Banff National Park
Canada's oldest national park and arguably its most spectacular — home to the Icefields Parkway and some of our favourite hikes.
Banff National Park encompasses 6,641 square kilometres of valleys, mountains, glaciers, forests, and alpine meadows in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Established in 1885, it's Canada's oldest national park. The Icefields Parkway — often called the most scenic drive in the world — runs through the park connecting Banff to Jasper. We've hiked some of our favourite trails here, from Parker's Ridge overlooking the Saskatchewan Glacier to the turquoise waters of Lake Louise. Every visit reveals something new.
Our Connection to Banff National Park
Banff holds a special place in our hearts. It's where we hiked Parker's Ridge with our one-year-old daughter on my back, where our son first saw a glacier, and where we fell even deeper in love with the Canadian Rockies. The Icefields Parkway drive through Banff was the highlight of our 5-week RV trip in 2021.
Why Visit Banff National Park?
The highlights that make this destination unforgettable
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Parker's Ridge Trail
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Icefields Parkway
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Saskatchewan Glacier
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Lake Louise
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Johnston Canyon
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Moraine Lake
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Grassi Lakes
Banff National Park Travel Guides
Detailed guides and stories from our adventures in Banff National Park
Travel Tips for Banff National Park
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Parks Canada pass required for entry
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Book accommodation well in advance for summer visits
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The Icefields Parkway is a must-drive scenic route
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Carry bear spray on all hikes
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Weather can change rapidly — layer up even in summer
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Parker's Ridge trailhead parking fills up by mid-morning