Been to Banff region for 10 weeks over 3 trips. This video is really good. Some additional thoughts / tips: Renting a car is almost a must do. ROAM is great for what it is but is way too limiting and their timetables leave a lot to be desired. If you really insist on only using public transit be aware that none of the surrounding parks (Yoho, Jasper, Kootenay) have any public transit and ROAM covers Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise. It also doesn't go to many places between those spots so you're out of luck even then. 01:46 Free parking locations in Banff. Banff Train Station - Lots of free parking and there will be signage directing you there as you enter Banff. It's the furthest away from downtown but still pretty reasonable. Bear Street Parking Garage- Anything above the first floor is free and there is a moderate amount of stalls, if you try to go say during lunch time expect to wait for a stall. Bow Avenue between Wolf and Buffalo is free but there are a very limited amount of spaces. 02:16 Canmore also has a visitor center. You can pick up your park pass from there as it's just before the Banff Park entrance and avoid the lineup that backs up during peak times. It's also a lot less busy than the one in Banff so you can ask questions much faster. 02:48 I've never stayed at the mentioned places but I have stayed at the Peaks hotel, it's fairly reasonable and right in the middle of town just one street over basically. Canmore is a very good alternative but if you're coming to Banff for a once in a lifetime trip- try to stay at least a day or two in Banff itself. 04:18 The only "fancy" place I've eaten that I love to go to while in the area is Rustica above Canmore in the Silvertip area. I also like Helna's Stube but that's all the way in Radium...but if you're making a trip there. A big thumbs up for the mentioned Wildflower...their baked are awesome as well. 05:20 So glad to see Vermillion lakes given a mention. Surprise corner has very little parking so be prepared for that or that will be your major surprise! Other things- Cascade Ponds, Banff Pedestrian Bridge, Banff sign and maybe the green spot up Mount Norquay. 08:00 Lake Louise now is paid parking from mid May to Mid October. The overflow and shuttle is an option if it's full. 08:58 Moraine lake- Just so you know shuttles only start from around 0800 so there will be no more sunrise photo shoots unless you're willing to hike/bike or stay at the lodge. You CAN take your private vehicle but you'll need to have a disability placard to do so. Honestly I think it's a good idea as it was crazy to find parking here and it's better than circling around and around just to get on the road to the parking lot. 09:35 going north from Lake Louis I would suggest you stop at Herbert Lake, it's a great little stop and has a restroom. Bow lake is far more impressive but it doesn't have a restroom...at least that I am aware of. 12:17 Kananaskis Country requires a Kananaskis Conservation Pass which can only be purchased online. Yoho- If you're going ensure you stop at Takakkaw Falls as well. The visitor center located in Field is also a nice break to stretch the legs. When to go- First timer? Then do NOT go anytime before June. The reason is that many of the big name attractions have a high potential to be closed. The hike to Agnes Teahouse, Moraine Lake, Takakkaw Falls and many others simply will not be open to you or will be icy and require buying/renting micro spikes or snowshoes- Johnston Canyon, Peyto Lake, etc. Yes, it gets crowded in summer, it gets expensive in summer but there's a reason for it. If it's just too expensive then I'd try for a Fall visit, it's less crowded / cheaper and still has everything open. Thanks for such a great video and hopefully someone finds the above useful.
Thank you for the comment and I might add, really great additional information. Herbert Lake is a great suggestion btw - I didn't have that in the video (obviously) and I believe you're right about Bow Lake (lack of facilities) - but yes, beautiful. Kananaski Country does require a pass (annoying) and it's amazing how many "locals" (like, from Calgary) don't even know about Takakkaw Falls (they (and I have done this too) just drive right by). Fantastic advise - you know the area well!
This comment is just as helpful as the video. I appreciate all the great trips. My boyfriend and I are doing a road trip from California to Banff Canada and I'm so excited. So all these tips are Sooooo helpful! Thank you
I’m a Canadian RN who’s been living & working in the US for 27 years. I’ve been thinking about relocating home to Canada to work as a nurse there. You just single handedly convinced me to move to this region. I just hope they need a veteran ER nurse somewhere up there!
Wow - well, if you do move to the Canadian Rockies you'll undboubtedly be surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere. I find it incredibly grounding and peaceful. I too am a Canadian living in the US (for 29 years). I would hope Canada has a need for your expertise! Thanks for the comment.
I hope you get to Banff! As you know, Banff (and Calgary) are named after places in beautiful Scotland. You'll also find there is a Scottish feel in Banff, particularly at the Banff Springs Hotel. I love Scotland, btw - been a few times and cannot wait to get back.
I was so lost trying to plan an upcoming trip to Banff for my family, this has been a life saver. I love how organized the video is and having a list of options for every category.
That is such a nice comment. You made my day - thank you. I hope you have an amazing time in Banff (it's such a special place). Start your days early if you can (to avoid the crowds).
This is such a spectacular video!! Thank you so much!!! I’ll be taking via rail from Winnipeg to Jasper soon and I’ll be spending 17 days from Jasper to Banff! I cannot wait!!! Thanks so much for the wonderful tips!!
That is such a nice comment, thank you very much. You're going for a long time! Jealous - I never stay as long as I wish (heading back in November) and never give Jasper enough time. Enjoy the trip!
Love Banff. Visited many times in my childhood from Scotland, I have family in Calgary . I was 17 the last time I was there. Hot springs and Christmas shop sticks in my mind.
Banff is awesome...Calgary of course, is a Scottish name (love Scotland). Hot springs are still there and popular and so too the Christmas shop (which appears in my next big Banff video in a few weeks).
Thank you so much! I am a little envious of you going in August. Enjoy and start the day off early. Early mornings are beautiful and not too busy (starts to get busy around 9am or so). Have fun!
We visited Banff in 2019, we loved it so much! We hope to return soon. We also really loved Vancouver Island. Thank you for the wonderful, inspiring videos! Best wishes, Lisette (the Netherlands)
Thank you for the kind comment. I really appreciate it. I agree with you about Vancouver Island - we live only about 35 miles from Vancouver Island (Anacortes, Washington). Have never been to the Netherlands but want to go!
Thank you so much for the nice comment. Your first time? Wow - you're going to fall in love. It's so beautiful - start the day early to avoid the crowds!
October is a fun month - perhaps still some color on the larch trees and perhaps even, snow! Regardless, a beautiful month (and not too busy). Enjoy your time there. Thank you for the comment.
Thank you Travel Eaz....this is a great video with awesome tips and information. I still have 98 days to wait until we go...the more I watch the more I'm getting exciting about it, I'm just like a little kid...(52)..haha. As you said this must be the must wonderful and beautiful place on earth, I've always dreamt of this place ever since seeing lake Louise and moraine lake as a child in magazines and holiday brochures ...just cant wait. I've treated the wife to two nights at Emerald lake at the end of our holiday, so we can wake up and see that turquoise lake. Keep up the great work and look forward to seeing more videos on Banff.
Thank you so much for the comment.It sounds like you'll be traveling at the perfect time - most of the huge crowds will have come and gone. I think mid Sept to mid-October is best. Emerald Lake is one of the real beauties - actually, it might be about the most beautiful place to stay in the Canadian rockies (obviously beauty is subjective). If you're heading to Calgary, video on that this weekend.
Oh i stayed at Emerald Lake lodge in May 2022. It's a bit rustic but the dinner we had was really good at the onsite restaurant. But being next to the lake right outside your door was the BEST. Be sure to wake up early so you have the lake to yourself, you'll be amazed how much it clears out once the day trip visitors leave.
only watched this video and your jasper one, as looking at visiting them both soon. Your style, effort put into these videos was noticed and very much appreciated and absolutely efficient, well informed info at a fast rate not a lot of filler etc or wasted time. Much appreciated again.
Thank you very much for taking the time to comment. Additionally, I really appreciate the nice words...it's still a work in progress to be sure, but your comments mean alot to me. Cheers!
Thank you so much for the comment. You'll find some changes in Banff (different stores, upgraded hotels, a few changes to the downtown part of the town and far more coffee shops) but it's still good 'ol Banff. Oh - you'll find it busier! Still unbelievably beautiful. I hope you have plans to go back soon.
@@traveleaz Hello. Thanks for the reply. Ephhesos is an amazing place. I visited in 2013. I passed out too. If you come to Turkey, I can show you around. I love national parks and historical buildings. because I am a history teacher.
Omg !! What a great video!! New Subbie here , I was looking 👀 into Banff videos as we are planning to visit this end of summer and you’re video is the BEST ! Great TIPS for us new visitors to BANFF👍
Thank you very much for the very nice comment. I love Banff and I hope that shows. I really hope you enjoy the park - as mentioned in the video it can get super busy so best to go to certain locations early in the morning. If you're looking into the Gondola, book in advance (otherwise you probably won't get on). As you're new (I believe) to Banff, you're going to absolutely LOVE it! Thanks again for the lovely comment.
Thank you so much- that means alot as this channel is still small and young. Going to Banff again in a few months so many more videos on that wonderful area. Currently in New Zealand and heading to Australia this morning, so many videos on these two great countries in the new future.,
me and my wife have traveled to most of North American national parks and our favourite is def. Banff. Indeed, it's getting busier and busier. So, planning ahead is very important. this video is a great start. very systematic and informative. thanks
It's hard to beat Banff for pure beauty - and it does offer more (and better) amenities (hotels, restaurants, etc) than its American brethren (some prefer fewer amenities, of course). But you're totally right it is getting so busy that many (me included) choose to travel in months other than July and August. Thank you so much for the nice comment about the video - I really appreciate it.
Yes- go! There is certainly more development since ‘84. Banff Springs Hotel and Chateau Lake Louise have expanded and there are more restaurants of course. And … it’s much busier. Still as beautiful though!!
BANFF NATIONAL FOREST One of Nature's heaven lies of Earth 🌎 wonderful 👍👍👍. NEVER knows before but when knows overwhelmed me by its true Nature's BEAUTIES laying within...👍👍👍 The UNDISCOVERED BEAUTIES...
@@traveleaz Thanks for your quick reply . WELL I think You r passionate RU-vidR that's why you observed keen of INTEREST in COMMENTERS REPLY unlike OTHERS , who always Engaged in REVENUE GENERATING RU-vidRS. Infact VIEWERS contribution for your money generating is VITAL Alas very FEW UNDERSTAND. AN ADMIRER from INDIA.
Fantastic overall guide. I really enjoyed watching this and it brought back some great summer memories. This covers everything I would expect it to. Been to Banff & Jasper a few times and I'd definitely recommend watching this video to give you a quick overview of things to see. Very dissapointing that you can no longer drive to Lake Moraine. Enjoyed waking up at 3:30am to drive and park their for the sunrise! You really hit a home run with this one! Thank you as I know how much effort it takes to make these. Looking forward to seeing more great videos of yours!
Thank you very much for the comments and thoughts. I agree with Moraine Lake - there was a problem (too many people) but it's disappointing that the only way in is by jumping on a bus. I would have thought there would have been a better way to do it. Like you, I'm thankful that I was able to go there freely and at any time I wanted. I remember going there in the early 1980s and there was hardly anyone there. How times have changed.
Thank you very much for the nice comment. I really appreciate it - you never know if people will love or hate it so it's always great to hear someone liked it. Thanks!
Thank you, we are looking at coming next year so this video has given me some good starter points of what to expect. Just subscribed so will check out your other videos.👍
Thank you very much for the comment and subscription. I hope you love Banff. I'm heading back next month (for a week) and will be doing many more videos - also I'll be doing videos on Jasper and the Icefield Parkway. If there is anything you want me to check out, let me know!
Thank you very much. It's a very special area - living in or close to this region is a dream for many. Every time I go I stand in awe - heading there again in 4 weeks and cannot wait.
A really good trip is Edmonton, Jasper, Banff then Calgary. The Rocky Moutaineer train goes to Banff. I got to stay at Banff Springs hotel and Chateau Lake Louise.
Thank you for sharing great information explained so well! We plan to visit next year. Need to figure out if we should come in June or September. I know there are advantages to each one!
Thank you very much for the very kind comment. I really appreciate it. I hope you enjoy Banff ... have you been before? Weather looks warm but perhaps a litte rainy. Enjoy the mountains.
I've been to Jasper about a dozen times and I'm going there next month. Video will be out in June. About 10 of these times were the 1980s and early 1990s - I don't remember some of these stays. I worked with Calgary Tourism so I often stayed in hotels that I couldn't afford (I didn't pay for them). I have stayed in the Jasper Park Lodge a few times - amazing hotel and it's the best by far (my opinion) in Jasper. However, this time I chose to stay in the middle of town because I'm walking around and didn't want to drive at all. I know very little about where I am staying (it was recommended to me, but we'll see). I'm staying at Whistlers Inn. I almost booked The Crimson (and still might).
Hey there! Great video! We have our Banff trip coming up, and this was so helpful! I was also happy to see the hotel I chose (The Royal Canadian) was recommended! It makes me feel better about my choices. 😂 Regardless, from one creator to another, I thought this was great! ☺️
Enjoy the City - but pack lots of warm clothes and boots (it can be very cold in February). However, if you go to Banff, it looks the most beautiful in the winter with the snow on the mountains. Enjoy your visit.
Hi there - and thank you very much for the very kind words. I appreciate it. I LOVE Fiji - although it's been quite some time since I was there (I hate to say it, but it's been 45 years since I was there - although I did go 3 times in the '70s). Fiji is an amazing country.
I have gone to Banff at least once a year since I was 4 (around 11 years). I would highly recommend the Moose hotel in downtown Banff. As well as the seafood restaurant, Tooloulas'!
We have a plan to visit BANFF this October. Could anyone advise us, what would BANFF look like in mid-late October? Is it still worth going during that time and what to prepare?
Thanks for the comment. I love October even though some areas/sites do close in October (i.e. Moraine Lake, Lake Agnes Tea House, boat tours around Lake Minnewanka, etc.). However, I think it's extremely beautiful around this time of year with the Larch trees and snow on the peaks of the mountains. It's also colder and could snow (particularly Lake Louise). Another positive is it's less busy and less expensive. I love October personally, but it depends on what you really want to see.
Hi there - love Indonesia! There are a few ways to get to Banff from Calgary without a car. My favorite is the Brewster Bus. They pick up at several locations in Calgary and drop you off at several different locations in Banff. Right now (2023) the cost is about $80 (Can). Here is their website: www.banffjaspercollection.com/brewster-express/ There is an even cheaper option, On-It is another option from Calgary to Banff (I believe it's around $10). Here is their website: www.onitregionaltransit.ca/ Here is another source to look at for different options: www.visitcalgary.com/things-to-do/stories-from-calgary/exploring-calgary-and-banff-without-a-car When you're in Banff you can use Roam Public Transit: roamtransit.com/ Finally, you do need a park pass to enter the park, even if you're on a bus: www.banfflakelouise.com/park-pass-purchase
We have always loved visiting here. It really is a an inconvenience for parking and such. We try to avoid Banff now. It’s almost true what they say. Jasper is the new Banff, and Nordegg is the new Jasper.
You have made an excellent observation - I agree. If you don't like the crowds in Banff, Jasper is "just" up the road. Jasper is just as amazing and less than half as busy. Now that you mention Jasper, I think it's time to plan a trip there. Thanks for the comment!
My GF visited Banff in the mid 70's and she has pictures that are just crazy how primitive it looked back then, way smaller than Jasper is right now. Ptarmigan Inn is where they stayed and she mentioned it was one of the few hotels back then lol. Regarding Nordegg- would you mind sharing some things you enjoyed doing there. Thanks in advance.
@@Komainu959 Wow! I bet that would be interesting to see side by side photos of Banff in the 70's and now. Nordegg is a mountainous area that has great hiking, fishing, camping, and canoeing. It can get a bit windy there so other water sports aren't ideal when the wind is strong. Otherwise there are a few operators that have ATV tours and a Via Ferrata. If you want to get away from the crowds, this is where I recommend you go.
Good question! I think you might get some different replies as it might be a subjective answer - but here is my opinion. I love late September. The colors (larch trees) of Fall are starting (or in full bloom) and they contrast so well against the green of the evergreens (and the mountains and lakes). PLUS, it is far less busy and the cost of hotels is less. But yet, everything is still open (Moraine Lake is open until early October - although don't forget the road is closed and you need to take a tour or a shuttle). That being said, I have been in Banff in September many times and have seen it snow (it usually doesn't stick around too long) so be aware of that. Some campgrounds do close in early September though (a couple of the Two Jack campgrounds, as I recall) but most are open until at least early October. If you can, travel mid-week (Tues-Thurs) - you can avoid some of the Calgarians who wander up during the weekends.
For lows, it can get down to 3 or 5 degrees Celcius (38-42 F) in August. The highs during the day are around 20 degrees Celcius (69F). Temperatures can be eratic so always bring something a little warmer for the mornings and evenings.
If you have the time, it sure is worth it. It's a fairly long drive (13 hours?). If you have even more time you'll be driving by Glacier National Park and Waterton Park (in Alberta). I hope you make it north.
Wonderful video. Many thanks. When is good to come to Banff to avoid the large summer crowds but not wanting to come in winter? Do things thin out in September. And is the weather generally good throughout the month?
Hi there and thanks for the nice comment. Personally, I love the month of May (before it gets crazy, can be good weather, more wildlife). I also go in May (heading there again in a month - mid-May). The last two times in May I have seen bears, so be aware of that. I just love the moderate temperatures and fewer crowds in May. That being said, I think the best time of year is mid-September to mid-October. You might get some questionable weather in October but the crowds are less and the larch trees are gorgeous.
Thank you for the comment. You can expect the probability of snow in November, yes. I was there last November and there was snow on the ground. I am heading there mid November this year and expect the same. Take some warm clothes! And enjoy because it’s beautiful.
Thank you for the comment. If you want to see everything in the video you probably need 3-4 days. I do think though, you need at least 3 days to see Banff National Park and really enjoy it.
Hola, soy mexicano y estoy próximo a terminar la cerrará de medicina, estoy pensando hacer un viaje de graduación con mis amigos, que lugares me recomiendan visitar en Banff, Canadá? Un saludo🙌🏼
Hola y gracias por el comentario. Felicitaciones por su increíble título médico. Hay mucho que ver en Banff, pero los aspectos más destacados incluyen: la ciudad de Banff, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, Peyto y Bow Lakes. Voy a ir a Banff esta semana y en breve tendré varios videos, incluidos el Parque Nacional Jasper y Icefields Parkway (¡ve allí también!). Hi there and thank you for the comment. Congratulations on your amazing medical degree. There is a lot to see in Banff but the highlights include: the Banff townsite, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, Peyto and Bow Lakes. I'm going to Banff this week and will have a number of videos shortly - including Jasper National Park and the Icefields Parkway (go there too!).
This is such a great question - and by the way your timing is excellent as my new video (published today) is about Banff and Jasper....okay, your question. Of course, the answer depends on if you wish to do a deep dive into the parks or if you want to see most of the major attractions and leave. My response to this question is usually the same. I think 5 days is the minimum time I would recommend if you want to see some of most of the attractions (you won't see everything!). I would recommend two days in the Banff townsite area, 1 day in Lake Louise/Moraine Lake area, 1 day exploring the Icefield's Parkway and then 1 day in Jasper. However, it always feels like you're shortchanging Jasper with this itinerary and you would be. In a perfect world, I would do 7 days, 4 days in Banff National Park and 3 days in Jasper. I hope this helps a little and please watch my new video as I explore (almost) everything in these two parks. Thanks for the question.
UPDATE: re - admission fees - you can only buy park passes online if you buy the "annual" one. I'm going next week and wanted to buy 4 day passes (40 vs 150) and it says you cannot buy anything online expect for the annual one.
That's a very helpful comment, thank you. I wasn't aware of that. I bought an annual pass a couple of years ago at the kiosk as I entered into the park.
Just to clarify as the totals don't quite make sense. I believe it should be (42 vs 72.25) Single Adult: 10.50 per day 72.25 per year Family (up to 7 in a single vehicle) 142.25 per year. Above prices effective Sept 2023. I would also advise NOT to purchase online for the simple reason that you have to obtain the physical pass itself, which means you have to pay for shipping and if it is lost or you forget the pass at home...you'll have to purchase another.
Sorry to hear about that but it’s important for people to know. I have been to the Grizzly House many times but not for several years. Thanks for the comment.
It is true that there are forest fires that can impact the area. When I was there in late May there were significant forest fires but as you can see on the video there was no smoke at all. Perhaps I am fortunate but I visit Banff about three times a year and have not had smoke impact my visit in anyway for years. The forest fire problem is not limited to Canada, however. My recent (not this year thank goodness) visits to Grand Teton and Yellowstone have been affected by forest fires. And don’t get me started on Australia!
