How to Spend 5 Days in Banff
Here's How We Spent the Most Magical 5 Days in Banff: The Ultimate 5-Day Banff Itinerary!
Ever wondered what spending 5 days in Banff would be like? Well, let me take you on a journey through our own magical experience. Banff, with its stunning Canadian Rockies and breathtaking landscapes, was our playground for five unforgettable days. And it has been on my bucket list for years- breathtaking mountains- you don’t need to tell me twice!!
From sunrise hikes, to serene lake cruises, each day was packed with awe-inspiring moments and fun adventures. Whether you're planning a family trip or a getaway with friends, this Banff itinerary is your golden ticket to an amazing time. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the wonders of Banff with us!
Day 1: Embarking on Our Banff Adventure
Flying into Calgary and Drive to Banff
Ah, the start of our 5 days in Banff—an adventure we'd been dreaming about for ages! It all kicked off when we flew into Calgary, with the Rockies calling our names. The Calgary International Airport (YYC) was our gateway to these majestic mountains. Just so you know, YYC is the closest airport to Banff, and it's pretty convenient. We hopped into our rental car, and in about 1.5 hours, voila, we were soaking in the sights of Banff!
The first thing on our agenda was checking into the Tunnel Mountain Resort. We travelled with a large group (this was a big family trip that finally made its way off the WhatsApp chat!). Tunnel Mountain resort luckily had enough rooms available for everyone. Please note- it’s so important to book in advance because most hotels get booked well in advance! The resort was a gem and met all our needs, especially if you're traveling with family or planning a getaway with friends. It has an indoor pool and offers panoramic views of the mountains. Seriously, every morning, we were greeted with these breathtaking mountain views right from our window.
Waking Up for a Sunrise Hike at Johnston Canyon
Our first day had to start with something special, right? We woke up early for a sunrise hike at Johnston Canyon. Trust me, even if you're not a morning person, this is worth getting up for! First things first- you definitely avoid the crowds. Especially during peak season the parking lots get crowded! Arrival before 9 am made the parking situation seamless. The hike is family-friendly and easy, perfect for all ages- it was a breeze for my three children ages 8 to 13. And I highly recommend this hike if traveling with kids. And it was a perfect introduction to Banff. Walking on those elevated walkways above Johnston Creek was like being in a different world—so thrilling!
Getting wet from the mist at the Johnston Canyon Lower Falls was like nature giving us a high-five. The Upper Falls were a whole different level of awesome. This hike, with its lush pine forest and scenic walkways, was so peaceful, and is a must-do when you spend your 5 days in Banff.
Exploring Downtown Banff
After our hike, it was time to explore downtown Banff. The vibe there? Absolutely buzzing! The streets are lined with cozy cafés, and quirky shops, and you can't help but feel the local charm. Shopping in Banff is a treat; you find everything from cool mountain gear to unique Canadian souvenirs. And the art galleries—they're full of incredible Canadian artwork. This was the perfect place to stop for ice cream with the kids.
Taking a Gondola Ride up Sulphur Mountain
We wrapped up our day with a ride on the Banff Gondola at Sulphur Mountain. Calling it just a gondola ride doesn't do it justice—it's an experience! The 8-minute ride up gives you the most breathtaking views of Bow Valley. And wildlife sightings? Yep, we had those too!
The complex at the top has everything—shops, cafés, even a theater. But the real deal is the walk to Sanson’s Peak. It's short, but every step is a photo opportunity. The old weather station at the end is pretty cool to see as well. We stayed until sunset and the views were absolutely breathtaking!! Make sure you don’t miss this experience.
Day 2: Embracing Nature's Wonders
Sunrise at Lake Louise and Hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers
On our second day in Banff, we embarked on the Plain of Six Glaciers hike, a must-do for anyone spending 5 days in Banff, especially for people who love a bit of adventure. Waking up before sunrise, we hit the trail, which starts at the end of Lake Louise. Lake Louise was absolutely breathtaking at sunrise. Even getting there by 5 am, we weren’t the only ones! Any other time of the day, the parking lot is full. And going peak season to Banff definitely draws the crowds. We spent a good hour just watching the sun rise before setting for the 10.6 km (6.6 miles) hike, which takes about 6 hours—perfect for a morning adventure.
The first stretch is pretty flat, making it a nice warm-up, pretty much around Lake Louse. The views were beautiful the entire way up. The real treat was the tea house, hidden like a gem in the mountains. After about 3.3 miles of hiking, catching a glimpse of it through the trees was like finding treasure! We had a moment to take a break and rest our legs. Remember, cash is king here, as cards might cost you extra.
Throughout the hike- the coolest experience was hearing actual avalanches. It was a first time for us- and something I’ll never forget. The hike was definitely long, and not for everyone, so be mindful of that.
Sunset Cruise Around Lake Minnewanka
To cap off our day, we took a sunset cruise around Lake Minnewanka. Just a 15-minute drive from Banff, this lake is an absolute jewel. It's pretty huge, spanning about 22 km² (8.5 mi²). The 1-hour cruise was serene and breathtaking. We were all eyes and ears, hoping to spot some of Banff's famous wildlife like big-horned sheep or even bears!
The cruise also offered a slice of history, sharing stories about the indigenous people and local myths. It's experiences like these that make your 5 days in Banff truly unforgettable.
Day 3: An All-Day Scenic Drive Through Jasper National Park- Icefields Parkway
Discovering Crowfoot Glacier Lookout
Our third day in Banff was a road trip through Jasper National Park, a stretch that's a must for any 5 days in Banff itinerary. This drive was EPIC and the Icefields Parkway really lives up to the hype- absolutely magical. It’s something I would recommend everyone to make time for on their trip to Banff. Ideally, staying one, or more, nights at Jasper would have been perfect. We didn’t have the time so it ended up being a full day of driving on the Icefields parkway, and back to Banff. None of us complained! Just make sure you fill up on gas in Banff, as theres no gas stations on the parkway itself.
The first stop on the drive was the Crowfoot Glacier Lookout. It's like stepping into a postcard: the glacier, once resembling a crow's foot, looms over Bow Lake.
Although one of its 'toes' melted away, the sight is still breathtaking. It's one of those 'wow' moments you just have to experience.
Relaxing at Bow Lake Viewpoint
Then, we made our way to the Bow Lake Viewpoint. This lake, with its vivid blue waters and dramatic mountain backdrop, is a photographer’s dream. It might not be the largest lake, but in the scope of sheer beauty, it's gigantic! It's one of those places where you just want to sit and soak it all in. On the drive back, we stopped here again just so I can get some sunset photography in.
Marveling at Peyto Lake Viewpoint
Next, we headed to the Peyto Lake Viewpoint. Guys, the view from here is unreal! Sitting more than 6,000 feet above sea level, it's like looking at a painting. The lake's deep turquoise color set against the Rockies is something you've got to see to believe. Trust me, it's a highlight of the 5 Days in Banff itinerary. I remember seeing photos of this everywhere! Being there in person was truly a special moment.
Exploring Mistaya Canyon
After Bow Lake, we stopped at Mistaya Canyon. This spot is a hidden gem along the Icefields Parkway. The trail is short but leads you into a world that feels miles away from civilization. It's perfect for families or couples wanting a taste of wilderness without straying too far from the road. A real 'can't-miss' on your 5 Days in Banff adventure.
Standing Awe-Struck at Athabasca Glacier
Our final stop was the Athabasca Glacier. Sandwiched between Jasper and Banff, it's a sight that leaves you speechless. Standing on this massive glacier, you really feel how vast and powerful nature is.
It's accessible, and you can even see it from the road! This experience is a powerful reminder of the beauty and scale of the natural world, making your 5 days in Banff truly remarkable.
Day 4: Experiencing the Iconic Beauty of Banff
Catching the Sunrise at Moraine Lake
On day four of our 5 Days in Banff, we were all about witnessing the iconic Moraine Lake at sunrise. Seriously, there's no better way to start your day! Moraine Lake is a total showstopper, and seeing it in the soft morning light is like nothing else.
To beat the crowds and get those perfect, tranquil views, we hopped on an organized tour bus, offered by RADVENTURES, super early in the morning. It's a bit of a change from the past since you can't drive personal vehicles there anymore. But let me tell you, it's totally worth the early wake-up call!
Lunch Break and Canoe Ride at Lake Louise
After soaking in the serene beauty of Moraine Lake, we headed back for a lunch break. Then, it was time for another highlight of our 5 Days in Banff: canoeing on Lake Louise. Paddling on that turquoise-blue water with the mountains all around us was something out of a fairy tale. It's an experience that's as Canadian as it gets!
The best part? It's super family-friendly. We leisurely paddled to the end of the lake, snapping photos and just enjoying the moment. Canoeing on Lake Louise is one of those things that's perfect for couples and families alike – easy, relaxing, and oh so scenic.
Day 5: A Day Trip to Yoho National Park
Exploring Takakkaw Falls & Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park
On our last day of the 5 Days in Banff adventure, we decided to venture a bit further and explore Yoho National Park. Just 20 minutes west of Lake Louise, Yoho is a place that totally lives up to its name, which means 'awe and wonder' in Cree. Trust me, it's an absolute must-see!
Takakkaw Falls
First up on our day trip was Takakkaw Falls. These falls are not just a waterfall, they're a nature spectacle—the second highest in Canada! And the walk to get there? It's a breeze, more of a stroll really, and totally family-friendly.
As you get close to the base of the falls, the sound of the water and the spray hitting your face is just exhilarating. The view is so stunning; you'll probably spend half the time just gawking at it!
Emerald Lake
Next, we headed to Emerald Lake, about a 30-minute drive from the falls. Now, this lake is a real gem. It's this beautiful blue-green color that looks like it's straight out of a painting. Sure, it gets a bit busy, but nothing like the crowds at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
There's a trail around the lake that's about 10 km long, perfect for a leisurely walk with plenty of photo ops. In summer, you can canoe or kayak, and if you're feeling brave, take a dip! In winter, it's a snowy paradise with cross-country skiing.
Wrap-Up!
And just like that, our 5 days in Banff came to a close, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime. This trip wasn't just about exploring new places; it was about the laughs shared, the awe-inspiring views, and the feeling of wonder that only Banff can give.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and set off on your own 5-day Banff adventure. Trust me, it's an experience you won't want to miss!
