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CRMR Blog

Discovering Banff National Park: A 7-Day Adventure Itinerary

Welcome to a week of exploration in the breathtaking Banff National Park! Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating blend of outdoor adventures, and serene moments of relaxation. Over the course of these seven days, you’ll embark on a remarkable adventure, uncovering the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make Banff National Park a world-renowned destination. From soaring peaks to famous lakes, from rewarding hikes to indulgent culinary experiences, each day offers experiences that will create lifelong memories. Grab your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Banff National Park.

Day 1:

Welcome to Banff National Park! Ensure you purchase a park pass at the entrance of the park for the duration of your stay. To truly grasp the magnificence of the picturesque town of Banff, take a ride above the trees and take in the beautiful views aboard the Mt. Norquay Chairlift or the Banff Gondola.

The Mt. Norquay Chairlift offers a more intimate and serene experience, perfect for those seeking to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the park. It provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with the option to dine at the Cliffhouse Bistro, perched at the top. On the other hand, the Banff Gondola offers a more immersive experience with a state-of-the-art interpretive center at the summit. The gondola ride culminates in panoramic views from the Sulphur Mountain boardwalk, making it ideal for those who wish to explore and learn more about the region.

After taking in these breathtaking vistas, settle into your accommodation at Buffalo Mountain Lodge, where you will be staying for two nights. The lodge features lodge-style inspired rooms and is situated on Tunnel Mountain, making it the perfect escape from the busy town while still being within a short walking or transit distance from local attractions. After checking in, take in your surroundings by reading a book on your private outdoor balcony, enjoying the stunning mountain views. As evening descends, indulge in a delectable dinner at The Prow, known for its signature Rocky Mountain Cuisine featuring shareables and game meats.

Conclude the day by heading to Vermilion Lakes to witness the sun setting behind the picturesque lake. Vermilion Lakes is the perfect place for breathtaking views of Mount Rundle. Afterwards, return to your room and start your own fire in the in-room fireplace, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.

Day 2:

Embrace the new day by fueling up for the adventures ahead with a Rocky Mountain style breakfast at The Prow. Start your morning with a scenic horseback ride along Spray River or Bow River. You can book a horseback riding tour through Banff Trail Riders, which offers a variety of guided trail rides and pack trips for all skill levels. 

As midday approaches, head into the heart of Banff for a tasty lunch at one of the many local restaurants or pubs. Continue your escapade by visiting the serene Two Jack Lake and the beautiful Lake Minnewanka. At Two Jack Lake, you can take a leisurely stroll around the shores, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Lake Minnewanka offers an array of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and fishing. For a truly memorable experience, consider a boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka. The cruise provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape, along with the chance to learn about the area’s history and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.

With the day winding down, decide between indulging in a delightful dinner in the town of Banff, with options like Nourish Bistro Banff or The Grizzly House, or returning to The Prow to relish its culinary delights once again. Before retiring for the night, soak away the day’s adventures by enjoying a relaxing evening in the outdoor hot tub at the lodge. Unwind under the starry sky and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences.

Day 3: 

Rise and shine on your third day and set the tone for an adventure-filled day with a convenient grab-and-go Summit Breakfast from the lodge. Begin with an early morning hike up the Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail. This is a moderately challenging trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Bow Valley, Banff townsite, and the surrounding mountain ranges. This hike, approximately 4.3 kilometers round trip, is perfect for catching the sunrise and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Banff National Park.

Upon descending, bid farewell to the comfort of Buffalo Mountain Lodge and head to the renowned Banff Upper Hot Springs. Here, you can soak in the natural mineral waters, which are known for their therapeutic properties, while enjoying spectacular views of Mount Rundle. Swimsuits and towels can be rented at the hot springs, and tickets can be conveniently purchased onsite.

Afterward, treat yourself to lunch in the town of Banff. Take some time to wander through the local shops, savouring the unique character of the area. Must-visit shops include The Banff Tea Co., a charming shop offering a wide variety of specialty teas and unique blends; Rocky Mountain Soap Company, known for its natural, handmade bath and body products; Canada House Gallery, showcasing fine art from Canadian artists, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry; Monod Sports, a go-to spot for high-quality outdoor gear and apparel; and The Spirit Of Christmas, a magical store filled with festive decorations and holiday treasures year-round.

After lunch, set your sights on the iconic Lake Louise, known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Upon arrival, check in at Post Hotel & Spa, a luxurious retreat that offers exceptional comfort and hospitality. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, a world-class spa, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

For dinner, treat yourself to a delightful meal at The Dining Room, known for its award-winning cuisine, offering dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients and inspired by international flavours, and its extensive wine list that has won the Wine Spectator Grand Award 23 consecutive years. After your gourmet dinner, retire to your room for the night or take a relaxing swim in the hotel’s saltwater pool before bed. A restful night’s sleep awaits, preparing you for the exciting adventures on day four.

Day 4

Start the morning in awe as you witness a captivating sunrise at the Lake Louise lakefront. If you are up for a hike, choose between several rewarding trails: the Lake Agnes Teahouse, a 7-kilometer round trip hike leading to a charming historic teahouse by a pristine alpine lake; the Little Beehive Trail, an extension of the Lake Agnes Teahouse hike, offering panoramic views of Lake Louise and the Bow Valley; or the Big Beehive Trail, a more challenging hike that takes you to a higher elevation for an incredible bird’s-eye view of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks. These hikes will take you anywhere from 2-6 hours to complete, depending on the trail you choose. Carry along a picnic lunch to enjoy along the hike and enjoy a cup of tea at the teahouse. Ensure you do not leave any garbage behind and do not feed the wildlife.

If hiking isn’t your preference, take in the beautiful views of Lake Louise from the comfort of the hotel grounds. Relax outside on the lawn and enjoy tea time in the lobby, where a selection of teas, coffee, and pastries is served. You can also schedule a relaxing spa treatment at the Temple Mountain Spa, where you can indulge in various treatments designed to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Later, head to Morant’s Curve for a glimpse of the colourful CP train as it navigates the landscape. This iconic spot offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the beauty of the Canadian Rockies in a unique way.

With the day winding down, savour a delectable dinner at The Outpost, enjoying a casual dining experience with hearty, comforting meals in a cozy setting. Afterwards, finish your day in the soothing waters of the hot tub or curling up with your book in the hotel library in front of the grand fireplace.

Day 5: 

Fuel up for a day of excitement with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Set out on a breathtaking drive along the Icefields Parkway, a route renowned for its spectacular scenery, featuring dramatic mountain ranges, vast icefields, and cascading waterfalls. Your first stops are the stunning Bow Lake and Peyto Lake. At Bow Lake, enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters and the impressive backdrop of the Crowfoot Glacier. At Peyto Lake, take a short hike to the popular viewpoint and take in the striking wolf-head-shaped lake, offering one of the most photographed scenes in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by these magnificent mountain views.

Then, embark on a tour of the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest icefields in North America. Experience the thrill of walking on the Athabasca Glacier, and learn about the geological history and significance of the glaciers that have shaped this remarkable region. Get your tickets for the glacier tour from Banff Jasper Collective, Discover Banff Tours, or Banff Adventures. Don’t miss the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform extending over the Sunwapta Valley, providing a unique and exhilarating perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Return to the hotel for dinner, savouring the culinary delights and reflecting on the day’s adventures. Afterwards, unwind with a swim in the pool, get in a workout at the well-equipped gym, or enjoy a relaxing evening playing a board game in the library.

Day 6: 

Savour a delightful breakfast at the hotel or grab something at one of the local cafes in the area. After check out, embark on a scenic drive to the beautiful Emerald Lake, a hidden gem nestled in Yoho National Park. Upon arrival, park in the day parking lot and head over to The Boathouse Trading Co. to rent a canoe. Paddle across the pristine emerald waters and take in the breathtaking scenery from the unique vantage point of the lake.

For lunch, indulge in authentic Rocky Mountain Cuisine at Kicking Horse Lounge inside the main lodge. After refueling, set out on a picturesque hike around Emerald Lake. The trail, approximately 5.2 kilometers in length, offers panoramic mountain views, forested paths, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

As the day progresses, move your car to the overnight parking area and make your way to the check-in desk at Emerald Lake Lodge, your cozy accommodation for the night. The charming lodge features comfortable rooms with rustic decor, private balconies, and in-room wood-burning fireplaces, providing a perfect retreat in nature.

For dinner, choose between the elegant ambiance of Mount Burgess Dining Room, which offers gourmet dishes and a fine dining experience, or the cozy charm of Cilantro on the Lake, known for its casual yet refined menu. Both restaurants offer delectable Rocky Mountain Cuisine options that will satisfy your palate. End your evening by the fire in the lodge’s cozy lounge area, reflecting on the day’s adventures and soaking in the tranquility of this mountain paradise.

Day 7:

On your final day in the Rockies, either sleep in or rise early to enjoy the stunning sunrise views over Emerald Lake. Indulge in a delicious Rocky Mountain-style breakfast in the Mount Burgess Dining Room. As your stay at Emerald Lake Lodge comes to an end, check out and bid a fond farewell to your cozy home-away-from-home.

Begin your journey back by making a stop at the Natural Bridge, a remarkable natural rock formation created by the erosive forces of the Kicking Horse River. This stunning sight showcases the power and beauty of nature and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Next, continue your exploration by visiting the captivating Takakkaw Falls, the second tallest waterfall in Canada. Witness the breathtaking 373-meter cascade as it plunges down the rugged cliffs. The falls are accessible via a scenic drive and a short walk, providing a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some memorable photographs. Please note that Takakkaw Falls are open from mid-June to the second week of October, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly and check the Parks Canada website for the latest closure information.

As your trip draws to a close, reflect on the incredible experiences and cherished memories you’ve gathered throughout your Banff adventure. The awe-inspiring landscapes, thrilling activities, and serene moments have created a journey to remember. Now, it’s time to say goodbye to this mountain paradise and embark on your journey back home

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