EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF FALL IN BANFF: THE BEST 7-DAY ITINERARY FOR AN AUTUMN VACATION (2024)
Discover the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies with this 7-day itinerary perfectly curated for the fall season, exploring the highlights of Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and Yoho National Park.
Each day features must-see destinations such as the Banff Gondola, the Banff Hot Springs, and Moraine Lake, alongside scenic hiking trails and outdoor activities fit for the fall season. Enjoy luxurious stays at the finest mountain resorts and meals at the best restaurants, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
WHY VISIT BANFF NATIONAL PARK IN THE FALL?
LARCH SEASON & VIBRANT FALL COLOURS
Fall in Banff National Park transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of fall colours, where fiery red Maple Trees and the golden hues of Aspens and Larch Trees create 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 & MOUNTAIN BIKING
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 tourists than peak summer and winter months, fall in Banff National Park provides a quieter atmosphere and a more authentic taste of the local culture in Banff, Lake Louise, and surrounding areas.
SKI HILLS ARE OPEN
In mid November, ski season kicks off in Banff and Lake Louise. The area’s premier resorts open their slopes, offering an opportunity to enjoy early-season skiing before the holiday rush arrives.
OFF-SEASON RATES
Take advantage of more affordable rates on accommodations and activities compared to peak seasons.
3-DAY OR 7-DAY ITINERARY FOR BANFF NATIONAL PARK
A full week in the Rockies sounds like a dream, but life doesn’t always allow for that much time off. For a shorter getaway, explore our 3-day action-packed itinerary to Banff National Park.
ARRIVING IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK
Most visitors arrive from Calgary, just a ninety-minute drive away. Getting to Banff National Park is straightforward, and can be achieved by personal vehicle, regional transit, or private transport.
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. As Banff draws closer, the towering peaks of Cascade Mountain, Sulphur Mountain, Mount Rundle, Tunnel Mountain, and Mount Norquay gradually dominate the skyline, revealing the town nestled among them. Along the way, there are several pull-over spots ideal for taking photos.
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.
7-Day Itinerary for Banff National Park and Area
Banff Gondola & Vermillion Lakes
Kick off this Banff adventure with a thrilling journey up the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. 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. Fly above the clouds at over 600 meters (2,000 feet) and take in the spectacular panoramic views of the Town of Banff and Canadian Rockies in every direction. Be sure to check out the interpretive exhibits, multi-sensory theatre, and the self guided boardwalk for a touch of local culture and history. Plan to eat lunch up top at one of two restaurants that both offer stunning 360° views.
Insider Tips!
- Temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than at the base. Check the weather beforehand and pack layers accordingly. The Banff Gondol
a website has a live webcam to help gauge day-of conditions. - For the avid adventurist, hike to the summit and take the gondola down.
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. Note: The Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift will close for the winter on October 13, 2024, and will reopen next spring for the 2025 summer season.
Once back at ground level, drive across town for a leisurely stroll at Vermillion Lakes. With the stunning backdrop of Mount Rundle, this location offers one of the most iconic views in Banff. The towering mountain is beautifully reflected in the icy waters of the lake below. 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, built to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Banff National Park, and extends from Banff to Canmore.
By this time, the sun will be low and it’s time to check into Buffalo Mountain Lodge for the first of your three-night stay.
Leverage the first day’s adrenaline and head into town for dinner. One of the most popular spots for dinner 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.
Unwind from the day with a relaxing hot tub under the stars or a nightcap back at the lodge.
Horseback Trail Ride, Downtown Banff & Lake Minnewanka
Fuel up with an authentic Rocky Mountain style
breakfast at The Prow. The spirited menu creatively incorporates local ingredients into the classics. Try the Smoked Steelhead or Canadian Back Bacon Eggs Benedict, or the Game Hash made from seared game meats and a rich bison glaze.
First up, embark on a scenic horseback ride that blends mountain scenery with a taste of cowboy culture and western pride. Learn about Alberta’s western history from a local cowboy guide and enjoy an authentic BBQ cookout for lunch. Banff Trail Riders offers a variety of trail rides ranging from hour long to full day excursions that explore the Bow Valley, Spray River, and the Bow River.
As mid-day approaches, be sure to take time for some window shopping along Banff Avenue. 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!
Several cafes and lunch spots also line Banff Ave, worth a stop for lunch or mid-day snack. Una Pizza & Wine and El Patio Rooftop Taco Bar have delicious menus and energetic atmospheres. Wild Flour Bakery is particularly known for its mouth-wateringly fresh croissants and daily baked bread.
Spend the afternoon at Lake Minnewanka or Two Jack Lake for a leisurely stroll along their shores. Fed by the Cascade River, Lake Minnewanka is rich in history and archeological artifacts dating back nearly 14,000 years. It’s a photographer’s paradise and an ideal spot to soak in all the beautiful fall colours of the season.
Alternate Activity: Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise
Consider a Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise that explores quieter, more remote parts of the lake. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the area’s history and local wildlife. Choose from sixty- or ninety-minute excursions. Note: Cruises are weather-dependent and typically end middle of October; be sure to check schedules before traveling.
With the day winding down, return to Buffalo Mountain Lodge and enjoy dinner 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 dinner menu.
Tunnel Mountain, Banff Upper Hot Springs & Bow Valley Parkway
Pre-order the Summit Explorer’s To-Go Breakfast from the lodge and set out for an early morning hike up Tunnel Mountain. This trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Bow Valley and Banff Town below. Interpretive signage along the trail gives insights into the area’s history. Immerse in the natural beauty and find a lookout spot to enjoy breakfast amidst the crisp morning air and the vibrant fall colours of Banff. Insider Tip! Morning is also the best time to see wildlife such as moose, elk, deer, and birds.
Once back at the lodge, grab some lunch, and check out by 11:00 am.
Spend the afternoon relaxing in the soothing hot pools at the 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.
Dry off and make the forty-minute road trip to Lake Louise Village for the next two nights.
Insider Tips!
- 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. This route provides stunning views, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and several points of interest along the way including Johnston Canyon, Castle Mountain Viewpoint, and Moose Meadows.
- Stop at Morant’s Curve: About half-way between Banff and Lake Louise along the Bow Valley Parkway, stop at Morant’s Curve for a striking view of the Trans-Canadian Railway meandering through the rugged mountain terrain. Though there is no official schedule, trains pass every hour or so.
Once in Lake Louise, check in to the Post Hotel and Spa as early as 4pm.
For dinner, treat yourself to a culinary journey at the Dining Room. The menu is curated by Executive Chef Hans Sauter, known for his international accolades and creative approach to fresh market cuisine. Explore dishes with locally sourced ingredients amidst the perfect atmosphere and glow of the central grand fireplace.
WHERE TO STAY?
This itinerary features the finest accommodations in and around Banff National Park, ensuring a memorable week-long vacation.
3 NIGHTS AT BUFFALO MOUNTAIN LODGE IN BANFF
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.
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
A trip to Banff National Park is not complete without spending time in the equally as charming Lake Louise Village, famous for it’s remarkable landscapes, world-famous skiing, and Lake Louise, itself – and you’ll want to make the most of your day ahead.
Rise early, eat breakfast at the lodge, grab The Explorer’s To Go Lunch, and head straight to Lake Louise to catch the sun rising or early morning hues.
Framed by the towering peaks of Mount Victoria and Mount Fairview, Lake Louise offers an unforgettable view. A gentle trail surrounds the shoreline, perfect for a casual stroll. Canoes and kayaks can be rented for a serene paddle, and as late fall arrives and the lake freezes over, ice skating becomes a favourite activity.
For those visiting Lake Louise before October 10, 2024, hiking Lake Agnes Trail to the famous Lake Agnes Tea House is a must and one likely to live in the memory books for years to come. This 7km (4.3 mi) 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. The family-run tea house is quaintly perched on the shores of Lake Agnes and rewards hikers with over 100 varieties of teas, hearty homemade soups, sandwiches, and fresh baked goods.
Insider Tip! For those eager, additional loops include Big Beehive and Little Beehive which can be accessed from Lake Agnes Trail, offering yet more stunning views and landscapes to explore. Note: be sure to check Parks Canada for information on accessing fall trails routes.
Once back to Lake Louise Village, make time to explore 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. The lake, framed by ten towering mountains offers such an incredible view it was 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: The road to Moraine Lake 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 and sights of The Valley of the Ten Peaks.
With the day winding down, enjoy a casual dinner at The Outpost, a comfortable English-style pub offering classic pub fare followed by a well deserved hot tub or steam.
Icefields Parkway & Columbia Icefield Adventure
Wake and enjoy breakfast at the lodge, where familiar favourites like Belgian waffles, buttermilk pancakes, and eggs Benedict are reimagined with rich, creative touches that set them apart from the usual breakfast fare. Before leaving for the day’s adventures, pick up the Explorer’s Packed Lunch to Go.
Embark on a scenic drive along the iconic Icefields Parkway – a 227 km (141 mi) parkway that connects Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. Known for its spectacular mountain scenery, this route offers dozens of glaciers, vast icefields, and cascading waterfalls – a drive not to skip and certainly not one to snooze away!
Several points of interest along the way are ideal for hiking and enjoying a picnic lunch amidst nature. The Icefields Parkway Guide Map highlights a full list of spots. Two of the most popular are Bow Lake and Peyto Lake, each about half an hour from the Lake Louise area. Bow Lake, one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park, feeds into the Bow River, the major river running west through Calgary and beyond. Peyto Lake is known for its stunning turquoise hue, created by glacier rock flour that flows into the lake.
Insider Tip! Many claim the best view of Peyto Lake is from Bow Summit – the highest point on the Icefields Parkway at 2,070 meters (6,791 feet).
Spend the afternoon exploring the Rockies’ largest icefield on a once-in-a-lifetime Columbia Icefield Adventure Tour. Traverse the ancient glacier in a specially designed Ice Explorer – a six-wheeled vehicle built for the rugged terrain. This off-the-beaten-path journey reveals ancient ice caps and offers insights into the icefield’s history, science, and geology. Along the way, many get to drink pure glacier water – some of the crispest and most refreshing water imaginable. The adventure continues with the Glacier Skywalk, a suspended glass-floored observation deck offering breathtaking views of the Athabasca Glacier and Sunwapta Valley.
Partial or full day excursions can be booked through Banff Jasper Collection, Discover Banff Tours or Banff Adventures. Note: Tours of the Columbia Icefield are weather dependent and operate until mid-October.
For a fun and whimsical dinner steeped in history, visit the Lake Louise Station Restaurant for dinner. Housed in a heritage railway station that once served as a bustling train stop at the turn of the century, it now offers hearty, Alberta-inspired meals in a charming, vintage setting.
2 NIGHTS AT THE THE POST HOTEL AND SPA IN LAKE LOUISE
Nestled in the heart of Lake Louise Village and voted #1 in The Rockies, The Post Hotel and Spa offers an extraordinary mountain escape. Immerse in the rustic charm of this upscale retreat, renowned for its outstanding hospitality, distinguished restaurants, and a nationally recognized wine cellar boasting over 3,800 selections of the world’s finest wines.
Accommodations range from spacious rooms and suites to private cabins, all appointed with elegant mountain décor and wood-burning fireplaces that invite instant relaxation. The hotel features the Mountain Temple Spa, a saltwater pool, a fitness center, and a cozy, family-friendly library perfect for unwinding with a good book. The idyllic outdoor courtyard, ideal for evening stargazing and nightcaps, completes the experience.
Emerald Lake & Yoho National Park
Before checking out from the lodge, enjoy a slower paced morning and a spa treatment at the award winning Temple Mountain Spa. With an extensive menu of massages, facials, body therapies, and nail services amidst beautiful mountain scenery, a morning here will stand out as extra-ordinary and haven of quiet relaxation.
Begin the scenic journey towards Emerald Lake, located in Yoho National Park, just across the Alberta-British Columbia border for the next night. Yoho, a lesser-known gem, rivals its more famous neighbors of Banff National Park and Jasper National Park with it’s own wealth of natural wonders and points of interest. Anchored by the charming Town of Field, this welcoming community embodies quintessential Canadian mountain life. Note: Yoho National Park requires it’s own park which can be purchased at the Field Visitor Centre located at the entrance to the Field townsite.
Stop for lunch in Field at Truffle Pigs Bistro – where the vibrant environment is as fantastic and energizing as the food.
Upon arrival at Emerald Lake, stroll the lakeshore trail surrounding the pristine, icy mountain waters. Named for its distinctive emerald hue, the lake dazzles with a vibrant blue green that sets it apart from the turquoise hues of other lakes in the region. Its unique colour, coupled with rich biodiversity and unique plant species, creates a picturesque setting where bald eagles, moose, and osprey are often spotted. The gentle trail meanders through lush forest, offering a serene experience for nature enthusiasts.
Insider Tip! Rent a canoe from The Boathouse Trading Co. and paddle across the emerald waters.
Check in to Emerald Lake Lodge for a peaceful afternoon and evening free of plans. Turn off phones to fully disconnect from daily life. The lodge invites relaxation and connections with loved ones and the stunning natural scenery that surrounds. A single night feels like a week-long retreat, showcasing nature’s beauty, exquisite meals, stargazing, and a unique tranquility hardly found elsewhere in Canada.
Enjoy dinner at Mount Burgess Dining Room, where a local, fresh-market menu, thoughtfully selected wine and cocktail pairings, and a rustic mountainside elegance make for an unforgettable fine dining experience. Alternatively, the Kicking Horse Lounge, also located in the lodge, offers a selection of local brews and world-class spirits in a more relaxed setting.
Cap off the day under the stars in the newly renovated club house area.
Natural Bridge, Kicking Horse River & Takakkaw Falls
Begin the final day of this Canadian Rockies getaway with a wholesome breakfast at the lodge before exploring more of Yoho’s top natural wonders.
First up, visit Natural Bridge, a remarkable rock formation that arches over the Kicking Horse River. Carved by the river’s powerful current, this natural arch is a striking example of water’s impact on the landscape. Fed from the Columbia Icefields, the Kicking Horse River is one of Canada’s fastest and most intense rivers, and Natural Bridge offers a humbling scene of nature’s raw strength and beauty. Interpretive signage at the lookout point provides fascinating insight into its formation.
Continue through Field towards Takakkaw Falls, the final stop on this itinerary promising to leave a lasting impression and an itch to return to the magnificent Rocky Mountains. As Canada’s second tallest waterfall, it’s sheer size and power are overwhelming as water plunges 250 meters towards the rocks below. The name “Takakkaw” is derived from a Cree word meaning “it is magnificent,” which perfectly captures the sight of water cascading down the rugged cliffs. The falls are accessible via a scenic drive along Yoho Valley Road followed by an easy walk. Note: The Yoho Valley Road is closed seasonally from mid-October through June.
Alternate Activity: Wapta Falls
While Takakkaw Falls impresses with height, Wapta Falls mesmerizes with width. As one of Canada’s largest waterfalls in both volume and width, Wapta Falls stretches over 150 meters (500 feet) wide. It’s powerful flow makes the slightly longer drive to reach it well worth the effort.
1 NIGHT AT EMERALD LAKE LODGE IN YOHO NATIONAL PARK
An authentic Canadian retreat, Emerald Lake Lodge is perched on the tranquil shores of Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park. A hidden gem in nature, this boutique mountain lodge offers a serene escape from daily life. With limited Wi-Fi, guests are encouraged to connect with nature and each other, free from the distractions of everyday life.
Rich in history and rustic charm, the lodge features century-old fireplaces and wood-burning stoves that complement its cozy, mountain atmosphere. The lodge provides the finest accommodations, exceptional dining, and some of the most breathtaking natural scenery hard to match elsewhere in Canada. Proudly named the 2023/2024 Best Hotel in Golden/Field/Yoho National Park by Avenue Magazine Calgary.
