Canada · Alberta
Banff and the Rockies travel guide
Turquoise lakes, glaciers and mountain wildlife
Moraine Lake. Photo: Gorgo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Banff National Park is the most famous part of the Canadian Rockies, with turquoise lakes such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, glaciers and wildlife. The town of Banff has hot springs and a gondola.
The Icefields Parkway north to Jasper is one of the world's great drives. In winter it's a top ski destination.
What Banff is known for
- Lake Louise
Turquoise water below a glacier.
- Moraine Lake
The Valley of the Ten Peaks.
- Icefields Parkway
A spectacular road.
- Wildlife
Bears, elk and sheep.
Top things to do in Banff and the Rockies
Where to stay in Banff and the Rockies
Best time to visit Banff and the Rockies
Best value: May, Sep. June to September for hiking and lakes; December to March for skiing.
- Best valueGood weather, smaller crowds
- PeakBusiest, highest prices
- QuietCheapest, cooler or wetter
Getting there and around
About 9h 15m from London to YYC, and flights from most UK airports. How long is the flight from your airport?
Hire a car from Calgary, 90 minutes away. Roam buses and park shuttles help.
Good to know
- Buy a Parks Canada pass for your stay.
- Private cars can no longer drive to Moraine Lake: use the shuttle.
- Carry bear spray on trails.
Banff and the Rockies FAQ
How many days in Banff?
Four or five days.
When do the lakes thaw?
Usually early to mid June.
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Back to the Canada travel guide + Add Banff and the Rockies to your bucket list