The Ultimate Guide to Banff and Yoho National Park
One of the most popular National Parks in North America, and for a good reason! Banff National Park can be intimidating navigating all the new permits and regulations implemented to control crowds. Here you will find everything you need to know for to ensure you wont be turned away at any point during your trip! I have included all the links to permits/passes, trails I recommend, packing lists for day hiking and camping, and a sample itinerary!
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Permits
Discovery pass (Annual Canada National Parks Pass) will get you access to all parks
Shuttle lottery (Lake Louise and Lake Moraine)
Only way to get to Lake Louise and Lake Moraine from May 17th-October 17th
Travel
Airport: Calgary International Airport
Transportation
There are two options:
There is a free shuttle system (ROAM) that takes you everywhere you need to go in Banff! There are also shuttle services that can take you to and from the airport.
Rent your own car (but beware, parking is a nightmare almost everywhere in Banff and Yoho)
Top spots in Banff
Lake Louise (Must have a shuttle pass to go to during summer months)
Lake Moraine (Must have a shuttle pass to go to during summer months)
Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake
Lake Peyto
Bow Lake
Top spots in Yoho
Emerald lake
Takakkaw Falls
Lake O’Hara (need permit to get to)
Hikes
Lake O’Hara
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Travel Day
Fly into Calgary Airport
Depending on what time you flight lands either stay at the Airport Hotel or drive to Canmore to stay the night
Day 2
Sunrise spot: Two Jack Lake
Get breakfast in downtown Banff
Set out to go explore Bow Lake and Lake Peyto (1 1/2 hour drive from downtown Banff)
Day 3
Morning shuttle to Lake Louise
Hike Big Beehive while at Lake Louise and grab breakfast at Lake Agnes Tea house during your hike!
Take connector shuttle to Lake Moraine
Day 4
Head to Lake Emerald and spend the day here canoeing, eating lunch at Cilantros, and relaxing on the shores of the beautiful emerald water
Day 5
Hike around Takakkaw Falls area
Day 6
Take morning shuttle (need permit) to Lake O’Hara
Drive back to downtown Banff
Sunset spot: Mt. Norquay Lookout
Day 7
Fly out of Calgary Airport back home
Shuttle from Canmore to Calgary airport (if you did not rent a car)
Iceline Summit
Packing List
Here is a packing list specific for hiking and camping Banff/Yoho National park. If you are looking for an all inclusive packing or gear list click here!
