Banff is a summer paradise brimming with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. With so many reasons to visit, we’ve compiled a list of 100 reasons to explore this stunning destination. From reconnecting with nature and creating lasting memories to exploring geological wonders, hiking scenic trails, or discovering charming downtown shops, Banff offers something for everyone.
Plus, we’re excited to announce a special promotion: stay with us this summer and receive $100 off your room rate per night at Buffalo Mountain Lodge. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the trip of a lifetime.
Top 100 reasons to visit Banff this summer:
1. Tunnel Mountain Hoodoos: Experience these enchanting rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and water.
2. Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle on serene lakes and rivers throughout Banff National Park including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
3. Rock Climbing Opportunities: Challenge yourself with various climbing routes. Join a tour with Alpine Air Adventures, Yamnuska Mountain Adventures, or Banff Adventures.
4. Mountain Biking Trails: Explore thrilling biking trails suited for all skill levels. Visit Trailforks or Parks Canada to find trail recommendations based on your skill level.
5. Johnston Canyon: Hike through a dramatic canyon with waterfalls and lush scenery. Located a short 30-minute drive from the lodge.
6. Horseback Riding: Explore trails on horseback for a unique perspective with Banff Trail Riders.
7. Fishing Spots: Cast a line in pristine waters teeming with fish. Book a fishing tour on Lake Minnewanka with Banff Adventures or Banff Fishing Unlimited.
8. Stargazing Opportunities: Enjoy stargazing in the outdoor hot tub enveloped by fragrant pine trees.
9. Lake Agnes Tea House: Hike to this charming tea house in Lake Louise for stunning views and refreshments.
10. Helicopter Tours: Get a bird’s eye view of the spectacular Rocky Mountains with Discover Banff Tours or Rockies Heli Canada.
11. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of navigating rapids on local rivers. Book a tour with Wild Water Adventures or Chinook Rafting.
12. Banff Gondola: Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and views of the town of Banff. Purchase tickets from Banff Gondola.
13. Tunnel Mountain: Hike up for fantastic views of Banff town and the surrounding mountains. Start at the trail head a short 20-minute walk from the lodge.
14. Nature Photography Workshops: Improve your photography skills in a stunning environment with local guides such as Rocky Mountain Photo Adventures, Sarah Lyndsay Photography, and many more.
15. Sulphur Mountain: Hike or take the gondola for stunning views of Banff and the Bow Valley.
16. Cave and Basin National Historic Site: Learn about the birthplace of Canada’s national parks with a short 30-minute introduction tour of the grounds or an in-depth 60-minute natural history tour. Reserve your spot on the Parks Canada website.
17. Banff Upper Hot Springs: Soak in the relaxing, natural hot springs with mountain views. Tickets are available to purchase on location.
18. Lake Louise: Visit this iconic turquoise lake surrounded by majestic peaks. Reserve your spot on a shuttle bus with Parks Canada.
19. Educational Wildlife Tour: Reserve your spot on a wildlife guided tour with Discover Banff Tours to learn more about the wildlife of Banff National Park.
20. Peyto Lake: Visit this uniquely shaped and brilliantly coloured glacial lake located on Icefields Parkway.
21. Ink Pots via Johnston Canyon: Observe unique, vibrantly coloured mineral springs set against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
22. Local Wildlife Sanctuaries: Visit sanctuaries such as the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary located 1 hour from the lodge.
23. Banff Farmers Market: Taste fresh, local produce and handmade goods every Wednesday from 10am – 6pm until October 9th.
24. Cascade Gardens: Stroll through beautifully manicured gardens with vibrant flowers located in the town of Banff 6 minutes from the lodge.
25. Sunshine Meadows: Hike through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and views of stunning mountain vistas.
26. Stunning Mountain Scenery: Experience breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies, such as Rundle Mountain, Cascade Mountain, Tunnel Mountain, and Sulphur Mountain.
27. Reconnecting with Nature: Take in the beauty and peace of the natural world. Escape the hustle and bustle of the main town by staying on Tunnel Mountain.
28. Wildlife Viewing: Spot elk and deer walking through the lodge grounds. Please remember to keep your distance from wildlife and do not feed or touch the animals.
29. Exploration and Adventure: Check off bucket list activities such as visiting the iconic Lake Louise and rent a canoe to see views without the crowds.
30. Outdoor Fitness Opportunities: Stay active with hiking, biking, and other outdoor sports. Equipment can be rented in the town of Banff at Banff Cycle & Sport or Ultimate Sports Banff.
31. Hiking Trails for All Levels: Discover trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Many within walking distance from the lodge. Visit AllTrails to find a trail that is right for your skill level.
32. Scenic Drives: Enjoy picturesque drives like the Icefields Parkway and Bow Valley Parkway.
33. Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Try this peaceful water activity on Two Jack Lake or Vermillion Lake. Bring your own board or rent one from The Banff Canoe Club.
34. Cultural Experiences: Learn about the Indigenous cultures and history of the area with an Indigenous Voices tour at Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
35. Adventure Tours: Try guided adventures like zip-lining, ATV tours, and more with Discover Banff Tours or Banff Adventures.
36. Romantic Getaways: Enjoy a relaxing romantic escape in a stunning natural setting with wine and charcuterie waiting for you when you arrive.
37. Lake Minnewanka: Take a boat tour or hike along the second longest lake in mountain parks of the Canadian Rockies.
38. Family Vacations: Create unforgettable moments together with local adventures and a cozy mountain style accommodation.
39. Moraine Lake: Enjoy this bucket list destination with crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of the mountains. Reserve your spot on a shuttle bus with Parks Canada.
40. Bow Falls: Witness the powerful, cascading falls near the Banff Springs Hotel.
41. Creative Inspiration: Find inspiration from the local scenery for personal art, writing, and other creative endeavors.
42. Birdsong and Natural Sounds: Listen to the calming sounds of nature from your room balcony.
43. Panoramic Views: Enjoy sweeping views from various high points such as the Mt. Norquay Lookout and Tunnel Mountain viewpoints.
44. Vermilion Lakes: Enjoy peaceful lake views with great opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing located just 10 minutes from the lodge.
45. Authentic Rocky Mountain Cuisine: Dine on local specialties like bison and elk at The Prow.
46. Breathtaking Sunsets: Witness stunning sunsets over the mountains at Two Jack Lake or Lake Minnewanka.
47. Peaceful Sunrises: Start your day with a serene sunrise at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
48. Summer Weather: Enjoy mild temperatures, breathtakingly clear skies, and long daylight hours.
49. Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal in the great outdoors surrounded by natural beauty at the Tunnel Mountain Hoodoos Trail or Tunnel Mountain Reservoir.
50. Photography Opportunities: Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife around the lodge grounds.
51. Healy Pass: Hike this challenging trail to a scenic pass with expansive views and vibrant wildflowers.
52. Morant’s Curve: Stop at this breathtaking viewpoint in Lake Louise and see the colourful trains navigate the landscape.
53. The Dancing Sasquatch: Enjoy vibrant nightlife, meet fellow travelers, and experience a unique mountain lodge atmosphere at this bar in the Town of Banff.
54. Wood Burning Fireplaces: Experience true Rocky Mountain living from the comfort of your lodge room.
55. Banff Park Museum: Learn about the natural history of the park and its wildlife.
56. Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies: Discover local art, culture, and history.
57. Shopping in Banff Town: Stroll down Banff Avenue for a variety of unique shops and boutiques for souvenirs.
58. Local Art Galleries: Explore works by local artists and take home a piece of Banff. Check out All In The Wild Gallery, Brandon T. Brown Wilderness Gallery, Bearhead Photography, and many more in the Town of Banff.
59. Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity: Attend performances, workshops, and exhibits.
60. Live Music and Performances: Enjoy live entertainment in various venues around town.
61. Local Festivals and Events: Participate in summer festivals celebrating art, music, and more. Find the most up to date information on events happening in Banff on the Banff & Lake Louise Tourism website.
62. Mistaya Canyon: Marvel at the canyon’s dramatic, sculpted limestone formations and experience the powerful rushing river below. Located on Icefields Parkway.
63. The Banff Trading Post: Shop for authentic Indigenous crafts and souvenirs.
64. Multicultural Cuisines: Experience gourmet meals from various cultures all while enjoying stunning views.
65. Cozy Cafés: Relax with a coffee in one of the charming local cafés on Banff Avenue.
66. Local Breweries & Distilleries: Sample craft beers and spirits made with local ingredients on Banff Avenue.
67. Ice Cream Shops: Treat yourself to delicious ice cream on a warm day at COWS Banff on Banff Avenue.
68. Scenic Train Rides: Take a luxury overnight train journey in or out of the Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer.
69. Banff Legacy Trail: Bike or walk this scenic trail connecting Banff and Canmore.
70. Cascade Mountain: Hike this challenging trail for stunning views of surrounding mountains and Lake Minnewanka.
71. Mount Rundle: Enjoy views of this iconic, jagged mountain as you enter Banff National Park and pass by Vermillion Lakes.
72. Geological Wonders: Explore fascinating geological formations and landscapes throughout the park on hikes such as Sentinel Pass at Moraine Lake or Plain of Six Glaciers trail in Lake Louise.
73. Spa and Wellness Centers: Pamper yourself with luxurious spa treatments at one of the local Banff spas such as Meadow Spa & Pools and Cedar & Sage Spa.
74. Building Lasting Memories: Create unforgettable memories with loved ones as you share tales of the day while enjoying Rocky Mountain Cuisine.
75. Golf Courses: Play a round surrounded by stunning mountain scenery at Banff Springs Golf Course.
76. Tennis Courts: Enjoy a game of tennis with beautiful backdrops at Banff Recreation Grounds.
77. Indigenous Art and Carvings: Discover and learn more about Indigenous art at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
78. Athabasca Glacier: Experience a stunning, accessible remnant of the Ice Age and the rare opportunity to walk on a living glacier. Book a tour with Banff Jasper Collection.
79. Brewster Lake Cruise: Take a scenic cruise on Lake Minnewanka. Reserve your spot with Banff Jasper Collection.
80. Crystal-Clear Lakes: Marvel at the clarity and colour of Two Jack Lake, Peyto Lake, Lake Louise, Bow Lake, and Moraine Lake.
81. Guided Nature Walks: Learn about the local flora and fauna with a guided hike in Banff with a Parks Canada guide.
82. Interpretive Programs: Attend educational programs to learn about the park’s history and ecology with Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
83. Health and Wellness Retreats: Join a wellness retreat with Banff Wellness Retreat to focus on your personal health, wellness, and relaxation.
84. Northern Lights: Witness the magical, colourful dance of lights against the stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. Make sure to check the aurora forecast each night for the best viewing opportunities.
85. Friends’ Adventure Trips: Bond with friends and strengthen relationships over shared memories and happy hour specials at The Prow.
86. The Spirit of Christmas Store: Experience a year-round Christmas shop with unique ornaments and gifts on Banff Avenue.
87. Corporate Retreats: Host team-building events and meetings in one of the lodge’s meeting spaces.
88. Educational Nature Exhibits: Explore exhibits about the park’s natural history at the Banff Park Museum located just 5 minutes from the lodge.
89. Bird Watching: Spot a variety of bird species in diverse habitats by exploring productive birding areas such as the town of Banff, the Cave and Basin marsh, and Vermilion Lakes.
90. Historical Landmarks: Visit sites with historical significance in Canada’s first national park such as Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
91.Night Sky Photography Tour: Learn about astrophotography with Banff Photo Workshops and observe the stars.
92. Astronomy Tours: Join a guided tour with Canmore Trails and Tales to explore the night sky.
93. Scenic Lookouts: Visit lookouts along the highway for panoramic views of the park such as Vermillion Lakes on the Trans Canada Highway and Bow Lake on Icefields Parkway.
94. Conservation Efforts: Learn about and support efforts to protect the park with Parks Canada. Make eco-conscious decisions while travelling to ensure the park and its wildlife will be protected for years to come.
95. Forest Bathing Experiences: Engage in the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku for relaxation and well-being.
96. Serenity and Tranquility: Find peace and quiet in the lodge’s surrounding forest or from your room’s balcony.
97. Fresh Mountain Air: Breathe in the clean, refreshing mountain air as you read your favourite book amidst the beautiful scenery.
98. Opportunity to Disconnect: Unplug from electronics and reduce outside stress.
99. Solo Travel Experiences: Find solitude and personal growth in the wilderness.
100. Save $100 a night at Buffalo Mountain Lodge: Big savings allowing for even more special moments this summer.
Banff truly is a destination like no other, offering an endless array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, cultural enrichment, or simply the chance to bask in breathtaking natural beauty, Banff has it all. We hope this list of 100 reasons has inspired you to plan your visit and take advantage of our special promotion. With $100 off your room rate at Buffalo Mountain Lodge, there’s never been a better time to create unforgettable memories in this spectacular summer paradise. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime – Banff awaits!
