This is a town that doesn't require much of an introduction. Banff is well-known and well-liked across the world, frequently winning top accolades such as National Geographic Traveller's Best of the World and AFAR's Traveler's Choice. Banff is deserving of every honor since there are so many amazing things to do there. Banff, both a town and the name of a national park, is located in one of Canada's most beautiful provinces (Alberta). It's a stunning location, especially with the top Banff attractions.
The problem with Banff is that some people only consider visiting one or two sites here (Lake Louise).
Although these 'obvious' attractions are undoubtedly worth seeing, there are so many more great things to do in Banff that aren't as well-known.
History
After the discovery of natural hot springs (the Cave and Basin) on Sulphur Mountain, Banff National Park was established in 1885. Of course, this occurred after centuries of indigenous people living in this Rockies region. Initially, regulations barring indigenous peoples from National Parks were implemented, but these policies have now been repealed during the previous 50 years. Parks Canada is currently focusing on strengthening and improving connections with indigenous peoples and the environment.
Roads were created to facilitate tourists after the construction of the Banff Springs Hotel and the Chateau Lake Louise. The Trans-Canada Highway's construction was the final phase in the creation of this outstanding world-class tourism destination.
What is the location of Banff?
Banff is located on the Bow River, 127 kilometers west of Calgary, immediately off Highway 1. It is the highest settlement in Canada, with a height of 1,383 meters!
Banff is situated right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Mount Rundle, Sulphur Mountain, Mount Norquay, and Cascade Mountain surround the townsite. Hikes, natural hot springs, horseback riding, fantastic shopping, and, of course, delicious dining are all accessible from downtown Banff.
Places to visit Banff
1. spotting wildlife
Banff National Park is one of the most fascinating sites to visit because of the abundance of animal encounters. Caribou, deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and even bears may be seen just wandering about the townsite and on several popular routes. There are more than 50 kinds of animals that call Banff and the surrounding Rocky Mountains home, so you're sure to see one during your visit. We're always up for a good wildlife trip (and Banff offers a lot of them – check out these summer and winter excursions), and keep in mind that the ideal time to observe animals is early or late in the day.
2. Upper Hot Springs
This is now one of my favorite ways to spend a day in this town.
Visitors visiting Banff will discover the Upper Hot Springs a short distance from the gondolas. Visitors have been enjoying the natural mineral water springs, which are preserved at a constant temperature of 98-104 degrees Fahrenheit, for over a century (37-40 Celsius).
The views from up here are equally spectacular: guests soaking in the springs at a height of 5,200 feet (1,585 m) get a spectacular view of Mount Rundle and the remainder of the alpine valley. You may also feel secure knowing that admission is quite inexpensive (about $10-15 CAD).
3. National Historic Site of Cave and Basin
The hot springs system, which is part of Sulphur Mountain, is responsible for the construction of Canada's first national park, Banff National Park, which was founded in 1885 surrounding Cave and Basin National Historic Site. (Canadians have been enjoying their natural surroundings for a long time.)
A natural, warm mineral spring is located inside a cave, with an emerald-colored basin outside. A heritage building surrounds the location, which commemorates the national parks with interactive displays and exhibitions if you're interested.
4. Banff Springs Fairmont
A trip to Banff isn't complete unless you've seen the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, sometimes known as Canada's "Castle in the Rockies." There are several well-identified viewpoint sites across this UNESCO World Heritage Site that can help you acquire an Instagrammable photo. Even if you're not a guest, you may take a tour of this historic hotel, including this entertaining culinary tour that allows you (nearly) actually "Eat the Castle."
5. Lake Louise
Lake Louise (not to be mistaken with the name of a nearby tiny town) is one of the greatest and most well-known things to do in Banff.
A road around the lake called the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail goes around the northwest side of the lake before connecting up with other paths, further along, so check it out once you've had your fill of the lake's breathtaking vistas.