Banff
- shimonsolof
- Feb 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 14, 2025
Day 1:
After an exhausting early morning flight, we drove from Calgary to Banff, stopping briefly along the highway to admire the stunning mountain views.
While waiting to check into our rooms, we visited the bus station in Banff to freshen up after the flight and change into clean clothes; the station boasted spacious, beautiful restrooms and changing rooms.
We then took a ride on the Banff Mountain Gondola. The ascent was delightful, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, and once at the top, we explored multiple viewing platforms and hiking trails.
Day 2:
Stop 1: We began the day at Lake Minnewanka and its scenic surroundings. After a short hike near the lake, we boarded a boat for a beautiful cruise, during which our guide shared fascinating insights into the area's history and wildlife. Following the cruise, we enjoyed another short hike in the area.
Stop 2: Next, we headed to Banff Central Park, a lovely spot featuring a charming gazebo, picnic areas, and a playground for the kids. After soaking in the park's beauty, we walked to Bow Falls, which is easily accessible from the park. The riverside walk was picturesque and led us to the falls—a small but powerful cascade.
Day 3:
Stop 1: We made our way to Johnston Falls, where parking fills up quickly, making it a challenge to find a spot. Once we did, we took the shorter, easier trail to the lower falls, culminating in a beautiful view from the viewing platform.
Stop 2: Our next destination was Lake Louise, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters set against towering mountains. We enjoyed walking the stroller-accessible trail around the lake, with several spots to get close to the water. However, the glacial meltwater was freezing! Canoe rentals were available near the starting point of the walk, by the Fairmont hotel and beach.
We then drove back home along Bow Valley Parkway, where we marveled at the stunning mountain and river views, especially at sunset. We found a lovely picnic area and savored a BBQ dinner.
Day 4:
Stop 1: We kicked off the day at Moraine Lake, another breathtaking site surrounded by majestic mountain peaks. We climbed the rocky hills near the parking lot for a better view of the lake, and then strolled along the gravel path beside it. Canoe rentals were available here as well.
Stop 2: Next, we visited the Lake Louise Gondola, conveniently located a short drive from the lake. At the peak, we were treated to spectacular views from the lookout point. There were also several hiking options and a wildlife center, where we learned about the local wildlife.
Day 5:
We set out early to make the most of our last day in the area. We drove along the Icefield Parkway, a scenic highway with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and glaciers. We stopped at numerous picturesque spots along the way to soak in the incredible scenery.
Upon reaching the Columbia Icefield, we took time to enjoy the views from the welcome center. We had brought hot cocoa packets and savored warm drinks on the porch while enjoying the brisk air.
Next, we visited the glass-bottom bridge, which extends over a cliff edge. The glass bottom provided a thrilling view of the ground below and a distant glimpse of the glacier, but it wasn't an experience we felt compelled to repeat.
We then boarded the glacier buses, equipped with massive tires, which took us onto the ice. After a thrilling descent onto the ice field, we stopped at the flattest part, where we disembarked to explore. It was our first experience walking on glacial ice, and we found it utterly fascinating!
On our return to the visitor center, our guide highlighted the glacier's original extent compared to its current position.
Before heading back to Banff, we stopped at Peyto Lake, another stunning alpine lake just off the road.
After enjoying Central Park a bit longer, we made our way toward Calgary to catch our flight back home.
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