Known for pristine lakes, endless hiking trails, and colors that you’d think were only possible in Instagram edits, Banff National Park is a nature-lover’s dream. I spent Memorial Day Weekend road tripping from Calgary to Banff and exploring the park. You could definitely stay longer than a weekend for camping and longer hikes, but here are the highlights from my two nights and three days!
CANOEING ON EMERALD LAKE
If you visit Banff in the summer, Emerald Lake should not be missed. I’d seen photos of people canoeing here for years and always dreamed of being able to do the same! The surrounding mountains reflect onto the incredibly blue green water for a scene that you thought was only possible in over-saturated Instagram photos. You can rent a canoe for 2-3 people and spend an hour paddling around the lake. I visited Emerald Lake two winters ago and the lake was completely frozen over. The contrast between winter and summer was incredible. Despite it being 70 degrees, the water was extremely cold so don’t expect to swim here.
Tips: Arrive in the early to late afternoon to rent the canoes and bring a Gopro if you have one. The sunlight near the end of the day will make for the best photos. I saw another group drop a phone into the lake trying to take photos.
HIKING AT JOHNSON CANYON
Johnson Canyon is one the most popular tourist destinations in Banff so while it’s not the spot if you want to escape tourists, it is definitely worth a visit. The canyon is carved deep into the limestone bedrock following thousands of years of water erosion. The hike has two destinations, the Lower and Upper Falls. It takes about 30 minutes of easy walking to reach the Lower Falls. I continued on to the Upper Falls (about another 30 minutes) to see a stunning waterfall which you can view from an overhanging walking path. However, the highlight of the trail is actually on a side trail between the Lower and Upper Falls where you’ll see many other people diverting from the main path. Climb down to a small body of water for a dramatic scene of rock and water that has become an iconic photo of Banff.
Tips: If it’s really crowded, additional parking can be found on the road outside the main parking area. Almost the entire walk to the Lower Fall is paved so you could do this walk without proper hiking footwear.
EXPLORING THE TOWN OF BANFF
Banff’s main street is charming and beautiful with cabin-inspired shops and the view of the snow-capped mountains in the background. The restaurants and shopping will not disappoint. Head to the Roots store for your Canadian clothing essentials. For lunch or dinner, try Park Distillery for cocktails and great burgers and sandwiches. I went to Beaver Tails for dessert where I tried a cinnamon Beaver Tail (essentially a long flat churro) that was just as delicious as it sounds. If you’re in need of morning coffee and a muffin, I enjoyed going to Wild Flower, a little café with indoor and outdoor seating.
Tips: Coming from New York I always forget that not everywhere is open 24/7. Be aware of closing times because some of the shops and restaurants were closing by the time I arrived.
PEYTO LAKE OVERLOOK HIKE
For an incredible view of the Canadian Rockies, hike up Bow Summit to the lookout over Peyto Lake. The insanely blue color surrounded by the majestic pines and surrounding mountains is simply magical. If you’re not feeling up to the entire 3.8 mile hike (or short on time), it is an in and out hike so you can simply turn around after the wooden lookout post.
Tips: You won’t want to forget your camera on this hike. Bring a snack and relax at the look out while taking in this view. You’ll want to stay for a bit to fully enjoy it.
PICNIC AT TWO JACK LAKE
On my last day in Banff the weather was sunny and beautiful. We capped off our weekend with a picnic on the shore of Two Jack Lake. Paddle-boarders and kayakers paddled in the water and families gathered on the grass for picnics and BBQs. With sandwiches we picked up in town, we sprawled out on picnic blankets and took in the view.
Tips: You'll need to purchase a park pass to enter the park for the weekend. Be aware of what days your pass is good for and at what hour it expires. We left the park just before our pass timed out!
