by glaciers. Add elk grazing at the roadside, bighorn sheep on the cliffs and the quiet of the backcountry, and Banff feels both iconic and wild.

Places to Explore

• Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks

• Lake Louise and the Plain of Six Glaciers trail

• Johnston Canyon’s lower and upper falls

• The Icefields Parkway toward Jasper

• Sunshine Meadows in midsummer bloom

Things to Do

• Paddle a canoe on Lake Louise at sunrise

• Hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House

• Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

• Join a guided wildlife walk at dusk

When to Visit

June to September offers the best hiking, with Moraine Lake usually reachable from early June. Larch season in late September turns the high valleys gold.

Local Tips

• Private vehicles cannot drive to Moraine Lake, so book the Parks Canada shuttle

• Carry bear spray and know how to use it

• A Parks Canada pass is required for every visitor

• Layer up: mornings can be cold even in July