“Experience Canada’s Rocky Mountain Wonderland: 7 Best Things to Do in Banff!”.
Are you looking for a Canadian adventure? If so, you’ll have to add Banff, Canada to your travel bucket list. Sitting in the heart of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, Banff is Canada’s premier mountain destination. Its stunning beauty, scenic national parks, and a wealth of outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Banff is teeming with things to see and do – from wildlife spotting and skiing to spa retreats and stunning road trips. Here are seven of the best things to do in Banff and the surrounding area.
1. Explore Two Iconic National Parks
Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada and one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. But its neighbor, Jasper National Park, is no slouch either. From glacier lakes to vast tracts of boreal forest, dense coniferous woodlands, and wildflower meadows, both of these parks offer something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
2. Take a Soak in the Banff Hot Springs
Karl enjoys a soak at the Banff Hot Springs
The naturally heated hot springs in Banff National Park have been a tourist attraction since 1884. The sulphurous mineral water cascades from cave-like pools at temperatures of up to 42°C (108°F), perfect for a soothing reprieve from the cold winter weather of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Upper Hot Springs Pool is even larger, with a shallow children’s pool, a diving platform, and waterslides for an added adventure.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding in Banff
Banff’s ski season typically runs from late November through late April, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy the ski resorts that call the region home. Lake Louise Ski Resort, Mt Norquay, and Sunshine Village offer enough variety to satisfy all skiers and snowboarders: from steeps and powder runs to family-friendly cruisers, you’re sure to find something to enjoy on the slopes.
4. Spot Wildlife in Banff
Banff is a great destination for wildlife watching: beavers, elk, bears, moose, deer, mountain goats, and wolves, among many others, all call the national parks home. Bring binoculars and a good pair of walking shoes to make the most of your wildlife spotting experience.
5. Hike to Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is a must-see hike, thanks to its dramatic waterfalls, awe-inspiring canyon walls, and opportunities for wild swimming. It’s about a 6-7km round trip, with the reward of a scenic pool at the end of the hike. Stunning in any season, you can make a day of it and relax by the river, cook lunch on a nearby rock, or even brave a dip in the icy waters.
Johnston Canyon: source: www.parkscanada.gc.ca
6. Cruise the Bow Valley Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway is a scenic road trip between Banff and Lake Louise, just over an hour’s drive away. Boasting some of the most picturesque views in the region, the parkway passes close to Johnston Canyon and other popular sites, and is a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
7. Sample Fare from the Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola is a must-do activity for visitors to the region. It takes you 7,000 feet up the side of Sulphur Mountain for an unforgettable view of the Bow Valley below. Better yet, the gondola station overlooks a restaurant, which serves up some of the best food in town.
From its iconic National Parks to the year-round outdoor recreation, Banff has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for adventure, or simply a traveler looking to spend time in one of Canada’s most lovely regions, you’ll find your perfect fit in this Rocky Mountain wonderland.
Image Credit: Pexels
