Banff National Park is one of those places that will make your jaw drop. The colors of the water seem almost artificial, the mountains are so high that it almost feels unreal, and the view keeps changing. It is not without reason that it is the most famous national park in Canada, and with places like Lake Louise en Moraine lake also one of the most photographed.
During our tour of western canada we spent several days in Banff. We stood face to face with the turquoise water of Lake Louise, discovered how special Moraine lake is in the evening light and walked the challenging Six Glaciers Trail, one of the most beautiful hikes we did in Canada.
In this article we will take you along those highlights, but also along other special places: quiet hiking trails, lakes without crowds and nice stops in and around the town of Banff.
Our journey through the United States and Canada
This article is part of a large one-year tour the United States en Canada, with a Dutch 4×4 camper that we shipped ourselves… It is a bucket list worthy expats must register with the local municipality and obtain a once in a lifetime experience that will never be forgotten.
We wrote almost 100 articles about this ultimate tour. Visit our North America page for more information.
Why Banff National Park is so special
Banff National Park is not only Canada's oldest national park, but also one of the world's most famous nature reserves. Since 1885, it has been attracting visitors with its mountain landscapes, emerald lakes, glaciers and rugged peaks, and for good reason. Here you can walk between ice fields and alpine meadows, drive on spectacular roads such as the Icefields Parkway, and admire lakes such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and glaciers in one day.
What makes Banff extra special? It is located at the crossroads of nature and culture. That combination also earned Banff a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List up. Together with the surrounding national parks, the area is recognized as one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world. You are so in the wilderness, but also have comfort nearby. And the park has a rich history: from the indigenous peoples who lived here for thousands of years to the creation of the Canadian national parks.
Banff feels different than Jasper of Yoho. Where Jasper is all about peace and quiet, and Yoho is known for raw waterfalls and silence, Banff offers the perfect mix of spectacular nature and amenities. You can be standing by a glacier in the morning, and just as easily be sitting on a terrace in the lively town of Banff in the evening. For us, this is the place where you experience classic Canada: exuberant nature, clear blue lakes and impressive walks, with just enough comfort to keep you roadtrip relaxed and complete.
Are you thinking of following our footsteps and renting a camper(van) with friends, your partner or with your whole family? Then ask free of charge and without obligation a quote or compare and book directly at Travelhome. Travelhome is the most affordable provider with also the largest offer. They have both campervans and full-fledged family campers in the offer.
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
The highlights
Banff is full of spectacular places. Below you will find our personal highlights: places where you can really experience Banff, often just out of sight of the parking lot. We share practical tips, beautiful hiking trails and quiet moments away from the crowds.
1. Walking and hiking in Banff National Park
The best way to truly experience the beauty of Banff is on foot. The park attracts many visitors, and around the famous lakes and parking lots it is often busy. But the great thing is: walk just a kilometre further, and you leave the majority of tourists behind you.
And believe us: it’s worth it. Many of the most impressive views, peaks and glaciers are just a little further off the beaten track. The hiking trails are well maintained and range from easy to challenging, so there is something beautiful for every level. So: put on your hiking boots, bring your camera and go. Banff is best seen by those who are prepared to walk a little further.
Tip: In Banff you will find hiking trails of all shapes and sizes. From short, flat walks along lakes to challenging hikes with a lot of elevation. Do you want to know which routes suit your level and planning? Then visit the visitors center in Banff of Lake LouiseThere you can pick up free hiking maps and get up-to-date information about weather conditions, wildlife and closed trails.
2.Lake Louise
Lake Louise is without a doubt one of the most famous places in Banff National Park and not without reason. The lake is located between imposing mountain peaks and has a striking turquoise color that seems almost unreal. This color is created by the fine glacial dust that floats in the water and reflects the sunlight.
Most visitors limit themselves to the viewpoint near the parking lot – and let’s be honest, that’s impressive enough. But if you take the time to walk further, you’ll soon leave the crowds behind and experience the area in a much more peaceful way.
Tip: Take a short walk along the lake or choose a route up towards Mirror Lake, Lake Agnes and the famous Lake Agnes Teahouse (see the highlight below). You will then walk approximately 8 km (there and back). Fancy more of a challenge? Then the Plain of the Six Glaciers Trail highly recommended. This 14,6 km hike offers views of glaciers, mountains and valleys. We chose to combine both routes into one long day hike – highly recommended for hiking enthusiasts.
Are you thinking of following our footsteps and renting a camper(van) with friends, your partner or with your whole family? Then ask free of charge and without obligation a quote or compare and book directly at Travelhome. Travelhome is the most affordable provider with also the largest offer. They have both campervans and full-fledged family campers in the offer.
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
3. Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes
Anyone who takes a walk towards the Six Glaciers will automatically pass by Mirror lake. This small, sheltered lake nestled between trees and mountain peaks lives up to its name: on windless days, the smooth surface of the water perfectly reflects the surroundings. It’s a great place to catch your breath, and while it’s not the most famous lake in Banff, it’s part of the experience.
A little further up lies Lake Agnesa, surrounded by rugged peaks and rock formations. The climb there is tougher than you might think for such a short distance, but the reward is a beautiful mountain lake with the cozy Lake Agnes Teahouse. You can stop here for a cup of tea, coffee or something tasty – a popular break spot among hikers.
From Lake Agnes you can go even further up to The Beehive, for spectacular views of Lake Louise and the valley below. We decided to skip that extra loop because of the long hike ahead, but it is definitely recommended if you still have energy.
4. Plain of the Six Glaciers Trail
For those who want more than a short walk around the lake, the Plain of the Six Glaciers Trail an absolute must. This tough hike of about 14,6 kilometers (round trip) starts at Lake Louise and takes you further into the mountains. As you get higher, the tourists leave behind you and the landscape opens up, as you can see in the photos below.
Leaving the treeline, you hike along narrow trails, with steep mountainsides on either side. The view of Lake Louise becomes more impressive with every turn, and along the way you can see the glaciers glistening in the distance.
You eventually reach the Plain of the Six Glaciers Tea House, a historic mountain hut where you can have a drink or order a piece of chocolate cake as a reward. While you rest on the terrace you can sometimes hear the rumbling of falling ice on the glaciers in the distance – a special sound that you will not soon forget.
Did you know: Despite the name, due to climate change, only two glaciers are visible from the trail today. Since 1887, the area has lost about 70% of its ice cover.
The climb is tough, especially on hot days, but the combination of mountains, silence and that unique mountain atmosphere makes this one of the most beautiful walks in Banff National Park.
On the way back, you walk back to the starting point via the other side of the lake. You follow the meltwater of the glaciers that flows as a clear stream towards Lake Louise - a nice, descending route after a steep climb. And for those who really want to cool down: Just dipping your feet in the water is enough to continue walking clear of mind (and body).
5. Moraine Lake
Moraine lake is just like Lake Louise world famous, but harder to reach. The road to it, Moraine Lake Road, is often closed due to limited parking and crowds. During the day, you can only get there by shuttle bus from Lake Louise Village. A ride costs 8 CAD per person.
Tip: Go very early in the morning or at the end of the day. After 17:30 you have a chance that the road will be opened for private traffic again. We got this golden tip from other travelers and were able to drive up ourselves around 18:00, without traffic jams or parking pressure.
It was well worth it. The evening sun fell low over the lake and the mountain peaks, creating a beautiful play of colours. And best of all: the peace. No crowds, no queues for photos – just silence, ice-blue water and those impressive rock peaks in the background.
Cool off in the ice cold water (3 seconds max!), catch the last rays of sunshine and just sit there for a while. As far as we are concerned, this is the most beautiful spot in Banff National Park!
Tip:: Curious what we shoot with? Then view the display below.
The Fujifilm X-T5 with 16-80 is the ultimate all-round world travel camera† This camera has been declared several times by both the consumer association and Tweakers.net the best system camera you can buy. Even on automatic mode, you suddenly feel like a professional photographer!
- The best tested camera
- Fantastic photos
- 6.2K video
- 5 year warranty
6. Lake Louise Village – practical and surprisingly cozy
Do you need groceries, do you want to fill up with gas or just grab a bite to eat? Then Lake Louise Village your go-to place near the famous lake. The village is small, but offers everything you need during your visit to Banff National Park: a visitor center, a grocery store, a gas station and a handful of restaurants.
Although the village looks mainly functional, it is also a nice place to recover from all the nature impressions. And those who leave early for Lake Louise or take the shuttle to Moraine Lake, start the day smartly here.
7.Town of Banff
The town of Banff, which shares its name, is located in the middle of the national park and is a popular base for those who like to combine nature with comfort. You will find everything you need there: shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels. The main street, Banff Ave, is car-free and in the summer it is brightly decorated with flowers – a nice place for a walk or a drink on a terrace.
Although it can be busy, it is also a good place to relax from all the time outside. You can easily get groceries, drink a good coffee or get information at the visitor center.
8. Cascade Gardens (Cascade of Time Garden)
Just south of downtown Banff, behind the Bow River, lies Cascade of Time Garden: a well-maintained public garden with colorful flowerbeds, paths, and views of the surrounding mountains. A surprisingly peaceful spot in the middle of the city.
The gardens are free to enter and are a great stop for a short walk or some relaxation, especially on a sunny day. Combine your visit with a look over the bridge to the Bow River, which flows past the impressive peaks here.
9. Cascade Ponds
Near Banff Town you will find Cascade Ponds, a quiet place where many locals and travelers go to relax. This picnic and recreation area is just outside the center, but immediately feels like a natural oasis.
There are several picnic tables and fixed barbecues (free to use), and there are lawns where you can relax or read a book with a view of the water and the mountains. Especially at the end of the day it becomes magically quiet here: when the wind dies down, the water turns into a mirror and you see the mountain tops reflected on the surface.
Tip: Cascade Ponds is the perfect end to an active day. Bring your own food, cook on one of the barbecues and stay until the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains.
Tip:: Curious what we shoot with? Then view the display below.
The Fujifilm X-T5 with 16-80 is the ultimate all-round world travel camera† This camera has been declared several times by both the consumer association and Tweakers.net the best system camera you can buy. Even on automatic mode, you suddenly feel like a professional photographer!
- The best tested camera
- Fantastic photos
- 6.2K video
- 5 year warranty
And don’t forget to look around (and down): Cascade Ponds is teeming with marmots. They squeak loudly from their burrows, poke their heads above the grass and seem to have entire conversations with their own kind. We saw so many that it almost felt like a marmot parade – an unexpectedly nice bonus.
Practical information and tips
Banff National Park is beautiful, but also crowded. Campsites fill up quickly, groceries are expensive, and popular spots like Moraine Lake can be hard to reach. In this section, I share practical tips to make your visit go more smoothly – from reserving a campsite to handy addresses for groceries, fuel, and overnight stays without a camper.
Park passes and reservations
For Banff National Park you need an entrance ticket. This is the Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which gives you access to all national parks in Canada. You can choose a day pass or an annual pass, depending on the length of your trip.
- Day pass: handy if you are in the park for a short time. You pay per person or per vehicle.
- Discovery Pass: cheaper for a trip of several weeks or if you visit several national parks (such as Yoho, Jasper or Glacier). The pass is valid for one year and can be ordered online in advance or purchased at the entrance of the park.
Reservations for campsites and shuttles are almost indispensable in high season. Especially in the summer months, places on popular campsites such as Lake Louise Campground quickly away. Also for access to places such as Moraine lake A shuttle reservation is required unless you arrive early in the morning or late at night (and are lucky the road is open).
Tip:: Plan your route in advance and book as early as possible via the official website of Parks Canada. Reservations for the summer season often open in early spring.
Camping in and around Banff
The most famous campsite in the region is the Lake Louise Campground, within walking distance of Lake Louise Village. The campground is well maintained and offers both electric and non-electric sites. You can expect spacious sites, neat facilities and regular wildlife visits.
- Price indication: from approx. 36 CAD per night (with electricity)
- Facilities: toilets, showers, dump station and sometimes washing machines
- To reserve: via the official website of Parks Canada
Is there no more room? Then you can go to the overflow campground just outside the village. This simple place only has a toilet block, but for 12 CAD per night you can still stay here legally. Registration is via the envelope system on site.
Wild camping in the area
Wild camping in Banff National Park is prohibited and strictly controlled. Fines are hefty, up to 25.000 CAD. If you want to camp for free, you will have to look outside the park.
A good alternative is the town Canmore, just outside the southern border of the park. In the area there are several places where you can (semi-legally) stay overnight with a camper, often registered via iOverlander. Keep in mind that you will have to drive back and forth to Banff every day, which can take about 50 minutes.
Are you thinking of following our footsteps and renting a camper(van) with friends, your partner or with your whole family? Then ask free of charge and without obligation a quote or compare and book directly at Travelhome. Travelhome is the most affordable provider with also the largest offer. They have both campervans and full-fledged family campers in the offer.
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
Staying without a camper
If you are traveling without a camper, there are plenty of accommodations in and around Banff – from simple lodges to luxury resorts. Especially in high season, it is wise to book early, because popular places fill up quickly. Below are a few suggestions in different price ranges:
- Budget: HI Banff Alpine Centre
One of the most affordable accommodations in Banff. A cozy hostel with shared and private rooms, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers. - Mid-range: Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
Spacious suites with kitchen and access to pool and fitness. Good value, just outside the center of Banff. - Luxury goods: Fairmont Banff Springs
Iconic castle-like hotel in the mountains. Expensive, but legendary in location, service and atmosphere. A real bucket list accommodation. - Quiet & natural: Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins
Cozy wooden cabins between Banff and Lake Louise. In the middle of nature, with an excellent reputation and a cozy restaurant. - Good base outside the park: Canmore Downtown Hostel
In cozy Canmore (20 min. from Banff). Budget friendly, modern and a good place if you want to stay outside the park.
Refueling and shopping
In Banff National Park, gas stations and supermarkets are scarce and expensive. The distances are large, so it is smart to prepare your visit well - especially if you travel with a camper.
Refuel
Fuel in Banff National Park is a lot more expensive than in surrounding areas. In May 2025, the average diesel price in Canada around CAD 1,43 per liter. Within the park you often pay 20 to 30% more. During our trip the price was even CAD 2,15 per liter – quite a difference.
Tip: Make sure your tank is full before you enter the park. This can save you 20 to 30 cents per liter.
Cheaper fuel locations:
- Canmore – just outside the park, affordable and lots of choice
- Golden – if you come from Yoho towards Lake Louise
Groceries
Supermarkets are scarce in the park and often more expensive than average. There are small supermarkets in Banff and Lake Louise, but for larger groceries it is wise to stock up just outside the park.
Our recommendations
- Save-On-Foods in Canmore (large selection, affordable)
- IGA or The Village Market in Banff (more limited and more expensive)
- IGA in Golden is useful if you come from Yoho
Tip: Are you driving between Banff and Jasper? Please note that you will not encounter any supermarkets between Lake Louise and Jasper (over 230 km). So make sure you bring enough food, drinks and fuel.
Closing comments
Banff National Park isn’t just a photogenic place, it’s an experience. You’ll hike between glaciers and turquoise lakes, climb to views that will make you silent, and maybe end your day in a quiet mountain lake with a book on your lap. Despite the crowds in some places, Banff still feels grand, rugged, and special.
Banff was for us one of those places where everything is right: the landscape, the energy, the feeling of freedom. And that makes it, despite its popularity, a destination to take to your heart.
Want to see more of Canada? In our article about Jasper National Park read how different it feels there – quieter, more spacious and at least as impressive. And are you planning a longer roadtrip? Then our Western Canada Tour Itinerary you on your way, with all the highlights clearly listed.
Are you thinking of following our footsteps and renting a camper(van) with friends, your partner or with your whole family? Then ask free of charge and without obligation a quote or compare and book directly at Travelhome. Travelhome is the most affordable provider with also the largest offer. They have both campervans and full-fledged family campers in the offer.
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
