For many, Canada’s Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the entire world—which explains why it’s also the country’s most popular national park, with 4.5 million annual visitors. Soaring, jagged peaks, ice-blue waters, and cliffside chateaus provide endless opportunities for hiking, backpacking, camping, boating, wildlife-watching, and more. But one of the best things to do in Banff? Simply be. When you’re here, you need no gear or expertise to find awe at every turn.
Banff National Park is beautiful in all seasons, so the best time to visit depends on what activities you want to focus on. Summer (June to August) welcomes the sun and wildflowers, making it best for hiking and camping. Be aware that this time of year also brings wildfires that can be fast and dangerous, as well as smoke from other regional fires. Winter (December to March) is when Banff sparkles with snow, and activities include snowshoeing and ice-climbing.
The resort town of Banff is small and easy to explore on foot, but you’ll want your own vehicle (with snow tires or chains, depending on the time of year) for proper access to the outdoors. Lake Louise, the Columbia Icefield, and the surrounding mountains are all easy to reach by car or on a sightseeing tour of the area.
Pair a visit to Cave and Basin National Historic Site with a trip to Banff Upper Hot Springs. The two sites are a 10-minute drive from each other; the former offers trails that give you a beautiful view of the Bow River as well as colorful pools filled with pink bacteria and green algae, while the latter gives you the chance to relax and soak in the comfort of natural hot springs.
