Overview
Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park, established in 1885. It is known for its stunning turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and camping.
Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited national parks in Canada. It is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
Location
Address
Improvement District No. 9, Alberta
Neighborhood: Banff National Park
Coordinates
51.418700, -115.564300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-August
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • wildlife viewing
- • waterfalls
summer
warm to hot
- • all trails open
- • lake activities
autumn
cool to cold
- • fall colors
- • photography opportunities
winter
cold, snowy
- • skiing, snowboarding
- • ice skating
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book accommodations in advance
- Check weather conditions
- Bring appropriate gear
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Varies by activity
- • Altitude sickness
- • Wildlife encounters
Medical facilities: Available in nearby towns
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards, Debit cards
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, weather-appropriate, Layered clothing, sturdy footwear, Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing for activities
Booking Tips
- • 3-6 months for peak season
- • Official Parks Canada website
- • Varies by service provider
- • Online tickets for major attractions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Parks Canada Banff National Park
Size: 75 MB
Features: Trail maps, Park information, Wildlife sightings, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, some lodges
Charging Stations: Visitor centers, some lodges
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 130 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Natural beauty, outdoor activities, vibrant town
Historical Significance: Established in 1885, rich in history and natural wonders
Insider Tips
- Visit lesser-known trails for a more peaceful experience
- Try local specialties like bannock and game meats
- Check out local art galleries and shops
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cuisine at Banff Avenue restaurants
- • Visit the Whyte Museum for local history
- • Take a gondola ride for stunning views
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Moraine Lake
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Wide shots to capture the full view
Result: Stunning turquoise lake with mountain backdrop
Lake Louise
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Reflection shots
Result: Iconic view of Lake Louise
Surprise Corner
Best Time: Afternoon
Tips: Use the viewpoint to capture the castle and river
Result: Beautiful view of the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Johnston Canyon
Distance: 25 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Natural Attraction
Lake Louise
Distance: 60 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Banff Gondola
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Scenic Ride
Bow Falls
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 5 min
Type: Waterfall
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit in the morning for fewer crowds"
- "Book accommodations early"
- "Try the gondola for stunning views"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Lake Louise, Moraine/Bow, Emerald & Peyto - 4 Lakes in Banff
Stargazing at Banff National Park from Canmore or Banff
Columbia Icefield Adventure,Bow Lake,Peyto Lake in Banff & Jasper
2 Hour Banff Horseback Riding Adventure
Audio Guide App National Parks Canada: Banff Jasper Yoho
APP Banff self-guided routes with audio guides
Banff Stargazing and Night Sky Tour from Canmore or Banff
Banff Night Tour and Stargazing from Canmore or Banff
Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, Marble Canyon Banff/Calgary/Canmore
The BANFF NATURE Walk - 2hr Adventure
Banff Morning Tour Scenic Highlights and Gondola Ride
Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour from Canmore/Banff
Banff PRIVATE Safari Drive and Custom Nature Walk -4H
Moraine Lake & Louise - Morning or Sunset Tour from Banff/Canmore
Banff/Canmore Moraine Lake & Lake Louise– Hike, Canoe or Sightsee
Coho - Explore Banff and Jasper National Parks (4-Days)
Banff History Tour and Private Museum Tours - Entry Included
Banff LOST TOWNS and Untold Stories! 2hr Walk + Transportation
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Afternoon tour in Canmore and Banff
Banff/Canmore: Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Combo Tour
Winter 4 Days- Banff, Yoho, Icefields & Gondola
Banff Canyoning - Ghost Canyon (Intermediate Level)
Winter 3 Days- Banff, Yoho, Canyons & Gondola
Private Full Day Guided Tour at Banff Iconic Attraction
Quick Info
Available Tours
23
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$10.50 per person per day