We are excited to be welcoming visitors back to Banff and Lake Louise. To ensure that you get the most out of your vacation, you will find everything you need to know when planning your getaway to Banff National Park.
The list of everyone’s essentials is a little different. As an added safety precaution for our visitors and residents, we ask that you bring your own mask or face covering. Masks should be worn in public settings and anywhere physical distancing is not possible. Town employees can often be found on Banff Avenue handing out complimentary masks for visitors who may have forgotten to bring their own. As of July 31, 2020, masks or face coverings are mandatory in all Town of Banff public spaces including shops, cafes, museums and galleries as well as Banff’s downtown outdoor pedestrian zone.
There are many activities in the park that allow plenty of space to enjoy your surroundings. The downtown portion of Banff Avenue is closed to cars opening up extra room for pedestrians to roam freely. Mornings are the best time to grab a coffee and explore the quiet, wide-open streets, river walkways and local paths. Please note, masks or face coverings are mandatory within this pedestrian zone as of July 31, 2020.
Paddleboarding is a great way to explore the outdoors. With so many water ways to explore, take the road less traveled and try Herbert Lake. Located just 3 kilometres up the Icefield Parkway from the south entrance just past Lake Louise. The surrounding peaks reflecting on the clear water makes this an ideal place for a quiet, peaceful paddle.
Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway
Spend a day cycling the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnson Canyon. This route is also closed to cars and is a prime location to enjoy the park on two wheels. Rent an e-bike from SkiBig3 Adventure Hub and explore more.
Book ahead for a Via Ferrata experience at Mt. Norquay. Italian for “the iron way”, Via Ferrata offers assisted climbing experiences on the cliffs above Mt. Norquay with an expert guide. Mt. Norquay has implemented various COVID-19 safety measures to ensure you have a safe and unforgettable experience.
Photo courtesy of Mt. Norquay.
Want the view without the climb? The famous North American Chairlift is your gateway to an unbelievable journey to the historic Cliffhouse Bistro and viewing deck. This sightseeing chair for two is off the beaten path and definitely worth the visit. This quiet and serene trip up is the perfect place to avoid any crowds and you may even spot wildlife, including Black Bears and Grizzly Bears.
Mt Norquay Sightseeing. Photo by C. Spence
The Lake Louise Ski Resort Summer Sightseeing Gondola is the perfect way to sight-see. Lifted into the alpine to experience the expansive beauty of Lake Louise. From the top, gaze upon the stunning views of Victoria Glacier and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The journey on the lift offers plenty of opportunity to see wildlife, including grizzly bears grazing under your path. Be sure to stop at the Whitehorn Bistro for a meal. The wide open patio, views and menu will leave you feeling safe and satisfied. The Lake Louise resort team has developed safety protocols to ensure the well-being of guests and staff. A day at Lake Louise sightseeing chair may be what you have been missing this summer.
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There are so many activities to choose from. Take a look at the SkiBig3 summer itinerary for more ideas on planning your trip to Banff National Park.
While restaurants, pubs and cafes are open, capacity will be limited so plan to make reservations, or consider dining during non-peak times. Grabbing take out and have a meal with a view of your choice. There are so many beautiful day use areas and mountain peaks to enjoy the culinary creations of Banff and Lake Louise. Just remember to always leave outdoor spaces without a trace.
Photo courtesy of Banff Hospitality Collective.
If you are planning a day trip to the town of Banff, remember to park in a designated lot. Enter the town from the Norquay Entrance and turn left at the Train Station. At the round-about in front to the Banff Train Station you can access a large free parking lot with over 200 stalls, as well as dedicated RV spots. From there, it’s a quick stroll to Banff Ave and all downtown services.
With so much to do in Banff National Park, you will need more than a day or a weekend to fit it all in. Try visiting midweek when it is quieter, and there are more deals and value-add offers.
Talk to our in-destination Reservations Team today to plan a personalized trip, or book your lodging, rentals and experiences online. With a flexible change policy and no risk cancellation options, this might be the coveted safe summer escape you crave.
