A Perfect Long Weekend in Banff and the Canadian Rockies

Banff is Canada's original national park — 6,500 square kilometres of Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and glacial rivers, all wrapped around a charming mountain town. Two hours west of Calgary, it's the easiest and most spectacular Rockies introduction. Here's the perfect long weekend.

Day 1 — Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Go early — these two lakes are Banff's icons and the parking lots fill by 8 a.m. Lake Louise's turquoise water sits under Victoria Glacier; walk the Lakeshore Trail or hike up to the Tea House at Plain of Six Glaciers. Moraine Lake, in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is even more dramatic — the Rockpile Trail gives you the image on the old $20 bill. (Book the shuttle or arrive by 6 a.m.; private cars are now restricted at Moraine.)

Day 2 — The town and the gondola Wander Banff Avenue for the mountain-town shops and a maple treat, then take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for the 360° view. Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs afterward. In the evening, drive the Bow Valley Parkway for wildlife — elk, bears, and bighorn sheep are common at dusk.

Day 3 — Johnston Canyon and the Icefields Parkway Walk Johnston Canyon's suspended catwalks to the Lower and Upper Falls. Then head north on the Icefields Parkway — one of the most scenic drives on earth — as far as Peyto Lake and Bow Glacier. Turn back or continue toward Jasper.

Where to stay Banff town for walkability and restaurants; Lake Louise village for quiet; a backcountry lodge for splurge. Book months ahead in summer.

Good to know You need a Parks Canada pass to park anywhere in the park. Bears are real — carry bear spray on every trail. And the lakes are glacial-cold — swim only if you're brave.