5-day adventure itinerary of Banff National Park
Whether you’re a sightseer, a thrill-seeker, or somewhere in the middle, there are endless opportunities for you to explore in Banff and Lake Louise; so why not dip your toes into a different style of adventure this summer?
Whether you’re a sightseer, a thrill-seeker, or somewhere in the middle, there are endless opportunities for you to explore in Banff and Lake Louise; so why not dip your toes into a different style of adventure this summer?
Classic experiences—like admiring the glimmering surfaces of Lake Louise or Moraine Lake—are a must, but awestriking beauty is vast in this parkland and there are many ways to be immersed in it.
Here’s how to plan five days seeing Banff and Lake Louise, uncovering deep magnificence in a way you’ve never imagined.
Day 1:
The vibrant glacier water of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake places them at the top of bucket lists all over the world.
Seeing both lakes on the same day gives you more time to explore; with limited parking at lakeshores, the best way to do this is by stepping onto a Parks Canada shuttle. Bookings are essential and can be made through the Parks Canada website.
Experience Lake Louise from different angles by horseback with Timberline Tours or Brewster Adventures. Be guided to a rustic teahouse and enjoy a slice of cake with hidden lake or glacier views as far as the eye can see.
Try the delicious dining options at the Baker Creek Bistro and complete the rustic experience by cozying up in a Baker Creek Mountain Resort cabin for the night.
Day 2:
Rise and shine and make the most of your day by starting early.
Rent a bicycle at the Wilson Mountain Sports and head to Castle Mountain Chalets to start pedalling east along the Bow Valley Parkway. You can enjoy scenic, wide-open roads and iconic trails like Johnston Canyon that are only accessible for bikers, hikers and Roam Transit passengers.
Don’t forget essentials like snacks, water and bear spray – most of which can be purchased from the general store at Castle Mountain Chalets.
Later, ascend to Whitehorn Bistro’s mountainside patio via the Lake Louise Summer Gondola. Watch the sun set over Lake Louise while sipping your favourite beverage and watching for wildlife grazing below.
If you didn’t think an evening of bliss could get any better in Lake Louise, head to The Lake Louise Station Restaurant for a unique dinner set in a heritage railway station.
Day 3:
Lace up your hiking boots and follow a leader to Banff National Park’s hidden gems as you venture paths less travelled.
Great Divide Nature Interpretation’s expert guides know a trail that’s perfectly suited to your expert and ability level, leading to a view that’ll have you speechless.
There’s arguably no better reward for a hike than a local bear—oops, we mean beer. Make your way to Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant in Banff and enjoy their wide variety of local brews and mouth-watering menu items. Tip: try the Yukon Gold Potato Pizza for a slice (or eight) of post-adventure heaven!
Continue the indulgence when staying at the Moose Hotel in Banff and lazing in their rooftop outdoor hot pools.
Day 4:
You’ve marvelled at the mountains from their valleys and peaks, now it’s time to see them from above and investigate what’s beneath.
Use Roam Transit’s Route 3 bus from Banff to join Alpine Helicopter Tours and be whisked away to a bird’s eye view of the Canadian Rockies’ grandeur.
After, shimmy beneath the town’s surface and investigate Rat’s Nest Cave with Canmore Cave Tours.
What better way to reflect on your adventures so far than over a meal with a view? See our recommendations for the best scenic restaurants in Banff and Lake Louise.
Day 5:
Fasten your harness and get ready to you’ve climbed a mountain.
Alpine Air Adventures will show you the ropes of rock climbing with their introductory course, to have you scaling mountains safely in no time.
These views certainly make for a grand finale to your mountain escape!