Discovering Banff: A Gateway to the Canadian Rockies

Published: Sep 1, 2024 by Archana Mundhe · This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases · 2 Comments

In the summer of 2024, we had an unforgettable family adventure in Banff, Alberta, Canada! Over 8 days, we explored the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, embarked on scenic drives, enjoyed outdoor adventures, relaxed in soothing hot springs, and savored delicious local cuisine. From scenic drives to thrilling outdoor activities, there were countless things to do in this stunning region.

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Many of you requested our detailed itinerary after seeing my Instagram stories during our travels, so here it is! A recap of our day-by-day journey through this beautiful part of the world. And if you love to travel like we do, be sure to check out our Iceland road trip for more adventure inspiration.

Day 1: Arriving in Calgary

• Afternoon: We departed from New York, excited to begin our journey to Banff. After a layover in Chicago, we boarded our flight to Calgary.
• Evening: We touched down in Calgary and made our way to our hotel.
• Late Evening: After a long day of travel, we checked into the Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel. This convenient hotel was perfect for our late-night arrival, allowing us to get a good night’s rest before heading to Banff the next day.

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Day 2: Driving from Calgary to Banff

• Morning: We started the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before hitting the road. Our scenic drive to Banff was filled with beautiful views along the way.
• Late Morning: We arrived at The Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff, where we stayed. The views from our hotel were absolutely stunning!
• Midday: We started our day at the Banff Visitor Information Centre, where we picked up maps and planned our activities. Next, we leisurely explored Banff Avenue Square, browsing through the shops and cafes while enjoying some window shopping in downtown Banff. For lunch, we made our way to Park Distillery Restaurant + Bar, where we sampled locally distilled spirits and indulged in delicious Canadian cuisine.
• Afternoon: After lunch, we took the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain, where the views of the Rockies were simply breathtaking. As we ascended, we were treated to a sweeping panorama of peaks and lush valleys, revealing the rugged beauty that encircles Banff. At the summit, we wandered along the boardwalk, discovering even more stunning viewpoints, which made the experience truly unforgettable.
• Evening: We dined at Sky Bistro, enjoying delicious Canadian cuisine with panoramic mountain views.
• Night: To end the day, we treated ourselves to some unique flavors at COWS Banff ice cream shop before heading back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Day 3: Exploring Banff Town and Surroundings

• Morning: We began our day with breakfast at the hotel before visiting the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, where we learned about local wildlife and history.
• Late Morning: We visited the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, a landmark of great significance as the birthplace of Canada’s national parks system. This historic site is where the discovery of natural hot springs led to the establishment of Canada’s first national park. We explored the cave, admired the unique thermal pools, and learned about the critical role this site played in shaping the country’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. It was a compelling experience highlighting early conservation efforts’ importance in Canada’s history.
• Afternoon: Lunch was at Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant, where we enjoyed a delicious meal. Afterward, we drove to Lake Minnewanka for a one-hour guided boat tour, where we were immersed in the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. As we glided across the crystal-clear waters, our guide provided fascinating insights into the lake’s history and geology, while we marveled at the surrounding mountain peaks and lush forests. Each turn of the lake revealed new and stunning vistas, making the cruise a truly memorable and picturesque experience.
• Late Afternoon: On the way back to Banff, we visited Two Jack Lake, a serene spot with breathtaking views. Nestled amid the mountains, the lake’s calm, clear waters reflected the surrounding peaks and forested slopes, creating a serene and captivating scene.
• Evening: We had dinner at Primrose Restaurant inside Banff Rimrock Resort Hotel, enjoying a lovely meal before returning to our room to relax and unwind.

Day 4: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Johnston Canyon

• Early Morning: We started our day with an early breakfast at the hotel before meeting our shuttle driver in the lobby for a scenic journey to Lake Louise.
• Morning: We started our day with a guided tour from our hotel, which took us along the scenic 1A Bow Valley Parkway to Lake Louise. The picturesque drive offered stunning views of the surrounding wilderness as we made our way to this iconic destination. Upon arrival at Lake Louise, we were mesmerized by the lake’s turquoise waters, framed by the towering Canadian Rockies and the majestic Victoria Glacier. Our guide provided insightful commentary as we strolled along the shoreline, taking in the serene beauty and awe-inspiring landscape.
• Late Morning: Continuing our guided tour, we headed to Moraine Lake, another breathtaking gem in the Rockies. As we arrived, the vibrant blue waters of Moraine Lake immediately captivated us, surrounded by the dramatic backdrop of the famous Ten Peaks. Our guide led us through the area, sharing fascinating details about the geology and history of this stunning location. We spent time exploring, enjoying the panoramic views, and marveling at the sheer natural beauty that makes Moraine Lake one of Canada’s most photographed spots.
• Afternoon: We returned to The Rimrock Banff for a short break and had lunch at Una Pizza + Bar, where we enjoyed some delicious pizza.
• Late Afternoon: We drove to Johnston Canyon and embarked on an exhilarating hike to the Lower and Upper Falls. The trail took us through a dramatic canyon, with the sound of rushing water guiding our way. Along the hike, we marveled at the beautiful waterfalls, each one more stunning than the last, and felt the refreshing mist on our faces as we got closer to the falls. The adventure was not just visually rewarding but also a thrilling way to connect with the raw beauty of nature.
• Evening: Dinner was at Shoku, where we enjoyed a tasty Japanese meal after a long day of exploration. We then returned to our hotel to rest.

Day 5: Scenic Drives and Waterfalls

• Early Morning: We departed early for the Golden Skybridge, ready for a thrilling adventure.
• Morning: We arrived at Golden Skybridge and had a fantastic time exploring the suspension bridge. We started our journey across the first suspension bridge, feeling the gentle sway beneath our feet. As we walked, we could see the sheer drop below, with the canyon walls framing a rushing river. The thrill of being suspended so high above the ground was both exciting and slightly nerve-wracking, making it an unforgettable experience. For those looking for even more adrenaline, Golden Skybridge features an adventure playground and a zipline that runs parallel to the suspension bridges. The boys enjoyed roller coater, ziplining across the canyon, and an adventure course before we returned to the parking lot using the lower suspension bridge. Tip: Try to get here early to avoid crowds and don’t forget bug-repellent spray!
• Late Morning: After our adventure, we continued to Yoho National Park to visit Takakkaw Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. A short walk from the parking area brought us to the base of the falls, where we were awestruck by the sheer height and power of the cascading water. The roar of the falls and the mist in the air created a thrilling atmosphere as we stood in awe of this natural wonder
• Afternoon: We drove back to Banff, taking in more beautiful scenery along the way. Lunch was at the Old Spaghetti Factory, a classic Italian restaurant where we refueled for the rest of the day.
• Late Afternoon: After lunch we walked down to Vermilion Lakes for some scenic views and relaxation before unwinding at Banff Upper Hot Springs, enjoying a soothing natural hot spring experience.
• Evening: Dinner was at The Maple Leaf, where we savored Canadian specialties such as Mussels, Seafood, and their Special Chicken Wings. We then returned to our hotel to relax.

Day 6: Banff Activities and Relaxation

• Morning: We started with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before renting bikes and setting off on the scenic Sundance Canyon and Fairmont Golf Course Bike Loop, a 20-mile round trip. The trail took us through lush forests, along the Bow River, and past the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, all with the majestic mountains as our backdrop. It was a perfect mix of exercise and sightseeing, making for a truly memorable morning.
• Afternoon: Lunch was at Farm & Fire, a charming eatery known for its farm-to-table dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, wholesome meals with a focus on fresh flavors and sustainable practices. We then had some free time for shopping and exploring downtown Banff.
• Late Afternoon: We took a quick five-minute drive from Banff Downtown to the Tunnel Mountain Trailhead. The Tunnel Mountain Trail is ideal for fitting in a bit of outdoor adventure before the day winds down, offering stunning views of the Bow Valley and Banff from the summit. After our hike, we visited the nearby Hoodoos Viewpoint, where we enjoyed a unique perspective of the towering, needle-like rock formations known as hoodoos, set against the majestic backdrop of Mount Rundle and the Bow River—a truly breathtaking scenic spot.
• Evening: Dinner was at The Bison Restaurant, a cozy spot renowned for its rustic farm-to-table cuisine. The restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, featuring dishes made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. We enjoyed a hearty meal, savoring the rich flavors and comfort food that the menu is celebrated for. After dinner, we capped off the evening with a sweet treat from COWS Banff, where we indulged in some of their delicious ice cream before returning to our hotel.

Day 7: Day Trip to Canmore

• Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, we drove to Canmore, a charming nearby town known for its stunning mountain views and laid-back atmosphere. Once there, we took a leisurely walk along the Policeman Creek Trail, a peaceful path that winds through wetlands and offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. We also took some time to explore the town, discovering quaint shops and cozy cafes that added to Canmore’s inviting charm.
• Afternoon: Lunch was at Quatro Asian Bistro, where we enjoyed a delicious fusion Asian meal. We then drove back to Calgary and checked in at the Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel.
• Late Afternoon: We explored CORE Shopping Centre and strolled through downtown Calgary on our way to dinner.
• Evening: We wrapped up the day with a delightful dinner at Ten Foot Henry Restaurant in Calgary, a local favorite known for its fresh, vegetable-forward dishes and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant seamlessly blends healthy, flavorful ingredients with a cozy, modern setting, making for a truly memorable dining experience. We savored a variety of creative, shareable plates, each bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. It was the perfect place for our final meal of the trip. Satisfied and content, we returned to our hotel, feeling ready for the journey home the next day.

Day 8: Heading Back Home

• Early Morning: We checked out and headed to Calgary Airport for our flight back home.
• Morning: We departed from Calgary, reminiscing about all the amazing memories we made on this trip.
• Afternoon: After a layover in Chicago, we arrived back in New York, feeling refreshed and inspired by our incredible adventure in the Canadian Rockies.

This 8-day itinerary was packed with fun, adventure, and relaxation as we explored the best things to do in Banff and its surroundings. From breathtaking landscapes and wildlife to charming local culture and cuisine, every moment was unforgettable. We hope you find this guide helpful for planning your own Rockies adventure. We can’t wait to start planning our next trip!