Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park and was established in 1885. Located in the Rocky Mountains, 110 - 180 kilometres west of Calgary in the province of Alberta, Banff encompasses 6,641 square kilometres of mountainous terrain, with numerous glaciers and ice fields, dense coniferous forest, and alpine landscapes.

Alpine lakes and rock faces towering peaks with sheer cliffs add to the sense of humans being so tiny as to be out of scale that can be gained from a visit to this amazing region. Charismatic megafauna with a characteristically northern flavor create the opportunity for what are some of the most thrilling wildlife viewing experiences to be had worldwide. Close views of grizzly bears, wolverines, American black bears, grey wolves, elk and marmots are some of the most noteworthy mammal species that visitors may encounter, while golden eagles and alpine songbirds are seen overhead.

There are many things to do at Banff National Park as follows:-

1. The Town of Banff

Located in the south end of Banff National Park, this little town, surrounded by mountains, is a main tourist destination in Alberta. It is devoted to the tourism industry with all kinds of accommodation options, interesting shops, and restaurants that range from casual to high end. In the summer, the streets are packed with tourists from all over the world who come to see the Canadian Rockies, and in winter, the town maintains its lively atmosphere as skiers descend on Banff to enjoy the nearby slopes.

2. Lake Louise

The jewel of Banff National Park is Lake Louise with its shimmering turquoise green water and surrounding snowcapped mountains rising up to 3,000 meters high. Although the water is too cold for bathing, it is ideal for canoeing. At the western end of Lake Louise, Mount Victoria (3,469 meters), rises in majestic splendor. A breathtaking view can be had from the famous Fairmont Château Lake Louise or the shoreline in front of the hotel. A paved trail runs along the water's edge with beautiful views of the lake, mountains, glacier, and the Château.

If you are staying in Banff and looking for an easy way to see some of the beautiful surrounding lakes, including Lake Louise, the Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls Day Trip from Banff is a good choice. This full-day guided coach tour takes you to some of the most scenic locations in the area. From Calgary, the Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls Day Trip from Calgary offers a similar experience, with transportation directly from Calgary.

3. Lake Louise Ski Resort

Lake Louise Ski Resort is the most well-known ski resort in Alberta, catering to skiers from around the world. It offers skiing for all levels of ability with terrain that includes open bowls, groomed runs, and tree skiing. The runs on the mountainside are visible from the lake and Chateau Lake Louise.

During the summer months, the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola offers an easy way to get up into the alpine landscape. The gondola ascends to 2,088 meters, where there are opportunities to tackle some day hikes or short walks, or simply enjoy a meal. Ride and Dine packages are available. The Whitehorn Bistro, at more than 2,000 meters, is open for lunch and breakfast at the top of the Sightseeing Lift. This restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining and great views over the surrounding forest and beyond to the turquoise waters of Lake Louise.

4. Moraine Lake

Pictured on the reverse of the old Canadian twenty dollar bill, Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks is arguably as impressive as Lake Louise, but attracts fewer visitors. The picturesque turquoise-colored water is surrounded by ten peaks, each more than 3,000 meters high, and the Wenkchemna Glacier. The lake is located beyond Lake Louise, and the 13-kilometer road leading from Lake Louise up to Moraine Lake reveals one great view after another.

From near the parking area, a 1.5-kilometer-long walking trail runs along the northwest shore. This is a flat and easy walk. The most scenic walk involves a short climb up the Rockpile Trail to the best view of the lake, and the view most often seen on posters and postcards. This takes only about 20 minutes, but most people linger at the viewpoint. A popular, although strenuous, day hike leads from the lake to Sentinel Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in Banff National Park.

5. Sunshine Village Ski Resort

Sunshine Village is just a short drive outside the town of Banff and is one of the top two ski resorts in Alberta, along with Lake Louise. The resort offers a variety of terrain and runs for beginners to advanced skiers. In summer, the area is open to hikers, who can take a bus to the upper regions. It's possible to do a short walk and take the bus back down, or embark on a longer hike that will take you back down to the parking area. The scenery here is stunning year-round.