Planning a Trip to Banff National Park

Are you planning a trip to Banff National with your kids, but have NO idea where even to start? You’ve come to the right place! On this page, you’ll find a lot of information to plan the best trip to Banff National Parks with kids (or without them).

Banff National Park, with its wildlife, crystal-clear turquoise lakes, and incredible (and breathtaking) views, is a place like no other in the world. Most people, including us, leave Banff knowing they will visit again and again.

But there are a few things to do beforehand to ensure you have the time of your life.

Of course, one of the most complex decisions you’ll have to make will be narrowing down what you want to see versus the time you have.

In this page, we’re giving you ALL the information you need to plan an epic trip to one of Canada’s most beautiful places: Banff National Park.

We live only an hour away from Banff National Park and we go at least once or twice a month. We know this national park and all the fun things to do with kids (and even without kids), from easy hikes to winter fun. From its colorful Kake Louise to its epic Icefields Parkway drive and fun hikes, there is something fun to do in Banff National for everyone.

Note: You can read this page or find all our Banff-related articles here.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Need Help Planning Your Banff National Parks trip?
Let me help you plan your custom itinerary.

How to reach Banff National Park

Reaching Banff National Park is relatively straightforward, given its popularity as a tourist destination. Here’s a guide on how to get there:

By Air

Calgary International Airport (YYC) in Alberta (Canada) is the closest airport to Banff, Canada. It’s about an hour and a half from the Calgary airport to downtown Banff.

It’s well-connected with major cities around the world.

▶️ Read more: Lynx Air Review: The Affordable Choice for Adventurous Families

By Road

After landing in Calgary, you can rent a car and drive to Banff. The drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). The drive is scenic, especially as you approach the mountains.

Banff is accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway from the east and the west. If you’re coming from British Columbia, you’ll pass through the beautiful Yoho National Park before reaching Banff.

▶️ Read more: Renting a Car in Calgary or in Banff? Everything To Know

Shuttle Services

Several shuttle services operate between Calgary International Airport and Banff. These shuttles can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.

How to Get Around Banff National Park

Getting around Banff National Park requires some planning, as the park is vast and crowded.

It’s best to have your car in Banff National Park to explore more outside the downtown and the main tourist attractions. But some places are bustling, and parking lots are limited. So you’ll want to do a mix of using your car and using public transport.

You can also opt for guided bus tours, such as:

The fun thing about guided bus tours is that you’ll learn a lot of fun facts about the park with your guide, but it can get expensive for a family.

Do You Need a Car to Visit Banff National Park?
No. You don’t need a car to visit the main attractions in Banff National Park, such as the Banff Gondola, Upper Banff Hot Springs, downtown Banff, Lake Louise, and Lake Moraine. You can use Parks Canada’s shuttle or Banff town public bus. But if you want to venture on the more off-the-beaten-path or must trailhead, you’ll want to have your car.

What is the Best Way to Visit Banff National Park?

The best way to get around Banff National Park is a mix of your car and public transportation. Having your will allow you to go everywhere and get to all trailheads. But using public transport for some busy attractions will ensure you don’t spend too much time finding a parking spot.

Here is what I recommend:

  • For exploring downtown Banff, find a hotel centrally located, so you can walk around OR park at the Railway FREE parking lot and walk around.
  • For visiting Lake Louise (and Lake Moraine): use one of the shuttles to get to Lake Louise in the summertime. Use the Parks Canada’s shuttle or the Roam transit route 8X.
  • For visiting the Upper Banff Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola, use the Roam transit route 1. Parking is minimal. It’s often full.
  • For the rest: Use your car.

▶️ Read more: How to Get to Moraine Lake: All Your Questions Answered

When is the Best Time to Visit Banff National Park?

Most people will visit Banff National Park from June to September. During these months, the park’s iconic turquoise lakes are thawed, and the scenic roads and trails are accessible.

The weather is nicer and there is no snow (usually).

However, the park is busy during the peak summer months of July and August. But, just like Glacier National Park and many other national parks, it’s also the time when Banff sees the most visitors, making popular spots crowded.

Another thing to consider is that Lake Moraine is open only for a few months. It’s usually opened from early mid-June to Thanksgiving (Mid-October). Outside of those months, the only way to see this iconic lake is to hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski the Lake Moraine Road. It’s 13 km (one-way) to the lake.

▶️ Read more: What’s the Best Time to Visit Banff to Avoid the Crowds (When and What to Do)
▶️ Read more: 5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Visiting Banff in November

WHERE TO STAY IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK

▶️ Read more: 11 of the Best Hotels in Banff for Families
▶️ Read more: Cabins Near Lake Louise: Baker Creek Mountain Resort Review
▶️ Read more: HI Castle Mountain Wilderness Hostel : Our Honest Review

WHAT TO DO IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK

▶️ Read more: Easy Hikes in Banff and the Canadian Rockies: 33 Kid-Friendly Hikes Under 10km
▶️ Read more: 21 Fun Things to Do in Banff With Kids
▶️ Read more: Is the Banff Gondola Worth it? Honest Review from a Local Family
▶️ Read more: Family Road Trip on the Icefields Parkway: Stops, Maps & Tips
▶️ Read more: 26+ Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies (Curated by a Local Family)

How Many Days Do You Need to See Banff National Park?

The number of days needed to see Banff National Park can vary depending on individual preferences, interests, and the pace you want to explore. However, a general recommendation is to spend at least 3 to 5 days in the park to experience its major highlights and enjoy various activities. 

▶️ Read more: A Fun Banff Itinerary for 2 Days With the Kids (+ Downloadable PDF)
▶️ Read more: The Ultimate 7-Day Calgary to Jasper Road Trip

BANFF IN THE WINTER

▶️ Read more: Is Banff Worth Visiting in Winter? Opinion from a Local
▶️ Read more: What to Know When Visiting the Canadian Rockies in the Winter
▶️ Read more: 17 Things to Do in Banff in Winter [Activities for Families]
▶️ Read more: 13 Best Winter Hikes in Banff for Families (All Skill Levels)

fenland-trail
Fenland Trail Loop in Banff in the winter The kids are staying warm in their winter gear

TOP TIPS FOR PLANNING A TRIP TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK

1. Pack the Right Gear When Visiting Banff National Park

When you go to Banff National Park, having the right gear for a fun and safe trip is important.

The weather in the park can change a lot, so bring different types of clothes. Make sure you have things that can keep you dry and warm. Layers are the key.

Good shoes for walking are important if you want to go on trails. And don’t forget a hat, glasses, and cream to protect you from the sun. Always have a map, a way to find directions, and a kit for small injuries.

It’s also key to have bear spray because bears are in the park. Make sure you know how to use it. I recommend watching this video from Parks Canada to learn how to use it.

Also, keep your children at a safe distance from you when on the trails. You want to see them at all times. Remember that you don’t have to be in the backcountry to see a bear. They can be on busy short hiking trails as well.

And remember to bring a bottle of water and some food to keep you going on your trip.

🩹 Don’t forget a First Aid Kit

Take a travel first aid kit with you when hiking with toddlers. Make sure it is well-stocked, especially with bite/sting cream and band-aids – you never know when unsteady little legs might take a tumble. Keep your travel first aid kit somewhere accessible.

cave-bassin-banff
Exploring Cave Basin NHS on one of our visit to Banff

2. Plan for at least 3 to 4 days to explore the park fully

Banff National Park is a big national park.Plus, it’s super crowded and some attractions are far apart.

For example, Lake Louise is about 45 minutes away from downtown Banff. Peyto Lake is more than one hour away and Sunshine Village is about 25 minutes from downtown.

Plan a trip to Banff National Park for at least 3 days. Although, 4 days would be ideal to explore other parts of the park. It will allow your family to explore the park without stressing over time.

Xplorer program in Waterton (1)
Xplorer from Parks Canada program is a great program to add to your road schooling curriculum

3. Stop at the Visitor Center to get the Xplorer’s Booklets

Banff National Park has 3 visitor centers, with the main one located in Banff and one in Lake Louise.

It’s a good idea to start your visit at one of these centers. The friendly staff can give tips on what to see and do in the park, helping you make the most of your time.

For families with kids, the Xplorer program is a must-do. This program is designed to help children learn about Banff’s unique environment and history in a fun and interactive way.

Different booklets are tailored to various age groups, ensuring that kids of all ages can participate. Younger children who might not be reading have their special booklet, while older kids have a more detailed version.

Once your child completes the activities in the booklet, bring them back to a visitor center. Here, a park staff member will review their work. They’ll receive an official Banff Xplorer badge as a reward for their efforts.

Different booklets are available in Banff:

  • Banff National Park (General)
  • Banff Park Museum National Historic Site
  • Cave and Basin National Historic Site

So after you visit Banff, your kids could receive 3 badges.

Is the Banff Gondola Worth it?
Is the Banff Gondola Worth it Look at the View There is not always parking spots so taking the Roam Transit to the gondola is a great idea

4. Consider Using the Roam Transit to Visit Some Attractions

When exploring Banff National Park, one of the most convenient and eco-friendly ways to get around is by using the Roam Transit. This public bus service offers a stress-free alternative to driving, especially during peak tourist seasons when parking can be a challenge.

Roam Transit connects many of the park’s top attractions, such as:

  • Banff Gondola (Route 1)
  • Upper Banff Hot Springs  (Route 1)
  • Jonhston Canyon (Route 9)
  • Lake Louise (Route 8X)

PRO-TIPS – Try to stay at one of the following hotels to get free Roam Tickets during your stay:

  • Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa
  • Banff Ptarmigan Inn
  • Fox Hotel & Suites, Hidden Ridge Resort 
  • The Dorothy Motel
  • Moose Hotel & Suites
  • Tunnel Mountain Resort
  • Rundlestone Lodge
  • Red Carpet Inn 
  • Irwin’s Mountain Inn
  • The Rimrock Resort
  • The Fairmont Banff Springs
  • Douglas Fir Resort 
  • HI Banff Alpine Centre
  • Parks Canada campgrounds

Roam Transit is a fantastic option to explore Banff and not hassle with finding parking.

wildlife spotting in Jasper We saw a bear on the Maligne Lake Drive
Wildlife spotting when we were driving along the Icefields Parkway

5. Take your time to enjoy the wildlife, but don’t forget your bear spray

When you visit Banff National Park, take your time. It’s easy to want to see everything quickly, but it’s better to enjoy each place.

Banff has many animals. It’s home to over 311 species of birds, 844 species of plants (74 of which are rare), 5 species of rare or scientifically important invertebrates (including the endangered Banff Springs snail) and 53 species of mammals, including grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, cougars, and even wolverines.

You’ll most likely see deer and elk. They are roaming around the town of Banff, especially at dawn and dusk.

But remember, Banff is also a place where bears live. There are black bears and grizzly bears here. It’s rare to meet a bear, but it can happen.

Always have bear spray with you when you walk around. And know how to use it. This is important, even on busy paths. I recommend watching this video from Parks Canada to learn how to use it.

Also, keep your children at a safe distance from you when on the trails. You want to see them at all times.

Bears can be anywhere in the park, not just in quiet places. Some areas, like near Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, sometimes have bears. It’s also common to see bears along the Icefields Parkway. 

Before you go for a walk, check if any paths are closed because of bears.

Peyto Lake in Banff National Park
Peyto Lake in Banff National Park

6. Visit to Other Lakes Than Lake Louise and Lake Moraine

Banff National Park has many beautiful lakes. Everyone knows about Lake Louise and Moraine Lake because they are the icons of the Canadian Rockies. But there are other lakes that are also very pretty.

Peyto Lake is one of them. It’s bright blue and looks like a wolf’s head from above. Another good lake is Bow Lake. It’s calm and has big mountains around it.

You can also visit Two Jack Lake. It’s a good place to have a picnic and relax. Lake Minnewanka is Banff’s largest lake. It’s 21 kilometers (13 miles) long and 142 meters (466 feet) deep. You can do a guided boat tour of the lake where you’ll learn a lot about the lake and its history.

If you’re visiting on a warm summer day, Johnson Lake is the perfect place. It’s the warmest lake in Banff and it’s perfect for swimming. There is even a swing hidden somewhere around the lake to jump on the water.

Vermillion Lakes, just at the entrance of the town of Banff, is another great stop. It’s great for paddleboarding or to catch an epic sunset.

So, when you visit Banff, don’t just go to the famous lakes. There are many other lakes than Lake Louise and Moraine Lake that are worth seeing too.

7. Don’t Miss a Road Trip on the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is a road that promises an adventure you won’t forget. You’ll be driving on through some of the most stunning parts of the Canadian Rockies. 

The Icefields Parkway starts in Lake Louise in Banff National Park and ends in Jasper in Jasper National Park. It’s a long drive, covering 230 kilometers. But, don’t rush! You’ll want to take your time. There are so many beautiful spots to stop and see.

As you drive, you’ll pass by amazing views. There are mountains, glaciers, and lakes all around. Some of the top spots to stop include Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Athabasca Falls. Each place is special and offers a chance to see nature’s beauty up close.

Some of the best spots are

  • Bow Lake
  • Peyto Lake
  • Saskatchewan River Crossing
  • Columbia Glacier
  • Tangle Creek Falls
marble-canyon-trail-Kootenay National Park
Marble Canyon Trail in Kootenay National Park

8. Add a Few Extra Days to Visit Other Parks of the Canadian Rockies

While Banff is a gem of the Canadian Rockies, other equally stunning parks nearby deserve a visit. If you plan a trip, consider adding a few extra days to explore these wonders.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is located north of Banff, and the two are seamlessly connected by the scenic Icefields Parkway. You can marvel at the serene Maligne Lake in Jasper and even take a boat ride. The mighty Athabasca Falls is another highlight, and for those seeking relaxation, the Miette Hot Springs offers a warm retreat.

▶️ Read more: 21 Top Things to Do in Jasper, Alberta [Family Approved]

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park in British Columbia is home to the mesmerizing Emerald Lake, a pristine body of water surrounded by towering mountains. Another must-visit spot in Yoho is the Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls, which cascades majestically into the valley below.

Kootenay National Park

Kootenay National Park is also in British Columbia. The Marble Canyon beckons with its deep chasms and a crystal-clear river flowing at its base. For those who enjoy hiking, the Stanley Glacier Trail offers a rewarding experience with panoramic views.

Three women on a canoe in the middle of Lake Louise.
We finally rented canoes and paddled across Lake Louise The color of the water is INCREDIBLE