Banff National Park
Canada's oldest national park, an awe-inspiring expanse of pristine Rocky Mountain wilderness.
Overview
Banff National Park was Canada's first and the world's third national park, covering 6,641 square kilometres in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta. Dreamlike lakes including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, glaciers, hot springs, canyons and wildlife make it one of the most beautiful protected areas on earth. Suspended glacial particles give the lakes an extraordinary turquoise colour that is especially striking in sunlight.
History
The Banff area took its name from natural hot springs discovered by chance in 1883 by workers building the Canadian Pacific Railway. In 1885 the Canadian government set aside 24 square kilometres as a reserve, which gradually grew into today's national park. The town of Banff retains its historic character and serves as the base for exploring the park.
Highlights
- •Moraine Lake, one of the most photographed lakes in the world
- •Lakeside walks at Lake Louise with close views of the glacier
- •The Upper Town and hot springs of Banff
- •Wildlife watching: elk, bears and bighorn sheep are common
Practical tips
- •Roads are fully open and busiest in summer, from June to September
- •Moraine Lake usually thaws and opens in late May
- •Winter brings curling, skiing and other snow sports
- •A national park pass is required to enter
Practical information
- Best time
- June to September
- Tickets
- National park day pass CAD 10.50 per person
- Opening hours
- Open year-round
- Local food
- Alberta beef, maple salmon and bison burgers
- Getting around
- Self-drive or the Banff town bus; Lake Louise and Moraine Lake need a shuttle booked in peak season
- Visa
- A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required and biometrics must be provided. Processing can take a while, so apply two to three months ahead.
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