Banff & Jasper: A Canadian Adventure Like No Other
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to the wild beauty of the Canadian Rockies, Banff and Jasper National Parks are the ultimate destinations to check off your bucket list! 🏞️✨ From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to crystal-clear lakes and incredible wildlife sightings, this trip was an unforgettable adventure. Let me take you on a whirlwind tour of our journey through Banff and Jasper – filled with outdoor adventures, delicious eats, and even a few wild animal encounters! 🦌🐻
🌍 Quick Itinerary Snapshot:
Day 1: Arrive in Banff, explore downtown, dinner at Bear Street Tavern Day 2: Banff Gondola, Bow Falls hike, Cows Ice Cream Day 3: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls Day 4: Columbia Icefield, Glacier Skywalk, Jasper town Day 5: Johnston Canyon, Banff Hot Springs, E-bike, Indian food Day 6: Cave & Basin, Johnson Lake swim, dinner + relaxation Day 7: Farewell Banff
Day 1: Arrival in Banff – Let the Adventure Begin!
Our adventure began with a scenic drive from Calgary to Banff. The mountains started to peek through the horizon, and I couldn’t wait to explore! 😍 Along the way, we were treated to stunning views that felt like a dream – jagged peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers.
With our National Park Pass (definitely recommend getting it ahead of time!) we were able to drive right through – no lines, checked into our cozy hotel, and set out to explore downtown Banff. 🌲
✅ Pro Tip: Buy your Parks Canada Discovery Pass online ahead of time to skip the lines and get right to exploring. Buy Here
After a delicious dinner at Bear Street Tavern 🍕 (seriously, don’t miss it for the best pizza in town – Do not miss the chili oil + honey dip!), we took a stroll around Banff Avenue to enjoy the fresh mountain air and vibrant street vibes. The evening wrapped up with a relaxing night walk around downtown Banff, followed by a sweet treat at Hankki for the perfect dessert.
Day 2: Banff National Park – Mountains, Hiking & Ice Cream
We kicked off Day 2 with a cozy breakfast at Sudden Sally’s ☕ – the perfect place for a warm coffee before heading out for some adventure. Our first stop? The Banff Gondola 🚠! We rode the gondola up Sulphur Mountain, where the panoramic views of the town below and the surrounding peaks took our breath away. The boardwalk to the top was an absolute highlight, with 360-degree views of Banff and the Bow Valley stretched across snow-dusted peaks! 🏞️
✅ Pro Tip: The Banff Gondola can get very busy – go early or around dinnertime for fewer crowds and better photos with golden light.
For lunch, we headed to Block Kitchen & Bar in downtown Banff 🍽️, where we had a veggie-friendly meal that hit the spot. Afterward, we set out on the Bow River Trail and Bow Falls Trail – both were peaceful hikes that offered beautiful views of the river and the iconic Bow Falls. 🌊 Plenty of photo ops and serene river moments.
No trip to Banff is complete without a stop for Cows Ice Cream 🍦 – Canada’s most famous ice cream! We indulged in scoops of their delicious treats before winding down for the night with dinner at El Patio (perfect for a cozy evening meal) and Magpie & Stump – a great spot for a casual dinner.
Day 3: Banff & Yoho National Park – Lakes, Falls, and Adventure
On Day 3, we took a scenic drive to Yoho National Park. First stop: the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. These turquoise lakes were absolutely stunning! 😱 Since we weren’t able to get shuttle passes, we arranged a private tour with Fairview Limo 🚐, which made the trip extra special.
We spent the morning canoeing at Lake Louise 🛶 – paddling through the calm water with the snow-capped peaks reflecting on the surface was like something out of a movie. Next, we explored the Natural Bridge 🌉 and marveled at the beauty of Emerald Lake, a hidden gem that took our breath away.
🚤 Canoeing at Lake Louise – A Moment Out of Time
Canoeing on Lake Louise was like drifting through a dream. As we pushed off from the dock, the soft sound of water lapping against the canoe was the only thing we could hear. The lake’s legendary turquoise water shimmered beneath us, glowing like a jewel under the morning light. Towering peaks wrapped around us like guardians, their snowy crowns reflected perfectly in the still surface.
We barely spoke — not out of silence, but reverence. It felt sacred, like we had stepped into a postcard that had somehow come alive. Every paddle stroke pulled us deeper into stillness. Time slowed. The grandeur of the Victoria Glacierlooming ahead was surreal, and for a few magical moments, we were alone in one of the most iconic landscapes in the world.
🧡 We were speechless. Lake Louise didn’t just look like a painting — it felt like we had paddled right into one!
✅ Pro Tip: Canoeing at Lake Louise is magical – but expect long lines and high prices ($145+ CAD/hour). Get there early or try Emerald Lake for a quieter (and cheaper!) alternative.
🌉 Natural Bridge – Nature’s Raw Power on Display
Tucked just a short drive from Emerald Lake, the Natural Bridge left us in awe — not just because of its beauty, but because of the sheer power of nature it represents. At first glance, it looks like a serene river carving its way through smooth stone. But as we got closer, we realized we were witnessing something far more dramatic.
Years of rushing water from the Kicking Horse River have sculpted a stunning stone arch, creating a natural bridge that spans a thundering gorge below. The sound is thunderous — water crashing and echoing through the canyon like a drumbeat. You can feel it in your chest.
We stood there for a long time, mesmerized by the contrast: the delicate curves of the eroded rock, and the raw, relentless force of water beneath it. It was a reminder of how time, persistence, and nature itself can create something truly extraordinary.
💬 It wasn’t just something to see — it was something to feel. Natural Bridge was nature at its most powerful, and most poetic.
📸 Photo Tip: Capture a wide-angle shot of the rushing water as it disappears under the stone arch. Early morning light adds an ethereal glow to the mist rising from the river.
🌲 Emerald Lake – A Quiet Sanctuary in the Wilderness
After the crowds at Lake Louise, Emerald Lake felt like a secret whispered by nature. Tucked away in Yoho National Park, the moment we arrived we noticed the hush — birdsong, gentle breezes, and the soft crunch of gravel beneath our feet.
The water was a rich, emerald green (yes, it lives up to the name!), impossibly clear and calm. We walked along the shoreline trail and found ourselves pausing constantly — to breathe it in, to listen to the quiet, to just be.
With wildflowers lining the path and canoes gliding silently across the lake, it felt like the world had hit pause. Unlike the energy and grandeur of Lake Louise, Emerald Lake offered a deep serenity — the kind that settles your soul and makes you want to linger for hours.
🌿 If Lake Louise was awe-inspiring, Emerald Lake was meditative — a place where nature invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
✅ Pro Tip:Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Access Tips – NEW RULES! Personal vehicles are no longer allowed to Moraine Lake. You’ll need to plan ahead. Here’s how:
Book Parks Canada shuttles EARLY: They sell out quickly during peak season. Reserve Here
Private tour companies (like Fairview Limo) are great if shuttles are full.
ROAM Transit: Can take you to Lake Louise, but not Moraine Lake.
Want sunrise at the lake? Book a sunrise shuttle tour or stay at the Moraine Lake Lodge (it’s the only way to drive there directly!).
For dinner, we dined at Cilantro at the Lake at Emerald Lake, enjoying a delicious meal with a view. 🌅
On our way back, we made a stop at the magnificent Takakkaw Falls…
🌊 Takakkaw Falls – A Thunderous Symphony of Mist and Majesty
As we wound our way up the steep switchbacks toward Takakkaw Falls, anticipation built with every curve. And then — suddenly — there it was, bursting into view like something out of a fantasy novel. Towering at over 1,200 feet, this is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, and believe me, it feels that way.
The sound hit us first — a deep, resonant roar that echoed through the valley like rolling thunder. Then came the spray, cool and crisp, carried by the wind as we got closer. Even from a distance, we could feel the mist on our skin, like a gentle warning of the sheer force ahead.
As we stood at the base, craning our necks to take it all in, we were completely dwarfed by its power. Water plummets with such intensity, it almost seems to leap from the cliff. Rainbows shimmered in the spray, dancing in and out of the sunlight. It was humbling, exhilarating, and somehow calming all at once.
💬 Standing there, soaked in mist and wonder, we felt small — but in the best possible way.
📸 Photo Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens or use panorama mode to capture the full height of the falls. Try visiting in the late afternoon for dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
🧣 Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket — the mist is no joke. Even on a sunny day, you’ll get delightfully drenched. And if you’re visiting in early summer, the falls are at their most powerful due to glacier melt.
Day 4: Jasper Day Trip – Icefields, Lakes, and More 🏔️
We were up early for our Jasper Day Trip, and it was an unforgettable journey! After a scenic drive, we took a guided tour of the Columbia Icefield 🧊, where we walked out on the Glacier Skywalk – a glass bridge that extends over the Athabasca Glacier. The views were beyond words, and the feeling of standing on the edge of a glacier was exhilarating! ❄️
🧊 Columbia Icefield Adventure – Walking on Ancient Ice
One of the most surreal, unforgettable experiences of our trip was the guided tour of the Columbia Icefield. There’s something profoundly humbling about standing atop a 20,000-year-old glacier, knowing that you’re walking on a moving river of ancient ice that helped carve the very mountains around you.
We began our adventure at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, where we boarded a massive Ice Explorer – a beast of a vehicle with tires taller than most people! 🚜 The slow, steady ride across the glacial terrain felt like a journey to another planet. As we bumped along, our guide shared fascinating stories about how the glacier formed, how it’s changed over time, and the real-time impacts of climate change we could see with our own eyes.
When we finally stepped out onto the Athabasca Glacier, the air was crisp, the silence almost sacred. Beneath our feet was glacial ice so dense and ancient it sparkled blue in places. We scooped up some of the purest water on Earth to sip straight from the surface — icy, clean, and invigorating.
💬 “There was a quiet stillness that made everything else in life feel small. You’re not just seeing nature — you’re inside it, part of something ancient and awe-inspiring.”
Next came the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored platform that juts out over the Sunwapta Valley. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you can handle a little height, the views are unreal — jagged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the vast expanse of the Columbia Icefield in the distance.
✅ Pro Tips for Visiting the Columbia Icefield:
Book in advance – This is one of the most popular attractions in Jasper National Park, and tours sell out quickly in peak season (June–September). Look for combo tickets that include the Ice Explorer + Glacier Skywalk.
Dress in layers – Even in summer, it gets cold on the glacier. Bring a waterproof jacket, gloves, and sturdy shoes with good grip. The ice can be slick!
Hydrate and eat beforehand – Altitude can sneak up on you, especially if you’re sensitive to it. Drink water and eat a solid meal before heading up.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen – The reflection off the ice is intense and can burn your skin and eyes faster than you’d expect.
Camera-ready? – Keep your phone or camera handy (with a wrist strap!). There are a few short moments on the ice to snap incredible shots, so make them count.
Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bears along the Icefields Parkway. Early morning and evening are the best spotting times!
For lunch, we dined at the Columbia Icefield café 🥗 before heading to Jasper town. In Jasper, we explored Pyramid Lake and the serene Pyramid Beach, where we couldn’t resist dipping our toes into the clear, cool water. 🏖️
For dinner, we had a delicious meal at The Raven Bistro 🍴, followed by some ice cream at Grandma’s Homemade Ice Cream – because no day is complete without a sweet treat! 🍨
On our drive back to Banff, we made a stop at Waterfowl Lake and Herbert Lake for the perfect mirror images of the surrounding mountains. 📸 It was the perfect end to a magical day.
Day 5: Exploring More of Banff – Hot Springs, E-biking, and Indian Food 🌟
We spent the next day relaxing and enjoying all the beauty Banff had to offer. Breakfast at The Juniper Bistro was a treat with amazing views and delicious food. 🍽️ Afterward, we took on the Johnston Canyon hike – both the lower and upper falls, covering 3.5 miles in total. It was an easy hike with stunning scenery at every turn! 🏞️
🌲 Johnston Canyon Hike – A Waterfall Wonderland
The Johnston Canyon hike is a perfect blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty, fun adventure, and accessible exploration for all levels of hikers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, this trail offers something special — an immersive experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It’s one of those hikes that will stay with you long after the trail ends, and you’ll find yourself reminiscing about the sound of the falls, the rush of water, and the wild beauty of the canyon for years to come.
We began at the trailhead, just a short drive from the town of Banff. The trail itself was well-maintained and relatively easy to follow, which made it perfect for an afternoon outing. As we started our walk, the sounds of Johnston Creek filled the air — a constant reminder of the water that carved the canyon over thousands of years. The narrow, rocky trail winds along the creek, cutting through towering limestone cliffs that make you feel like you’re walking through a natural cathedral.
As we made our way deeper into the canyon, we reached the Lower Falls, the first major stop on the hike. The falls were stunning — a veil of water tumbling down from a height of 30 feet into a misty pool below. The sound was thunderous, and we couldn’t help but stop to take it all in. The bridge that spans the creek here provides the perfect vantage point for a photo of the falls framed by the narrow canyon walls.
From the Lower Falls, the trail continues upward toward the Upper Falls — a slightly more challenging section, but well worth the effort. As we ascended, the canyon grew even more dramatic, and we were treated to a different perspective of the creek and waterfalls. The Upper Falls were truly breathtaking. The water cascades into a wide, deep pool, and the mist creates a fine spray that sparkles in the sunlight. There’s a viewpoint that overlooks the falls, offering a perfect spot to rest, enjoy the scenery, and even dip your toes in the refreshing water.
The entire hike was about 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) round-trip, but it never felt too strenuous. Along the way, we passed through several catwalks and bridges built into the canyon walls, which added to the sense of adventure and gave us unobstructed views of the rushing water below.
🔍 Pro Tips for Johnston Canyon Hike:
Get there early – This hike is popular, especially during peak tourist season (June–September). To avoid the crowds, try to hit the trail early in the morning or later in the evening.
Wear sturdy shoes – The trail can be slippery in places, especially near the waterfalls. Proper hiking shoes with good grip are a must, especially if you’re going in early spring when the trail can be a little muddy or icy.
Bring a rain jacket – Even on a clear day, you might get a little wet near the falls, so a light waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable.
Pace yourself – While the trail is relatively easy, the sections near the Upper Falls can be a bit steeper. Take your time, enjoy the views, and don’t rush.
Stay on the trail – This is a popular spot, and it’s important to respect the trail boundaries to help preserve the beauty of the area and protect wildlife.
Bring a camera – The whole hike offers gorgeous photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or phone. The Lower and Upper Falls are especially stunning.
Next, we headed to the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a soak in the hot mineral waters 🌊. While the hot springs were nice, we didn’t find them as amazing as expected. But hey, it’s still worth a visit for a bit of relaxation!
✅ Pro Tip:Banff Upper Hot Springs is best early in the morning or late in the evening – midday gets super crowded and less relaxing.
🚴♂️ E-Bike Adventure Around Banff – A Must-Do, But Plan Ahead!
We had big plans to rent E-bikes and zip around Banff to explore the surrounding areas in a fun, efficient way. The idea was to breeze through scenic routes, take in the stunning mountain views, and easily cover more ground than we could on foot. Banff is a picturesque town, and cruising around on a bike seemed like the perfect way to enjoy its beauty at our own pace. 🚲✨
However, when we went to rent our bikes, we ran into a small hiccup: many of the family-friendly bikes, especially the tantrum bikes (which are essentially kid-friendly trailers that attach to the back of adult bikes), were unavailable for our youngest adventurer. 🧒 The bike rental shops in Banff can get pretty busy, especially during the summer months, and the demand for family bikes was higher than we expected. As much as we had looked forward to this activity, we decided to nix our bike ride for the day, as our little one needed a tantrum bike to join the fun safely.
That said, I highly recommend an E-bike adventure around Banff if you can. The bike paths and scenic routes around town are absolutely beautiful, and it’s a great way to get out and enjoy nature without wearing yourself out from walking too much. The Banff Legacy Trail is a popular route that offers stunning views of the mountains and Bow River, and it’s relatively flat, which makes for an easy ride on an E-bike.
✅ Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with little ones or need specific bikes (like the tantrum bike for younger kids), book your E-bikes early to ensure availability. We learned the hard way that certain sizes and types of bikes can be limited, especially during peak seasons (summer and fall). Many rental shops allow you to reserve bikes online in advance, so take advantage of this feature, particularly if you want to guarantee that your whole family can join in on the fun.
It’s also worth noting that E-bikes are incredibly easy to ride and can give you that extra boost of energy, especially if you’re cycling through the mountains or covering longer distances. If you’re planning to cycle outside of Banff town and into nearby areas, the E-bike is the perfect option for making those longer rides more enjoyable without feeling worn out by the end.
We couldn’t resist making a pit stop for a Beavertail – a classic Canadian dessert that’s as delicious as it sounds! Think crispy, fried dough topped with a variety of sweet toppings, and trust me, it’s an absolute must-try when you’re in Banff!
For dinner, we treated ourselves to some of the best Indian food at Zyka Elevated Indian Restaurant – the flavors were absolutely incredible! 🍛
✅ Pro Tip:Zyka Elevated Indian often has a wait – make a dinner reservation if you’re going on a weekend!
Day 6: Exploring More Lakes & Relaxing in Banff 🏖️
On our final full day, we took it easy. After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we visited the Cave and Basin National Historic Site 🏞️, followed by a drive to Johnson Lake, which is one of the best lakes to swim in Banff – not too cold and so refreshing! 🏊♀️
✅ Pro Tip:Cave & Basin is a great spot to learn about Banff’s history, but it’s small – combine it with a walk along the Marsh Loop Trail nearby for a peaceful hour in nature.
✅ Pro Tip:Johnston Lake is the best local swimming lake. Warmer than others and less touristy!
Dinner was at Banff Social – a great spot to unwind and enjoy some delicious food before heading to the heated pool and Jacuzzi at the hotel for ultimate relaxation. 🌊💆♀️
Day 7: Farewell Banff – Until Next Time! ✨
Our time in Banff and Jasper came to a close, and while we were sad to leave, we couldn’t wait to come back and explore more of the Canadian Rockies. From wildlife sightings 🦌 to majestic mountains 🏔️, clear lakes 🌊, and delicious food 🍽️, this trip truly had it all.
I can’t recommend these two national parks enough – Banff and Jasper are absolutely stunning, and I know they’ll leave you in awe just like they did for us.
🚨 Don’t miss these key tips before planning your trip!
Tips for Visiting Banff & Jasper:
🎫 Book Shuttle Passes Early – Shuttle passes for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake book up quickly, especially during peak season. Reserve yours as early as possible through Parks Canada to avoid missing out. Alternatively, consider booking a private tour if you miss shuttle availability.
🧥 Dress in Layers – Weather in the mountains changes fast! It can go from sunny and warm to chilly and rainy within minutes, especially near glaciers and waterfalls. Bring waterproof gear and layers for comfort.
📷 Bring a Camera – The entire region is a photographer’s dream. From the Johnston Canyon hike to roadside lake views, you’ll want your camera or phone ready. The Lower and Upper Falls in Johnston Canyon offer especially stunning photo opportunities.
🐻 Watch for Wildlife – You might spot black bears, elk, mountain goats, and more. Have your camera ready even during your drive to hikes, as animals are often seen roadside. My friend Shailee actually spotted a black bear en route to Johnston Canyon – sadly, no photo, but it was an unforgettable moment!
🛣️ Take Your Time – Whether you’re driving the Icefields Parkway or strolling a lakeside path, there’s magic in every corner. Don’t rush – soak in the views, the sounds, and the fresh alpine air.
🍽️ Make Reservations for Popular Restaurants – Spots like The Raven Bistro in Jasper or Bear Street Tavern in Banff can fill up fast. Booking ahead saves time and guarantees a great meal.
📅 Plan at least 6 months in advance if traveling in July–September. Hotels, shuttles, and rentals get booked out quickly.
🛶 Want a less touristy lake experience? Try Peyto Lake, Waterfowl Lake, or Two Jack Lake.
🍽️ More restaurant gems:
Breakfast: Wild Flour Bakery
Lunch with a view: The Juniper Bistro
Dinner: Park Distillery (house-made spirits + hearty Canadian fare)
📌 Plan Must-Do Activities in Advance – Canoeing at Lake Louise, booking the Columbia Icefield tour, or reserving e-bikes (especially tandem bikes if traveling with little ones) should be done early – they’re incredibly popular and can sell out.
🚼 What to Pack
Waterproof jacket + layers
Hiking shoes with grip
Swimsuit + towel for lakes and hot springs
Power bank + camera gear
Reusable water bottle (fill up at visitor centers!)
🌍 Want to Explore More?
If you have extra time:
Canmore – charming town just outside Banff
Yoho National Park – worth a full day on its own
Peyto Lake – iconic wolf-shaped viewpoint
I hope this blog inspires you to pack your bags and explore the wild beauty of Banff and Jasper! Whether you’re hiking, canoeing, or just soaking in the views, these national parks will steal your heart. Until next time, fellow adventurers! 🌟✈️
