From jaw-dropping hikes and glacier-fed lakes to charming towns and scenic drives, the Canadian Rockies are packed with unforgettable adventures. We’ve rounded up the best things to do in Banff and the Canadian Rockies to make the most of your trip.
With shockingly blue lakes and towering peaks that are almost too perfect to be real, it’s easy to understand how Banff has boomed over the last decade.
The Canadian Rockies are a dream, and one of those rare places where it looks even better in person than on Instagram.
This guide is packed with all the best things to do in Banff, from the top sights that are worth the hype to the lesser known hidden gems.
We’ve also included some sneaky tips in this article to make your trip perfect. But if you want all our insider advice be sure to read our guide that goes over everything you need to know before visiting Banff.
Our personal experience in Banff
We first visited Banff and Jasper on our honeymoon back in 2013.
We were on a tight budget so instead of a luxurious honeymoon suite, we stayed in hostels (private rooms!), and with the exception of one splurge meal we ate cheaply and drank boxed wine. The beauty about the Canadian Rockies is that you can truly enjoy this place no matter your budget.
We returned again to celebrate our 10 year anniversary and it absolutely lived up to our (very fond) memories.
This trip was very different — we had a slightly larger budget, we’re traveling in our campervan, and we had a toddler with us — but it was just as incredible as our first visit. And we’re already dreaming of returning again soon!
Our top recommendations
If you’re looking for some quick answers, here are our top recommendations for things you cannot miss in the Canadian Rockies:
- Hike to Lake Agnes Teahouse (+ continue on the Beehive hike)
- Rent a canoe
- See Moraine Lake
- Drive the Icefields parkway
- Hike the Valley of 5 Lakes trail
Whether you’re heading to iconic spots like Banff and Jasper, or you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover underrated gems in the greater Banff area, this guide has you covered.
So pack your layers, charge your camera, and let’s dive in…
Canadian Rockies Guide
If you know what you’re looking for, click on the links below to jump down to that section. Or just keep scrolling to read it all!
- Banff recommendations
- Jasper recommendations
- Greater Banff area recommendations
- Where to eat (aka our favorite section)
Things to do in Banff
Banff National Park is the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies—and for good reason! From iconic lakes and scenic hikes to cozy cafes and wildlife sightings, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do here.
Below are some of our favorite experiences in and around Banff.
1. Hike to Lake Agnes teahouse
Hike to a teahouse where you can order food in a stunning setting.
This one comes with a caveat. The first time we did it (in 2013), we were some of the only people there. When we went to this teahouse in 2023, however, it was insanely crowded. That said, we were there at the tail end of peak season, and we didn’t get there all that early. Even so, I think it’s a cool experience.
Tip #1: The scones and “mountain bar” were the best items we ordered!
Tip #2: There’s a line for dining in and take away. When we were there, it was a much shorter wait to dine in. We only waited a few minutes to be seated even though it was crazy crowded!
Alternatively: If you like the idea of hiking to a teahouse but are turned off by crowds, the Plain of Six Glaciers hike is great too. It’s less popular than the teahouse at Lake Agnes.
→ Check out our Lake Agnes Teahouse trail guide on our sister site for more information!
2. Continue on to the Beehive hike
Probably the best view you can get overlooking Lake Louise, this trail is a continuation of the Lake Agnes Teahouse hike. There’s a decent amount of elevation gain on this one, but it wasn’t as hard as we were expecting (based on what we’d heard). And it’s totally worth it!
There is a main viewpoint (you’ll see a little shelter), from which you can see 2 lakes: Lake Louise and Lake Agnes. Definitely go to this spot, but in our opinion, the best views of Lake Louise can be found by taking one of the small (and much quieter) offshoots from the right hand side of the trail (as you are hiking up).
→ Our Big Beehive trail guide on our sister site has all the info you need to plan your hike.
3. Rent a canoe
This one’s a splurge, but worth it (in my opinion!).
On our first trip to Banff, we rented a canoe at Lake Louise and on our most recent trip we did Moraine Lake. They are equally cool, so choose whichever you want. (Okay fine, if you really want me to choose for you, I’d say Moraine!)
The prices may change, but in 2023, it costs $140 Canadian (about $100 USD) for 1 hour in a canoe at Moraine Lake. And yes, they have child life jackets, so you can do this as a family if you’d like.
4. Explore Johnston Canyon
This iconic Banff hike follows a catwalk trail built into the canyon walls, leading you past rushing turquoise water to both the Lower and Upper Falls.
It’s an easy, family-friendly walk (1.2 km to Lower Falls, 2.5 km to Upper Falls) and is stunning year-round—especially in winter when the waterfalls freeze into towering ice formations.
Tip: There is a “secret cave” just before the Upper Falls.
This is a popular one, so we’d recommend doing it early!
→ See our Johnston Canyon trail guide on our sister site for more information.
5. See Moraine Lake
This is a classic “Banff experience” and you just have to do it. It’s one of the most photographed places in Canada after all!
Surrounded by ten towering peaks, its shockingly blue water is best seen in the early morning light.
Note: You can’t drive there yourself anymore; book a Parks Canada shuttle or a guided tour to visit between late May and mid-October when the road is open.
Be sure you reserve your shuttle in advance!
6. Get up close to Lake Louise
Seeing Lake Louise in person is just as stunning as all the photos make it out to be—maybe even more.
We recommend getting there early to beat the crowds and enjoy the stillness of the lake (especially if you’re visiting in summer). The parking lot fills up super fast so the best way to get there is by taking the Parks Canada Shuttle* from the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Whether you’re renting a canoe, walking the shoreline trail, or just sipping coffee while soaking in the view, it’s one of those spots that really sticks with you.
*You’ll want to book this shuttle in advance! Additional tickets become available 2 days prior at 8 a.m.
7. Have afternoon tea at the Fairmont Hotel
Channel your inner royal with afternoon tea at the Fairmont Banff Springs or Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This is a splurge ($85 per person), but such a cool experience.
Expect delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and sweeping mountain views. Make reservations in advance. It’s a fun excuse to dress up a little after days spent in hiking boots.
8. Go mountain biking
The Banff and Canmore area has fantastic mountain biking trails for all skill levels.
You can rent bikes in town and ask the bike shop for trail recommendations. Try the Goat Creek Trail (a scenic 18.6 km ride from Canmore to Banff), or check out the Nordic Centre in Canmore for a well-maintained singletrack.
Most trails are best in summer and fall when the ground is dry. Pack a picnic lunch and hit the trails. We did this on our honeymoon and loved it!
9. Summit Mount Bourgeau
If you want a challenging (but doable!) hike, we loved this one.
We hiked the Mount Bourgeau trail on our honeymoon (2013) and still talk about it to this day because we weren’t very prepared (not enough food or water because we thought we’d just hike part of it).
But people kept telling us “you have to go just a little further” and we did until we summited! It is pretty epic!
10. Stroll around downtown Banff
Strolling through downtown is one of those simple pleasures we never skip, and downtown Banff is no exception.
We love popping into shops, grabbing a coffee or ice cream, and checking out the local bookstores and markets. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, stock up on supplies, or just take in the mountain town vibe between adventures.
11. Explore the Cave & Basin National Historic Site
Would you believe this is the birthplace of Canada’s national parks system?
The unique Cave & Basin site showcases natural thermal springs and fascinating exhibits that dive into the history of Banff and conservation in Canada.
While you can’t soak here, the bubbling cave, short interpretive trails, and interactive displays make it a worthwhile stop—especially for history buffs or families.
12. Have a soak in Banff Hot Springs
While I don’t think it’s necessarily a “must do”, this is a fun activity to unwind after hiking or to fill time on a rainy day.
You don’t need reservations, it’s family-friendly, and at $17.50 per person, it won’t break the bank.
Things to do in Jasper
Quieter and wilder than Banff, Jasper offers a more off-the-beaten-path feel—without skimping on epic scenery. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or spotting elk in the early morning mist, Jasper National Park is full of rugged charm and adventure.
13. Drive the Icefields Parkway
This has been named one of the best road trips in the world for good reason!
The Icefields Parkway stretches 232 km between Banff and Jasper. Along the way, stop at breathtaking spots like Peyto Lake, Athabasca Glacier, and Sunwapta Falls.
Tip: Someone messaged us on Instagram to recommend downloading the Guide Along audio tour, and we thought it was worth it. They give you info on the history of this area as well as point out all the worthwhile stops. (The audio tour costs $20.)
Allow at least a full day to drive it—you’ll want to pull over often for views, photos, and short hikes.
14. Hike Mount Edith Cavell to a glacier
This short but dramatic hike near Jasper takes you up close to the ghostly Angel Glacier and the bright blue glacial pool below with icebergs.
The 1.6 km Path of the Glacier trail is easy and incredibly scenic. Access is typically from mid-June to early October, but the road is narrow and requires a free timed-access permit in peak season.
It was way cooler than we were expecting, and definitely a highlight of Jasper!
→ Be sure to read our Mount Edith Cavell trail guide on our sister site so you know what to expect.
15. Hike the Valley of 5 Lakes Trail
Just outside Jasper, this 4.5 km loop leads you past—you guessed it—five stunningly colored lakes that range from emerald to deep jade.
It’s a moderate hike with some rolling hills and makes a great half-day outing. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views from one of the lakeside benches.
→ Yep, you guessed it. We have a complete guide to hiking the Valley of 5 Lakes trail on our sister site.
16. Visit Maligne Canyon
One of Jasper’s most impressive natural wonders, Maligne Canyon features steep limestone walls and a churning river far below.
A well-maintained trail system takes you across a series of bridges, with the first three offering the most dramatic views. It’s especially photogenic in the morning and makes a great year-round stop—even in winter, when you can explore the frozen canyon on an ice walk tour.
Plus you can walk as far as you’d like and then turn back, depending on how short or long a visit you want to make.
Tip: Get a chocolate chip cookie from the restaurant at the parking lot. They’re huge and super yummy!
17. Boat trip on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island
This is a cool experience, but I have a few thoughts that I want to share to help you decide if you put it on your list…
Maligne Lake is surrounded on both sides by mountains and is absolutely stunning. This boat ride takes 45 minutes one way to reach Spirit Island, which is undoubtedly the most scenic part of the lake. You can get off the boat here to take photos, but the downside is that you only get 15 minutes here.
Everyone is trying to take the same photo, so there are lines and it is very rushed before you have to get back on the boat for the 45-minute return journey. That said, the only way to see Spirit Island is by taking this boat ride.
They sell out daily, so get your tickets in advance here.
Tip: Get there early so you can get a window seat on the boat.
Canmore & Greater Banff area recommendations
Just outside the boundaries of Banff National Park, the town of Canmore and surrounding areas offer stunning views, great food, and fewer crowds. It’s the perfect home base for exploring the Rockies while discovering some lesser-known gems along the way.
18. Skydiving
If you want a really adventurous trip, this is an epic location to jump out of an airplane!
I believe the National Park rules restrict skydiving in the Banff area, so the closest skydiving we found was in Golden (a 1.5 hour drive away).
We absolutely loved the experience. Plus, on your drive back toward Banff, you can stop and do the hike at Emerald Lake, which is just a short detour on your route.
19. Grassi Lakes hike
This hike is just outside of Canmore and it’s a really good reward for minimal effort. There is a stunning waterfall and gorgeous lakes, and it’s not very difficult. Plus, being that this is not in the Banff area, it is far less crowded.
→ See our Grassi Lakes trail guide for more information.
20. Backpacking in Kananaskis Counrty
Tucked just south of Banff National Park, Kananaskis Country is one of Alberta’s best-kept secrets. With fewer crowds, stunning mountain scenery, and endless opportunities for hiking, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature (without the crowds!).
We did a short overnight backpacking trip to Point Campground. It was truly a highlight of our trip! We hardly saw any other people, and this area is just stunning.
If you’re remotely interested in backcountry camping, do yourself a favor and snag a permit (we got ours just a few days in advance).
We did this trip with a toddler, and chose it because it is a short and easy hike, so it is great for beginners.
And if you don’t want to camp overnight, I think it still makes a wonderful hike. Just 10 minutes past the campground, there is a beautiful and peaceful waterfall.
21. Blackshale Suspension Bridge
If you want to get off the beaten path, this suspension bridge in the Kananaskis is really cool.
Park here on the side of the road. There are 2 trails, take the one on the right in order to hike this loop counter clockwise. It’s roughly 1 km (.6 miles) total, and while there’s a bit of elevation gain, it’s easy!
Canadian Rockies Travel Tips for First-Timers
If this is your first time visiting this region, you’ll want to read our essential tips for planning your trip to Banff & the Canadian Rockies. This guide is packed with helpful information like how to get around and important things to know before you go.
Plan your trip to Canada
We have tons of resources on traveling in Canada and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Canada Homepage for resources on itinerary planning, campervan rentals and more! Or choose to read some of our favorite articles below:
- Start with our essential tips for planning a trip to Banff & the Canadian Rockies.
- Check out our round up of the best campervan rentals in Canada to plan an epic road trip.
- Add this round up of best hikes in Banff to your bucket list.
- Don’t skip out on the best hikes in Jasper.
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