Banff & Lake Louise

Iconic Rocky Mountain destinations featuring turquoise glacial lakes, pristine wilderness, and dramatic peaks in Canada's oldest national park. These areas offer exceptional hiking, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, and some of the most photographed landscapes in North America.

Things to do

• Lake Louise Canoeing — Paddle across the iconic turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forest, with canoe rentals available at the lakeside boathouse.
• Plain of Six Glaciers Trail — Hike this moderate 14.5 km round-trip trail from Lake Louise to a teahouse nestled beneath six glaciers with panoramic mountain views.
• Moraine Lake Scenic Drive — Visit this stunning emerald-colored glacial lake located 14 km south of Lake Louise, famous for its dramatic Ten Peaks backdrop and excellent photography.
• Bow Falls Walk — Take an easy 4.7 km round-trip walk to these powerful cascading waterfalls in downtown Banff with riverside views and access from multiple trailheads.
• Johnston Canyon Trail — Hike through a narrow canyon carved by Johnston Creek with access to the Lower Falls at 2.7 km and Upper Falls at 5.5 km from the parking area.
• Wildlife Viewing at Vermilion Lakes — Explore these shallow lakes near Banff townsite at dawn or dusk to spot elk, moose, beavers, and migratory birds reflected in calm waters.
• Mount Norquay Scenic Chairlift — Ride the chairlift 700 meters up Mount Norquay for alpine hiking, interpretive walks, and sweeping views of Banff and the surrounding Bow Valley.
• Cavell Lake and Edith Cavell Meadows — Hike to pristine alpine lakes and wildflower meadows near Mount Edith Cavell, featuring glaciers and mountain tarns in the Jasper area north of Lake Louise.

Food to try

• Alberta Beef Bison Burger — Locally-sourced bison or premium Alberta beef served in upscale casual restaurants throughout Banff and Lake Louise, often topped with local cheeses and wild mushrooms.
• Banff Springs Hotel Afternoon Tea — A refined tea service with scones, finger sandwiches, and pastries served in the historic castle-like hotel with mountain vistas, a quintessential Canadian experience.
• Wild Salmon Caught in BC Waters — Fresh locally-caught salmon prepared grilled or smoked in regional restaurants, showcasing the culinary tradition of Pacific Northwest cuisine.
• Poutine with Gravy — A Canadian comfort food staple found throughout the region, featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and rich gravy, perfect après-hike fuel.
• Wild Berry Pie and Berries — Desserts made with local foraged huckleberries, saskatoon berries, and wild raspberries found in bakeries and restaurants across Banff and Lake Louise.
• Elk Steak Dinner — Game meat from local ranches prepared with regional preparations in fine dining establishments, reflecting the area's hunting and ranching heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Wildlife Distance — Maintain at least 100 meters from large animals like elk and bears and 25 meters from other wildlife; never feed animals as it disrupts their natural behavior and park regulations.
• Plan for Mountain Weather — Weather changes rapidly in the Rockies with sudden snow, rain, and temperature drops possible year-round; always carry layers and check forecasts before hiking.
• Book Accommodations Early — Hotels and lodges in Banff and Lake Louise fill quickly during peak season (summer and winter holidays); advance reservations weeks or months ahead are essential.
• Embrace Indigenous History — Acknowledge that these lands are the traditional territory of the Stoney Nakota, Kainai, and Piikani peoples; many interpretive centers and guides share Indigenous perspectives on the landscape.