Things To Do
Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are two of the most beautiful lakes in the area, and well worth a visit. They are often done together on the same day. There is no public parking at Moraine Lake, and very limited and expensive parking at Lake Louise, so you will need to book a shuttle to get there. Parks Canada offers the best value for the shuttles, but getting spots fill up very quickly. There are also private shuttle providers that cost a little more, but are easier to secure if you miss out on the Parks Canada shuttles. Parks Canada Shuttles: Bookings for summer open on April 15th for the first wave of reservations. Additional bookings are available 2 days prior to the date of visit at 8am MDT. https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/parkbus/louise Private Shuttles: There are many companies that provide private shuttles to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. A couple we can recommend are: Moraine Lake Bus: https://morainelakebus.com/ Via Via: https://viaviamorainelake.com/
Banff Canoe Club
Take a canoe out on the gorgeous, blue Bow River. If you're lucky, you might see some wildlife along the way!
Banff Sunshine Meadows
For gorgeous mountain vistas with minimal effort required, take a visit to Sunshine Meadows. Experience the scenic gondola ride, followed by a chairlift with the fresh mountain breeze and make your way to the viewing deck for some stunning sights of alpine lakes. There are many hiking trails in the area if you want to get up close with the lakes and flora.
Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins
Tucked away in the woods, full of history and charm, Storm Mountain Lodge is a favourite spot of ours. During the summer, the lodge is open in the evening for a hearty dinner, or a quick hot chocolate by the fire.
Emerald Lake Trail
Emerald Lake is another stunningly beautiful lake in Yoho National park. You can go just for a visit, complete an easy hike around the lake or rent a canoe. On your way there or back, consider visiting the mighty Takakkaw Falls, or having a bite to eat at the tasty Truffle Pig Bistro in Field. We ate at the Truffle Pig the evening we got engaged, and it's a real favourite of ours. Emerald Lake Loop Hike: Difficulty: Easy Distance: 5.3km Elevation Gain: Minimal
Cirque Lake Hike
This is where we got engaged! It's one of the best-kept secrets in the area, and it's a fairly easy hike. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 9.2km Elevation Gain: 370m
Smutwood Peak Hike
Hike through beautiful meadows, up rocky outcrops, and scramble to the summit, in view of the imposing Mount Birdwood. Smutwood Peak is one of the most stunning hikes in the area. This one is more challenging, but for those with strong legs and a sense of adventure, it will certainly deliver. Difficulty: Hard Distance: 18.3km Elevation Gain: 964m
Other Activities
There is so much to see and do in the area. For more recommendations for sightseeing, activities and hikes, reach out to Annie and Eliza! You can also reach out to the staff at Banff Lake Louise tourism: https://www.banfflakelouise.com