Are you looking for epic family adventures in the Canadian Rockies for your next trip? We’ve got you covered with our list of more than 26 amazing things to do with your kids in the Rocky Mountains.
Over the past two years, our family has had the pleasure of exploring western Canada. More specifically, we’ve been seeking (and finding) many fun family activities in Banff, Jasper and the three other national parks.
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Feel free to use the table of contents to jump to the national park that interests you most, depending on your Canadian Rockies planning.
Our Favorite Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies
Mountain biking, hiking trails, rafting trips, and beautiful views.
In this post, we’ll share with you our favorite family adventures in the Canadian Rockies.
When we refer to the Canadian Rockies, we often think of Banff. But the Rockies is not only Banff. In fact, the Canadian Rockies includes five of the Parks Canada national parks:
- Banff National Park
- Jasper National Park
- Kootenay National Park
- Yoho National Park
- Waterton Lakes National Park
- a few provincial parks nearby.
Important to know:
A Parks Canada pass is required for the entire length of your stay in the Canadian Rockies.
Banff Family Activities
Banff National Park and its town are probably the most visited places in the entire Rocky Mountains. There are many things to see but plan accordingly as it gets super crowded in the summertime.
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➡️ Banff: Winter Activities for the Family
➡️ Where to Stay in Banff for Families
1. Rent a Canoe and Row around Lake Louise
You probably saw many pictures of families on kayaks or Stand-Up Paddleboards across the ionic glacier-fed lake. Why not try? It’s one of the most common family adventures you’ll do in the Canadian Rockies.
There is only one canoe rental operator around Lake Louise and it’s managed by the Fairmont Lake Louise hotel.
Canoes are available on a first-come, first-serve principle, and they don’t take any reservations.
If you are traveling with young children, you can rent one canoe and fit two adults and two young kids (under 55 lbs each). I would recommend renting a canoe for 2 hours (1 hour may be too limited for the family) to have enough time to enjoy and row up to Victoria Glacier.
They charge $135 per hour for non-hotel guests and $95 per hour for hotel guests. Canoe rentals usually start in mid-June and run until the end of September, or early October (depending on the weather).
For more information on canoe rentals at Lake Louise, check out the Fairmont Lake Louise hotel website.
You can also bring your own kayak or SUP to paddle on either Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. But our favorite place to paddle in the Banff is Vermillion Lakes.
Lake Louise is the icon of Banff National Park and the Candian Rockies. Make sure to take advantage of your time there by walking around the lake, admiring the Fairmont Castle, having tea and/orad looking at the waterfalls,
Note: You can also rent a canoe on Moraine Lake.
2. Ride to the Top of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola will bring you to the top of Sulphur Mountain where you’ll have an incredible view of the Rocky Mountains. Of course, the view will depend on the weather. 😉
We’ve finally gone on the gondola after two years in the Rockies and the views are BREATHTAKING.
At the top of the mountain, there is a short and easy walk. It’s a 0.5 km boardwalk trail where you’ll find the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station and the 1903 weather observatory.
There is also a restaurant, a coffee shop and an interpretive center.
If you feel more adventurous, you can hike to the top and hike down (and use the Banff Gondola only one way). The hike is considered a hard one with 5 km one way. It may not be suitable for little hikers.
3. Relax at the Upper Banff Hot Spring
The Upper Banff Hot Spring is operated by Parks Canada. The parking lot is located a the trailhead of Sulphur Mountain trailhead. The view from the hot spring facility is beautiful, but it can get really crowded.
I would probably skip that one, and go to the Radium Hot Springs or Miette Hot Springs instead (both also operated by Parks Canada).
But our ultimate favorite hot spring is in Fairmont Hot Spring Resorts.
4. Hike to Lake Agnes Teahouse
Lake Agnes Trail is one beautiful hike to do with kids. It’s a bit longer and more intense than typical hikes we usually aim for, but I promise it’s totally worth it.
Lake Agnes trail is a 4.6 miles (7.4 km) out-and-back hike with a gain in elevation of 1300+ ft (435 m). It’s considered a moderate hike on AllTrails.
From Lake Louise, you’ll have to walk along the lake pass the Fairmont Château Lake Louise and following the Lakeshore trail. You’ll then see signs for the Lake Agnes Trail.
If you’re visiting in the peak season, from early June to mid-October, your family will have a great reward at the top of the trail with the Lake Agnes teahouse.
The teahouse is located in a rustic log cabin and offers tea (of course), but also soup, hot chocolate, cake and sandwhich. The Alberta Rocky Mountain tradition of having tea on a mountain top began at Lake Agnes in 1905.
There is also a small lake to admire before heading back down. You’ll also pass a small waterfall (just a little before the Teahouse).
5. Do a Big Canoe Guided Tour on the Bow River
The Banff Canoe Tour offers a 1.5 hours ride on the Bow River where you’ll learn about the animals living near the river. You might see bald eagles, muskrats and maybe even a beaver.
If you’re not a fan of guided tours or if the time slots don’t match your schedule, it’s also possible to rent canoes for the family and explore the Bow River.
6. Book a Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park is the second longest lake in the Rocky Mountains. It’s 21 km long and 142 m deep. The lake is glacial due to its depth.
The Lake Minnewanka cruise is the perfect little tour for families. It’s a one-hour boat tour and you’ll have scenic views all around.
The captain and the guides are really knowledgeable. They will tell you all about the history of the lake and the animals around the lake.
7. Go on one of the family-friendly hikes in Banff National Park
There are many options when it comes to finding hiking trails with kids in Banff National Park. The following hiking trails are great for kids of all ages:
- Bow Fall Viewpoint Trail: A 2.7-kilometer easy out-and-back trail
- Tunnel Mountain Hoodoo Trail: A 5.8-kilometer moderate out-and-back trail
- Johnson Lake Trail: A 3.1-kilometer easy loop trail
But our two favorites are:
- Johnston Canyon: a 2.4 km round-trip to the Lower Falls, extra 2.6 km to Upper Falls (round-trip) | Difficulty: Easy
- Fenland Trail: a 1.8 km loop | Difficulty: Easy
8. Drive along the scenic Icefields Parkway.
Note: The drive along the Icefields Parkway is 230 kilometers in the mountains. There can be drastic changes in weather. You want to make sure you can enjoy it.
If you like road tripping, you’ll definitely love this breathtaking road. It’s one of the best Banff family activities if you like road trips and beautiful views. (in my personal opinion!)
There are many stops and things to see on the Icefields Parkway. Plan for an entire day to enjoy the scenery. Here are a few of our favorite stops:
- Bow Lake
- Peyto Lake Panorama Overlook
- Saskatchewan River Crossing
- Mistaya Canyon
- Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier
- Athabasca Glacier Skywalk
- Athabasca Falls
Jasper Family Activities
Jasper National Park is located north of Banff National Park. It shares the iconic Icefields Parkway. Jasper is one of the most wilderness of national parks where you can spot a lot of wild animals including grizzly bears.
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9. Do a Boat Tour of Maligne Lake
Maligne Lake is a beautiful lake fed by glaciers. The 1.5 hours or the 2 hours boat tour will bring you to Spirit Island, an island only accessible by boat.
If you don’t feel like going on a guided boat tour, you can also rent a canoe and row around Maligne Lake
10. Ride on the Jasper SkyTram
If you’re looking for the best place to have breathtaking views, the Jasper SkyTram is a family adventure in the Canadian Rockies to add to your list. In less than 7.5 minutes, you’ll be at the top of The Whistlers mountain. You’ll be at 2 263 meters above sea level and you’ll be able to enjoy the view of the region. From the top, we can see the highest point in British Columbia: Mount Robson
At the top of the SkyTram, you can relax or do a few hikes. Make sure it’s a clear day so you can enjoy the view.
11. Soak in Miette Hot Springs
Miette Hot Springs are also operated by Parks Canada. They are the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. The water comes from the mountain at 54°C and it then cooed to 40°C.
The view from the hot springs is beautiful, but the drive to get to the facility is also just as worth it.
12. Walk to Pyramid Island
Pyramid Island is a small island in the middle of Pyramid Lake. You’ll have to take a fun little walk on the wooded bridge to reach the island of Pyramid Lake.
It’s a short and easy trail that all children can easily do. It’s a total of 0.4 miles (0.6 km) out-and-back trail around Pyramid Island.
On the island, you’ll have a beautiful view of the lake and mountains. There is a trail around the island.
13. Go on One of the Family-Friendly Hikes in Jasper National Park
There are many options when it comes to hiking with kids in Jasper National Park, such as:
- Valley of 5 lakes: a 4.8 km easy loop around the five turquoise lakes.
- Old Fort Point: a 3.7-km loop trail. It’s considered a moderate trail, but both my 3 and 5 years old were fine doing it.
- Lake Annette: a 2.7-km loop trail around the lake.
But our two favorites are:
- Athabaska Falls: 0.8 km out-and-back trail | Difficulty: Easy
- Maligne Canyon: 3.4 km loop trail | Difficulty: Moderate
Family Adventures in Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park is located on the British Columbia side along the Trans-Canada highway. The closest town to the park is Golden. Golden is a nice mountain town and is home to the famous Boo the Grizzly Bear as well as the Kicking Horse Ski Resort.
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14. Admire the Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge is an awe-inspiring stop to do while exploring Yoho National Park. It’s only a short walk from the parking lot on the way the Emerald Lake. Plus, the water can be so turquoise that for a minute you may be mistaken for the Caribbean.
A waterfall runs on the Kicking Horse River under a naturally formed stone bridge.
15. Walk Along the Lakeshore of Emerald Lake
The Emerald Lakeshore trail is a gentle 5.2 km trail surrounded by mountain and glacier views.
Make sure to pack a picnic and maybe rent a canoe if you have enough time to get a different perspective of the surrounding mountains.
16. Admire the Takakkaw Falls
The Takakkaw Falls are one of the highest waterfalls in Canada. Nestled in Yoho National Park, about an hour and a half drive from Banff, this natural spectacle is a must-see.
The drive itself is scenic, but nothing beats the moment when you first catch sight of the falls cascading impressively from the Daly Glacier. It’s a short, family-friendly hike from the parking area to get to the base of the falls.
Don’t be surprised if you feel the spray of the waterfall on your face as it tumbles 833 feet down!
“Takakkaw” translates to “magnificent” in Cree, and trust us, this waterfall lives up to its name. Pack a picnic to enjoy with the falls as your backdrop. Remember to bring a jacket, even in summer, as the waterfall creates its own mini-climate.
17. Walk on the Golden Skybridge
This is now the highest suspension bridge in Canada, standing at 426 feet. So if you’re scared of heights, you might want to pass on this.
But if you have a heart for adventure, there’s plenty to do here.
The Golden Skybridge is located in Golden, B.C., and gives families an incredible view of the Columbia Valley. Plus, there are other adrenaline-inducing activities, like a zip-line, a giant canyon swing, axe throwing, a “rail rider mountain coaster” (which is definitely worth checking out), an so much more!
Honestly, if you’re looking for an adventurous weekend the whole family will love, then the Golden Skybridge (and related activities) are definitely worth checking out.
Visit the Golden Skybridge website to learn more!
Family Adventures in Kootenay National Park
Kootenay National Park is also located on the BC side of the Rockies. It’s part of the Columbia Valley and offers a great alternative to busy Banff.
18. Soak in the Radium Hot Springs
The Radium Hot Springs are also operated by Parks Canada. It’s the biggest facility of the 3 Parks Canada hot springs. There you’ll find a huge hot spring pool as well as a fun pool with a slide.
You may be lucky and see some mountain goats while soaking in the hot springs, or near the parking lot.
19. Admire the Numa Creek Falls
The Numa Creek Falls is a perfect road stop on the Kootenay National Park main drive. It’s located less than 10 kilometers away from Marble Canyon.
It takes only a quick walk to reach the bridge to admire the Numa Creek waterfalls. Then, there is also a possibility to continue walking for a longer hike.
There are a few picnic tables along the river where you can long at the beautiful mountains. In the spring and summertime, there are a lot of wild flowers.
20. Go on One of the Family-Friendly Hikes in Kootenay National Park
There are many options when it comes to hiking with kids in Kootenay National Park, such as:
- Paint Pots: a 4.8 km easy loop around the five turquoise lakes.
- Sinclair Canyon Trail: a 2.9-km out-and-back trail
- Juniper Trail: a 6.1 km trail
But our favorite (I think it’s even one of our favorite family adventures in the Canadian Rockies) is:
- Marble Canyon Trail: 0.9 km to the top of the canyon | Difficulty: Easy
For more information on this amazing family-friendly adventure of the Canadian Rockies, check our post: Marble Canyon Hike: The Perfect Hike for Travelers With Kids
Family Adventures in Waterton Lakes National Park
Waterton Lakes National Park is the only national park of the Canadian Rockies that is not adjacent to the other ones. Waterton Lakes National Park is located in Southern Alberta at the border of Montana. It’s part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park that includes Glacier National Park in Montana.
21. Admire the Prince of Wales hotel
The Prince of Wales hotel is probably the main icon of Waterton Lakes National Park. It’s an historic hotel overlooking the Waterton Village. It’s operating since 1927.
It’s possible to stay at the hotel or to do an afternoon tea during the summer time, from May to September. The rest of the year, it remains a great place to walk around and the take pictures of.
22. Paddle of Cameron Lake
Cameron Lake is an alpine lake at the end of the 16-kilometer long Akamina Parkway. There is a nice little stroll on the western shore of the lake.
In the summer months, canoes, rowboats and paddleboats can be rented. But at anything, you can launch your own paddleboard or kayaks. The kids will have a memorable family adventure on this Canadian Rockies lake.
23. Go on One of the Family-Friendly Hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park
There are many options when it comes to hiking with kids in Waterton Lakes National Park, such as:
- Lower Bertha Falls: a 5.3-km out-and-back moderate trail
- Linnet Lake Loop: a 1.0-km loop easy trail around the lake
- Blackiston Falls: a 2.4-km out-and-back easy hike
But our favorites are:
- Bear’s Hump Trail: a 2.4-km out-and-back moderate trail with a 213 meters elevation
- Red Rock Canyon Loop Trail: a 1.0-km easy loop around the canyon.
Bear’s Hump Trail is one of the prettiest hikes our family has taken in the past year. It’s personally one of my favorite hikes of all time. It’s a short (but steep hike) with the most breathtaking views over the Waterton Valley. It’s simply WOW! Plus, we saw a few mountain goats on the way up.
Other Great Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies
24. Horseback Riding at Boundary Ranch
Boundary Ranch is a great little ranch (obviously) located in Kananaskis. They have fun family adventures year-round.
But when the weather is nice in the spring/summer months specifically, you and the family can go horseback riding through some of the most beautiful wilderness you’ll ever see. They offer rides for all levels and for different lengths of time.
For example, beginners might want to check out the Ridge Ride. This lasts roughly 2 hours and gives you a great view of the entire Kananaskis Valley (other packages even include a burger or steak lunch). Some of the rides are significantly longer, lasting a total of 6 hours.
And if you have younger kids, they also provide 15-minute pony rides that your toddlers will love!
For more information, you should check out their bookings page here.
Or for more ideas on family adventures in the Canadian rockies from Boundary Ranch, check out this post on their activities year-round.
25. Do a Rockies Heli Canada tour
For families who want a little more adventure (and have a bit of cash to blow on vacation), we recommend checking out a helicopter tour of the region. It’ll allow you to get a birds-eye view of the Rockies which is something not many people ever get to experience.
There are a lot of different options that you can check out that vary in length and price. The longer you stay up, the more expensive the package will be. But their basic options are:
- Glacier tour ($199/person)
- Epic Summer tour ($379/person)
- Complete Columbia tour ($699/person)
We definitely understand that the pricing might be a too much for most families, but if you have the budget for it, Rockies Heli Canada promises some of the best views of the Rockies that you’ll ever see.
Learn more about Rockies Heli packages here.
26. Let the kids burn some energy at one of the playgrounds and splash pads
Let’s be honest here, kids LOVE playgrounds. So here is a list of great ones in the Canadian Rockies:
📍 Dogwood Park: 511-515 6 St S, Golden, BC
📍 Kinsmen Park: 868-902 10th Ave S, Golden, BC
📍 Central Park: 110 Bear St, Banff, AB
📍 Banff Rotary Park: at the intersection of Badger Street and Cougar Street
📍 Lake Louise Sports & Recreation Center: 103 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB
📍 Centennial Park: 520 Turret St, Jasper, AB
📍 Legend’s Field Playground: 4851 Joseph St, Radium Hot Spring, BC
Final Thoughts: Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies
We get asked a lot if the Canadian Rockies are family-friendly.
YES! YES! They are super kid-friendly (even if you are traveling with toddlers).
We’ve listed our favorite family adventures in the Canadian Rockies so you can start planning your epic trip.
Make sure you follow us on Instagram at @lovelife_abroad for more hidden gems and family activities in the Canadian Rockies.
Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.