Set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park is a wonderland of snow-capped peaks, flower-strewn meadows and native wildlife. It's part of the Heritage-listed Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks and is one of North America's oldest and best-known national parks, founded in 1885.
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surrounding scenery, whether you're camping in the wilderness, driving along the scenic Icefields Parkway or paddling on the emerald Lake Louise. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, cougars, bison and bighorn sheep.
The township of Banff is perfect for exploring the national park, thanks to its lively bars and restaurants and enticing shopping. In winter, you can explore world-class runs at Lake Louise Ski Resort or soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Getting there
The 6,500-square-kilometre Banff National Park is best explored by car. The park is a 100-kilometre drive from Calgary via the Trans-Canada Highway, while buses run from Calgary International Airport to Banff.