CityBuddy
Banff National Park
Best time to visit
From June to September you can best enjoy hiking and the lakes. However, the colorful autumn landscapes of early September and fewer tourists offer a more peaceful experience.
Budget tips
The daily entry fee is CAD 11.00 for adults (2025). The Canada Discovery Pass, CAD 75.25 per year, covers the whole family's entry to all Canadian national parks.
Recommended for
Nature photographers, Hikers and trekkers, Road-tripping adventurers, Wildlife enthusiasts
Plan your visit
2-3 days
About
Quick facts: Canada's first national park was established in 1885 when railway workers discovered hot springs on the site. The park's 6,641 square kilometer area is home to over 280 bird species and 50 mammal species, including bears, moose, and mountain sheep.
Highlights: Unique is the turquoise Lake Louise, whose color comes from glacial rock flour in the water. The water's color changes in different shades of blue and green depending on the sunlight, and it is the one among the park's numerous stunning lakes that people come to see from around the world.
Insider tips
- Arrive at Lake Louise before 8 a.m., and you will get a parking spot as well as lake tranquility without the crowds.
- Pack several layers, because the weather can vary from +30 degrees to snowfall during the same day.
- You are more likely to see bears early in the morning or late in the evening, so it is worth choosing your hiking time carefully.
Where to Stay in Banff
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in BanffPowered by agoda
