Banff National Park lies just 130 km from Calgary, making it an ideal one-day getaway. The drive takes about 1.5 hours along the scenic Trans-Canada Highway. Plan to leave early to avoid traffic, and pack for unpredictable weather. A park pass is required and available online or at the park gate.
Getting There & Getting Around
Driving is the most flexible option. The highway is smooth year-round but watch for wildlife and icy spots in winter. Once in Banff, use free public Roam Transit to access main sites and avoid the parking rush. If you prefer not to drive, seasonal shuttles also run from Calgary.
Top Attractions on a Day Trip
Banff Avenue
Banff’s main street features cozy cafés, gift shops, and art galleries beneath dramatic peaks. Enjoy a walk through the lively center or grab a coffee and watch street performers.
Banff Avenue lined with shops, green trees, and Cascade Mountain rising dramatically behind.
Tourists stroll the sunny sidewalk, soaking up small-town charm and mountain views.
Sulphur Mountain
Take the Banff Gondola or hike to the summit for stunning panoramic views. A boardwalk at the top leads to a historic weather station and offers sweeping vistas of the Rockies.
Cable cars ascend Sulphur Mountain through pine-covered slopes toward a mountaintop platform.
Panoramic views stretch across the Bow Valley and the surrounding peaks.
Lake Minnewanka
A deep-blue glacial lake popular for walking, paddling, and boat cruises. Hike along the lakeshore or simply enjoy a lakeside picnic with unforgettable mountain scenery.
Turquoise waters of Lake Minnewanka meet rocky shores and towering mountains.
Canoes and hikers dot the edge of the lake under a cloudless sky.
Bow Falls
Just minutes from downtown, this wide cascade on the Bow River is perfect for a quick photo stop. Nearby Surprise Corner offers classic views of the Banff Springs Hotel.
Bow Falls pours over rocky ledges as mist rises against pine-covered banks.
Tourists stand on the viewpoint platform, taking photos of the river and falls.
Upper Hot Springs
Soak in mineral-rich hot water at the base of Sulphur Mountain. Ideal after a hike or a cold-weather walk. The views from the pool are breathtaking year-round.
Visitors soak in the steaming outdoor pool surrounded by snow-dusted evergreens.
Mountain views in the background complete the relaxing alpine setting.
Other Notable Stops
- Vermilion Lakes: Excellent for sunrise or sunset photos.
- Fenland Trail & Tunnel Mountain: Quick hikes with great scenery.
- Cave & Basin Historic Site: Learn about Canada’s first national park.
- Cascade Ponds: Picnic area with reflections of Cascade Mountain.
Seasonal Tips
- Summer: Start early, book tours in advance, and expect crowds. Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
- Winter: Dress in layers, wear boots with grip, and beware of icy trails. Winter views are magical, and the gondola still runs.
Where to Eat
- Breakfast & Coffee: Wild Flour, Whitebark Cafe
- Lunch: Bear Street Tavern (pizza), Park Distillery (Canadian comfort food)
- Dinner: The Bison (fine local cuisine)
- Snacks: Ice cream from Famous Dave’s or local chocolate shops on Banff Ave
Day Trip Tips
- Arrive Early: 8–9 AM is ideal for avoiding traffic and finding parking.
- Pack Essentials: Layers, snacks, water, camera, power bank, and sun/bug protection.
- Use Public Transit: Roam buses save time and hassle.
- Avoid Crowds: Visit Lake Minnewanka or Tunnel Mountain earlier in the day.
- Stay Alert: Wildlife is often seen on the roads, especially at dawn or dusk.
About Sofia Alvarez
Sofia is a Barcelona-native travel journalist and blogger who has been exploring the world since her teenage years.
