Recent Rare Bear Attack 

The recent rare bear attack occurred on Friday evening, September 30, 2023, in the Red Deer River Valley area of Banff National Park. Red Deer River Valley lies west of Ya Ha Tinda Ranch—approximately 150 kilometers (93.2 miles) from Calgary. 

The victims, Doug Inglis, 62, and Jenny Gusse, 62, were experienced hikers who were exploring the park’s backcountry. Unfortunately, the encounter turned tragic when they crossed paths with a grizzly bear. Despite their best efforts to defend themselves—evidence proving one can of bear spray depleted—the bear inflicted severe injuries, resulting in the tragic loss of life.

Potential Causes of Bear Attacks

Bear attacks are not commonplace. Outside the recent tragedy, only three encounters have occurred in Banff National Park in the past ten years. And none of those three occurrences resulted in fatalities. Specific activities, however, can increase the chances of a dangerous bear encounter.

Proximity to Bear Habitat

Approximately 60 grizzly bears inhabit Banff National Park. While the Red Deer River Valley victims were not intentionally seeking out the bear or intruding upon its habitat, hikers need to be aware that bears can become more active in the fall as they forage for food in preparation for winter’s hibernation. The grizzly in this incident was also discovered to be leaner than she should have been for this time of year.

If you plan on hiking or any other remote outdoor activity in Banff National Park, it is a good idea to review recent bear reports and note area closures. The Parks Canada website maintains bear updates to help keep you apprised of recent bear activity within the national parks of the Canadian Rockies.

Backcountry Hiking & Camping

Doug Inglis and Jenny Gusse were hiking in the backcountry, away from marked trails. While exploring off the beaten path can be enticing, it also increases the chances of encountering wildlife, including bears. Stay on marked trails and pathways as much as possible. If you are going to engage in backcountry activities, be certain to acquire the proper permits and consider using GPS equipment to alert authorities of your status and location.

Improper Food Handling and Storage

Reports indicate that the victims had exercised all proper precautions in storing their supplies at their campsite. Food supplies and waste can draw hungry bears to your camp. Some backcountry areas have designated storage facilities. If no such facility is available, secure your food at least four meters (13.21 feet) and at least 1.3 meters (4.27 feet) away from side supports such as trees. You can also use bear-resistant canisters and trash cans.

Preventing a Bear Encounter—What You Need to Know

The best way to avoid a negative encounter with a bear while in Banff National Park is to know how to avoid one in the first place. Following these tips can help limit the possibility.

• Carry Bear Spray

Always carry bear spray in an easily accessible location, such as a holster on your belt. Ensure you know how to use it effectively by practicing beforehand.

• Stay on Marked Trails

Stick to designated trails whenever possible, as they are less likely to intersect with bear habitats. Avoid venturing into the backcountry alone.

• Make Noise

Bears are more likely to avoid humans if they are aware of their presence. Make noise while hiking, especially in areas with limited visibility, such as dense vegetation or around bends.

• Be Alert

Continuously scan your surroundings for signs of bear activity, such as tracks, scat, or overturned rocks. If you spot a bear, give it plenty of space and do not approach or attempt to feed it.

• Travel in Numbers

Explore the trails and backcountry of Banff in groups of four or more. Larger parties are less likely to run into trouble with Canada’s bears. If your party includes younger children, keep them close.

• Leash Your Dogs

Many of Banff’s trails and byways welcome our four-legged family members. However, should you be traveling with your pet, keep dogs firmly leashed. Dogs can unintentionally cause aggressive, defensive behavior in bears. 

• Hike in the Daytime

Avoid moving about in the wilderness after the sun goes down. While bears are crepuscular, meaning they are generally most active at dawn and dusk, studies have shown that male grizzlies tend to be more active at night. 

• Dispose of Camping Waste Properly

Do not store waste within 50 meters (164 feet) of your campsite. This includes garbage, dishwater, and fish remains. Bears have a keen sense of smell—on par with a bloodhound. Additionally, make sure to store it downwind of your site. 

• Keep a “BARE” Campsite

To help ensure visitor safety and preserve the wildlife in Canada’s national parks, Parks Canada has established the Bare Campsite Program. The basic tenets of this program require campers to properly secure all food items, waste, and toiletries.

• Avoid and Report Dead Wildlife

Should you come across an animal carcass when exploring the trails and backcountry of the Canadian Rockies, steer a wide circle and report it to park authorities immediately.  

What Do I Do If I See a Bear?

Even if you follow all the protocols to avoid a bear encounter, there is always a chance you could still find yourself in close proximity to a bear. To keep a chance meeting from turning into a negative encounter, there are certain steps you can take.

• Don’t Run!

Your first instinct in a bear encounter might naturally lean toward flight. However, running away suggests to the bear that you a prey. Flight can actually encourage an encounter to become negative.

• Awareness

Encountering a bear can be unnerving, but there is always a chance that even if you spot a bear, it is possible they may not even be aware of your presence. If it appears to be unaware, back away carefully and leave the area quickly and quietly.

If, however, the bear demonstrates defensive behavior—growling, pinned ears, snapping jaws—remain calm. Keep your bear spray at the ready and speak in a low, steady voice to the bear to indicate you are human and not a prey animal. Keep hold of any pack you may be carrying. It can serve as a layer of protection should the encounter suddenly turn.

What Do I Do If a Bear Approaches Me?

Bears may approach humans for multiple reasons. No matter the trigger, it is important to know what to do should a bear start toward you. Your response will depend upon whether the bear’s approach is defensive or nondefensive. 

A bear’s behavior might be defensive if it is protecting its cub, if it is in the process of eating, or merely trying to demonstrate dominance. If the bear is vocal or appears agitated, there are some key actions you should take immediately.

• Don’t Scream or Yell

Or speak in an agitated manner. Stay calm and still and speak in an easy, even tone.

• Move Away Slowly

If a bear should stop its advance, slowly back away and remove yourself from the bear’s presence.

• Ready Your Bear Spray

If the bear continues to get closer to you, have your spray in hand and primed for use. Do not move and continue to speak calmly.

• Play Dead

Should the above actions fail to deter the bear from making contact, your best defense is to fall to the ground and play dead. According to Parks Canada’s bear safety guidelines, the best position for playing dead is as follows:

“Lie on your stomach with legs apart and position your arms so that your hands are crossed behind your neck. This position makes you less vulnerable to being flipped over and protects your face, the back of your head and neck.”

Avoid the temptation to move, remaining still, until the bear loses interest and moves away. Once the bear has left your immediate presence, slowly and quietly leave. 

Even if a bear initiates defense-motivated contact, if the encounter lasts longer than two minutes or so, be aware that the encounter may be shifting to a predatory one. In this case, playing dead no longer serves your best interests. Fight back with your spray or rocks or branches within reach. If you can, escape up a tree, into a vehicle, or into a building if it is available.  

Even rarer, are bear appearances in the town of Banff. However, nature can be wildly unpredictable. There are steps you can take to help avoid attracting bears into town. Should you see any refuse around town, please report it immediately to authorities on the emergency operations line, 403.762.1240. After hours, press 2 for an on-call emergency number. In an effort to preserve human life and wildlife, litter is considered an emergency in Banff. Learn more about Banff Bear Awareness. 

Where Can I Get Bear Safety Training?

Articles like these are a great starting point for staying safe during wildlife encounters in Banff National Park, but there are resources visitors can use to further their knowledge of how to stay safe while exploring all Banff has to offer, including its wildlife.

Bear Safety & More offers both online and on-site bear safety training courses to help educate you on how to avoid bear encounters and prepare you should you have one. The 1.5-2-hour program introduces you to bear ecology, bear identification, how to recognize bear signs, how to avoid encounters, and what to do should you have one. The program also delves into the specifics of bear spray and highlights some other potentially dangerous wildlife you may encounter while in the park. A separate 35-minute course is offered on the proper use of bear spray.

The recent bear attack in Banff National Park serves as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers hikers may face when exploring wildlife-rich areas. Understanding the factors that contribute to such incidents, as well as implementing best bear safety practices, is crucial for both hikers’ safety and the preservation of these magnificent creatures. By respecting their habitat and following recommended guidelines, we can coexist with bears and enjoy the beauty of Banff National Park responsibly.

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HIKING
Twenty minutes from Field, BC, you’ll find a short trail to Takakkaw Falls. From the Cree word meaning “magnificent,” Takakkaw could either be a refreshing start to your day or a great way to finish!

Park in the lot and begin the short hike. Once you reach a fork in the trail, you can either turn left to go across the bridge that will take you to the base of the waterfall, or turn right and visit the viewpoint. There you can see the waterfall tumbling behind the trees. Note that the trail is only open from June until October.

Other hiking options include Emerald Lake and the Iceline Trail. It takes about an hour to hike all the way around Emerald Lake but it’s a great way to see the local wildlife and to sneak a peek at the Burgess Shale fossil beds. The Iceline Trail is a more intense day trip that begins at Takakkaw Falls but takes you around mountain peaks, glaciers, and the Yoho River. One day of rafting and another around the Iceline Trail, and you’ll be spent!

LEARN THE HISTORY
The interactive Burgess Shale exhibit at the Field Information Centre allows you to explore the mysteries of a long-gone world that existed half a billion years ago. Fossils extracted from the fossil bed are also on display. Visiting Emerald Lake will also allow you to view the fossil site.

The Spiral Tunnels were an important part of Western Canadian history, as they allowed for safer, easier transport within the Canadian Rockies. Two viewpoints are available to watch the trains that still pass through daily.

GO UP THE MOUNTAIN
One of the most popular Banff National Park activities is taking the Sightseeing Lift, which allows you to get a birds-eye view of the Canadian Rockies in all their splendor. Combine this with a gentle whitewater rafting trip (or something a little more advanced!), and that would be an exciting, fulfilling day. See our whitewater rafting specials for our Up the Mountain and Down the River activity package. If you are in need of lodging, be sure to check out the unique accommodations at the Beaverfoot Lodge & Resort!

EXPERIENCE BANFF’S WORLD CLASS GOLFING
Looking for the best in Canadian Rockies golf but don’t know where to start? Let Golf Canada’s West help you plan and customize your Canada golf vacation package! They take care of the details so you can focus on the golf course and the beauty of western Canada. Check out their golf vacation packages for Whistler, Columbia Valley, Victoria and Vancouver Island, Kelowna, and more!

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Road Closures
Banff Avenue will be closed starting at 4 p.m. for the parade. Download the Road Closure Map (PDF) for details on all traffic delays on July 1.

Central Park

High School Field

Other Locations 

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One of the most common questions we are asked as local residents of the Canadian Rockies is, “what’s the weather going to be like?” And if the truth be known, for most residents of Banff and Canmore, it is the most common topic of discussion amongst us. So to answer the question, let’s first take a look at “averages” as provided by Environment Canada for the Town of Banff:

Two operative words here are “averages” and the “elevation”, because the averages will give you a pretty indication that July is warmer than April, and that on any given day in July, it should be pretty nice. And although 58.4 mm of rain in June sounds like a lot, keep in mind 25 mm equals 1 inch, and the average is about 2 inches of rain for the entire month of June. So what about the elevation?

Elevation, more than almost anything else, drives the weather in Banff National Park and this leads to incredible variability even between locations that are near to one another. The weather can also become dramatically different through the day. Just because the sun is out at the start of the trailhead, be sure to have something warm to pull on and even rain gear, as you never know how much things can change throughout the day.

One element that always seems to catch visitors to the Canadian Rockies off-guard is how dramatically the temperatures can change as we go from day to night. Even though the temperature rose to 23 C (73.4 F) during the day, overnight the temperature may drop to just a few degrees above freezing (0 C / 32 F).

The bottom line is think ahead as you plan your vacation to Banff National Park. Get current trail reports and weather conditions or drop into one of the Park’s Visitor Centre’s. For an up-to-date forecast while you are on the move, call the Banff Weather Office at 403 762 2088 and follow the prompts.

Being prepared means not only will you have more fun while visiting Banff National Park, you will also remain warm and dry, not matter what Mother Nature comes up with!!

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There are many accommodation options for the budget traveler to choose from when visiting Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies, but none fit the “budget” category better than Banff’s two hostel options. Now don’t think that just because they provide the least expensive accommodation option in Banff that they do not meet today’s standards of cleanliness and security. Both hostels do a great job in each circumstance.

HI Banff Alpine Centre
Located on Tunnel Mountain, above the townsite of Banff, the Hosteling International (HI) Banff Alpine Centre is the newer and larger of the two. Even though it is outside the downtown core, and quieter as a result, Banff’s Roam bus system is FREE to HI guests giving you full access to such sites as Sulphur Mountain Gondola, Bow Falls and Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and other Banff activities. Add in free Wi-Fi, the Storm Cellar Pub & Gamehouse with $2.75 highballs, Cougar Pete’s Kitchen and Lookout where you will be full for less than $10.00 and the fabulous staff that is almost all backpackers, the HI Banff Alpine Centre is the way to go! Overnights start at $31.75 for Hostelling International members.

Samesun Banff
The Samesun Banff is part of a network of privately owned of hostels that really understand their clientele. Great location, clean and well-kept, easy access to transportation are all pluses at Samesun Banff. Located at 433 Banff Avenue, the Samesun Banff is only 2 short blocks for the centre of Banff with its many choices of bars and restaurants. But with the onsite Beaver bar and restaurant, with mains starting under $10.00, you may never leave the property. Throw in free Wi-Fi, daily breakfast and for those driving, free parking. Rates start at $31.50 in a shared dorm.

Hostelling is a wonderful way to travel the world. From Banff to London to New York, hostelling will put you in the centre of it all!

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JASPER, ALBERTA, Canada – Getting away for a relaxing vacation with the one you love can be easier than booking an expensive cruise or a lengthy international flight. Staying local and spending time with each other can be just as romantic as booking a vacation abroad while allowing you to save money and travel time. A change of scenery is often all it takes to make your getaway seem like an exotic adventure.

When your day to day life is the hustle and bustle of the city you probably don’t want to check yourself into a hotel room that offers a similar view. And living in an area where you already have all the peace and quiet you could ever want may leave you with the need for a little excitement. The happy medium? Jasper.

Take in the spectacular views found in the surrounding mountain landscapes of Jasper National Park. And, you can make your getaway as active or tranquil as you like. The Mount Robson Inn’s Suite & Sparkling Package offers the best of the great indoors with a night’s stay in the luxurious Sunwapta Suite with Jacuzzi tub and sparkling wine upon arrival. For the best of the great outdoors there are few romantic walks that offer so much wonder as the Maligne Canyon Icewalk. Share some quality time skiing at Marmot Basin. Afterwards enjoy worry free après ski cocktails and appetizers by adding ski shuttle tickets to your Mount Robson Inn winter vacation.

You don’t need a special occasion, a lot of money or even a lot of time to change your scenery, your perspective and spice things with that special someone.

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Climate is one of the most important factors when considering when to come to the Canadian Rockies, and what to bring. Below you’ll find the average high and low temperatures for Banff and Jasper, Alberta. Keep in mind that the weather varies quite a bit, despite what the averages say, and, per Murphy’s Law, it tends toward colder and and wetter than you had expected. The best advice is to be prepared.

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The natural beauty of Banff National Park is what brings travelers from every corner of the globe to the area. Yoga is one of the great activities you can partake in during your visit.

The fresh air, inspiring landscapes and fantastic yoga organizations here make it the perfect place to start -or continue- your practice.

Leave Banff stronger and more flexible, confident and radiant!

Eco Yoga Adventures organizes retreats that mix yoga and meditation with hiking in Banff National Park. Get to know your inner balance in a place where breathtaking scenery lies in every direction. Retreats include Eco Yoga, Walking Meditation and Heli-Yoga, which actually takes yogis in a helicopter to a secluded site high in the Canadian Rockies wilderness to practice. Make a reservation for your small group (3-6 yogis) from June to September.
Phone: (403) 678-0101
Website: Eco Yoga Adventures

The Sally Borden Building at The Banff Centre is a great place to head in Banff National Park for drop-in yoga classes. They offer Flow and Vinyasa classes designed to accommodate every skill level. One class costs $10, or if you’re going to be in the area a while, try the 10-class punch card for $90. Mats provided. The center also has a climbing gym, pool and extensive arts and culture program. Just a few minutes from downtown Banff!
Address: 107 Tunnel Mountain Drive, Banff, AB T1L 1H5, Canada
Phone: (403) 762-6450
Website: Sally Borden Fitness & Recreation / The Banff Centre

Rocky Mountain Yoga is a great studio in downtown Banff. Styles offered include Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga, Yin and Yin/Yang. Drop-in to a class or attend one of their big name specialty workshops.
Address: 201B 211 Bear Street (Bison Courtyard), Banff, AB T1L 1E5
Phone: (403) 762-5686
Website: Rocky Mountain Yoga

Gaia Studio offers yoga, meditation and dance classes in Canmore, Alberta. The studio works to compliment the Gaia Clinic, which is a preventative healthcare office.
Address: #101 75 Dyrgas Gate, Canmore, AB, T1W 0A6
Phone: (403) 675-4242
Website: Gaia Studio

The Mountain Pod is a unique yoga studio offers classes like Ageless Ladies, Men Only and Therapeutic as well as offering massage therapy services. Group and private classes now available!
Address: #105 999 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 1N4
Phone: (403) 679-1019
Website: The Mountain Pod

The Yoga Lounge has been around since 2002 in Canmore. A diverse group of students make up the yoga community there which practices the Ashtanga, Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin and Flow styles. Beginners and advanced yogis welcome. Views of the Canadian Rockies from your mat!
Address: 826 Main Street, Second Floor, Canmore, AB T1W 2B7
Phone: (403) 678-6687
Website: The Yoga Lounge

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After all of that traipsing around in the mountains, a spa treatment is just what you’ll need. Relax those sleeping bag-induced knots right out with a hot stone massage or a soak in a Jacuzzi whirlpool!

Read below for a listing of spas in Banff and enjoy!

Banff Therapeutic Massage
This center offers general relaxation, pre/post surgery, cranisacral, myofascial, trigger points and hot stone massages.
Address: 111 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB T1L 1A3
Phone: (403) 762-4281

Body Concepts
Body Concepts offers esthetics and massage services, including manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, electrolysis and therapeutic massage.
Address: 229 Bear Street, Banff, AB T1L 1A9
Phone: (403) 760-3136

Grotto Spa
Soak in the beautiful hot mineral bath at Grotto Spa and you’ll be more relaxed and rejuvenated than ever!
Address: 459 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB T1L 1B4
Phone: (403) 760-6957
Website: Grotto Spa

Mountain Spa
Come to this Banff day spa for aromatherapy, hot stone massage, Indian head massage, facials, make-up eyelash and brow tinting, manicures, pedicures, gel nails, reflexology, electrolosis or waxing. They also offer luxurious body treatments like mud or algae wraps and sea salt scrubs!
Address: 111 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB T1L 1A2
Phone: 403-762-0473
Website: Mountain Spa

On The Run Massage Therapy
This ingenious company offers professional massage therapy to those in need, right where you’re staying! Rates are generally $85 for an hour, or $115 for an hour and half.
Address: P.O. Box #3812, Banff, AB T1L 1E3
Phone: (403) 763-1795, (403) 763-7628
Email: wendyfultz@yahoo.ca

Pleiades Massage & Spa
Pleiades offers massage therapy, reflexology, and shiatsu, along with all-natural facials, salt scrub body treatments and aromatherapy. Plus, here you’ll be able to take advantage of Banff’s only natural mineral hot springs.
Address: Banff Upper Hot Springs, Mountain Avenue, Banff, AB
Phone: (403) 760-2500
Toll Free: 1-866-760-2502
Website: Pleiades Massage

Red Earth Spa
Restore your sense of balance at Red Earth Spa. Book a holistic spa, head-to-toe treatment with them today!
Address: 521 Banff Avenue (Banff Caribou Lodge), Banff, AB T1L 1B1
Phone: (403) 762-9292
Toll Free: 1-800-563-8764
Website: Red Earth Spa

Turning Point Accupuncture & Spa
This Banff spa offers relaxing and therapeutic massages from registered massage therapists. They also have a registered acupuncturist onsite who specializes in treating acute and chronic pain.
Address: 111 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB T1L 1B2
Phone: (403) 762-8293

Ptarmigan Spa Elements
This spa is located in the Banff Ptarmigan Inn and offers massage and body treatments.
Address: 337 Banff Avenue (Banff Ptarmigan Inn), Banff, AB T1L 1A8
Phone: (403) 762-2207

Uptown Spa
The Uptown Spa offers massage, hot stone massage, aromatherapy, wraps, facials, manicures and pedicures. Free access to their sauna, steam room and large Jacuzzi Whirlpool with your appointment!
Address: 501 Banff Avenue (Banff Inn), Banff, AB T1L 1A9
Phone: (403) 762-8844
Website: Uptown Spa

Wago Shiatsu Do
This Banff spa provides shiatsu and relaxation massages, acupressure and traditional Japanese Sotai treatments.
Address: 600 Banff Avenue (Inns of Banff), Banff, Alberta T1L 1G5
Phone: (403) 763-7088

Willow Stream Spa
This world-class spa is located in The Fairmont Banff Springs. The 38,000 square-foot facility includes a European mineral pool, three waterfall plunge pools, an outdoor hot tub, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, an inhalation room and private lounge. Treatments include massages, body treatments, facials and nail/salon services. There is also a fitness center onsite with a 32-meter indoor pool and outdoor heated pool.
Address: 405 Spray Avenue (The Fairmont Banff Springs), Banff, AB T1L 1J4
Phone: (403) 762-1772
Toll Free: 1-800-404-1772
Website: Willow Stream Spa

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One of the many reasons why Banff is so popular with visitors is because of its diversity. The choice of accommodations is enough to occupy a week of humming and hawing alone. The list of activities to choose from is exhausting in itself and the areas around Banff are packed full of unique beauty. Here at Banff National Park.com, we often receive questions from readers to help sort out their vacation. Below is a list of these questions and answers to assist your planning.

1) Can I go Backpacking in Banff?

Why the heck not! There are over 1100km of tails to choose from in Banff alone. You can go it yourself or go an organized trip. Here is a list of recommendations:

One Night: Healy Creek; or Mosquito Creek; or Paradise Valley

Two Nights: Dolomite Pass; or Mystic Pass; or Glacier Lake

Three Nights: Healy Creek – Healy Pass – Egypt Lake – Whistling Valley – out via Red Earth Creek

Four Nights: Mosquito Creek – Molar Pass – Fish Lake – the high route to Pipestone Pass – Isabela Lake – out via Dolomite Pass

Ten Nights: Mosquito Creek – Fish Lake – Clearwater Pass – Clearwater River – Peters Creek – Divide Creek – Red Deer River – Red Deer Lakes – Skoki Valley – Deception Pass – out via Boulder Pass *** NOTE – this is a trip for experienced backcountry travelers who are used to off trail navigation, river crossing, and self sufficiency…. it is a gorgeous trip but YOU WILL BE ON YOUR OWN WITH NO SUPPORT – CELL PHONES DO NOT WORK HERE… and Wardens rarely patrol this far back in the park…

2) Should I be Worried About Bears?

Yes, you should. Bears are a very real threat and if they feel threatened they can react dangerously. Both black and grizzly bears inhabit front and backcountry areas of the Canadian Rockies. You should do the following things to make sure of your safety:

• Make lots of noise
•  Keep your eyes open
•  Don’t bring pets into the back country
•  Hang all food and objects on bear cables or a firm tree
•  Sleep away from your cooking area
•  If fires are permitted, burn all your combustible rubbish.
•  Keep a clean camp.
•  If you are lucky enough to encounter a bear, don’t panic. (Easy to say from here!) Talk to him, sing him a song and don’t freak out when he stands on his hind legs, he is just trying to smell you. Keep calm.

3) I’m Visiting Banff with my Family, What can we do?

Lots of things. Picnics, skiing, festivals, shopping, easy walks and hikes and much more. The world is at your feet.

4) What are the Fees for Entering Banff National Park?

The fees are very fair considering the beauties Banff holds. There are several options to choose from. Here is a list of the basic prices. For more options, have a look at Fees.
daily

Annual – National Parks of Canada

5) Tell me more about Banff National Park?

Founded in 1885 after the chance discovery of hot springs on Sulphur Mountain, Banff National Park was Canada’s first national park and the world’s third. Today, it is an integral part of the UNESCO Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site, and the core of the largest national park system in the world.

Banff is also Canada’s most visited park, with more than 5 million visitors coming each year to enjoy the wildlife and spectacular scenery found here.

6) What Are the Fees for Camp Sites in Banff?

For a full list of information about the campsites

Here is a rundown of the prices and facilities:

Banff National Park Campgrounds

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7) Scenic Drives in Banff

Many of the scenic drives in and around the town of Banff are described here

Along with some of the area’s attractions and sites. Note that few of these drives connect directly with the Trans-Canada highway (T.C.H.) which is the only highway leading in and out of Banff. Jackets, sweaters, insect repellent and litter bags are useful to have along if you plan to stop during a drive. Maps, guidebooks, binoculars, a camera and a lunch will add to your enjoyment.

8) Short Walks in Banff

A stroll or short walk around Banff can be the start of an adventure. Walking is an excellent way of experiencing the park at your own pace, of pursuing such interests as , wildlife watching and fishing or enjoying yourself sightseeing and picnicking. As a way of getting to and from places, walking is healthy, inexpensive and environmentally friendly. Listed below are some strolls and walks in or near the town of Banff.

9) Day Hikes in Banff

A day hike is any hike long enough to require taking a pack with a lunch and extra clothing, not to mention cameras, binoculars, guidebooks and maps. There is always plenty to see on any day hike while getting fresh air and exercise. Only a few day hikes in the Banff area are described here. For more complete information on day hikes, a hiking trail guidebook and topographical maps should be consulted.

10) What to do in Lake Louise and Around

With its blue-green water and dramatic mountain setting, this is the best known and most admired lake in the park. Lake Louise Drive, a paved 4.5 km road, and two trails, the Tramline and Louise Creek, provide access between Lake Louise Village on the valley floor and the lake itself. Pathways lead from the public parking lot to the lake. The magnificent snow-covered peak at the end of the lake is Mount Victoria, named for England’s renowned queen. The lake is named for after one of her five daughters. A stroll through the flower-filled grounds in front of the Chateau Lake Louise is a nice way to spend a half hour. Canoes can be rented from the boathouse at the lake or you can see the lake on foot by walking the Lakeshore Trail. At the Lake Louise ski area, on the opposite side of the valley, visitors can take a chairlift up Whitehorn Mountain in the summertime for panoramic views of Lake Louise and its surrounding peaks.

11) What Are the Hot Springs of Banff

There are three Hot Springs in Banff, Upper Hot Springs, Miette Hot Springs and Radium Hot Springs. It was a dispute over ownership of these hot springs that triggered the development of Canada’s first national park in 1885. The facilities have expanded since that time and today’s rundle stone and wood structure heralds the architecture of the 1930’s. The newly restored heritage bath house offers a range of services that cater to the visitors of the 90s. From redesigned pool, spa facilities, change rooms and interpretive exhibits to restaurants and boutiques. The Banff Upper Hot Springs has returned to its former splendor.

12) Where Can I see Some Beautiful Photos of Banff?

John E. Marriot is the Rockies resident photographer. His camera has caught some of the most stunning images of the Rockies ever seen. Canadian Rockies Or to see his

13) What Summer Activities Can I do?

Recreational opportunities abound in Banff National Park with over one-thousand kilometers of hiking and biking trails. You will also be ‘base-camped’ in the middle of one of the worlds most unparalleled outdoor recreation areas – for within a one hour driving circle you have five world-class ski hills, six world-class golf courses, thousands of miles of hiking and cross country ski trails and excellent fly-fishing rivers and lakes. In short, you won’t be bored here!

14) What Are My Skiing Options in Banff?

There are so many slopes and resorts in and around Banff that the list is practically endless. Although, here is a list that does eventually end:

15) Are There Many Restaurants in Banff?

You bet there is. Family, ethnic, fine dining, continental, cafes and pubs. You name it, we have it. Canadian Rockies

16) Where is Best for Sightseeing?

Lake Minnewanka, Bow Valley Parkway, Lake Louise and Area, Sunshine Meadows, Johnston Canyon, The Hot Springs, The Icefields Parkway and Jasper just to name a few. You are going to need a few visits to Banff to get everything in! Banff Sightseeing

17) Are There Any Special Events in the Rockies and Banff?

From art and culture to sport and ice sculpture, Banff is your oyster.
https://www.banfftravel.com/

18) What Kind of Wildlife is there in Banff and the Rockies?

Banff National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, mountain caribou, moose and wolves. It’s also the residence of smaller creatures, like hoary marmots, pikas and Columbian ground squirrels, and to a host of birds, from bald eagles to the endangered harlequin ducks.

The best times of year to visit Banff if you’re looking for wildlife are in early spring (April – May) or in fall (September – October).

19) What is the Best way to get About Banff?

Banff itself is easily accessible by foot but if you want to do a bit of sightseeing, a rented car might be your best bet. There are bus operators that can pick you up from the airport and take you everywhere you need to go on your trip. Check out Sun Dog Tours.

20) What is the best Accommodation Choice for me?

Whether it be an Inn, B&B, Hotel, Motel, Cabin, Lodge, Resort, Western, Rental House or Camping, there are options for all.

21) Can I have my Wedding in Banff?

You certainly can. There are various options. There are companies like Banff Bride who can work with you to organize the big day or check out our wedding section Banff Weddings

22) Is there Disabled Access in Banff?

There have been severe improvements to disabled access over the years. There is plenty to do for the disabled visitor. Check out our handicapped visitor section:

23) Can I Golf in the Rockies?

For anyone looking for the ultimate golf experience in a setting so
breathtaking that every shot is framed against big sky and towering
mountain peaks, you only have to go to the Canadian Rockies. Here you
will find perfectly designed courses that harmonize with nature, where
each course is exceptionally playable for both the high and low
handicapper. According to Gordon Schultz, President of Golf Canada’s West,
golfing in the Canmore Kananaskis and Canadian Rockies is known for its
wide variety of elevation changes, providing excellent opportunities for
shot making that one does not find on the lowland meadow courses.

24) Can I Fish in the Rockies?

If the bears can do it, why can’t you?! Fishing the Rockies.

25) Can I have my Corporate Team Building Activity in Banff?

The Banff National Park area provides a great base for corporate team building activities. Rockies team building activities gives your company a chance to have your staff bond together in one of the greatest settings on earth.

26) Can I go Horse Riding in Banff?

There are several options to choose from including Cross Zee Ranch and Western Adventures.

27) Can I go White Water Rafting in Banff?

Banff and the Canadian Rockies offer the most awesome white water rafting opportunities. Raft the Kicking Horse River and feel your heart pump. Vacations in Banff and Canmore are not complete until you enjoy the rush of rafting in Yoho National Park and the famous Kicking Horse River.

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