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City known for:
  • Stunning peaks
  • Glacier-fed lakes
  • Relaxing hot springs

Two distinct mountain towns perfectly situated in the heart of Banff National Park.

Surrounded by majestic mountains in every direction, Banff plays host to a venerable arts and culture scene and abundant skiing, great food, hiking and camping options.

A breathtaking drive brings you to nearby Lake Louise. This is Canada’s highest alpine community, with a postcard-perfect turquoise lake making it the adventure destination of a lifetime.

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Banff & Lake Louise highlights

A man dives into Lake Minnewanka from a dock.

Exhilarating outdoor activities

Camping, hiking, skiing, paddleboarding—whatever your spirit’s craving, it’ll be satisfied.

A couple in a luxurious outdoor pool look to the mountains.

Rugged scenery. Luxury living.

Lavish lodging, fine dining and high-end shopping round out the Banff and Lake Louise experience.

Two people looking at Mistaya Canyon from a rock.

Authentic mountain heritage

Banff is Canada’s first national park, steeped in First Nations history and alpine culture that combine conservation with exploration.

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From behind, a group of skiers and snowboarders walking down the street with the town and mountain emphasized in the background, located within Banff National Park.
Wide shot of a hiker at the top of a lightly snow covered mountain peak over looking the expansive mountain range view
The sun rises at Moraine Lake in Banff National Park.
A girl walking by Bow Falls beside the Bow River in Banff
People relax in a luxurious sauna while a sauna master fans them, with a view of Lake Louise out a window.
Campsite by lake with tent and hammok at Two Jack Lakeside Campground in Banff National Park.
A mix of five skiers and snowboarders riding up a chairlift with mountains in the background.

What to do and where to stay in Banff & Lake Louise

Stories from the towns

4 min read How to Get Around Banff Without a Car

Leave the car at home and explore Banff/Lake Louise and the sights by using sustainable transportation like a shuttle bus. Or rent a bike or an e-bike.

Vehicle driving down the Icefields Parkway with mountain views in Jasper National Park, Alberta.
7 min read The Top Summer Road Trips in Alberta in 2026

Discover bucket list road trips in Alberta, Canada, from the Icefields Parkway to the Canadian Badlands and hidden gem road trips across the province.

A group of women skiing and snowboarding, jackets tied around their waist, while Spring Skiing at Sunshine Village in Banff National Park.
6 min read Why Alberta Is the Best Spot for Spring Skiing

Ski into April and May in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, with late-season snow, sunny patios and après-ski events in Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and beyond.

A woman smiles while sitting on a rock near Lundbreck Falls.
6 min read Why Alberta is Canada’s Best Base for Life-Changing Vacations

Explore transformative travel in Alberta, from Rocky Mountain adventures to Indigenous tourism to luxury trips. Plan your 2026 Canada vacation.

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A group of snowshoers out for a winter walk with a mountain in the background.

Did you know?

Even if you’ve never been to Banff National Park—you’ve likely seen it! The area’s views are world-famous, even featuring as a backdrop for Game of Thrones.

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Suggested Itineraries

Two hikers enjoying the view at Lake Louise.
4 days
Canadian Rockies Highlights

A four-day road trip through the highlights of the Canadian Rockies—Banff, Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway—packed with can't-miss sights.

A skier carving and skiing down an intermediate run, under the chairlift, at Banff Sunshine Village.
9 days
Alberta Ski Itinerary

Get ready for an unforgettable Alberta ski itinerary that takes you to the heart of the Canadian Rockies

View all road trips & itineraries

Nearby cities to explore

A woman dives off a dock into Fisherman's Bay at Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park.
Jasper
Two people in a red canoe on Spray Lakes, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains at sunset.
Canmore & Kananaskis
Fireworks over Edmonton
Edmonton
A group of buoyancy-aided friends leisurely float down Calgary's Bow River on inner tubes, passing under the iconic Peace Bridge. Lush tree-lined riverbanks create a serene backdrop, with the distant cityscape adding to the carefree summer atmosphere.
Calgary