3 Days in Banff: An Adventurous Summer Itinerary
Banff has been on my list for YEARS! This summer, we had plans to go to a family reunion in Montana, so I knew a road trip was in order! After a 6-hour drive, we spent the weekend exploring all of the best sights in the Canadian Rockies. From glacier-fed lakes to epic drives, here’s exactly how to spend 3 days in Banff!
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Table of Contents
3 Days in Banff (Quick Itinerary)
Before you dive into all the details, here’s a quick overview of how you’ll be spending your 3 days in the Canadian Rockies! This way, you can make sure it’s your kind of itinerary!
- Day 1: Sunrise at Moraine Lake, canoe Moraine Lake, explore Lake Louise, hike to Agnes Lake Teahouse
- Day 2: Drive the Icefields Parkway with stops at Johnston Canyon, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Columbia Icefield
- Day 3: Hike Tunnel Mountain, stroll downtown Banff, and relax at the Banff Gondola and hot springs
Summer Weather in Banff
Summer in Banff (June–September) is pure magic. Expect cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and the occasional mountain rain shower. The lakes are thawed, trails are open, and wildflowers are blooming! Temperatures usually range from 45°F in the morning to mid-70s°F by afternoon, though it can feel warmer in the sun. Layers are your best friend.
Where to Stay in Banff
Banff has a wide range of accommodations, but book early as they fill up quickly! Alsoooo, be prepared to shell out a pretty penny if wanting to stay right in Banff (or anywhere close). They are spendy, but worth it for the convenience. We stayed in Banff for two nights and then stayed in Radium Hot Springs on our way in and out of Canada (in order to save a bit of money of the travel days).
1. Banff Park Lodge
This is where we stayed, and I couldn’t recommend it more. It’s comfortable, rustic-chic, and within walking distance to downtown. They offer covered parking, cozy rooms, and an onsite pool and restaurant.
Check current pricing and availability here!
Other great options in Banff:
- Fairmont Banff Springs – “The Castle in the Rockies,” iconic and luxurious
- Moose Hotel & Suites – Modern and centrally located with rooftop hot tubs
- Banff Aspen Lodge – Great value, especially for families or couples on a budget
Budget tip! It is EXPENSIVE to stay right in Banff. And, you have to book far in advance to secure a room (I’m a super last minute planner). I know that spending 400+ per night isn’t for everyone, so I did my research and created a full post of where to stay NEAR Banff (to save a bit of money).
Getting to Banff
Banff is located in Alberta, about 1.5 hours west of Calgary International Airport (YYC). From the airport, the drive to Banff is scenic and straightforward along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
You’ll need a rental car, especially if you plan to drive the Icefields Parkway or visit the less popular lakes. However, there are shuttles and buses that can get you to the popular spots.
Know Before You Go
To visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in Banff National Park during the summer season (mid-May to mid-October), you’ll need to plan ahead and book Parks Canada’s shuttle, Roam Transit, or a guided tour (personal vehicle access to Moraine Lake is no longer allowed).
Shuttle permits can be reserved online through the Parks Canada Reservation System, and they typically become available in the spring (usually April). Be ready to book early, as spots sell out quickly. If you missed the advanced launch, additional seats will be made available for reservation at 8 am MDT, two days prior to departure. But, you have to be logged on and ready to purchase right at 8. I got our shuttle tickets this way, but I did have to keep refreshing until some became available.
If you do not luck out with a Parks Canada shuttle, you can try a Roam shuttle (departing from downtown Banff), or book a guided tour.
Note! If you book an Alpine Start shuttle through the Parks Canada system, be sure to double-check the departure location as it’s different than all the other shuttles throughout the day. AND be sure to arrive early to have time to pay for parking as the shuttle will not wait. If you miss your designated Alpine Start time, your ticket won’t work for any others throughout the day.
Day 1: Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Day 1 starts strong with two of the most famous lakes in the world (and the number 1 reason for this trip).
Sunrise: Moraine Lake
We booked an Alpine Start shuttle and arrived at Moraine Lake around 5:30 am. This was slightly after sunrise, but we still got to watch the water change colors in the sunrise.
The hike up to the famous viewpoint is called The Rockpile and is just a short 1/4 mile trek up a (literal) rockpile. No matter what time of day, it’ll be busy at the top, but there was plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the view.
Early Morning: Canoe Lake Moraine
After enjoying the view from the Rockpile, we explored the Lake via the flat Shoreline Lake trail and then made our way to the canoe line right before it opened (and 8:30 am).
Although expensive (160 CAD per hour), it was 1000 percent worth it to spend one hour taking in the views from the water.
Midday: Lake Louise
After Moraine, head to Lake Louise (a 15-minute shuttle ride). Once here, explore around the lake a bit before hiking to the Lake Agnes Tea House. This trail is very popular, and was a bit harder than I expected (it’s 4.5 miles round trip and steep the whole way). Once at the top, you can have a picnic at Lake Agnes or try out some of the famous tea.
Evening
Head back to Banff to check in to your hotel and grab dinner. I loved The Maple Leaf for a cozy but upscale vibe. You’ll sleep well after this adventure-packed day! We were exhausted from our 2 am wakeup call.
Day 2: Icefields Parkway Road Trip
If I’m being 100 percent honest, we only had day 1 planned before arriving. So this Icefield Parkway day trip turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) stretches from Lake Louise to Jasper and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world.
Morning: Johnston Canyon
To be completely honest, I was a little underwhelmed at this stop. It’s one of the more popular hikes/things to do in Banff, but I found it to be way too crowded and way less breathtaking than everything else in this itinerary.
The hike to upper falls is 3.4 miles round trip and is rated as moderate on Alltrails. If you have the time, it could be worth it to continue on to the Ink Pots which would likely lead to a much less busy trail.
Mid-Morning: Columbia Icefields Tour
We then continued on our way and started our Icefields parkway road trip. We decided to drive straight to the Columbia Icefield and save the rest of the scenic stops for the way back to Banff.
We booked the Columbia Icefields Skywalk and Glacier Tour which includes a ride in the giant Ice Explorer vehicle, a walk on the Athabasca Glacier and the chance to walk on the glass-bottom skywalk. It was a super unique experience…complete with tasting fresh glacier water from the source!
After our tour, we grabbed a quick lunch from the onsite cafe and then got back on the road.
Afternoon: Road Tripping Stops
On your way back to Banff, make sure to stop at the beautiful lakes and hikes along the way! My favorite was Peyto Lake, but Bow lake was equally as beautiful!
Here are some more options depending on your time!
- Bow Lake – Beautiful reflections in the early morning
- Peyto Lake Viewpoint – That famous wolf-head shaped lake, totally worth the short walk
- Mistaya Canyon – A fun and easy walk to a thundering canyon
- Sunwapta Falls or Athabasca Falls – Both are stunning and easily accessible
Evening: Back to Banff
After your full day of road tripping, make your way back to Banff for dinner and drinks! We ate at The Meatball for some tasty Italian and then listened to some live music at Rose & Crown.
Note! I didn’t have phone service this entire way so be sure to have somewhat of a plan before leaving. Also, pack snacks as our only option for food was at the Icefield Center. This is a full-day loop, so start early and get ready for a lot of photo stops. I easily took 300 photos this day alone!
Day 3: Tunnel Mountain, Downtown, and the Banff Gondola
After two big days, your third can be a little more relaxed. It’s time to really enjoy the city of Banff.
Morning Hike: Tunnel Mountain
This short hike (around 2.7 miles roundtrip) starts right in Banff and gives you amazing views over the town and surrounding peaks. It’s a local favorite for good reason. We were able to walk right from our hotel to the trailhead.
Midday: Downtown Banff
Grab brunch at Tooloulou’s and spend some time browsing shops and galleries downtown. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to cozy Canadian flannel. Then, before you leave downtown, grab a drink from Elk and Oarsman to enjoy on their rooftop.
Afternoon: Banff Gondola + Hot Springs
Take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for sweeping views. There’s a boardwalk at the top and a restaurant if you want to toast your trip. Afterward, soak those legs at the Banff Upper Hot Springs, just a short drive or bus ride away. It’s the perfect way to end your trip on a high (and warm) note.
Other Things to Do in and Near Banff (If You Have More Time)
If you’re lucky enough to have an extra day or two in Banff, there are so many more incredible spots to explore and guided tours that can take the stress out of planning. Here are some standout options that I will definitely be planning a return trip for!
1. Emerald Lake & Yoho National Park
Just an hour from Banff, Yoho National Park is a hidden gem. Emerald Lake is absolutely stunning and less crowded than the Banff lakes. You can canoe on the lake, hike around it, or just soak in the views. Don’t miss Natural Bridge and Takakkaw Falls nearby.
2. Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Hop on a boat tour to learn the legends of this glacial lake. GetYourGuide offers a Lake Minnewanka Scenic Cruise that’s family-friendly and very relaxing.
3. Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Explore the birthplace of Canada’s national park system. Indoor boardwalks, bubbling hot springs, and history exhibits make this a fascinating hour-long stop.
4. Wildlife Watching Tour
Want to increase your chances of seeing elk, bears, or mountain goats? A Banff Evening Wildlife Safari is a fun, low-effort way to see animals safely and responsibly.
3 Days in Banff Map
There ya have it! The perfect PTO-friendly itinerary for those short on time but wanting to maximize their vacation. Here’s a map to help make your planning a breeze!
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