Banff is one of the top-rated Canadian ski resorts, but it is truly the many opportunities for adventure possible with a summer vacation in Banff that make it a go to travel destination for many people from North America as well as abroad. Travelers most familiar with the winter wonderland will be amazed to find a set of summer activities amongst the beautiful backdrop of the mountains in the height of the growing season. There are many hiking opportunities, both guided and non, available for every ability level. Sightseeing tours via the Banff Gondola are also available any time of year, but the summer presents a new array of flora and fauna to enjoy. Golfers will enjoy the widely acclaimed Banff Golf springs Course, and outdoors enthusiasts will enjoy a range of adventures from kayaking the Bow and Kananaskis rivers, rafting, horseback rides and cycling in the Banff National Park.
Summer in the mountains presents a whole new world of wildlife and alpine foliage. A great start to witnessing the natural beauties of the national park is with a Banff Gondola tour, which provides a spectacular overview of the park and the chance to relax on the three peak terraces. From the overhead view, it will be possible to see the avian wildlife, marmots, and bighorn sheep in their mountain habitat without startling them.Beyond going up the Gondola, there are several possibilities for exploring the mountains up close. Whitewater rafting and kayaking the park rivers provides excitement and unforgettable experiences of the pristine wilderness. Horseback tours through the back country can last 1-3 hours and are a perfect activity for the whole family. Those looking for even more excitement will enjoy 2-6 day Pack Trips with stops at remote lodges. Spelunkers will find a unique opportunity in the Canmore caves, and mountain bikers will 190 km of trails graded for different levels of experience.
As for golf, there is no shortage of epic golf courses to choose from. Consider the award winning Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, or the nearby Golf Kananaskis or Silver Tip Golf Course. The views from each course are absolutely amazing, and each course brings a different dynamic to challenge you and deliver a golf experience like no other.For an awesome and leisurely, but challenging, experience, hiking in Banff and Lake Louise should not be missed. Classic hike tours can be arranged for numerous locations, including the Plain of Six Glaciers, Larch Valley, and Lake Agnes. The Mountain Heritage Program at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers adventures for all skill levels. Choose from a leisurely stroll along the lake, a half walk or even a full day alpine hike. The scenery will leave you absolutely breathless.A summer vacation in Banff offers a unique chance to hike incredible terrain such as Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and the Valley of Ten Peaks. Combined with an assortment of other activities such as rafting and golf, a summer vacation to Banff and Lake Louise should be a priority. Winter vacations aren’t going out of style, but summer mountain vacations offer some unique experiences, too!
*photo credits to Banff Lake Louise Tourism and P. Zizka
