No time to read the whole post? Here’s some quick tips.
- You’ve already heard – Banff is crowded during peak season. Go during September.
- If you want to visit Lake Louise or Lake Moraine use Fairview Limousine.
- If you are spending any time in Calgary stay at The Dorian.
The Full Story…
Getting There
Flight time from Los Angeles to Calgary is about 3 hours, then an hour and 30 minute drive to Banff. We flew Delta (WestJet) and rented a car. All of this went smoothly and was easy – check-in online the day before and complete the “paperwork” required by Canada as part of the check-in process. It will make entry into Canada that much faster. There is not much to see on the way until you get closer, but a stop in Canmore is a must. Visit the Old Engine Bridge and take a stroll along the Policeman Creek Boardwalk Trail.
Hotel
We stayed at Basecamp Banff. It was okay. Positives were the full kitchen, cleanliness, friendly staff, and location. Minuses were it sits above a parking garage so the check-in location and hallways were dingy, the one bedroom was small, and you have to pay for parking. Banff is not cheap so if you are fine with more of a crash pad than a hotel with a restaurant/bar and other amenities (their hot tubs were not open) then you will be fine with Basecamp.
We had a Friday morning flight so we spent Thursday afternoon in Calgary, and spent the night at The Dorian. Fantastic modern hotel, with a cool vibe.
Activities/Food
We spent a day at Lake Louise (40 minutes from Banff). They say parking is nearly impossible at the lake. We took a shuttle and got there at 8:30am, and there was plenty of parking; later in the day the lot was full. If you are going in peak season and do not want to risk not being able to park, I highly recommend Fairview Limousine. Is it more money than the Banff shuttle, yes, but well worth it. Easy to book (no playing the lottery game) and the drivers are very nice. We had booked a later shuttle on the way back to the car (you park at a nearby hotel, it is super easy and free) and we got done early and were able to jump on an earlier shuttle.
We hiked the Plain of Six Glaciers. It took us about 4 hours and 30 minutes roundtrip. We took plenty of breaks – I would say this hike is moderately challenging. It is mostly uphill on the way to the teahouse and is in full sun. We had the hike pretty much to ourselves until the way back and that is when we passed a lot of people on their way up. Start early, go slow and it is well worth it – you can stop at the teahouse (they had no food when we went so bring snacks) and then continue on to the glaciers. There was a pretty good-sized ice breakage while we were there which was so cool to hear and see!
We also enjoyed a ride on the Lake Louise Gondola. It is expensive (CAD$120 for two) but the views are amazing!
We did some canoeing on Emerald Lake (about an hour and 15 minutes from Banff). Another expensive activity (CAD$90 for two) but it was great. So peaceful and easy to navigate. On the way back from Banff we drove the Bow Parkway as far as we could (it was closed at Johnston Canyon).
Plenty of good places to eat in Banff and lots of vegan and vegetarian options. We enjoyed breakfast in our room (that we made) and enjoyed lunch and dinner at Farm & Fire (twice), Park Distillery, and Nourish Bistro. Of course Banff is touristy but spending time there was enjoyable as the scenery is beautiful and the vibe is good.
We spent four nights overall (three in Banff and one in Calgary) and for us it was enough time. There is more to do, of course, especially if you’re willing to drive and have more time – but visiting Banff is an unforgettable experience no matter how much time you have!