Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 65 travelers
Banff 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Banff 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Friday, September 8, 2023: Arrival in Banff

Start your trip by arriving in Banff, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Spend the morning exploring Banff Avenue, the main street filled with shops, restaurants, and picturesque mountain views. In the afternoon, visit the Banff Park Museum, a National Historic Site showcasing the region's wildlife and natural history. For the evening, enjoy a relaxing soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.

  • Banff Avenue: Free, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Banff Park Museum: $10 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 9, 2023: Lake Louise

Head to Lake Louise in the morning, one of the most iconic destinations in Banff National Park. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake's turquoise waters and marvel at the surrounding snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, embark on a family-friendly hike to Lake Agnes Tea House, where you can enjoy a delicious snack while taking in the breathtaking views. End the day with a visit to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a grand hotel offering stunning panoramic views.

  • Lake Louise: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Lake Agnes Tea House Hike: Free, Time Spent: 4-5 hours (round trip)
  • Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Free to visit, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 10, 2023: Johnston Canyon

Explore the majestic Johnston Canyon in the morning. Follow the well-maintained trail along the canyon and witness the stunning waterfalls along the way. For a unique experience, consider booking a guided tour to explore the lower and upper falls. In the afternoon, visit the Banff Gondola, which offers panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding mountains. End the day with a visit to the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, showcasing the art and history of the region.

  • Johnston Canyon: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Banff Gondola: $64 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Whyte Museum: $12 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, September 11, 2023: Moraine Lake

Discover the stunning beauty of Moraine Lake in the morning. Take a leisurely walk around the lake and admire the vibrant blue-green waters surrounded by towering mountain peaks. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Valley of the Ten Peaks and enjoy a picnic amidst the breathtaking scenery. For the evening, consider joining a guided wildlife tour to spot local wildlife, such as elk, bears, and bighorn sheep.

  • Moraine Lake: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Valley of the Ten Peaks: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Wildlife Tour: $100 per adult, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 12, 2023: Vermilion Lakes

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Vermilion Lakes. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and reflections in the calm waters. In the afternoon, explore the Banff National Park Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where you can learn about the area's natural hot springs and history. For the evening, consider a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway and keep an eye out for wildlife.

  • Vermilion Lakes: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Cave and Basin National Historic Site: $4.90 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bow Valley Parkway: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 13, 2023: Banff National Park Scenic Drive

Embark on a scenic drive through Banff National Park in the morning. Explore the stunning landscapes along the Icefields Parkway, stopping at viewpoints such as Peyto Lake and Bow Lake. In the afternoon, visit the Columbia Icefield, where you can take a guided tour onto the Athabasca Glacier. End the day with a visit to the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform offering breathtaking views.

  • Icefields Parkway: Free, Time Spent: Full day
  • Peyto Lake Viewpoint: Free, Time Spent: 30 minutes
  • Athabasca Glacier Tour: $85 per adult, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Glacier Skywalk: $32 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 14, 2023: Banff Hot Springs and Farewell

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Banff Upper Hot Springs in the morning, where you can relax and soak in the mineral-rich waters one last time. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Bow River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. In the afternoon, explore the Banff Park Museum to learn more about the region's natural history. Bid farewell to Banff and cherish the memories created during your family-friendly adventure.

  • Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Bow River Walk: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Banff Park Museum: $10 per adult, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Banff, don't miss the hidden gem of Sunshine Meadows. Take a scenic gondola ride to reach the meadows, where you can enjoy stunning alpine scenery and hiking trails suitable for the whole family. Another local favorite is the Banff Avenue Market, where you can find local produce, delicious food, and unique souvenirs. These off the beaten path attractions provide a more intimate experience of Banff's natural beauty and local culture.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version