As the sun goes down over Banff National Park, the two mountain towns of Banff and Lake Louise come to life. Whether you're soaking in the vibrant energy of Banff, or the serene atmosphere of Lake Louise, the night sky transforms into a dazzling display of twinkling stars. The dark skies and minimal light pollution create the perfect conditions to stargaze. If conditions are just right you may spot the dancing rays of the Northern Lights too! Banff and Lake Louise offer fantastic spots to catch a shooting star or watch the natural wonder of the Aurora Borealis.
Here are five easily accessible locations in Banff National Park that are perfect for an evening of stargazing.
Starry skies framed by the pine trees in Banff National Park | Photo by Will Lambert
Vermilion Lakes is just a short drive away from Banff townsite. Although it's just a stone's throw away, a trip down Vermilion Lake Road will make you feel like you've ventured far off the beaten path. Choose from three different lakes, each offering its unique view of Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain. Chances are, you'll have a dock all to yourself.
Lake views with a backdrop or Mt. Rundle illuminated by the night sky | Photo by Jackie Larouche
Mountain meadows are perfect for taking in the massive expanse of the night sky all at once. Located along the Lake Minnewanka loop, Cascade Ponds offers breathtaking views of the night sky, perfect for getting lost in the universe. With few mountains blocking the view to the north, it's also the perfect stage for a Northern Lights performance.
Watching the dancing display of the Northern Lights at Cascade Ponds | Photo by Will Lambert
Another secluded spot close to the town of Banff is Two Jack Lake. With some of the best seats in the house for views of Mt. Rundle, which spans between Banff and Canmore, sit back and relax as you watch shooting stars fly across the sky.
Views of Two Jack Lake with Mt. Rundle sitting amongst the starry skies | Photo by Will Lambert
Perched above the town of Banff, the Mt. Norquay Lookout offers stunning, unobstructed views of the night sky and the town below. A short, scenic drive up Mt. Norquay Drive takes you to this elevated spot, where the distance from the town lights creates the perfect setting to gaze amongst the stars and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!
Watching the Northern Lights from the Mt. Norquay Lookout | Photo by Nick Hase
Halfway between Banff and Lake Louise, you'll find the iconic landmark Castle Mountain. Castle Mountain Junction is your go-to spot for epic mountain views, surrounded by nothing but wilderness while still being easily accessible by car. As the night falls, the stars take over, and if you're lucky, the Northern Lights might just put on a show!
Castle Mountain illuminated by the Northern Lights | Photo by Tera Swanson
With dark skies come cold nights, and it gets chilly in the mountains! For the perfect night of stargazing in Banff, there are a few essentials to pack:
Book your winter ski vacation to Banff and Lake Louise and experience the starry night skies, and if the stars line up, you may even be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights. Our friendly reservation teams are always happy to help. You can reach them on the toll-free number +1 844-752-2247 or start building your trip online and take a look at the latest Ski & Stay Packages.
