Jennifer & Brian
Things To Do
Lake Louise
If you have ever seen photos of Banff it was probably a photo of this iconic lake. This place is just incredible. During the time of year our wedding is, it may or may not be thawed completely. When we went it was about half thawed but still gorgeous. The mountains around the lake will make your jaw drop. Take a nice walk next to the lake and then enjoy lunch with a view in one of the hotel’s many restaurants (we recommend Alpine Social).
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is about an hour drive from Banff and is pure magic. The water is the craziest emerald color you will ever see. Take a hike around the lake, enjoy some lunch or there is a boathouse where you can get a canoe and take in the view from the water. There is also a lodge on the lake where you can spend the most peaceful night.
Johnston Canyon Falls
Johnston Canyon Falls is a beautiful easy hike. You can hike first to the Lower Falls which is only about 1 mile. Once you get to the lower falls you go through a cave and you are right up next to the falls feeling the mist in your face. If you are feeling even more adventurous you can keep going on your hike to the Upper Falls, where it starts to get a little more difficult.
Canoeing on Moraine Lake
There are SO many places to go canoeing or kayaking near Banff. Almost any of the lakes that we mentioned you can canoe on. Possibly the most breathtaking one is Moraine Lake. Hopefully the lake road will be open in time for our visit since it isn't clear until all the avalanches have happened. If it is open definitely go visit! If you don't want to canoe, you can go on a hike around the lake.
Lake Minnewanka
This is a huge lake not far from town with lots of picnic areas and a nice walk by the lake. They also have cruises on the lake so you can see a new perspective of the Rockies. The ride up to Lake Minnewanka is beautiful and you may run into some traffic.... mountain goats in the road that don’t want to move.
Banff Gondola
Now this is something we have not tried because of Jen’s debilitating fear of inclosed spaces and heights, but we have only heard and read incredible things about it. This looks like a must try! Take Brian with you! Then he won’t force Jen to do it. Go to the website for ticket info.
Bow Valley Parkway
Bow Valley Parkway is a scenic drive between Banff and Lake Louise. It’s a beautiful drive and you will probably see some wildlife roaming around! Definitely take this route to Lake Louise.
Rafting
There are a ton of places to go rafting in Banff and many different levels of intensity. You can take a gently cruise with a little bit of splashes or if you are a complete psycho you can raft Horseshoe Canyon. Horseshoe Canyon is a Class IV rapids that also has an optional cliff jump.
Horseback Riding
Looking for another form of transportation? Go horseback riding! There are a ton of trail rides that you can go on in Banff. If you are looking for something super unique, go for a Ride & BBQ Cookout! Ride horseback along the base of a mountain to a delicious cowboy cookout!
Banff Scooter Company
Want to feel like a total badass biker cruising through town? Rent a scooter! Feel the wind in you hair!
Bear Street Tavern
Want a delicious pizza? Look no further. The pizza here is great and they have lots of gluten free options
Park Distillery Restaurant and Bar
We LOVE Park Distillery! We love it so much we are having our reception here! The food is amazing and so is the atmosphere. Also the drinks are so yummy!
Wild Bill's Legendary Saloon
This is a fun late night spot if you’re looking for a drink and something to do. They have bands that play as well as a side room with a pool table and arcade games.
High Rollers
If you’re looking to spend some time indoors this is a great bowling alley with pool tables, pizza and 48 beers on tap.
Hop On Bus
If you decide to not rent a car, this is a great way to see a bunch of these great places! This is a great hop-on, hop-off bus that will take you to many places like Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. It will also take you down Bow Valley Parkway where you will hopefully see some wildlife!