Banff is an exciting and scenic destination in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Canada. The biggest draw to the area is the incredible and dramatic Canadian Rocky Mountain Range. Expect to enjoy some of the world’s most incredible scenery while visiting Banff. Along with the amazing scenery, a Canadian Rockies vacation is the perfect place to try some new outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, canoeing, rafting and biking. Or take advantage of the natural surroundings and take in some wildlife viewing. Visitors planning a upcoming trip to should be prepared to enjoy the great outdoors and spot local wildlife in Banff National Park.
Outdoor Recreation in Banff: One of the most popular ways that visitors spend their time while enjoying vacations in Banff is by hiking in the great outdoors. One of the top hikes is the relatively easy climb to the top of Sulphur Mountain. From the peak you can view much of Banff and the surrounding areas. In the summer months visitors can also enjoy fun activities like caving through the undeveloped Rat’s Nest Cave or even canoeing and rafting on the Bow River. In the winter the area is very popular with travelers who use their Canadian Rockies vacations as a chance to go snowboarding, skiing or snowshoeing. With three great mountains to choose from, it is a skier or boarders paradise.
Wildlife in the Park: The abundance of wildlife can be found in the Banff National Park. Travelers who spend at least a few hours in the park will almost certainly find themselves eye to eye with smaller mammals like the Canadian beaver, Colombian Ground Squirrel, hoary marmot, porcupines and the Rocky Mountain weasel. Larger animals may be harder to spot but are abundant throughout the park. These include the Rocky Mountain Cougar, elk, deer, moose and mountain goats. Keep in mind that many of these animals will be in hibernation through much of the fall and winter. Visitors should seek out a Banff Lake Louise Tourism Information Booth for wildlife information and hibernating schedules for each animal.
Planning Vacations in Banff: Summer season is definitely considered high season in Banff and Lake Louise, so book your trip early. Although the town of Banff might be the top pick for some, if the natural scenic beauty and wildlife of Banff is your priority, look for hotels or other accommodation that is located away from Banff Avenue and closer to the more undeveloped areas such as Tunnel Mountain or the Rimrock Hotel. Also consider staying in Lake Louise. The view of the lake is breathtaking, and there is plenty of hiking in the area. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers daily guided hiking tours starting from right outside their front doors. Another option to consider would be the Post Hotel, located on the edge of the river, but still in easy walking distance to the Fairmont and the beautiful Lake Louise. For more information, or for help planning your holiday, contact Enjoy Banff to learn a little more about the right hotel for each traveler.
*Photo credit Banff Lake Louise Tourism
