Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable summer adventure. From exploring mountain lakes to hiking trails, Banff offers a diverse range of activities that will keep you busy and awestruck.
While Banff is undoubtedly a top summer destination, some of its popular spots can become overcrowded. But don’t fret! There are plenty of opportunities to leave the crowds behind.
This article will provide you with a comprehensive list of the must-see Banff summer activities, ensuring you have an unforgettable summer vacation in Banff.
Best Things to Do in Banff in Summer
Banff National Park attracts visitors in the summer months primarily for its picturesque mountain lakes, abundant wildlife, and scenic mountains. The park boasts stunning natural beauty and provides plenty of opportunities for visitors to experience all the park has to offer during their stay. With longer daylight hours in the summer, there’s even more time in the day for visitors to enjoy the stunning beauty of the park and its attractions before the sun sets.
Here are the top things to do in Banff in the summer:
Explore Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is a must-see on any Banff Summer itinerary, despite its popularity. The hike is accessible to all and features elevated boardwalks that add excitement to exploring the canyon.
To avoid crowds, we suggest visiting on a weekday and arriving early, although the long summer days offer more flexibility to visit Johnston Canyon later in the day as well.
Moraine Lake
When visiting Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is a must-see destination. And it is well worth the effort! Many people go early in hopes of catching the sunrise. If getting up early isn’t your cup of tea, know that seeing the lake later in the day is equally spectacular when the turquoise hue of the lake is at its most vibrant.
If you can’t get enough of the mountain landscape, there are plenty of Moraine Lake hikes to enjoy in the area.
Moraine Lake Road is closed to private vehicles in 2023. Book a tour or make a reservation for the Parks Canada Shuttle in advance.
Lake Louise
When visiting Banff National Park in the summer, it is essential to stop at the famous Lake Louise. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the Lake Louise shoreline or rent a canoe for a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains.
For a more adventurous experience, visitors can opt for one of the Lake Louise hikes. The Plain of Six Glaciers hike and the Lake Agnes hike each takes visitors to a teahouse nestled in the mountains. Those looking for a challenge can add hiking the Big Beehive to their itinerary.
Regardless of the activity, Lake Louise offers a picturesque setting for any summer activity.
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Unlike other lakes where no motorized watercraft are allowed, Lake Minnewanka offers a motorized boating experience with the Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise.
You’ll be fascinated by the area’s history, including stories of the ghost town beneath the lake and the stunning mountain views from the boat.
You can spend an entire day at Lake Minnewanka by adding on a hike and a picnic.
On your way to or from Lake Minnewanka, be sure to stop at nearby Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake as well.
Wildlife Spotting
Wildlife watching is a popular summer activity in Banff National Park, where you have a chance to see grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and more.
You can opt for guided tours or explore the park on your own to spot wildlife. Just set yourself up for success by getting out in the early mornings and at dusk.
Stroll Through the Banff Townsite
A stroll through downtown Banff is an enjoyable summer activity, no matter the time of day. Banff Avenue offers a plethora of options, from shopping and coffee shops to patios with stunning mountain views.
If you’re up for a longer walk, you can follow the paved pathway to witness some of the town’s most popular sights like Bow Falls, the Fairmont Banff Springs (“Castle in the Rockies”), or the Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
Take a Scenic Drive Around Banff National Park
To truly experience the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park, taking a scenic drive is a must-do activity.
The top scenic drives in Banff National Park include the Icefields Parkway, Bow Valley Parkway, and Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive. Each of these scenic drives in Banff has plenty of places to stop along the way, so give yourself enough time to stop at your leisure.
Get Out on a Mountain Lake
In Banff National Park, summer offers a great opportunity for water sports enthusiasts to explore the stunning mountain lakes by kayak or stand-up paddle board.
Each lake will offer a different experience, from a tranquil paddle to more challenging paddles. Choose based on your skill and comfort level.
Banff National Park has strict rules on watercraft to make sure you aren’t spreading aquatic invasive species. Always check the rules before entering the water.
Hiking in Banff in the Summer
Hiking in Banff National Park is one of the top summer activities. There’s no shortage of trails for all hiking abilities.
Don’t plan on seeing it all while you are in Banff. Rather, choose the best Banff hikes based on your abilities. You’re likely going to want to come back to tackle even more hikes on future summer vacations!
If you are new to hiking, start with easy hikes like Johnston Canyon, Consolation Lakes at Moraine Lake, or Johnson Lake.
Soar to New Heights on Banff Gondola Ride
Banff boasts four gondolas and chairlifts, each offering a unique experience. Each of the Banff gondolas and chairlifts brings visitors to impressive viewpoints with the most spectacular mountain scenery.
You can also plan your visit around eating at one of the amazing restaurants at the top of each gondola.
Most also offer hiking opportunities, so plan your day accordingly to fit it all in!
Float the Bow River in Banff
Although you can’t find whitewater rafting in Banff National Park itself, there are some excellent options available nearby on the Kicking Horse River, on the Bow River’s Horseshoe Canyon, or the Kananaskis River in Kananaskis.
If you want to stick to Banff, you can book an easy float down the Bow River within Banff. A scenic float down the Bow River would be the ideal way to spend a warm summer day!
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Immersing yourself in one of Banff National Park’s natural hot springs is an essential experience you won’t want to miss. After a long day of exploring or hiking, a soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs is the perfect way to relax and recharge. With picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, these hot springs provide an idyllic way to end your day in the great outdoors.
Cycling in Banff National Park
Cycling is a fantastic way to enjoy Banff National Park during the summer months. The Legacy Trail offers a scenic route between Banff and Canmore that is perfect for cycling enthusiasts. Another enjoyable cycling experience is available on the Bow Valley Parkway, but it will be best when a section of the Bow Valley Parkway is closed to private vehicles (May 1 to June 25, and again from September 1 to 30 as part of a 3-year pilot).
See Banff National Park on Horseback
Experience the quintessential summer activity in Banff National Park by going on a horseback ride. You have the option to take a 1 to 2-hour ride or even a multi-day trip with Banff Trail Riders. There are also options for wagon or carriage rides in Banff.
Options for horseback riding in Lake Louise include shorter rides like the one up to Lake Agnes or multi-day tours into the backcountry.
Spend a Day in Canmore
Canmore, a picturesque mountain town located just east of Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, offers a refreshing break from the busier town of Banff. With a plethora of hiking opportunities, breathtaking walking trails, and excellent dining options, Canmore is definitely worth a visit.
Where to Stay in Banff in Summer
Banff has plenty of options for places to stay that will suit any style or budget. For a luxury experience, stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
If you are visiting Banff with kids or a group, the apartment-style accommodations at the Hidden Ridge Resort are a great place to stay.
For those traveling to Banff on a budget, the Dorothy Motel is farther away from downtown but is the best affordable place to stay in Banff.
Tips for Visiting Banff in the Summer
- Pack layers – The weather can change quickly in the mountains, plus it can be quite chilly at higher elevations. It’s worth it to pack a sweater, a light jacket, and a rain jacket, even if the weather forecast looks good.
- Bring water – Regardless of your activity, always make sure you have plenty of water with you. Especially while hiking on a warm summer day! Make sure you bring more water than you think you’ll need.
- Don’t feed the animals – It’s important that the animals stay wild. For the animals’ safety and yours, never approach or feed any animal in the park.
- Carry bear spray – You can easily purchase bear spray in town, and make sure you have it easily accessible on hikes. You never know when a bear may appear, even on popular hiking trails. It’s important to make lots of noise, carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Have backup plan – Some trails or attractions may be crowded. You should always have a backup plan for nearby attractions in case the parking lot is full, and you can’t park in the parking lot.
