GETTING THERE //
We arrived in Alberta on August 19th and went straight from the Calgary Airport to Banff National Park. Coty and I were traveling with two of our closest friends Beth and Tim, who arrived from Boston. We all needed some fresh, crisp mountain air and a break from the city life. After leaving the airport, we hit a bit of traffic driving into the park on Friday afternoon but once we paid for our Banff passes at the gate, we didn't have any problems. It took us about 2 hours to get from the airport to our cabins.
ACCOMMODATIONS //
We booked 3 nights at the Johnston Canyon Resort. Calling it a resort is a bit far fetched as it's more like little, quaint cabins in the woods. They were cozy and had everything we needed for our stay. We were more concerned with the location and didn't want to spend a fortune on a place to stay, as we knew we would be out most of the day. We also loved that Johnston Canyon trailhead (one of the most popular trails in Banff) was about a 3-minute walk from our cabin. Three nights in the four-person cottage cost us $716 CAD ($540 USD) total, split four ways that was $135 each.
BEST TIME TO VISIT //
If you want to see the blue, glacier feed waters and be able to take advantage of all the beautiful hikes you'll want to plan your trip between June-August, the snow can make everything a bit more challenging during the long, winter months. Of course, if you're planning to ski the height of winter is the obvious option.
LAKE ATTRACTIONS //
MORAINE LAKE - One of the most iconic turquoise lakes in Alberta, Moraine is situated in The Valley of Ten Peaks and just outside the Village of Lake Louise. Easily one of the most breathtaking views of the mountains mirrored in the crystal clear glacial water. You’ll want to get here as early as possible as this is the most sought after view in Banff. Plan to spend an hour here or the whole day to hike the trails. For more, read the full post on Moraine Lake here.
PEYTO LAKE - Not bad for a cell phone photo, right? It's easy to capture this stunning view of Peyto. From the Icefields Parkway, you can hike about 15-20 minutes to the lookout point. My favorite thing about Peyto is being able to view everything from a bird's eye view. From below you couldn't comprehend just how beautiful and large the lake is. The mountains in the distance seem endless as they eventually blend in with the clouds. Plan an hour or more to enjoy this stop.
LAKE LOUISE - Easily one of the most stunning lakes in Banff. Here you’ll find lots of hiking trails, picturesque views from the base of the Fairmont Chateau, and the Victoria Glacier in the distance. You can’t visit Banff and not stop here. You could easily spend half a day or more here, especially if you want to hike some of the trails. I could go on and on, but for more, read about our visit to Lake Louise here.
JOHNSTON CANYON - The ideal trail for people and children of all ages. The trail takes you through the canyon where you’ll see waterfalls and a range of scenery. For more, read my full post on Johnston Canyon here.
BOW LAKE - From the Icefield Parkway we could see the water in the distance. It was the bluest of all the lakes we saw while in Banff. It reminded me of the blue Gatorade I drank growing up. We made a quick pullover stop here to take in the views and stretch our legs. This is an excellent place for quick stop because once you park, you can walk right to the base of the water. Plan for 30 minutes or less here.
OTHER PLACES WORTH A STOP //
LAKE MINNEWANKA (below) // HERBERT LAKE // CROWFOOT GLACIER
GETTING AROUND // THE SCENIC ROUTES
ICE FIELDS PARKWAY (Highway 93 North) - 144 miles of gorgeous views that joins Lake Louise in Banff National Park with the town of Jasper in Jasper National Park. You’ll want to give yourself a full day to explore one way if possible. It’s easily one of the most scenic highways in the world. You won’t want to miss all the stops along the way!
BOW VALLEY PARKWAY - Runs parallel with Trans-Canada Highway from Banff to Lake Louise. This route will offer scenic views at a slightly slower pace. We stayed along the parkway and spent a decent amount of time driving along this route. We saw a few black bears and wild life along the way. Don’t forget to check for any road closures in advance.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS //
BANFF GONDOLA - We never ended up making it here, as it rained on our last day. The fog was heavy and didn’t look like it was going to clear up, so we put this on the list for next time. From the photos I saw, the view from above looking down into the valley looked breathtaking.
RADIUM HOT SPRINGS - About 65 miles from Banff, a long scenic drive that takes you straight to the hot springs. Although the springs look like a glorified swimming pool, we couldn't resist going after a long day of hiking. There is a large cold pool as well as a hot pool. Both have pretty poor lighting and block the stars. The locker rooms are in desperate need of an update, but it was worth the drive. I'd imagine this would be pretty magical in the winter with the snow and steam. Make sure you have a proper swimsuit, or they will make you wear one of theirs. Entry fee is around $6 per person, $1 for a towel and $1 for a locker.
PROS: Relaxing, cheap CONS: Outdated facilities, long drive
BANFF UPPER HOT SPRINGS - We didn't get a chance to visit these springs, if you're not feeling the long drive to Radium, I'd suggest these hot springs based on convenience and location instead.
WHAT I TOOK WITH ME AND NEVER TOOK OFF //
Lightweight Daypack - $16 - I picked this tiny (20lb.) collapsible backpack up just before we left. It's a basic pack for hauling around the essentials: food, water, layers, hats, cameras, etc. It folds up to be the size of your hand which makes it easy to throw in any suitcase. If you are looking into carrying a lot of weight I'd suggest something that has a little more structure to the back and straps.
Lowa Renegade Boots - $230 - I was hesitant on buying these because they were expensive, but I needed a pair and knew it was worth it to invest in a solid pair of boots. I tried nearly all of them on at REI, and these were the most comfortable. Save yourself the time and don't order online. Try as many pairs as you can on. Ask if you need to go up a half size, they usually recommend so your toes don't touch as you descend. I wore them in around the house and didn't get one blister, even after wearing them for almost 12 hours a day.
Rain for Daze Lululemon Jacket - $198 - (My style is no longer available - more affordable style from Amazon linked here & here) - Coty had a gift card that needed to be used and I’ve never owned a proper rain jacket. I know that's outrageous for a rain jacket, but it's lightweight, has an oversized hood, it's full of nice lined pockets (probably 15 total), and the shape was flattering I never wanted to take it off!
When it comes to outdoor gear, I’ve learned it’s best to invest in a handful of quality products. For me it’s boots, socks, light, moisture wicking layers and water proof outter layers.
Lonely Plant - Banff, Jasper & Glacier National Park Travel Guide - I read through this beforehand and kept in my backpack during our time there. Having this resource guide was so helpful, especially during times of limited cell phone service.
EATS & DRINKS //
PLAIN OF SIX GLACIERS TEAHOUSE - Lake Louise - (CASH ONLY) - While hiking to the glacier we stopped at the teahouse for lunch. All the goods are hiked in, carried on horseback or dropped in by helicopter. Two people waitress and cook, using only propane. They hike up and work five-day shifts before heading back down to Lake Louise. The hike was moderate, but we really worked up an appetite. When we arrived at the base of the teahouse, we heard the avalanches falling in the distance. It was a little scary until we realized they just sounded much closer than they were. Everyone had a sandwich, lentil soup, and chocolate cake. I had soup and homemade biscuits and jam. SO delicious. Of course, you also have to get the tea! I'd recommend getting up there as early as you can as things get crowded and they run out of food options quickly. Meal for 4 was just under $100.
BANFF AVE. BREWING CO. - Downtown Banff - We had welcome beers here, the IPA was excellent. The happy hour is half off apps and small plates. We weren't really there to eat but got some appetizers. I'd recommend the Lobster Maki Rolls. If you can try to sit outside, there is a fantastic view of downtown with the mountains in the distance.
THE BEAR STREET TAVERN - Downtown Banff - We had dinner here our last night just before heading to the airport. The tavern is in downtown Banff, and the place was packed! They had a good beer selection and pizzas with endless toppings. We got four pizzas to share, and they were SO delicious.
GLACIER SALOON - Lake Louise - At the base of Lake Louise in the Fairmont Chateau Hotel. After we had finished our long hike, all we wanted was a cold beer and something little to eat. We sat outside on the deck and took in the beautiful view. Highly recommend just for the view alone!
EVELYNN"S COFFEE BAR - Downtown Banff - We stopped here each time we were downtown for a warm drink, snack and to use the wifi. We discovered the London Fog, an earl gray tea latte with vanilla and lavender. Heavenly! The line was always long and a little slow moving, but it was worth it!
JOHNSTON CANYON RESTAURANT - Downtown Banff - We grabbed burgers on the deli side one night they were decent. The morning we left, we had breakfast at the restaurant side, and it was pretty good. I'd recommend stopping there if you are looking for a decent meal. Options are pretty limited once you get past Banff.
PARK DISTILLERY - Downtown Banff - Let me start by saying I made reservations nearly a month in advance. Park is campfire inspired, casual, rustic, and had cozy, outdoor vibes. The staff was friendly, and they were swamped both times we went. (The second time we just grabbed drinks).
We started with the BBQ Brisket Poutine, which was pretty good. The Cornflake Pulled Pork Fingers were dry, but the maple whiskey and bacon sauce saved it. We also got a Maple rum butter cornbread for the table. We also got the Rotisserie Chicken Chowder which was warm and comforting.
For our mains, we ordered the BNB Steak Sandwich, the Tinfoil Tuna, and the Cobb Salad. We loved the atmosphere of Park!
MY ADVICE //
GET UP AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE. I can't stress this enough. If you want to hike trails that aren't crowded, this is your only option. We were up at 5am each day and got to the trailheads around 6-6:30am. It was unbelievable how many people we would pass starting their hikes as we were finishing. There were probably ten full tour buses in the parking lot. When we left Moraine, they were letting one car in as one left.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A PARK PASS FOR EACH DAY. There are multiple check stops throughout the park. Passes are valid until 4pm the day after purchase.
PACK BREAKFAST & LUNCH. Be sure to pack a bag or cooler full of food and drinks. Places to eat are often really out of the way, costly, crowded and sometimes mediocre at best. We got a loaf of sourdough, PB&J for sandwiches, muffins for breakfast, and lots of granola bars, dried fruit, nuts and jerky for our daypacks.
ALWAYS HAVE LOTS OF LAYERS TO WEAR. It will go from cold, to warm, to freezing, to rainy quickly. Always be prepared to bundle up as needed. We were there mid-August, and we all wore beanies most days and could have used gloves a couple of times.
KNOW IF YOU NEED TO HAVE BEAR SPRAY OR BE IN GROUPS OF 4 OR MORE. A lot of trails require this and will be marked at the trailhead. Know where you are going in advance, so you are prepared. We saw four black bears while we were there, luckily we were in the car each time. The hardware store in Banff has the bear spray for roughly $40. One of the owners there asked what trails we planned on hiking and helped us decide if we needed it or not.
REMEMBER TO PACK CASUAL. Ladies, there is no need for dressing up in Banff. I'd suggest packing one dressy outfit for a nice dinner out but don't take up space in your suitcase for heels or anything that isn't casual and comfortable.
PLAN AHEAD. When planning prioritize the destinations, you'd like to see. If Lake Louise and Lake Moraine are near the top, I'd recommend breaking them up into different days. Although they are close in distance, by the time you are done seeing the first place, the second will most likely be super crowded.
WHAT WE SPENT // ARE YOU READY FOR THIS!?
BUDGETING: Here is our final spreadsheet of how much it cost for us to visit Banff for four days. Note, this does not include our flights as we traveled from different cities.
Yes, you read that correctly. $424 per person! With smart planning, Banff can be a super affordable trip or family vacation!
Have you been to Banff? If not, after reading through this post, is it somewhere you’d like to visit? Comment below! xx ASH
