THE ABSOLUTE BEST OF BANFF: FALL 3-DAY ITINERARY (SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER 2024)
Visiting Banff National Park is a bucket list item for many, and visiting in the fall is one of its best-kept secrets. Fall is a perfect time to explore, offering scenic tours and hiking trails, before the chill of winter sets in and holiday crowds arrive. Fall also welcomes Larch Season, a time when the landscape transforms with stunning displays of golds and yellows as the larch trees change colour.
This three-day itinerary is designed to showcase some of the most popular glacial-fed lakes and mountains that surround the Town of Banff, along with top hiking and walking trails that capture the essence of autumn in the spectacular Canadian Rocky Mountains.
WHY VISIT BANFF THIS FALL SEASON?
Larch Season & Fall Foliage
As the crisp autumn air sets in, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant fall colours. Fiery red Maple Trees and the golden hues of Aspens and Larch Trees create a spectacular contrast against each other. Between mid-September and early October, Larch Trees turn a brilliant gold colour, marking what is affectionally known as Larch Season – one of the best times to explore the area.
Northern Lights & Stargazing
Away from city lights, Banff National Park offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities. While the Northern Lights can be seen throughout the year, they are most often spotted between September and April. Fall brings shorter days and early sunsets, creating ideal conditions for admiring the night skies.
Mild Temperatures
Fall weather between September and December is typically mild – with average highs between 16°C and -5°C respectively (60°F and 23°F), providing a pleasant pocket of weather for outdoor activities. (Note, however, that a cold snap is very possible during this season so come prepared for all conditions.)
Fall Hiking Trails
While some trails close for the winter, many remain open and accessible year-round. Fall hiking offers a unique backdrop as summer transitions to winter, with colourful mountainside scenery, and often fresh snow and forming icicles.
Fewer Crowds & Local Experience
Typically, less crowds than peak summer and winter months, fall provides a quieter atmosphere and a more authentic taste of the local culture.
Off-Season Rates
Take advantage of more affordable rates on accommodations and activities compared to peak seasons.
Ski Hills Are Open
In mid-November, ski season kicks off in Banff and Lake Louise. The area’s premier resorts, including open their slopes, offering a chance at early season skiing before the busy holiday season.
3-DAY OR 7-DAY ITINERARY FOR BANFF NATIONAL PARK
If three days in Banff National Park feels too short, consider our 7-day itinerary, which delves deeper into both Banff and Yoho National Parks.
WHERE TO STAY IN BANFF?
Buffalo Mountain Lodge
A destination in itself, Buffalo Mountain Lodge blends mid-century modern decor with timeless ski lodge architecture, elevating any stay beyond a mere place to sleep into an authentic Rocky Mountain resort experience.
Set back from downtown and perched on top of Tunnel Mountain, the lodge is surrounded by lush forest, while every room promises to capture views of the stunning mountain scenery. Accommodations are cozy, cabin-style rooms featuring wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies. On-site amenities include an outdoor hot tub and firepit, a fitness area, a distinguished restaurant (The Prow), and a lounge with a chic ski-lodge vibe.
A five-minute drive or scenic twenty-minute walk from downtown, the lodge strikes the perfect balance between proximity to attractions and tranquility where only the sounds of nature are heard.
A public bus stop is located directly outside the lodge that goes directly downtown. ROAM Public Transit connects Banff, Lake Louise, and Canmore and is a fantastic and reliable way to travel the area without a vehicle.
3-Day Banff Fall Itinerary: Banff National Park & The Canadian Rockies
Morning – Arrive and Explore Downtown Banff
Approaching Banff National Park, where the flat prairie gradually transforms into the iconic peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains is a once in a lifetime moment. The chatter stops and the music softens as the mountains loom closer and the peaks grow higher.
Note: Purchase a park pass to Banff National Park
A park pass is required when visiting Banff National Park. Purchase online ahead of time or at the Banff Visitor Centre. Passes can be purchased roadside at the entrance to Banff National Park; however, lines can be long.
Approximately one and a half hours west of Calgary, turn left onto Banff Avenue and follow it straight into Banff’s iconic downtown. Nestled at the base of five towering mountains, downtown is charming and quaint.
Park along the street or in one of the many parking lots off Banff Avenue and spend the morning window shopping the many boutique stores, art galleries, and shops. Start at Moose Street and stroll approximately one kilometer to where the Bow River intersects the town.
Must-visit shops include the Rocky Mountain Soap Company for their natural bath and body products made locally in Canada; The Spirit of Christmas for festive holiday decorations; Monod Sports for premium outdoor gear, equipment, and clothing; The Banff Tea Co., for a wide variety of specialty teas; the Canada House Gallery showcasing Canadian artists. Insider Tip! Don’t pass by The Fudgery without trying some of the freshest hand-made fudge around!
Afternoon – Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka & Two Jack Lake
Riding the Banff Gondola over 600 meters (2,000 feet) to the top of Sulphur Mountain is a must-do and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies in every direction. The faint of heart are not to be discouraged as the gondola takes only eight minutes and is fully enclosed. (For a fun alternative, many avid adventurists hike to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and take the gondola down.)
While the views of the Rockies are stunning from ground-level, experiencing them from the mountain top is an unparalleled experience—that will heighten every sense. The observation deck offers breathtaking views of the Rockies and the Town of Banff below. Be sure to check out the interpretive exhibits and the multi-sensory theatre for a touch of local culture and history.
Once acclimated to the surroundings, make the one-kilometer self guided interpretive walk across the boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak—the true summit of the mountain. Plan to eat lunch up top at one of two family friendly dining options that both offer stunning 360° views.
Insider Tip! Temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than at the base. Check the weather beforehand and pack layers accordingly. The Banff Gondola website has a live webcam to help gauge day-of conditions.
Alternate Activity: Mount Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift
For a quieter, but equally as incredible mountaintop experience, consider the Mount Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift, offering breathtaking views of Mount Rundle front and centre. At the top is Cliffhouse Bistro – a 1950’s tearoom turned modern bistro – which promises spectacular views from every table and a contemporary, upmarket lunch menu. Note: The Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift will close on October 13, 2024, and will reopen next spring for the 2025 summer season.
Once back at ground level, cross town and enjoy a late afternoon walk at Lake Minnewanka or Two Jack Lake. Fed from the Cascade River, Lake Minnewanka is known for its historical significance and archeological artifacts found under water dating back nearly 14,000 years. This area is a photographers paradise in the fall as the leaves turn beautiful colours against the turquoise waters below.
Alternate Activity: Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise
Until mid-October, guided boat cruises are a popular activity on Lake Minnewanka that explore quieter, more remote scenery of the lake. Knowledgeable guides enrich the adventure with insights on the area’s history and local wildlife. For an extra unique experience, evening cruises feature samples of local craft beer and a stunning sunset glow. Note: Cruises are weather- dependent and usually end between September and October; be sure to check schedules before traveling.
Evening – Check in at Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Check in to Buffalo Mountain Lodge as early as 4 p.m. Once settled, head to the main lodge for happy hour and kick back by the fireplace under the watchful eye of Randy – the iconic bison, adding a touch of local charm to your stay.
Enjoy dinner only a few steps away at The Prow. As the vanguard of Rocky Mountain cuisine, The Prow is more than a restaurant, but purveyors of an authentic and elevated Rocky Mountain culinary experience. Traditional Rocky Mountain ingredients – such as Bison or Elk – are taken to new heights through an exciting and novel menu offering.
Morning – Vermillion Lakes
Pre-order the Summit Explorer’s To-Go Breakfast from the lodge and head straight to Vermillion Lakes to catch the sun rise over Mount Rundle.
Over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level, Mount Rundle is one of Banff’s most iconic mountains. Watching the vibrant colours of the dawn sky rise over the mountain and its reflection showcased in the icy waters of Vermilion Lake is an experience beyond words—and worth the early alarm.
Insider Tip! Morning is also the best time to see wildlife such as moose, elk, deer, and birds above.
Park at the Fenland Trail day-use area and walk along Vermilion Lakes Drive. This road is part of the 26-kilometer (16 mile) Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail, which extends from Banff to Canmore. Constructed to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Banff National Park, the trail offers easy routes for walking, running, or biking. Despite being a road, it feels like a nature trail, and pedestrians are unlikely to encounter many cars. Walk the full 4.2 kilometer (2.6 mile) roundtrip around the lake, or simply turn around once ready.
Alternate Activity: Walk the Fenland Trail
The Fenland Trail is a two-kilometer (1.2 mile) loop through a marsh-like environment adjacent to Vermillion Lakes and Mount Rundle, offing a spectacular display of colours in the fall season.
After getting those morning steps in, head back downtown for brunch at one of Banff’s many cafes or breakfast spots.
Insider Tip! Among the many excellent options in Banff, Wild Flour Bakery is particularly known for its mouth-wateringly fresh croissants and daily baked bread.
Afternoon – Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Bow Valley Parkway
A trip to Banff is not complete without visiting nearby Lake Louise – another bucket list item that won’t disappoint. The lake at Lake Louise offers another magnificent turquoise glow of icy glacier water backdropped by Mount Victoria and Mount Fairview. An easy path surrounds the edge of the lake, perfect for a casual stroll.
Insider Tip! Take the Bow Valley Parkway from Banff to Lake Louise. While many take the Trans-Canada Highway between Banff and Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway offers a scenic and memorable alternative with several points of interest along the way.
For those visiting before October 10, 2024, hiking Lake Agnes Trail to the famous Lake Agnes Tea House in an absolute must. This 7km (4.3 mile) roundtrip not only elevates the beauty of Lake Louise, but reveals the hidden gems of Lake Agnes and Mirror Lake, nestled nearly 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) above. Additional loops include Big Beehive and Little Beehive which can be accessed from Lake Agnes Trail. Note: Be sure to check to check Parks Canada for information on fall trails.
The family-run tea house is quaintly perched on the shores of Lake Agnes and rewards hikers with stunning views and over 100 varieties of teas, hearty homemade soups, sandwiches, and fresh baked goods. Originally built in 1901, the log building was renovated in the early 1980s but still features original windows, tables, and chairs, offering an authentic and charming experience.
Once back to Lake Louise Village, embark on a trip to Moraine Lake. Nestled beneath the majestic Valley of the Ten Peaks, this natural wonder is often considered the most memorable view in the Canadian Rockies, and it was even featured on the Canadian $20 bill in both 1969 and 1979.
Personal vehicles are not permitted to access Moraine Lake. Instead, access to and from is achieved via a Parks Canada Shuttle, ROAM public transit, or guided tour companies. Note: Moraine Lake Road closes mid-October due to avalanche risk. For those travelling in late fall or early winter, the road is track-set for cross-country skiing and leads skiers to a safe lookout point.
Alternate Activity: Hike the Larch Valley Trail
For those travelling during Larch Season (mid-September to early October), seize the opportunity to hike the Larch Valley Trail. With views of Moraine Lake along the way, the trail reveals a breathtaking sea of golden Larch Trees within the valley.
About half way back to Banff, be sure to stop at Morant’s Curve – a prime vantage point to view the Trans-Canadian Railway. Named after William Morant, the official photographer for the Canadian Pacific Railway Company for over forty years, who traveled across the country capturing brilliant photos of the rail line. Morant’s Curve has since become one of the most famous spots to capture the beauty of the trains juxtaposed against nature.
Constructed in the 1800s, the rail line connects Canada coast to coast, and the section through the rugged Rocky Mountains marks an impressive engineering feat worth stopping for. While there is no official train schedule, trains pass every hour or so. With a bit of luck, one may even see the majestic, red-coloured Canadian Pacific pass by.
Evening – Dinner in Town & Sky-Gazing
Several restaurants line Banff Avenue offering a variety options from casual to fine dining. One of the most popular spots is the Grizzly House, famous for their fondue and exotic meat pairings including beef, buffalo, lobster, rattlesnake, and shark. Other popular restaurants include Bluebird for their wood fired menu, Lupo for their unique take on Italian cuisine, Eddie Burger + Bar for a classic burger and milkshake, and Nourish Bistro for their vegetarian and vegan menu.
For night owls, venture out for some stargazing and a chance to witness the epic Northern Lights. The already familiar Lake Minnewanka, Two Jake Lake, and Vermillion Lakes are top vantage spots for night time sky gazing. If a relaxing evening at the lodge sounds more appealing after a long day, stargazing from the warm waters and soothing jets of the outdoor hot tub is as good as it gets.
Alternatively, join a tour, such as the Banff Sunset and Stars tour with a local guide leading the group to the best locations.
Morning – Johnston Canyon Ice Walk
Start the day off with a hearty breakfast and freshly brewed coffee at The Prow. Breakfast service begins at 7:00 a.m. Note: Check-out from Buffalo Mountain Lodge is 11 a.m. The friendly front desk staff will happily store luggage for the day if needed.
After a few busy days, a relaxing morning at the lodge could include an outdoor soak or simply enjoying a book mountainside.
For those seeking activity, Johnston Canyon is just thirty minutes west of Banff. This easy, six-kilometer (3.7 mile) round trip hike showcases spectacular glacial-fed waterfalls plunging into icy blue gorges below. For an elevated experience, consider booking a guided walking tour with Discover Banff Tours or Banff Adventures where an area expert will heighten the walk with insights and knowledge about the canyon’s geology and history.
As late fall arrives and the water freezes, Johnston Canyon becomes a hub for ice climbing. Climbers tackle the frozen canyon walls with specialized gear and ice picks. It’s a captivating sight for visitors—or an exciting challenge for those brave enough—if traveling toward the end of November or later.
Afternoon – Banff Upper Hot Springs
Head back to Banff for a well-deserved lunch and taste of the local brew. Given Alberta’s rich farming and agricultural industry, it’s no surprise that the province has a thriving microbrewery scene. Over the past decade or so, a surge in microbreweries have popped up across the province, and Banff National Park is no exception to its very own locally brewed craft beer. Banff Ave Brewing Co., Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant, and Park Distillery Restaurant & Bar are popular lunch spots offering their own local flavour of craft beer.
Spend the afternoon at the world-famous Banff Upper Hot Springs. The natural, mineral-rich water is geothermically heated from three kilometers (1.8 miles) underground before bubbling up on the earth’s surface at temperatures up to 47°C (116°F). The hot springs have been a beloved destination since the early 20th century, offering a relaxing soak amidst stunning alpine scenery. Overlooking the hot pools is the The Bathhouse, designated a Federal Heritage Building, featuring historical exhibits and interpretive displays about the history of the hot springs. Note: the water temperature is regulated between 37°C and 40°C (98°F and 104°F) for a comfortable experience.
This activity will draw evening closer and end this three-day itinerary with the perfect blend of mountain lodge relaxation, hiking, dining, and a deeper appreciation for the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating history.
