Banff & Jasper National Parks - Your Complete 6-DAY Guide
- Aug 6, 2020
- 14 min read
Updated: Jan 17, 2021
Picture this – hiking through pine tree covered mountainous trails and being rewarded with epic views of turquoise blue lakes and snow-capped glacier mountains…
Welcome to the Canadian Rockies! It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers and those whose souls are fuelled by adventure! Located in the Canadian province of Alberta, Banff and Jasper national parks are some of Canada’s most famous and well-visited destinations in the country and boasts international recognition for its natural beauty!
As a Canadian myself, this trip has been high on my bucket list since I can remember! Now after an epic full week on the road, I’ve gathered my personal experiences and research to craft the ideal 6-DAY Itinerary in and around Banff and Jasper national parks!
This guide will break down everything you need to know, see and do in the area, from popular must-see spots to hidden gems and even a full day-trip to Yoho National Park in British Columbia. This is your complete guide to an epic, once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Canadian Rockies!
Note: If you're planning for a shorter stay, I have also curated a similar guide on Atlas Guru which covers all the essentials of Banff plus the day-trip to Yoho in just 3-4 days!
WHEN TO VISIT
One of the great things about the Canadian Rockies is that it’s beautiful year-round and will keep you busy with loads of season activities! The warm, summertime months are when the lakes shine their brightest shades of blues and greens and is also the best weather for hiking. Meanwhile, in the winter, tourists come for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and all kinds of winter activities. Although this guide contains plenty of hikes and is mainly targeted towards summer travel, I’ve also included a list of seasonal activities and things to do throughout the year.
HOW TO VISIT
Canada is a hugee country and you can bet that the Canadian Rockies spread far and wide! I highly suggest renting out a car for the week. This is the most popular method and will save you lots of time and money in the long-run.
DAY 1: LAKE LOUISE, HIKING & THE BOW VALLEY PARKWAY
Lake Louise
Lake Louise – Banff’s most iconic attraction and one of the world’s most photographed glacial lakes. With sparkling turquoise water and surrounding snow-capped mountains, it’s hard not to be left speechless. Due to its popularity, I highly recommend visiting as early as possible in the morning, especially during the summer months! Parking can quickly fill up by sunrise, as many photographers flock over to capture the moment. Once parking lots fill up, your only choice is to park off location and take one of the shuttle bus in.
Activities:
Summer: Hike, rent a canoe on the lake, horseback ride or sit and relax by the lake.
Winter: Ice skate on the lake, ski/snowboard the mountains, snowshoe or dog sleigh!
Fairmont Chateau: Although this is a luxury hotel with amenities for guests-only, day visitors can enjoy a scenic meal in the restaurant and café and enjoy the gardens.
Lake Agnes Trail
The Lake Agnes trail is a highly trafficked 3.6 km (one way) uphill hike, offering some spectacular views of Lake Louise down below. It’s rated as a moderate hike and should take you close to 2 hours to get to our first destination, the Lake Agnes Teahouse. To start the hike, walk right from the main viewing platform of Lake Louise, past the Fairmont Chateau and there you will see signage.
Once you arrive, you can refuel and grab warm drinks and food from the teahouse on-site, while taking in the views of Lake Agnes and its surrounding peaking mountains.
Big Beehive/ Little Beehive trails:
From Lake Agnes, follows our next hiking trail. You have two options here – either Big Beehive or Little Beehive trail. Just as their names entail, Big Beehive is a larger mountain, with a steeper and challenging route compared to that of its little sister trail, so please take this into consideration when choosing which one to hike. Both will offer you breathtaking views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau down below.
Notes:
Lunch - You should be arriving back down to Lake Louise at around lunch time. If so, you can grab lunch at the Fairmont. Otherwise, I strongly suggest packing a sandwich and some snacks so you can eat throughout the hike and at lookout spots!
Canoe Rentals – Canoeing is great leisurely activity you can do on Lake Louise. Prices vary throughout the year, but do expect it to be pricey ($120 CAD during peak season). The rental house opens at 10 A.M. and operates on a first-come-first-serve basis. Reservations cannot be made in advance, so do expect to wait in line. With that being said, the views from the bright blue lake are so worth it!!
Bow Valley Parkway
After an action-packed half-day, it’s now time to relax a bit and enjoy a scenic drive back to Banff. The Bow Valley Parkway route connects Lake Louise with Banff and runs parallel to the Trans Canada Highway, while following along the Bow River. This route will spoil you with beautiful lookout spots and viewpoints, as well as offers great opportunity to see wildlife from up close. The drive takes about 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. Take your time and make sure to stop at as many spots as you wish!
Activities:
Summer: Have a picnic by Bow River, cycle along the route or hike one of the many trails.
Winter: Popular route for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is about half-way through the Bow Valley Parkway and is regarded as one of Banff’s most popular and easier hikes. It boasts 2 beautiful falls – a 1.1 km hike to the lower falls and 2.7 km to the upper falls (one way for each). The hike follows through easy-to-walk man-made catwalks, taking you into the canyon and makes for a fantastic hiking attraction for families and people of all skill levels.
After your hike, continue driving down to Banff for some dinner in town or opt for a night-in after a long day of hiking – you’ve earned it!
DAY 2: BANFF TOWN & LAKE MINNEWANKA
Today will be a more leisurely day to allow for some resting from yesterday’s first full day. Sleep in for a bit and then head into the town of Banff!
Tunnel Mountain
Located in the heart of Banff, Tunnel Mountain offers some spectacular local views of the town and its surrounding panorama. It’s the smallest mountain in the area and is regarded as a relatively easy and short hike (2.3 km one way) with some moderate and well-maintained switchbacks. It’s suggested for people of all skill levels and for this reason, is a highly trafficked trail. That being said, although it is the smallest mountain, I wouldn’t skip out on it. Along the way, Tunnel Mountain will spoil you with views of beautiful downtown Banff and the enormous Banff Springs Hotel on one side, while on the other, you can see the Bow Valley and some epic surrounding views of Mt. Rundle.
Downtown Banff
After completing the Tunnel Mountain hike, head back towards Banff’s downtown area and take a walk through the famous Banff Avenue strip. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and patios – great for grabbing lunch and drinks, complete with a stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. After lunch spend a bit of time walking around. You’ll find lots of brand-named stores and gifts shops, and the streets are always filled with lively people and events.
Banff Gondola (Sulphur Mountain)
We’re headed next to another great Banff lookout point: Sulphur Mountain. There are 2 ways to get to the top - either choose to hike the 5.5 km trail or take the scenic gondola ride up.
I highly recommend most take the gondola unless you have plenty of time on your hands and have good hiking experience. I personally chose to hike and was surprised at how steep it was (I also sadly didn’t finish it). The 5.5 km incline switchbacks are by no means quick and easy, so be mindful if you have the time for it or not. On the other hand, the gondola is a breathtaking 8-minute ride to summit, perfect for families and those seeking a leisurely excursion.
Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with a stunning perspective of the Bow Valley. From there, you can actually climb a little bit further through a 1 km self-guided interpretive walkway known as the Banff Skywalk.
Notes:
When to visit: The trail and gondola services are open year-round, however again, I wouldn’t recommend hiking unless you have good experience. Also, try to aim your visit on a day that’s nice and sunny. It’s much more enjoyable to see the view than on a rainy or overcast day.
What to do: Once at the observation deck, there are a few gift shops and restaurants, as well as a Starbucks you can enjoy.
Gondola ride down: In the past, I’ve heard that hikers may take the gondola ride down for free during the summer months, after 7 p.m. Now, this was not the case for us, as we were there during Covid, so rules were much different. Check the Banff gondola website and ask in person to see if this is an option for you.
Lake Minnewanka
After a full day of exploring mountains, we’re ending today’s activities by the water – head over to Lake Minnewanka to catch sunset! Located just outside of the town (about a 20-minute drive), it’s the largest lake in Banff National Park and is of course surrounded by beautiful mountain views! During the summer months, I recommend bringing a blanket and some sandwiches to enjoy a picnic dinner.
Activities:
- Go for a stroll around the lake
- Have a picnic and catch sunset
- Join a boat tour
- Join a scuba diving course (there’s a submerged resort town under water)
DAY 3: MORAINE LAKE & YOHO NATIONAL PARK
Moraine Lake
I genuinely think this was the highlight of my trip – catching sunrise at Moraine Lake!!! I remember waking up at 3 a.m. after only 2 hours of sleep to get ready and drive an hour and a half just to make it for this moment (pictured below), and boy was it worth it!
Although Moraine Lake is often compared to Lake Louise, I personally prefer Moraine just a tad bit more. They’re both pretty similar – they each boast sparkling bright turquoise waters with surrounding snow-capped mountain views. But the rock piles, waterfall and breathtaking view of the Valley of Ten Peaks made Moraine a little more magical.
If you can, I highly recommend coming for sunrise and spending a couple hours here. It’s amazing to see just how much the colour of the water changes over the course of the day, and I personally feel that its best seen from around 5:30 – 8:00 a.m. Again, just like Lake Louise, this will also be the best time to avoid the huge mid-day crowds.
Rockpile Trail
To best enjoy the view of Moraine Lake, you have to hike the Rockpile Trail! Personally, I don’t even consider it much of a hike, as it’s a quick 0.5 km climb up through – yup, you guessed it – rock piles. The trail starts at the base of the Moraine Lake parking lot and can easily be seen, trust me, you can miss the big pile of rocks!
Notes:
Canoe Rentals - Moraine Lake Lodge offers canoe rentals, open everyday from 9 a.m. Pricing starts at around $80 CAD for a 1-hour ride.
Closures - Check online for any changes and closures beforehand. This area is known for high grizzly bear activity, so some trails might have restrictions during these times. Also, the road to Moraine Lake is closed during the winter, due to high snowfall activity and risk of avalanche. Please visit Parks Canada website for more information.
Yoho National Park
Much like Banff, Yoho National Park is home to some of Canada’s most spectacular mountains, waterfalls and lakes. It’s situated in the beautiful province of British Colombia, right on the border with Alberta, and only a 30-minute drive from Moraine Lake! For this reason, I recommend making a day-trip out of it and heading there right after visiting Moraine Lake in the morning.
Note:
We personally only spent half a day in Yoho as it was more of a spontaneous decision, last-minute decision. Because of this, we only visited Natural Bridge and Emerald Lake from the list below. I’ve added a few other attractions that I was able to later research and that I think would be very doable in completing the perfect day-trip to Yoho!
Takakkaw Falls
Canada’s second tallest waterfall! Conveniently, Takakkaw Falls doesn’t require a hike and can easily be accessed by car. If you do want to however, you can hike the 10.8 km Takakkaw Falls & Yoho Lake Loop trail.
Natural Bridge
This is another natural sight worth seeing that doesn’t require a hike and is located right off the highway, on the way to Emerald Lake. Natural Bridge is a unique rock formation that resembles – yup, you guessed it – a bridge! You can actually walk over it and explore the area’s surrounding waterfall views.
Emerald Lake
Yoho National Park’s most famous and visited attraction, and for good reason! Stunning emerald green water surrounded by tall pine trees and rocky mountain views. There’s also a bridge to one side, which leads towards a cute little island. It’s the perfect spot for photos and if you’d like, you can also cross over the bridge and have lunch at the Emerald Lake Lodge and Cilantro Café.
Activities:
- Have lunch with a view at the Emerald Lake Lodge Restaurant
- Rent a canoe on-site. Rates cost $70/ hour per canoe.
- Hike the emerald Lake trail – a 5.2km hike (one way) around the lake.
DAY 4: ICEFIELDS PARKWAY – ROAD TO JASPER
This is day one out of two of our Jasper road trip itinerary. Get ready, because we’ll be taking one of the world’s most scenic drives (as ranked by Natural Geographic) through the famous Columbia Icefields Parkway! Although this drive starting from Banff only takes 3.5 hours, you’ll more realistically need a good half-a-day or so to do properly. That’s because the best way to enjoy the trip is to make stops along the way, and trust me, there are endless views of the Rockies and beautiful lakes and waterfalls along the way! So go slow, take your time and enjoy the ride!
Note:
Be careful for wildlife!! Jasper is a lot more isolated than Banff, which means there’s higher chances of running into wildlife. We saw everything from deer, mooses, mountain goats to even a bear – yes don’t forget this is bear country!! Always be extra cautious when driving and hiking in this area.
Bow Lake
First stop is the beautiful Bow Lake. Its sight is mesmerizing and can’t be missed – literally! It’s conveniently located right on Icefields Parkway and you’ll know when you’ve reached it when you see a picturesque scene of the Rocky Mountains reflected across its beautiful clear waters. Seriously guys, I’ve never seen a reflection as vivid as this one - we spent a good hour or so just taking pictures of the scene!!
Hikes:
Bow Lake is only an hour into the drive but it’s the perfect time to stretch out those legs with a family-friendly walk around a portion of the river. For those looking for a more intensive hike, you can continue along the Bow Glacial Falls Trail – a 4.6 km hike one-way.
Peyto Lake
Ahhh Peyto, you’re quite the gem… so I’ve been told! Peyto Lake is another one of Banff’s most beautiful bright blue and emerald coloured lakes. Unfortunately, the road to Peyto is closed all 2020 for maintenance work, so we didn’t get a chance to explore it. However, my long list of research prior to the trip has convinced me that it’s worth checking out!! It’s often ranked as one of Banff’s most beautiful hikes across many online travel blogs, so if you’re planning a trip for later in the future, do keep this place in mind!
Hikes:
It’s highly suggested that the best view of Peyto lake is from above! Take the Bow Summit trail for the best lookout view – it’s a 2.9 km hike one-way and regarded as relatively easy for all skill levels.
Jasper town
From Peyto Lake, we’re headed straight to the town of Jasper. There are still a number of beautiful stops along the way. Take your time, however to make the most of it, we’ve saved them for tomorrow’s trip on the way back down!
Once you’ve arrived in Jasper, it’s time to check into your accommodation and take the rest of the day to explore this charming small town. Take it easy and enjoy lunch or dinner in one of the many restaurants along Connaught Drive and go for a stroll. You’ll notice that Jasper has a much more small-town feel to that of Banff.
Pyramid lake (& Patricia Lake)
Probably the highlight of my Jasper trip was visiting Pyramid Lake for sunset! I recommend heading here in the evening after exploring the town and grabbing a blanket to relax by the lake.
Just before however, you’ll pass by Patricia Lake, which is visible from the road. You can stop by for a bit or continue straight for a couple more minutes to arrive to Pyramid Lake. Both will offer you stunning views of the rocky mountain landscape and its gorgeous reflection on the water. But what I love most is Pyramid Lake Island – a well-loved spot for photographers all around. The island is connected to mainland by a long wooden bridge and makes an ideal spot for getting a symmetrical portrait shot of the landscape!
DAY 5: ICEFIELDS PARKWAY – ROAD TO BANFF
Our second and also last day in Jasper. Check out of your accommodation in the morning, grab some breakfast and let’s head to our first destination as we make our way back to Banff.
Maligne Canyon
Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park and a must-see in the area! The canyon is easily accessible from the main parking lot, making it ideal for people of all ages and skill levels. From there, you can hike along the Athabasca River by choosing one of the many trail options available, with each intersecting at 6 different bridges and lookout points. The map by the parking lot will give you a clear indication of distances and difficulty levels of each trail, however the most popular looping trail (from First to Fifth bridge) is only 3.4 km total.
Activities:
Winter: Although the summer months are best for hiking, the winter is perhaps even more spectacular! That’s because you can do a guided ice walk tour deep inside the canyon, offering a complete different perspective of the area!
Restaurant: You can also enjoy a snack or a full meal at the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen, located by the main parking lot.
Athabasca Falls
One of Canada’s most powerful falls! Conveniently located right off Icefields Parkway, Athabasca Falls makes for a quick and easy stopping-point. From the parking lot, there are a number of paved pathways you can take, which offer different viewpoints of the falls and the mountain scenery in the background. The trails can be easily accessed by all skill levels.
Activities:
During the summer months, you can join a white-water rafting tour.
Valley of the Five Lakes
Valley of the Five Lakes is a heavily-trafficked 5.3 km circuit that spoils you with views of not one, not two, but five stunning bright blue and emerald green lakes!! The trail’s relatively flat ground and clearly signalled shortcut options make this hiking spot ideal for most skill levels.
Bonus: Go ahead and make a splash! If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and would like to cool down some of that hiking sweat during the summer months, you can jump into the Fifth lake from the nearby dock! I personally went for it and yes it was cold as heck, but boy did it wake me up!
Columbia Icefield’s Athabasca Glacier
The Athabasca Glacier is another gem that can’t be missed! Its stunning glacial presence can be seen from even afar on the Icefields Parkway, although I recommend stopping by the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. The parking lot and entrance area is the perfect spot for a free view of the glacier, or alternatively, you can sign up to partake in an epic ice walk adventure or walk along the glass-floored skywalk right at the cliff’s edge. Both activities require tickets which can be purchased online – prices vary throughout the year.
DAY 6: GRASSI LAKES HIKE & CANMORE TOWN
Grassi Lakes
Grassi Lakes is a 4.3 km-total beginner-friendly hike, located in the town of Canmore, just outside of Banff National park (about 20 minutes from Banff town). It offers stunning views of Canmore and the surrounding Bow Valley, while at the top, you’re treated to two beautiful emerald green lakes. This is one of Canmore’s most popular hikes with options to choose from an easy or harder trail. The easy trail is more of gradual, steady incline on a well-maintained path, whereas the harder trail requires you to climb through rock piles on a steeper incline. For most people, I would recommend taking the climb up the harder route, as its much more scenic, offering additional views of waterfalls and the Canmore region, while taking the easy, less scenic route down to cool off.
Activities:
This is a very popular spot for outdoor rock climbing!
Canmore town
To end this trip with a bang, we’re spending the rest of the day exploring the beautiful and scenic town of Canmore. Canmore is similar to Banff town, in that it’s a touristy town catered to backpackers, adventurers and outdoors people. However, I personally prefer Canmore a tad bit more, as it gave me all-around chill vibes and a more authentic and local experience. There are a number of cool restaurants, shops and patios along 8th, 9th and 10th Street. Enjoy a stroll and have a nice local meal with a view or just spend some time people-watching! Afterwards, I recommend taking a leisurely walk along Bow River. There are a number of well-signalled trails you can take. If you’re up for it, you can also rent a bike and cycle along the paths. You’ll notice that Canmore is a heavy cycling town, and that’s because its flat and well-maintained trails and designated cycling routes make it ideal for all bikers!
Enjoy the trip of a lifetime! Make sure to Pin the image above if you find it useful for later. If you liked this guide, make sure to subscribe and follow along on Instagram for more travel tips, stories and adventures!
Happy travels,
Tatiana
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