What to Do in Banff: Best Trails, Views, and Experiences for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to Banff? This complete guide covers what to do in Banff, including scenic hikes, lake views, and must-see spots in town. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, this Banff itinerary has you covered.

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Banff is one of those places that somehow feels both iconic and completely surreal the first time you see it. For me, it was the final stop on a 6-day Alberta road trip, and even after days of jaw-dropping views through Kananaskis, Jasper, and along the Icefields Parkway, I still wasn’t ready for just how cinematic Banff would feel.

Everything here looks like a postcard : the turquoise lakes, the towering peaks, the alpine towns that make you want to wrap yourself in a fleece and drink something hot and overpriced (in the best way). It’s easy to see why it’s one of Canada’s most visited destinations… but it can also feel a bit overwhelming if you’re planning your first visit.

Read More // What to know before visiting Banff in May

So I’ve put together this list of 10 things to do in Banff that are actually worth your time. Some are iconic for a reason, some are easy to miss, and a few offer a quieter experience just outside the crowds. If you’re road tripping like I was, it’s a great way to end your adventure. If you’re just starting here, it sets the tone perfectly.

Don’t forget to check out all of my Alberta blog posts to make the most of your roadtrip!

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What to do in Banff National Park

1. Hike Johnston Canyon

If you’re only doing one hike in Banff, Johnston Canyon is a solid choice and one of the most accessible and unique trails in the park. With elevated catwalks bolted to canyon walls, rushing water below, and multiple waterfalls along the way, it feels more like an adventure than a walk in the woods (without needing intense hiking skills).

The trail leads to two main viewpoints: the Lower Falls, which is just 1.2 km from the trailhead and has a small cave tunnel you can duck through to get closer to the falls, and the Upper Falls, another 1.3 km further. Both are worth seeing if you have the time, but even the short walk to the Lower Falls gives you that classic Banff wow-factor.

I visited in early May, and the trail was still icy in spots, so depending on the season, you may want traction gear or sturdy footwear. It’s also a popular spot, so getting there early (or later in the afternoon) helps beat the crowds.

This trail is family-friendly, open year-round, and doesn’t require a shuttle, making it a great first stop for your Banff adventure.

Read More // I wrote a full guide to this trail right here if you want all the tips and photos before you go.

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2. Ride the Sulphur Mountain Gondola

If you’re craving a 360-degree view of the Rockies but don’t feel like earning it the hard way, the Sulphur Mountain Gondola is your ticket (literally). This scenic gondola ride takes you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, just above the town of Banff, offering sweeping views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the Banff townsite below.

Once at the top, there’s more than just the view, you’ll find a scenic boardwalk that leads to the Cosmic Ray Station, a café, an interpretive centre, and plenty of photo ops. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon as the sun starts to dip behind the peaks. If you’re lucky, you might even spot mountain goats or marmots hanging around the rocks.

Tickets // It’s best to book your gondola tickets in advance online, especially in peak season. They offer flexible pricing depending on time of day and availability. You can also hike up the mountain and take the gondola down (or vice versa) if you’re looking to mix in some activity.

If you want a jaw-dropping view with minimal effort, this one’s a must.

Read More // I wrote a full guide to ride the Sulphur Mountain Gondola right here if you want all the tips and photos before you go.

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3. Visit Lake Louise

You’ve seen it in photos, you’ve seen it on postcards, and yes Lake Louise is just as stunning in real life. With its milky turquoise water framed by snow-capped peaks and the Victoria Glacier in the background, it’s one of those places that stops you in your tracks, no matter how many Instagram posts you’ve scrolled through.

In peak season (summer through early fall), it’s also one of the busiest spots in Banff National Park. But don’t let that scare you off : the view is 100% worth it.

Here’s what to know:

• You can’t drive to Lake Louise during peak season unless you have a reservation at the hotel. To visit, you’ll need to book a Parks Canada shuttle in advance or use one of the approved transit services.
• If you’re short on time, just walk along the Lakeshore Trail for a flat and scenic view.
• If you want to hike, the Fairview Lookout is a short but steep trail with a great overhead view, or try the Plain of Six Glaciers if you’re up for a longer adventure.
• You can also rent a canoe, but it’s pricey : around $145/hour during summer. Still, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of view from the water.

I visited in early May, and the lake was still frozen, which means no turquoise glow, but still absolutely breathtaking in its own quiet, snow-covered way.

Travel Tip // If you’re planning to visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on the same day, make sure to book a shuttle that allows both stops, more on that next.

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4. Visit Moraine Lake

Ah, Moraine Lake, the one that steals the spotlight on postcards and screensavers with its impossibly blue water and dramatic Ten Peaks backdrop. It’s often considered even more beautiful than Lake Louise (I know, bold!), but here’s the thing: it’s not always accessible.

I didn’t get to visit Moraine Lake during my trip because the road was still closed in early May. In fact, the access road only opens after the snow has fully melted, which is usually mid to late May, depending on the season.

Even once it opens, you can’t drive there on your own anymore. As of recent years, private vehicles are not allowed on the Moraine Lake Road during the summer season. You’ll need to book a shuttle, or use one of the Parks Canada reservation-based buses.

If you’re visiting in the right season, it’s 100% worth the planning. Here’s what you can do at Moraine Lake:

• Walk the Rockpile Trail for the famous view you’ve seen online
• Rent a canoe (similar to Lake Louise, also pricey)
• Start hikes like Larch Valley or Eiffel Lake from here

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5. Walk Around Downtown Banff

While the mountain views usually get all the glory, Downtown Banff deserves a spot on your itinerary, especially if you want to soak up the cozy alpine town vibes. Think: historic buildings, bustling cafés, and streets framed by towering peaks. It’s the kind of place where you can pick up a pastry, a postcard, and a new fleece all on the same block.

Banff Avenue is the main street, and it’s often lively with visitors, street musicians, and locals grabbing a coffee on their way to the trail. You’ll find lots of shops, restaurants, and cafés here, from outdoor gear stores to art galleries and local boutiques. If you’re visiting during a shoulder season, it’s a great place to linger when trails are still snow-covered or visibility is low.

If you’re after a quieter vibe, wander over to Bear Street, a pedestrian-friendly stretch with more cafés, restaurants, and independent shops. It’s a little less crowded and has a more local feel.

Pro tip // Try to plan a meal or snack here. Whether it’s a sit-down lunch or just grabbing a latte and sitting by the river, it’s a nice way to experience a different side of Banff National Park, one that’s more about community than adventure.

Where to Eat in Banff?

Mountain Folk Coffee Co : If you want a caffeine boost.

The Fat Ox: A fresh twist on Italian cuisine.

Good Folk : Seasonal Canadian cooking with a bit of urban flair.

JUGEMU Banff : Creatively crafted ramen and Japanese fusion dishes right in the heart of town.

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6. Take a Soak in Banff Upper Hot Springs

After a full day of hiking, sightseeing, or battling Banff’s ever-changing weather, slipping into the Banff Upper Hot Springs feels like a well-earned reward. Located just a short drive (or hike) from downtown, these thermal springs have been drawing visitors since the late 1800s, and with good reason.

The water here is naturally heated and rich in minerals, flowing from deep underground. The temperature usually hovers between 37–40°C (98–104°F), making it ideal for a soothing soak, especially if the mountain air is crisp.

What makes this spot extra special is the view: from the pool, you can see Mount Rundle towering overhead.

It’s not a hidden gem by any means, but it’s a classic Banff experience that feels timeless for a reason.

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7. Visit Bow Falls

Just a short walk or drive from downtown, Bow Falls is one of Banff’s most accessible natural landmarks, and a surprisingly dramatic one. Unlike tall, cascading waterfalls, Bow Falls is wide and powerful, with rushing rapids that crash over a rocky riverbed. It’s especially impressive in the spring and early summer when snowmelt feeds the Bow River.

There’s a paved path along the water’s edge, so you can stroll beside the falls or take in the view from the small lookout platform above. It’s a great photo stop, and because it’s so close to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, you can easily pair the two.

If you’re up for more walking, continue down the Bow Falls Trail toward the Surprise Corner Viewpoint, a scenic bend in the river where you’ll get an iconic view of the Fairmont framed by forest and mountain peaks.

This stop doesn’t require much time, but it’s a lovely way to see a different side of Banff, with fewer crowds and just as much beauty.

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8. Stop at Surprise Corner Viewpoint

It’s called Surprise Corner for a reason : this little viewpoint catches a lot of visitors off guard (in the best way). Tucked along Tunnel Mountain Road, just a few minutes from downtown Banff, it offers one of the most iconic views in the area: the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel nestled in the trees, with the Bow River winding below and Sulphur Mountain rising in the background.

It almost looks like a castle dropped into the wilderness and the angle from Surprise Corner is the postcard shot.

There’s a small parking area and a lookout platform, and it’s an easy add-on if you’re already visiting Bow Falls or Tunnel Mountain. It’s also a beautiful spot for a quick photo stop during golden hour or just before sunset, when the light softens over the valley.

If you’re up for a walk, the Hoodoos Trail begins nearby and winds along the cliff’s edge toward another scenic viewpoint. It’s a relatively easy trail with great views over the river valley and the Banff townsite.

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9. See Peyto Lake from the Lookout

If there’s one viewpoint that truly captures the magic of the Canadian Rockies, it might just be Peyto Lake. With its glacier-fed turquoise water and the unmistakable wolf-head shape, this spot has become iconic for good reason, and it’s absolutely worth the short detour from the Icefields Parkway.

The Peyto Lake Lookout is accessible via a paved path from the Bow Summit parking lot. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the main viewing platform, which sits high above the lake and gives you that picture-perfect panoramic view. Even on cloudy days, the color of the water is unbelievable, a result of glacial rock flour suspended in the lake.

This stop is technically located in Banff National Park, but it’s further north along the Icefields Parkway, so it works best if you’re doing a day trip toward Jasper or coming back down from there.

I visited in early May, and while the trail was still snow-packed in parts, the view from the main platform was absolutely worth the stop.

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10. Take in the View from Bow Lake

Just off the Icefields Parkway, Bow Lake is one of those classic Rocky Mountain stops that’s easy to access and incredibly photogenic, with the added bonus of usually being much quieter than Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.

The lake sits at the base of Crowfoot Mountain, and on a calm day, the reflection in the water is mirror-like. There’s a small pull-off area and parking lot right off Highway 93, so you can hop out and enjoy the view without a hike. If you want to stretch your legs, the short trail along the shoreline leads to the historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge (seasonal), which looks like it belongs in an alpine fairytale.

When I visited in early May, the lake was still frozen and covered in snow, so I didn’t get to see its famous turquoise glow. But it was still worth the stop. If you’re visiting later in the season, you’ll likely be treated to that surreal glacial blue color that’s become one of the trademarks of the Canadian Rockies.

Travel Tip // This is a great sunrise or early-morning stop if you’re staying north of Banff or heading toward Jasper.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Banff

Before you hit the trails or head out for that mountain-view brunch, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your time in Banff:

1. You Need a Park Pass

Banff is part of a national park, so all visitors need a Parks Canada pass. You can buy a day pass or go with the Discovery Pass if you’re visiting multiple parks (like Jasper or Yoho) on your trip. Passes are available online or at park entry gates and visitor centres.

2. Plan for Parking Challenges

Parking can fill up quickly at popular spots like Lake Louise and downtown Banff, especially in the summer. Use the Roam public transit system when possible, or consider parking in one of the larger lots and walking. If you’re visiting Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, you’ll need to book a shuttle, private vehicles are no longer allowed at Moraine Lake.

3. Start Early

If you want to enjoy the best views without the crowds (and score that golden morning light for photos), get an early start. Popular trails and viewpoints like Johnston Canyon or the Banff Gondola can get very busy by mid-morning.

4. Be Bear Aware

Banff is home to wildlife, including bears. Carry bear spray when hiking (especially in the shoulder seasons), make noise on the trail, and follow all posted guidelines. Even in busy areas, wildlife sightings are common.

5. Dress in Layers

Mountain weather changes fast. Even in the summer, mornings can be chilly, and afternoon storms roll in quickly. Wear breathable layers, bring a rain jacket, and don’t forget sunscreen, high elevation means stronger sun exposure.

6. Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty, especially along the Icefields Parkway or in more remote areas. Download offline Google Maps or a trail app like AllTrails ahead of time so you don’t get caught without directions.

7. Respect the Landscape

Stick to marked trails, pack out your garbage, and avoid feeding or approaching wildlife. Banff is stunning because it’s well protected, let’s keep it that way.

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Where to Stay in Banff

When you’re looking for that perfect pit stop in Banff – cozy, convenient, and full of character – the Dorothy Motel was exactly what I needed during my visit. Located a few blocks off Banff Avenue, it strikes a great balance between accessibility and peace. I stayed there one night and loved how easy it was to walk into town while still feeling tucked away in the mountains.

The rooms at Dorothy are simple but clean, with comfortable beds. They don’t have fancy bells and whistles like spa tubs or in-room fireplaces, but they do offer what travelers really need: solid Wi-Fi, reliable parking, and a peaceful night’s sleep.

Travel Tip // If you want to visit Banff but want to stay away from the hustle and bustle, I highly recommend checking out Skyridge Glamping in Kananaskis. It’s one 1 hour drive from Banff and offers one of the most beautiful settings in all of Alberta!

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Final Thoughts : What to do in Banff

Banff is the kind of place that feels too beautiful to be real. Towering mountains, turquoise lakes, wildlife sightings on a random Tuesday, and trails that start right at the edge of town, it’s all here. And while it’s no secret (yes, it gets busy), there are still ways to find peace and perspective, even during peak season.

This list of 10 things to do in Banff barely scratches the surface. But if it’s your first visit, it covers the perfect mix of iconic sights and local favorites. From early-morning hikes to sunset at Bow Lake, Banff delivers unforgettable views and that almost indescribable feeling of being somewhere truly special.

If you’re planning a full road trip through the Rockies, don’t miss my 6-Day Alberta Itinerary for how to connect Banff with Jasper, Kananaskis, and the Icefields Parkway. And if you’re curious about how to visit these places post-wildfire, I’ve also put together a guide to Jasper after the 2024 wildfires.

Got questions about your Banff trip? Feel free to reach out. Safe travels!

Don’t forget to check out my other Alberta blog posts to make the most of your road trip in the Rockies!

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