Discover Indigenous Experiences in Banff National Park
Banff National Park is situated on the ancestral homelands and traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples, including the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney First Nations), the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Rocky View District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (District 4).
For generations, Indigenous Peoples have maintained deep connections to the mountains, waterways, plants and wildlife of this region. Today, a visit to Banff offers an opportunity to learn more about those connections and to experience the landscape through Indigenous perspectives.
One meaningful way to learn is by choosing Indigenous-led, Indigenous-owned or Indigenous-supported experiences. From guided walks and cultural storytelling to museums, art and local events, these experiences offer visitors a chance to listen, learn, and engage with the history and cultures of the region.
Learn Through Indigenous-Led Experiences | Photo Credit: Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
Start your visit at the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum, where exhibits curated by the Buffalo Nations Cultural Society explore Indigenous cultures, traditions and ways of life before and after contact with European settlers.
The museum offers an opportunity to learn about the diverse Indigenous Peoples connected to the region and the enduring relationship between people and the land.
Explore Banff with Buffalo Stone Woman
See Banff from a different perspective with a guided e-bike tour led by Buffalo Stone Woman in partnership with Bikescape.
As you explore Banff's scenic trails, Indigenous guides share cultural history, teachings and perspectives on the spiritual connection between Indigenous Peoples and the land. It's a chance to experience familiar mountain landscapes while learning more about the stories and knowledge connected to them.
Join a Medicine Walk with Mahikan Trails
Slow down and look a little closer at the landscape with a Medicine Walk from Mahikan Trails.
Led by a knowledgeable Cree guide, these walks explore traditional plant uses, cultural practices and the history of the Banff area through an Indigenous perspective. Along the way, visitors can learn how plants have traditionally been understood and used, while gaining a deeper appreciation for the living landscape around them.
Hear Indigenous Voices at Cave and Basin
At Cave and Basin National Historic Site, guided experiences featuring Indigenous artwork and storytelling offer another way to connect with the history of the area.
Murals and stories share cultural connections to the region, providing an opportunity to consider the landscape and its history through Indigenous voices and perspectives.
Learn from Indigenous lead experiences | Photo credits: Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Explore Parks Canada's Indigenous-Led Programming
Parks Canada also offers opportunities to connect with Indigenous cultures and traditions through Indigenous-led programming. Depending on the season, experiences can include Métis plant identification walks, dance performances and storytelling.
Check what's happening during your visit for opportunities to learn directly from Indigenous knowledge holders, artists and performers.
Shop Indigenous-Made Art and Goods
Bringing home something made by an Indigenous artist can be another meaningful way to support local creators while remembering your time in Banff.
Look for authentic Indigenous-made jewelry, beadwork, carvings, books and artwork at local businesses including:
When shopping for Indigenous art and crafts, choosing authentic, artist-made pieces helps support Indigenous creators and communities.
Keep Learning Beyond Your Visit
Indigenous culture and history are part of the ongoing story of Banff National Park, not simply something to discover during a single experience.
The Banff Centre hosts events featuring Indigenous artists, musicians, filmmakers, storytellers and dancers, offering opportunities to experience contemporary Indigenous creativity.
The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies is another place to continue learning, with exhibits and archives exploring Indigenous history, Truth and Reconciliation, and the resilience of Indigenous communities affected by the creation of Banff National Park.
Before your trip, check the Banff & Lake Louise Tourism event calendar for upcoming Indigenous-led performances, exhibitions, talks and other programming.
Photo credit: Parks Canada
Experience Banff Through a Different Lens
A trip to Banff is an opportunity to learn about the people, cultures and stories that have shaped this place for generations. By seeking out Indigenous-led and Indigenous-supported experiences, visitors can listen to Indigenous voices, support local communities and gain a deeper understanding of the landscape they're exploring.
Plan your visit, explore with curiosity and discover more of the stories that make Banff truly special.
