Categories > Guides and Tips

Top 10 Things to Do in Banff During the Summer
- Explore the wonders of Lake Minnewanka
- Try stand-up paddleboarding by Two Jack Lake
- Visit downtown Banff
- Experience Gondola Sunshine
- Hike up Mount Norquay
- Check out Healy Pass' amazing trail
- Try out the Castle Food Tour
- View the scenery at Nature Trail
- Dive into the Vermillion Lakes' pristine waters (canoe too)
- Uncover the mysteries of the ghost town at Bankhead
Banff in the summer is an experience like no other. It’s a place where the majestic beauty of nature meets a lively, welcoming town atmosphere.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone who just loves soaking in scenic views, Banff has something special for everyone during the summer months.
So, get ready to explore the best of Banff with us! We’ll guide you through the must-see attractions and hidden gems of this stunning location. Let’s dive in!
Explore the wonders of Lake Minnewanka
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: N/A
If you’re planning a summer adventure in Banff National Park, Lake Minnewanka is a must-visit spot.
For those who love hiking, the C-Level Cirque trail offers stunning views with minimal effort. For a more challenging hike, try the Aylmer Lookout hike for breathtaking panoramas.
Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the Minnewanka Loop. Rent an e-bike for a scenic ride, but remember to stay safe as this road is shared with motor vehicles. Early weekday mornings are the best time for a peaceful ride.
Pro Tip:
Use the Roam Transit bus from Banff High School to Lake Minnewanka to avoid parking hassles. This way, you can dive straight into the beauty and excitement of Banff without any worries.
Try stand-up paddleboarding by Two Jack Lake
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Lake Minnewanka, you’ll find the serene and picturesque Two Jack Lake. a photographer’s paradise with its stunning views of Mount Rundle.
Best of all, it’s nestled in the Canadian Rockies and a mere five-minute drive from downtown Banff!
At Two Jack Lake, you’ll find that stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is more than just a sport; it’s a way to peacefully engage with the tranquility of nature. New to the sport? The lake’s sheltered waters make it an ideal location for both beginners and seasoned paddleboarders!
Pro Tip:
For a serene and picturesque experience, visit Two Jack Lake in Alberta. This hidden gem is ideal for couples seeking tranquility amidst nature.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop create a perfect setting for romantic picnics, peaceful canoe rides, and unforgettable sunrise or sunset views.
Visit downtown Banff
Address: 206 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1C7, Canada
Website: http://banffcommercialleasing.com/town-centre-mall/
Contact Details: +14037622642
Opening Hours: 24/7
Banff Avenue awaits with its vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, and quirky shops. Step out of your hotel and immerse yourself in this lively street, buzzing with energy and local flavors—all within walking distance!
In the heart of Downtown Banff, every corner is an invitation for adventure. From unique boutiques to cozy breweries, this downtown scene is a playground for those who love to explore on foot, with a cappuccino in hand.
If you love shopping and art, Banff Avenue is a haven. It’s dotted with an eclectic mix of boutique shops and art galleries. Whether you’re into local crafts, high-end fashion, or artistic creations that capture the spirit of the Rockies, there’s something for everyone!
Pro Tip:
Explore the avenue during the quieter shoulder seasons, particularly April to May or September to November. During these months, there are fewer crowds, more affordable accommodation, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find during peak seasons.
Experience Gondola Sunshine
Address: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B2, Canada
Website: https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/banff-gondola/
Contact Details: +18667561904
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM to 10 PM
Rates:
- Adults (18-64): $60 CAD
- Seniors (65+): $49 CAD
- Youth (13-17): $25 CAD
- Child (6-12): $13 CAD
- Children under 5: Free
- Family (2 adults and 2 kids): $140 CAD
Exploring Banff’s gondolas is a journey full of breathtaking views and unique experiences.
Begin your adventure at Banff Gondola, perched at the end of Mountain Avenue, a stone’s throw from downtown Banff and offers spectacular 360-degree panoramas of the Canadian Rockies.
This eight-minute ride whisks you up Sulphur Mountain, where adventures await at the top, including hiking trails and interactive exhibits at the Above Banff Interpretive Centre.
Over at Lake Louise, the gondola provides stunning views over the lake and Victoria Glacier. It’s a less crowded alternative to the Banff Gondola, perfect for a peaceful experience.
Also, the Whitehorn Bistro at the top serves up delightful local cuisine with one of Banff’s best views.
Pro Tip:
It’s essential to stay bear-safe while enjoying the trails at the top.
Hike up Mount Norquay
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada
Website: https://banffnorquay.com/
Contact Details: +14037624421
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM
Let’s turn the spotlight on Banff’s hidden star, the Mt. Norquay chairlift. This gem, often missed by many, is your gateway to an extraordinary yet wallet-friendly mountain escapade.
Away from the crowded trails and bustling hotspots, this chairlift offers an intimate embrace with Banff’s natural grandeur. Reaching up to 7,000 feet, the chairlift unfolds a canvas of awe-inspiring views.
The sight of Mount Rundle receding in the background is a photographer’s dream, while the miniature spectacle of Banff town below adds a quaint charm to the expansive mountain vistas.
Pro Tip:
For an unforgettable ride, aim for a clear day when the skies are generous with their clarity. This is when the chairlift experience transforms from a mere sightseeing trip to a panoramic feast, offering views that linger in your memory long after you’ve descended.
Check out Healy Pass’ amazing trail
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 2C0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Healy Pass Trail is your ticket to stunning mountain vistas and serene alpine meadows. This hidden gem, starting at Sunshine Ski Resort, is a perfect escape from the crowds, offering a moderate hike with a rewarding experience.
The trail stretches about 19.5 km (round trip) and boasts a gradual elevation gain of 700 meters, making it an accessible adventure for many.
You’ll meander through enchanting forests, cross scenic bridges, and eventually find yourself in the midst of vibrant wildflowers or golden larches, depending on the season.
The end of September is a sweet spot for catching those bright yellow tamaracks, so aim for a fall visit if you can.
Pro Tip:
Always carry a Park Pass, and don’t forget essentials like water, snacks, and a rain shell—the weather can be quite unpredictable. Also, it’s crucial to be bear-aware, as the meadow areas are frequented by grizzlies.
Try out the Castle Food Tour
Address: AB-1A, Banff, AB T1L 1A9, Canada
Website: http://www.johnstoncanyon.com/
Contact Details: +14037622971
Rates: C$206 per adult
If you’re seeking a unique indoor adventure that combines history and culinary delights, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel’s food tour is an absolute must-try.
Nestled in the stunning Banff National Park, this tour offers a chance to indulge in luxurious “fork and knife” tastings and beverage pairings at four different locations within the hotel, including the elegant Vermillion Room and the prestigious 1888 Chop House.
During this 3-hour journey, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share fascinating insights about the hotel’s rich history, art, and architecture.
This tour is not just about tantalizing your taste buds; it’s also an immersive experience into the heritage of one of Banff’s most iconic landmarks. While quite pricey, this small-group tour ensures a personalized experience as you explore the grandeur of the “Castle in the Rockies.”
Pro Tip:
As you explore the historic castle, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of exquisite dishes and local specialties, each telling a story of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
View the scenery at Nature Trail
Address: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2, Canada
Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/banff
Contact Details: +14037621550
Opening Hours: 24/7
If you’re venturing to Banff and have a soft spot for both nature and art, the Art in Nature Trail is a delightful blend of these passions.
This unique outdoor exhibition, unfurling along the banks of the Bow River, invites you to explore over 65 captivating art displays by talented Bow Valley artists. These creations, embracing a diversity of mediums, blend seamlessly with the stunning natural backdrop.
Starting from the Banff Park Museum, your journey will take you along the scenic Bow River Trail. As you cross the charming Nancy Pauw Bridge and meander towards Bow Falls, you’ll be treated to a free, self-guided tour of art installations that are as inspiring as they are diverse.
Pro Tip:
One of the highlighted artworks is “Arctic Monarch,” a striking piece by Canadian artist Brandy Saturley. This artwork, painted on a wood cookie, depicts a polar bear’s quest for home against the backdrop of the Northern Lights and the Ursa Major constellation.
Dive into the Vermillion Lakes’ pristine waters (canoe too)
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 2C0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Vermilion Lakes in Banff National Park is a fantastic spot for canoeing, especially for beginners. It’s conveniently close to the town of Banff and nestled right under the stunning Mount Rundle.
The lake’s shallow waters provide a calm and safe environment, perfect for those just starting out with canoeing.
While paddling, keep an eye out for local wildlife like ducks, geese, and perhaps even a beaver! For canoe rentals, Banff Canoe Club is a great place to start. They offer a range of options and are situated ideally for launching into a day of water exploration.
Pro Tip:
Aim for an early morning or late evening paddle. These times offer the calmest waters and the best opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Uncover the mysteries of the ghost town at Bankhead
Address: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L, Canada, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Discover the hidden gem of Bankhead in Banff National Park, where history whispers from the remnants of a once-thriving coal mining town.
Nestled under Cascade Mountain, this early 20th-century settlement was fueled by the high-quality anthracite coal reserves, vital for the Canadian Pacific Railway’s steam engines.
Today, a fascinating interpretive trail weaves through the Lower Bankhead area, revealing stories of the past with signage marking significant sites.
Imagine the echoes of a bustling community as you stroll among the remnants of buildings, some of which were relocated to Banff and Canmore after the town’s closure in 1926. It’s an intriguing blend of nature and history, perfect for families exploring Banff’s rich heritage.
Pro Tip:
For an enriching visit to Bankhead, consider joining a guided tour provided by local historians or park interpreters. These tours often reveal lesser-known stories and details, enriching your understanding of the site’s history.
Also, plan your visit during early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid crowds and enhance your experience of the area’s peaceful, historical ambiance.