Banff Top 5 Lakes and Banff Town Day Trip From Calgary

Lake Louise offers stunning activities year-round. In summer, enjoy canoeing, hiking to teahouses. In winter, go ice skating, skiing, or take sleigh rides across the frozen lake. Year-round, relax at the Fairmont Chateau, explore nearby Moraine Lake, and spot local wildlife. It’s perfect for both adventure and relaxation.

Discover Moraine Lake, one of the most stunning destinations in the Canadian Rockies. Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this glacier-fed lake dazzles with its deep turquoise color, created by glacial rock flour. The breathtaking mountain backdrop makes it a perfect spot for photos and peaceful reflection. (Accessible from June 1 to mid-October.)

Witness the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge, a powerful example of nature’s artistry. Over centuries, the Kicking Horse River has carved its way through solid rock to form this dramatic natural wonder.

You can enjoy canoeing on the vibrant turquoise waters, hiking the easy 5.2 km Emerald Lake Loop, or exploring more challenging trails like the route to Emerald Basin. The lake is perfect for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. In winter, the area transforms into a peaceful snowy landscape ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Johnston Canyon near Banff offers an easy and scenic hike to two beautiful waterfalls. Walk the catwalk trail to the Lower Falls (1 km) and continue to the Upper Falls (2.5 km total one way) for stunning views. You can also hike further to the Ink Pots, a series of colorful spring pools. In winter, the frozen waterfalls create a magical landscape perfect for icy walks or guided ice climbing. It’s a great year-round spot for nature lovers, photographers, and families. This is an optional stop.

Banff offers year-round activities for nature lovers and adventurers. In summer, enjoy hiking, canoeing on glacier-fed lakes, riding the Banff Gondola, mountain biking, and soaking in hot springs. Winter brings ice skating, snowshoeing, skiing, dog sledding, and cozy sleigh rides. Wildlife viewing and cultural experiences like visiting museums and festivals are great any time. Banff is perfect for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Two Jack Lake is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in the summer. You can also camp at nearby campgrounds with great facilities. In winter, enjoy ice skating and snowshoeing, plus wildlife watching year-round. It’s a peaceful spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Lake Minnewanka offers plenty of outdoor fun year-round. In summer, you can take scenic boat cruises, rent canoes(Tickets are not included), hike nearby trails, and enjoy wildlife viewing. In winter, the frozen lake is great for ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.