Who’s excited to visit one of the most iconic national parks in the world?

We’re taking you to Banff National Park, where crystal-clear lakes, towering mountains, and endless outdoor adventures await. Pack your hiking boots, and let’s dive into this breathtaking destination together!

The Iconic Lake Louise

Our Banff adventure started with a visit to the stunning Lake Louise, one of the park’s most famous attractions. The turquoise water, framed by snow-capped mountains and the Victoria Glacier, looks like something out of a dream. We hiked along the Lake Agnes Trail, a moderately easy route that leads to the charming Lake Agnes Tea House. Sitting down for a cup of tea with those alpine views felt like a well-deserved treat after our hike!

For those planning a visit, Lake Louise is accessible year-round, but the best time to see the vibrant colors is between June and September. There’s no entrance fee for Lake Louise itself, but if you’re visiting Banff National Park, you'll need to pay the park entrance fee: 10.50 CAD for adults. If you visit in the winter, Lake Louise transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for ice skating and snowshoeing.

Adventure at Johnston Canyon

One of the most exciting parts of our Banff journey was hiking through Johnston Canyon, a narrow gorge carved by Johnston Creek. As we walked along the trail, we were surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and rushing waterfalls. The highlight was reaching the Upper Falls, where the waterfall cascades down into a crystal-clear pool below. We even got to stand on a catwalk that’s built right into the canyon walls, giving us a thrilling close-up view of the rushing water.

The trail is relatively easy and family-friendly, making it a great adventure for all skill levels. Johnston Canyon is open year-round, and if you visit in winter, you can see the waterfalls frozen into incredible ice formations. The hike to the Upper Falls takes about 2.5 hours round-trip, and there’s no additional fee beyond the Banff National Park entrance fee.

Soaring to the Summit with the Banff Gondola

For a bird’s-eye view of the Rockies, we hopped on the Banff Gondola, which took us to the top of Sulphur Mountain. The gondola ride itself was a highlight, offering panoramic views of the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks. Once we reached the summit, we explored the boardwalk, which led us to the Cosmic Ray Station, a historic site that’s now a great viewpoint.

The Banff Gondola is open year-round, from 9 AM to 9 PM during peak season. Tickets are around 64 CAD for adults, and it’s an experience worth every penny! Make sure to bring a jacket – it can get chilly at the top, even in summer.

Practical Tips for Visiting Banff National Park

We learned a few important things that might make your Banff trip smoother. First, arrive early if you want to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon. Parking can fill up fast, so consider using the park’s shuttle services when available. Also, pack layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly, even during summer.

We recommend visiting between June and September for the best hiking conditions and warmer weather. The entrance fee for Banff National Park is 10.50 CAD per day for adults, or you can get a yearly pass for 72.25 CAD if you plan to explore more of Canada’s national parks.

What do you think, Lykkers? Ready to explore Banff’s breathtaking beauty with us? Let’s hike, climb, and discover this natural wonderland together!