Introduction Of Banff National Park
Banff National Park is one of the most stunning destinations in the world. From the turquoise lakes to the snow-capped mountain peaks and golden larch trees, it’s a place that takes your breath away. Having previously visited Zion National Park, I thought it couldn’t get any better, but Banff exceeded all expectations. It’s a place that steals your heart, leaving you in awe of the beauty of nature and the majesty of the Canadian Rockies. Here’s a detailed account of our unforgettable trip to Banff, along with some tips to help plan your own adventure.
Table of Contents
1. Getting There & Rental Cars
If you’re planning a trip to Banff, make sure to secure a rental car well in advance. Renting a car—especially a one-way rental—can be a challenge. When we picked up our car at Calgary Airport, it was a chaotic experience with long wait times, and we spoke with other travelers who couldn’t even secure one. A good alternative is to rent a car from downtown Calgary, though it may require a taxi from the airport.
Pro Tip: Double-check rental availability before booking your flights or accommodations, especially if you’re planning to drop the car off in another location. Banff National Park
2. Where We Stayed: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Our accommodation was at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a stunning hotel situated right on the shores of Lake Louise. This was the splurge of our trip, and it was well worth it. The views were extraordinary, and the location provided direct access to numerous trails and other local attractions.
We opted for the hotel’s “Gold Level,” which came with excellent perks such as a complimentary breakfast spread (not your typical continental fare—think omelette stations and French toast), appetizers, and desserts in the evening. The lounge’s food offerings saved us both time and money on dining out.
A Note on Dining: While the food at the hotel’s restaurants was fantastic, it was pricey. For example, you could expect to pay $85 for a steak. There are not many dining options outside the hotel, so if you’re looking for more budget-friendly meals, plan accordingly. However, we did enjoy one of the best burgers ever at the hotel’s Alpine Social restaurant.
Pro Tip: Request a room with a bathtub if you’re planning to do a lot of hiking. It was a lifesaver after long, exhausting days on the trails! Banff National Park
3. Timing Your Trip
We visited Banff in mid-September, technically “off-season,” which came with both benefits and drawbacks. On the plus side, there were fewer crowds and no issues with booking park passes. On the downside, some attractions were either closed or about to close for the season. For example, canoeing at Moraine Lake was open but only just—it was the last day of the season when we visited.
If you’re planning a trip for summer, be sure to book your park passes in advance, as they sell out quickly. Likewise, plan for potential closures if you visit during the off-season. Banff National Park
4. Why You Might Want a Travel Agent
Planning a trip to Banff can be complex, with park passes, car rentals, and seasonal closures to consider. While we used a travel agent, our experience was underwhelming. However, if you can find one with deep knowledge of the area, they could make your planning much smoother and even save you money.
Many people think travel agents are expensive, but they often get commissions from hotels and resorts, making them a budget-friendly option for securing the best deals and insider tips. Banff National Park
Top Tips for Visiting Banff
- Purchase Park Passes in Advance: Print your passes to display in your car, and skip the line at the park entrance.
- Pack for the Dry Climate: Bring lotion, chapstick, and eye drops. The dry air can be harsh, especially if you’re not used to it.
- Phone & Camera Accessibility: Make sure your phone or camera is easily accessible; you’ll want to capture every view.
- Download Music/Maps: Cell service is limited in many areas, so have your playlists and maps downloaded ahead of time.
- Bear Spray & Hiking Poles: Rent bear spray and hiking poles. These were provided free by our hotel and were incredibly helpful.
- Layer Up: Gloves, jackets, and multiple layers are essential as temperatures can drop quickly, especially at higher elevations. Banff National Park
Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1: Arrival in Calgary
Our journey began in Calgary, where we spent the night at the modern and eco-friendly Hotel Le Germain. After flying in, we explored Stephen’s Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with lively music, outdoor seating, and great restaurants. We dined at Major Tom, which offers incredible views of the Calgary skyline from the 40th floor. Banff National Park
Day 2-6: Exploring Banff
The next morning, we embarked on our drive to Banff, where the adventure truly began. Highlights included:
- Lake Louise: Canoeing on this turquoise gem was a surreal experience, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. Banff National Park
- Moraine Lake: We caught one of the last days for canoeing on Moraine Lake before it closed for the season.
- Hiking: Trails like the Plain of Six Glaciers and Lake Agnes were stunning, and hiking poles were a must for tackling the steep ascents.
Conclusion
Banff National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth, with breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and luxurious accommodations like the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Whether you’re planning a hiking getaway or a relaxing escape in nature, Banff has something for everyone. Just remember to plan carefully, especially regarding transportation and seasonal closures.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies, Banff should be at the top of your list.
