8-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Banff, Alberta

Day 1: Arrive in Banff

Banff, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with delicious pastries and fresh coffee at this local favorite, perfect for fueling up before your adventures.
Take a stroll to the bakery from your hotel in Banff.
CAD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Banff National Park Visitor Centre

Begin your trip by stopping at the visitor center to gather maps, recommendations, and learn about park regulations.
It's a short 5-minute walk from the bakery.
CAD0, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Tunnel Mountain Trail

Embark on a family-friendly hike up this trail for stunning views of Banff and Bow Valley, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Drive to the Tunnel Mountain parking lot, approximately 5 minutes from the visitor center.
CAD0, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Old Spaghetti Factory

Enjoy a hearty Italian meal as a family at this cozy, historic venue where kids are sure to find something they like.
Return to Banff’s downtown, a 10-minute drive.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Banff Gondola

After lunch, take a ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.
It’s a 10-minute drive from the restaurant to the gondola base.
CAD200, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs

Soak in the soothing thermal waters while admiring the surrounding mountain scenery; a relaxing end to your first day.
A quick 5-minute drive from the gondola.
CAD40, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Maple Leaf

Savor Canadian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Drive back to downtown Banff, about 10 minutes.
CAD120, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Evening Stroll on Banff Avenue

Take a leisurely walk along the charming streets of Banff, perhaps stopping in a shop for souvenirs.
It's a walking distance from your dinner spot.
CAD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Lake Louise Excursion

Lake Louise, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast at your hotel to start your day strong before heading out to Lake Louise.
Have breakfast at the hotel restaurant.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Lake Louise

Take a scenic 45-minute drive to Lake Louise, where you’ll be greeted by stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountains.
Follow AB-1 W for the quickest route.
CAD0, 45 minutes

10:15 AM

Visit Lake Louise

Enjoy exploring the lake area, rent a canoe, or take a stroll along the scenic shoreline for family photos.
Parking is available at the lake area.
CAD50 (for canoe rental), 2.5 hours

12:45 PM

Lunch at Lakeview Lounge

Feast on lunch while appreciating the breathtaking views from this lakeside dining option.
It's an easy walk from the lake area.
CAD100, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House

Take a scenic hike to the historic Tea House, where you can grab a light snack and enjoy more stunning views.
Head on the marked trail from Lake Louise.
CAD20 (for snacks), 2 hours (one way)

4:00 PM

Return Hike from Lake Agnes

Hike back to Lake Louise, taking in the beauty of the surroundings and making great family memories.
Follow the same trail back.
CAD0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at the Post Hotel

Savor a family-style dinner at this beautiful hotel, known for its fantastic food and warm ambiance.
Drive to Post Hotel within Lake Louise area.
CAD150, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Evening Stroll in Lake Louise

Enjoy the evening by taking a stroll along the lake, watching the sunlight change on the water.
Walk from the hotel to the lake area.
CAD0, 1 hour
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Day 3: Discover Yoho National Park

Field, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast before heading to explore Yoho National Park.
Breakfast in Lake Louise area.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Yoho National Park

Embark on a 30-minute drive to Yoho National Park to discover its breathtaking sights.
Follow the signs to Yoho National Park.
CAD0, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Visit Emerald Lake

Begin your adventure at Emerald Lake, one of Yoho's most beautiful spots, perfect for family photos.
Follow the signs to Emerald Lake, with parking available on site.
CAD10 (parking fee), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Hiking around Emerald Lake

Take an easy hike around the lake to appreciate the stunning views and wildlife that call this park home.
Follow the walking trail around the lake.
CAD0, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Emerald Lake Lodge

Dine at the lodge overlooking the lake, providing a perfect spot to relax after your hike.
Enjoy a short stroll to the lodge from the trail.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Takakkaw Falls

Drive to Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada's highest waterfalls, and marvel at the power of nature.
Return to the parking area, then drive approximately 15 minutes.
CAD5 (parking fee), 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Iceline Trail

For a more adventurous experience, take a hike on the Iceline Trail which offers spectacular views; however, choose a shorter route if traveling with younger children.
Access the trail from Takakkaw Falls parking area.
CAD0, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Siding Café

Enjoy a casual meal at this cafe after a day filled with exploration in Yoho National Park.
Drive back to Field village, about 30 minutes.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Return to Lake Louise

Drive back to Lake Louise for the night and rest up for tomorrow.
It’s a 30-minute drive.
CAD0, 30 minutes
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Day 4: Family Fun in Kananaskis

Kananaskis Country, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a fun-filled day.
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Kananaskis Country

Head towards Kananaskis Country, about a 1-hour drive east of Banff, known for its breathtaking scenery and family-friendly activities.
Take Highway 1 to Kananaskis.
CAD0, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

Arrive at the lodge and explore the nature trails around the area, where kids can spot wildlife.
The lodge is easily accessible from the highway.
CAD0, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Family Mountain Biking

Enjoy some family mountain biking along the scenic trails available for all skill levels in Kananaskis.
Biking rentals can be found at the lodge.
CAD80 (for rentals), 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Café at Kananaskis

Indulge in a mountain cuisine-style lunch at this lodge café, perfectly suited for hungry adventurers.
Restaurant is a few steps away from biking.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Kananaskis Provincial Park

Explore this beautiful provincial park known for its vast landscapes and numerous family-friendly trails.
Drive to the park entrance from the lodge, a short 20-minute drive.
CAD10 (park entry fee), 2 hours

4:30 PM

Scenic Lookout Point

Stop at one of the gorgeous lookout points in Kananaskis for family photos and a moment of peace.
Follow signs within the park.
CAD0, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Kananaskis Village

Savor the local cuisine and chat about the fun experiences of the day at this family-friendly eatery.
Drive back to Kananaskis Village.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Return to Banff

Drive back to Banff for the evening, ready to recharge for the next day's journey.
It's about a 1-hour drive back.
CAD0, 1 hour
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Day 5: Explore Canmore

Canmore, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel to energize yourself for exploring Canmore.
Breakfast included at your accommodation.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Canmore

Take a short drive to Canmore, a charming town just 20 minutes from Banff.
Follow Highway 1A to Canmore.
CAD0, 20 minutes

9:30 AM

Visit Canmore Nordic Centre

Explore the Nordic Centre where you can hike on well-marked trails, or rent bikes or cross-country skis depending on the season.
Head to Canmore Nordic Centre from downtown.
CAD40 (for rentals), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Scenic Hike in Canmore

Enjoy a family hike along the beautiful trails of Canmore, taking in the fresh air and stunning views.
Choose a trail near the Nordic Centre.
CAD0, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company

Satisfy your family with a hearty lunch at this local brewery, noted for its great food and fresh craft beers.
A short drive from the hiking area to the brewery.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Canmore's Main Street

Stroll along Canmore's picturesque Main Street filled with local shops, boutiques, and art galleries.
It's a walkable distance from the restaurant.
CAD0, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Common

End your day with a relaxed dinner at this family-friendly eatery known for its delicious hearty fare.
Just a short drive away from Main Street.
CAD120, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Drive back to Banff

Return to Banff for a restful night after a delightful day in Canmore.
It's a 20-minute drive back.
CAD0, 20 minutes
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Day 6: Adventure in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with breakfast to prepare for a scenic drive to Jasper National Park.
Enjoy the morning meal at your hotel.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Jasper National Park

Take a scenic route along the Icefields Parkway, about a 3-hour drive filled with picturesque views.
Follow the Highway 1 and AB-16 signs to Jasper.
CAD0, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Arrive in Jasper and Lunch at The Jasper Brewing Company

Upon arrival, stop for lunch at this family-friendly brewing company offering casual dining.
Head downtown Jasper, easy to find off the main street.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Maligne Lake

Explore the stunning Maligne Lake, known for its vibrant colors and impressive scenery; consider a boat tour for a unique perspective.
Drive approximately 45 minutes to Maligne Lake.
CAD70 (for boat tour), 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Hike around Maligne Canyon

Take a short hike along the beautiful pathways of Maligne Canyon, observing the stunning waterfall and unique geological features.
Return to the parking lot first before heading out to the canyon.
CAD0, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Wildlife Spotting

Watch for wildlife along the way; Jasper is known for its diverse fauna, including elk, deer, and bears.
Drive slowly on park roads for the best chance to spot animals.
CAD0, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Bear's Paw Bakery

Savor a casual yet delicious dinner at this cozy eatery known for its baked goods and hearty meals.
Head back towards downtown Jasper for dining.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Explore Jasper Townsite

Take some time to shop for souvenirs or enjoy dessert while exploring the charming town of Jasper.
It's walking distance from the bakery.
CAD0, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Drive back to Banff

After a fulfilling day, start the drive back to Banff, reflecting on the stunning sights you witnessed.
It's about a 3-hour drive back.
CAD0, 3 hours
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Day 7: Scenic Bow Valley Parkway

Bow Valley Parkway, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a plentiful breakfast at your hotel to start the day right.
Breakfast is included at your accommodation.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive along Bow Valley Parkway

Experience the stunning views along this scenic highway that connects Banff and Lake Louise, with many stops for photos.
Start your drive directly from Banff.
CAD0, 3 hours (with stops)

12:00 PM

Stop at Johnston Canyon

Hike in Johnston Canyon to explore its beautiful waterfalls and unique canyon formations; it’s an easy hike for families.
Parking is available at Johnston Canyon.
CAD10 (parking fee), 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at the Canyon Restaurant

Have lunch at this charming restaurant that boasts beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Located conveniently along the trail.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Lake Minnewanka

Explore Lake Minnewanka, where you can hike, picnicking, or take a boat cruise on the scenic lake.
A short drive from Johnston Canyon.
CAD60 (for boat tour), 2 hours

5:30 PM

Explore Banff’s Town

Enjoy some time in the afternoon exploring the shops and markets of Banff for last-minute souvenirs.
Return to Banff's downtown area.
CAD0, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Bison Restaurant

Finish your day with a meal at Bison Restaurant, offering a taste of local cuisine in a comfortable setting.
Short drive from downtown.
CAD120, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Evening at Banff Springs

Take a stroll around the iconic Banff Springs Hotel for breathtaking views and sumptuous architecture.
It's just a few minutes drive or a short walk.
CAD0, 1 hour
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Day 8: Relax and Reflect

Banff, Canada

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, reminiscing about the adventures of the past week.
Breakfast served at your hotel.
CAD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Whyte Museum

Explore local art and history at the Whyte Museum, which engages families through various exhibits.
A short walk from your hotel.
CAD20 (for family admission), 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Explore Banff Park Museum

Visit this museum to learn about the natural history of the Rockies, complete with engaging displays for the kids.
Follow the path from the Whyte Museum.
CAD20 (for family admission), 1 hour

11:30 AM

Stroll Through Banff Avenue

Enjoy a final stroll through Banff Avenue, soaking in the beautiful surroundings one last time.
Short walk from the museum.
CAD0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Tooloulou's

Savor a delightful lunch at Tooloulou's, an inviting local spot known for its diverse menu and cozy vibes.
Just a short walk from your stroll area.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Farewell Drive to Calgary

Begin your journey back to Calgary as you reflect on the family memories created in Banff.
Drive towards AB-1 E for the best route.
CAD0, 1.5 hours
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