Discover Banff National Park - Premium Day Trip

The scenic drive from Calgary to Canmore is a stunning journey that offers breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and the natural beauty of Alberta.

Just a stone's throw from the highway, Kananaskis opens up a world of outdoor adventure. As we pass by this area, be on the lookout for wildlife!

Spotting deer, elk, and occasionally bears along the way is a common delight. The open meadows and dense forests serve as perfect habitats for these magnificent creatures.

We'll stop in Canmore, nestled in the Bow Valley, surrounded with spectacular views, on our way from or to Calgary for about 10-15 minutes for a quick stretch.

Two Jack Lake

Nestled within the grandeur of Banff National Park, Two Jack Lake stands as a serene oasis, a place where nature’s artistry is on full display.

The imposing silhouettes of Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain frame the lake, their grand shapes mirrored flawlessly on the water’s surface. This natural reflection creates a mesmerizing dual image that captivates and leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.

Depending on the season we'll stop here for about 10 to 20 minutes

Lake Minnewanka

This glacial lake, known as the “Lake of the Spirits” by the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, offers a pristine, untouched landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

Stretching over 21 kilometers, Lake Minnewanka transforms every season, offering new and breathtaking scenery. From the vibrant greens of summer to the serene, snow-blanketed beauty of winter, this lake is a testament to the timeless allure of Banff's natural wonders.

Summer: You'll have time to visit the marina or explore the shoreline, maybe grab a coffee and enjoy the beauty of the lake.

Winter: Come make a snow angel, walk on ice, explore the shoreline, take stunning photos.

Downtown Banff

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the town of Banff is a picturesque gem that enchants visitors with its blend of natural splendor and vibrant community spirit.

Banff offers an unparalleled experience that seamlessly merges outdoor adventure with serene relaxation. Its streets are lined with charming shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants, all exuding a rustic yet sophisticated vibe.

You'll have time to explore the area and enjoy a fabulous meal almost anywhere in town, we'll suggest our favourite places of course!

We stop here for about two hours during the off season months and once Moraine Lake opens, we stop here for about an hour fourty five minutes.

Discovering Surprise Corner

Perched high above the Bow River, Surprise Corner is one of Banff's most enchanting viewpoints, offering a breathtaking panorama that perfectly captures the town's rugged beauty. True to its name, this hidden gem delivers a stunning visual surprise that leaves visitors in awe.

Year-Round splendor, its beauty evolves with the seasons, each bringing its unique charm. In the spring and summer, the vibrant greens of the forest contrast beautifully with the blue river and the stone facade of the hotel. Autumn transforms the scene with a burst of golden foliage, while winter blankets the area in a pristine layer of snow, adding a touch of magic to the already stunning view.

*** We only stop here during the summer months ***

During the off-season months, we'll stop across the river instead, at Bow Falls. We'll also take a drive by the Banff Springs Hotel.

Lake Louise

Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is a mesmerizing spectacle of nature's beauty, captivating visitors from around the globe.

Fed by glacial meltwaters, the lake's brilliant color is a result of fine rock flour suspended in the water, reflecting the sky's light. This radiant blue contrasts dramatically with the lush greens of the surrounding forest and the stark whites of the snow-capped peaks, creating a visual symphony that enchants the senses.

Lake Louise is not just a feast for the eyes; it's also a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, visitors can rent a canoe (depending on wait times) on the tranquil waters, hike the numerous trails that offer stunning viewpoints, or simply relax on the shoreline and soak in the scenery. In winter, the lake transforms into a frozen wonderland, perfect for hiking, walking on ice, or joining an optional activity such as ice skating, snowshoeing, or even riding on a horse sleigh!

*** Summer Months ONLY when it opens ***

Valley of the Ten Peaks

This iconic valley, framed by ten towering peaks, offers an awe-inspiring landscape, a monumental testament to nature's grandeur and raw beauty.

The Valley of the Ten Peaks is not just a destination; it is a sanctuary of natural splendor and a place where the beauty of the Rockies is displayed in its full, untamed glory. For those who venture into this majestic corridor, the experience is nothing short of transformative, leaving an indelible mark on the heart and soul.

*** Summer Months ONLY ***

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is a true testament to the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park. This glacier-fed lake, renowned for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, offers a scene that is both serene and awe-inspiring.

The lake’s striking blue-green color is the first thing that captures the attention. This vibrant color contrasts with the deep greens of the surrounding pine forests and the whites of the snow-capped peaks, crafting a picturesque landscape that seems straight out of a dream.

One of the most iconic vantage points is from the Rockpile, a short hike that offers a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. From this elevated perspective, visitors can fully appreciate the scale and beauty of Moraine Lake. The vista from the Rockpile is one of the most photographed scenes in Canada, capturing the essence of the lake’s pristine and untouched beauty, and is just a 10 to 15 minute short hike!

The Vermilion Lakes are renowned for their mirror-like waters that perfectly reflect the towering peaks of Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain.

Each season brings its own unique charm to the Vermilion Lakes. In the spring, the thawing ice reveals crystal-clear waters surrounded by the fresh greenery of new growth. Summer paints the area with vibrant hues of wildflowers and lush vegetation, while autumn cloaks the landscape in warm tones of gold and orange. Winter transforms the lakes into a tranquil, snow-covered wonderland, where the stillness is punctuated only by the occasional call of a distant bird or the soft crunch of snow underfoot.