45 places with verified coordinates · 33 with photo
Tiqets
Mount Norquay: sightseeing chairlift ↗Mount Norquay, #2 Mount Norquay Road, Banff; arrive 15 minutes before the start.
GetYourGuide
Calgary Airport to Banff: shared shuttle ↗Calgary Airport, domestic terminal: Pillar 15 opposite exit door 3 or 4. Be there at least five minutes before the booked departure.
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Bow LakeLake
Consolation LakesLakes, 2.9 km (1.8 mi)
Lake LouiseGlacial lake in Banff National Park
Lake MinnewankaLake · day-use area on the west shore
Lower FallsWaterfall, 1.1 km (0.7 mi)
Moraine LakeMountain lake with no access for private cars
Peyto LakeLake with viewing platform
Upper FallsWaterfall, 2.4 km (1.5 mi)
Vermilion LakesLakes · shore road
Lake Louise LakeshoreStop and parking lot
Lake Louise Park & RideShuttle
Lake Louise Visitor CentreVisitor centre in the village
Moose Meadows parking lotSecond trailhead
Moraine Lake stopShuttle
Sulphur Mountain parking lotPaid parking
Banff GondolaGondola up Sulphur Mountain
Banff Upper Hot SpringsHot springs pool
Ink PotsSpring pools, 5.5 km (3.4 mi)
Lake Agnes Tea HouseTeahouse, 3.9 km (2.4 mi)
Plain of Six Glaciers Tea HouseTeahouse, 5.9 km (3.7 mi)
Saskatchewan River CrossingOnly petrol station
Arrival · Shuttle
Regular Parks Canada shuttle: 1 Whitehorn Road. Alpine Start leaves from a different place.
Own page
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source: Google place record linked by the official site, !3d51.4412908!4d-116.1622942; not viewport coordinates
51.44129, -116.16229
Where to stay · Hotel · Lake Louise
111 Lake Louise Drive. Right on the lake; hotel parking is paid.
Where to stay: hotels and camping
Year-round hotel right on Lake Louise, 111 Lake Louise Drive. Hotel parking is paid. There are explicitly designated accessible room types; confirm the features you need with the hotel before booking.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source: GPS position on the official Accor hotel page.
51.41679, -116.21239
Where to stay · Lodge · Moraine Lake
1 Moraine Lake Road. Access by car only for registered overnight guests, following the lodge's instructions.
Own page
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
Where to stay: hotels and camping
Seasonal lodge at Moraine Lake. Registered overnight guests may drive up and receive their own access instructions. No pets, no RVs or vehicles over 20 feet. The lodge does not run a shuttle.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source: Place coordinates !3d51.3279072!4d-116.1825926 from the Google Maps link on the official contact page; not the viewport coordinates.
51.32791, -116.18259
History · Historic site
In 1883, railway workers claimed these hot springs. The government ended the dispute in 1885 with a 26 km² (10 sq mi) reserve, the origin of Canada's first national park. Many Indigenous nations still revere the place as a sacred site.
In 1883, three railway workers claimed these hot springs for themselves. The government refused and created a reserve in 1885, the beginning of Canada's first national park.
Nature and guided tours in Banff
The Hot Springs Reserve around Cave and Basin, created in 1885, became Canada's first national park in 1887. Today Parks Canada manages 48 national parks, 171 national historic sites, five national marine conservation areas and one national urban park, by its own account the largest system of protected places in the world.
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.16923, -115.59089
History · Museum · historic site
Western Canada's oldest natural history museum, in the middle of town. The building from 1903 is the oldest surviving federal building in a Canadian national park and shows over 5,000 historic specimens of plants and animals.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.17378, -115.57168
Arrival · Visitor centre
224 Banff Avenue in the town of Banff. Maps, permits and backcountry reservations, plus current reports on weather, trails, avalanches and roads. Banff Lake Louise Tourism also has an office here.
Visiting Banff: overview and planning
Two towns lie inside the park: Banff, with 8,865 residents, a hospital and full services, and Lake Louise, with 500 residents, a clinic and basic services. Both have a Parks Canada visitor centre with maps, permits and reports on weather, trails, avalanches and roads.
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.17798, -115.57024
Water · Waterfall
Waterfall on the Bow River at Banff. Paddlers coming from the north must get out beforehand at the canoe docks at the mouth of Echo Creek. Below the falls starts the 23-kilometre (14 mi) paddling route to Canmore; put in at the Bow Falls parking lot.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.16741, -115.56090
Water · Lakes · shore road
The year-round Vermilion Lakes Drive runs 4.3 kilometres (2.7 mi) along the lakes, with docks, benches and views of Mount Rundle. A few parking spaces at First Vermilion Lake, more with picnic tables at the Fenland day-use area.
A shore road open all year, docks and benches by the water and a view of Mount Rundle, one of Banff's best-known mountains.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.18025, -115.59278
Water · Lake · day-use area on the west shore
A very popular lake: the day-use parking lot fills up in summer, and Parks Canada recommends Roam Public Transit. Toilets, picnic tables and information panels on site. In winter a destination for cross-country skiing, winter walks and snowshoeing.
A drowned town lies below the surface: two dams raised the water level and flooded the settlement of Minnewanka Landing. Today divers visit its foundations.
Hikes & routes in Banff
The only lake in the park where motorboats are allowed; small open motorboats can be rented on site. Your own boat needs an inspection against invasive species, booked in advance. Parks Canada warns of sudden strong winds and waves, especially in the afternoon; the water rarely gets warmer than 10 °C (50 °F).
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.24750, -115.49671
Mountains & rock · Canyon
Destination of the Lake Minnewanka Trail from the day-use area: 1.6 kilometres (1 mi) along the shore to the bridge over the canyon, about an hour there and back. Many rocks and roots after the first kilometre. Beyond the bridge the trail has been closed until further notice since 16 September 2026.
Hikes & routes in Banff
From the Lake Minnewanka day-use area, 1.6 km (1 mi) along the shore lead to the bridge over Stewart Canyon, about an hour there and back. Beyond the bridge, the Lake Minnewanka Trail, the Aylmer Pass Trail and the backcountry campgrounds on the lake have been closed until further notice since 16 September 2026 (as of 27 Sep 2026). Otherwise the shore trail continues to Aylmer Lookout, a decommissioned fire lookout: 11.6 km (7.2 mi) one way, 770 m (2,526 ft) of ascent, seven to eight hours.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.25967, -115.49443
Water · Lake
One of the lakes on the Lake Minnewanka loop, served in summer by the Lake Minnewanka bus. For hiking, picnics and time on and by the water.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.22877, -115.49474
Trails · Road · Castle Junction
The 48-kilometre (30 mi), winding secondary road between Banff and Lake Louise, quieter than the Trans-Canada Highway, with pull-outs and picnic areas. The map point is at Castle Junction, the exit from the Trans-Canada Highway.
The quiet alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway: 48 kilometres (30 mi) of curves, pull-outs and picnic areas between Banff and Lake Louise, right through bear and wolf habitat.
Hikes & routes in Banff
In spring and autumn, the 17 km (10.6 mi) eastern section between Fireside and Johnston Canyon is at times closed to public car traffic, a pilot project running until 2030. Park at the Banff train station via Mount Norquay Road; e-bikes are allowed. Cyclists are fast and quiet, so they are more likely to surprise bears or wolves.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.26876, -115.91833
Nature · Wildlife overpass
One of the six wildlife overpasses on the Trans-Canada Highway in the park; there are also 38 underpasses and 82 kilometres (51 mi) of wildlife fencing. People may not use the overpasses.
Nature and guided tours in Banff
The Trans-Canada Highway in the park has six overpasses and 38 underpasses for wildlife plus 82 km (51 mi) of fencing, more than anywhere else in the world. Wildlife collisions have since dropped by more than 80 %, and by more than 96 % for elk and deer. Grizzly bears took up to five years to start using the structures.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.16112, -115.71462
Trails · Alpine meadows · hiking trails
Trail network around mountain lakes and alpine meadows: 10.3 kilometres (6.4 mi) of trails, 580 metres (1,903 ft) of ascent, four to five hours. The most popular trail crosses the Continental Divide to the viewpoint at Rock Isle Lake. Start in Sunshine Village, reached from early July to early September by a paid gondola. The map point is the gondola station in the village.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.07943, -115.77985
Water · Lake
On the Icefields Parkway, 39 kilometres (24 mi) from Lake Louise. Main parking on the north shore via the access road to the Lodge at Bow Lake; both parking lots are very busy in summer. The shore can be reached all year on a short gravel path.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.66456, -116.45210
Water · Lake with viewing platform
On the Icefields Parkway, 43 kilometres (27 mi) from Lake Louise. A short climb leads to the platform high above the turquoise lake. From the upper parking lot, open only to vehicles with a disability parking permit and buses, there is an accessible path of 0.3 kilometres (0.2 mi).
A short climb from the parking lot, and the turquoise lake lies far below the viewing platform. Getting down to the shore takes experience: the trail is steep and rough.
Own page
A short walk from the parking lot, and the lake lies far below you.
| Daily pass, adults (18–64) | 12.25 CAD |
|---|---|
| Daily pass, seniors (65+) | 10.75 CAD |
| Daily pass, family/group, up to 7 people in one vehicle | 24.50 CAD |
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.72516, -116.52218
Water · Lake, summer only
The first stop after Lake Louise: the peaks of the Main Range, including Mount Temple, are reflected in the still water.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.46016, -116.22261
Mountains & rock · Glacier
Visible from the large parking lot. A century ago the glacier had three "toes"; today one is missing.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.63398, -116.43407
Mountains & rock · Highest point, 2,070 m (6,791 ft)
The highest point of the parkway. Beyond the Peyto view, an old fire road continues further up.
Own page
A short walk from the parking lot, and the lake lies far below you.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.71886, -116.49339
Mountains & rock · Canyon, summer only
A short path downhill to the bridge over the limestone gorge. Do not climb around on the rocks.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.94281, -116.72064
Nature · Only petrol station
Where the North Saskatchewan, Mistaya and Howse rivers meet. Petrol station and services in summer only.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.97356, -116.74256
Nature · Gondola up Sulphur Mountain
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
Own page
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.14790, -115.55541
Mountains & rock · Canyon with two waterfalls
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
Own page
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.24535, -115.83978
Water · Glacial lake in Banff National Park
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
Own page
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
| Park admission, adults (18–64), per day | 12.25 CAD |
|---|---|
| Park admission, seniors (65+) | 10.75 CAD |
| Park admission, family/group, up to 7 people in one vehicle | 24.50 CAD |
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.41154, -116.22799
Water · Mountain lake with no access for private cars
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
The turquoise lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks is the most searched-for place in the park, and the most tightly regulated. Arrive without a plan and you won't get there.
Own page
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
| Adults (18–64) | 12.75 CAD |
|---|---|
| Seniors (65+) | 6.00 CAD |
| Youth (up to 17) | 4.00 CAD |
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Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.32168, -116.18490
Arrival · Paid parking
Parks Canada parking lot at the base station, paid daily from 9:00 to 21:00 from 15 May to 12 October, and quick to fill up.
Own page
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.14859, -115.55665
Mountains & rock · Summit building
Four levels with a lift, restaurants, an interpretive centre and a rooftop terrace. The hiking trail also ends here.
Own page
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.14462, -115.57500
History · Historic site
The former cosmic ray monitoring station at the end of the boardwalk, today a national historic site.
Own page
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.14707, -115.57856
Mountains & rock · Summit
The viewpoint at the end of the boardwalk along the ridge, 0.5 kilometres (0.3 mi) from the upper station.
Own page
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.15177, -115.58318
Nature · Hot springs pool
The hot springs pool right next to the base station; the hiking trail up the mountain starts at its parking lot.
Own page
Eight minutes up, then along the ridge to the old weather station, with views of six mountain ranges.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.15086, -115.56062
Water · Waterfall, 1.1 km (0.7 mi)
The first waterfall, 1.1 kilometres (0.7 mi) from the parking lot; about an hour there and back.
Own page
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.25486, -115.83732
Water · Waterfall, 2.4 km (1.5 mi)
The 30-metre (98 ft) waterfall. 265 metres (869 ft) further on is a viewpoint above the brink of the falls.
Own page
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.26186, -115.83128
Nature · Spring pools, 5.5 km (3.4 mi)
Shallow, coloured spring pools in a meadow beyond the canyon. About four hours there and back.
Own page
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.27857, -115.82358
SurroundingsArrival · Second trailhead
Alternative start to the Ink Pots, 27 kilometres (17 mi) from Banff. The same length as via the canyon, with roots and rocks.
Own page
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.25630, -115.85649
Where to stay · Campground
Parks Canada campground on the parkway. The eastern section of the parkway, at times closed to cars, starts here.
Own page
Catwalks on the rock wall, two waterfalls and ice in winter, 25 kilometres (16 mi) from Banff.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.24236, -115.84454
Arrival · Stop and parking lot
The Parks Canada shuttle and Roam bus 8X stop here. Next to it is the paid parking lot, full before sunrise in summer.
The famous lake with the hotel on the shore. You may drive there in your own car, but during the shuttle season Parks Canada advises against it.
Own page
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.41593, -116.21326
Nature · Teahouse, 3.9 km (2.4 mi)
The teahouse at Lake Agnes, 495 metres (1,624 ft) above the shore. Open roughly mid-May to mid-October.
Own page
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.41641, -116.24421
SurroundingsNature · Teahouse, 5.9 km (3.7 mi)
The second teahouse, on the trail towards the Victoria Glacier. About four hours there and back.
Own page
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.39353, -116.27286
SurroundingsArrival · Visitor centre in the village
Next to Samson Mall: information from Parks Canada and the tourism association, parking also for RVs, a shop and cafés.
Own page
The parking lot is full before sunrise. Come with a plan and you will still see the lake.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.42633, -116.17918
Viewpoint · View across the lake
At the lake's outlet, where the short Rockpile loop climbs. Do not climb on the rocks.
Own page
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.32786, -116.18069
SurroundingsArrival · Shuttle
The shuttle and Lake Connector arrive here. Last return to the Park and Ride at 19:30.
Own page
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.32837, -116.18188
Water · Lakes, 2.9 km (1.8 mi)
An easy trail from Moraine Lake to the first of the two lakes, with views of the Quadra Glacier.
Own page
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.30992, -116.14935
Mountains & rock · Pass above Larch Valley
Above the larch forest of Larch Valley; from the other side only with route-finding through scree.
Own page
No private cars, no mobile signal, no running water, and from the Rockpile one of the best-known views in the Rockies.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.34055, -116.22190
Viewpoint · Viewing platform
0.6 km (0.4 mi) from the parking lot, 30 m (98 ft) up.
Own page
A short walk from the parking lot, and the lake lies far below you.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.71738, -116.50745
Arrival · Parking lot on the Icefields Parkway
43 km (27 mi) north of Lake Louise. Often full early in summer.
Own page
A short walk from the parking lot, and the lake lies far below you.
Open in OpenStreetMap ↗Location source ↗
51.71673, -116.49876
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