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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

Two people skiing down an intermediate run at Lake Louise Ski Resort in Banff National Park.

Exhilarating outdoor activities

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

Rugged scenery. Luxury living.

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

Mount Rundle reflected in the icy Vermilion Lakes in Banff National Park

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
A couple out paddleboarding on Moraine Lake
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.
The chairlift on the Banff Gondola

Banff Gondola

Let the gondola do the work, carrying you to the top of Sulphur Mountain for fine dining and patio drinks with a breathtaking view.

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A couple winter hiking over a bridge / catwalk heading toward a cave opening.

Johnston Canyon

Take a family-friendly hike along iron catwalks that cling to a limestone canyon towards an unforgettable waterfall.

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Scenic winter shot of Moraine Lake and snow covered trees surrounded by mountains.

Moraine Lake

Step into the Valley of Ten Peaks and experience this natural splendour by hiking around it or paddling across its tranquil waters.

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Stories from the city

A woman stands against the glass walls of her cabin, looking out at the Canadian Rockies at Skyridge Glamping in Alberta.
6 min read 9 of the Most Unusual Places to Stay in Canada are in Alberta

Want to stay somewhere unique in Canada? Travellers can rest their heads in a grain silo, medieval tent, clear-walled geodome and more at these welcoming and original retreats in Alberta.

A Métis knowledge keeper sits outside a historical cabin in the snow, smiling widely and wearing traditional snowshoes.
7 min read Authentic Indigenous Winter Experiences in Alberta

What are some of the best things to do in winter in Alberta? Turn to Indigenous tour providers and businesses for authentic experiences that blend culture and nature.

A skier rips down a slope at Lake Louise Ski Resort under a blue sky with the snow-capped Rockies in the background.
9 min read The Ultimate Guide to Downhill Skiing in Alberta

Find the best Alberta ski resorts in the Canadian Rockies, where deep snow, epic views and a welcoming vibe make every winter trip memorable.

A man ice skating in the Rocky Mountains.
5 min read 5 Essential Tips for Skating on Alberta's Stunning Wild Ice

Chasing and finding wild ice is a liberating, freeing and awesome escape, but knowledge, preparation and planning are key for getting home safely.

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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

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. Choose your adventure: Carve fresh tracks at Mt. Norquay, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort or Marmot Basin in Jasper National Park. Along the way, explore charming mountain towns, soak in natural hot springs, and experience winter adventures like dog sledding and ice walks.

An idyllic winter moment on Banff Avenue at dusk, with shops lining either side of a street that seems to lead toward a mountain.
3 days
Banff & Lake Louise Winter Wonderland

Spend three amazing winter days in Banff and Lake Louise. Go dog sledding, ride a gondola, ski an amazing mountain or three (or learn how) and eat great food.

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Nearby cities to explore

A group pause on a bridge pass over Pyramid Lake in winter.
Jasper
A group of people dog sledding in Spray Lakes, Kananaskis.
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Aerial shot of winter lights over Edmonton in winter.
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Beautiful colours light the sky over Peace Bridge in Calgary.
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