Exploring Banff National Park in 3 Days

Day 1: Outdoor Exploration

Banff Town, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tooloulou's

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tooloulou's, a popular spot in Banff Town known for its delicious and filling dishes.
Head to Tooloulou's in Banff Town.
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Lake Louise

Drive to the iconic Lake Louise, known for its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. Take a walk along the lake shore and soak in the breathtaking views.
Drive from Banff Town to Lake Louise (40-minute drive).
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Enjoy a scenic lunch at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise while taking in the majestic views of the lake and Victoria Glacier.
Head to Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for lunch.
$30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Moraine Lake

Visit the stunning Moraine Lake, known for its vibrant blue waters and Valley of the Ten Peaks. Take a leisurely walk around the lake or rent a canoe for a unique perspective.
Drive from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake (30-minute drive).
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Park Distillery

Head back to Banff Town and have dinner at Park Distillery, known for its delicious comfort food and craft cocktails made with their own spirits.
Drive back to Banff Town and head to Park Distillery for dinner.
$25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature Day

Banff Town, Canada

8:30AM

Breakfast at Melissa's Missteak

Start your day with a classic breakfast at Melissa's Missteak, a local favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast options.
Head to Melissa's Missteak in Banff Town.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike Johnston Canyon

Embark on a hike through Johnston Canyon, famous for its stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. Don't forget to visit the Lower and Upper Falls for the best views.
Drive from Banff Town to Johnston Canyon (30-minute drive).
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Johnston Canyon Resort

Refuel with a casual lunch at Johnston Canyon Resort, offering tasty burgers and sandwiches in a relaxed setting surrounded by nature.
Head to Johnston Canyon Resort for lunch.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Banff Gondola Ride

Take a scenic gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding Rockies. Explore the viewpoints and learn about the local wildlife and history.
Drive to Banff Gondola from Johnston Canyon Resort (15-minute drive).
$60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs

Unwind and relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs, where you can soak in the natural hot mineral waters while enjoying views of the mountains. A perfect way to end the day.
Drive to Banff Upper Hot Springs from Banff Gondola (5-minute drive).
$30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Scenic Drive

Banff Town, Canada

9:00AM

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee at Wild Flour Bakery, a cozy spot in Banff Town loved by locals and visitors alike.
Head to Wild Flour Bakery in Banff Town.
$8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Drive on Bow Valley Parkway

Take a scenic drive along the picturesque Bow Valley Parkway, known for its wildlife viewing opportunities and serene forests. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and possibly even bears!
Start driving on Bow Valley Parkway from Banff Town.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Picnic at Yoho National Park

Stop for a picnic lunch at Yoho National Park, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and cascading waterfalls.
Drive from Bow Valley Parkway to Yoho National Park (1-hour drive).
$15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Yoho National Park

Spend the afternoon exploring the beauty of Yoho National Park, known for its natural wonders including Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and the Natural Bridge. Take short hikes and soak in the pristine wilderness.
Drive around and explore the highlights of Yoho National Park.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Head back to Banff Town and enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at The Bison Restaurant, focusing on local and sustainable ingredients with a modern twist.
Drive back to Banff Town and have dinner at The Bison Restaurant.
$40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability