Explore Banff National Park: A Day Trip Itinerary from Calgary
Banff National Park is one of Canada's most stunning natural wonders and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Alberta. If you're staying in Calgary and want to explore the beauty of Banff in just one day, here's an itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:
8:00 AM - Depart Calgary: Start your day early to make the most of your time in Banff. The drive from Calgary to Banff takes around 1.5 hours, so be sure to grab a coffee and breakfast to-go for the road.
10:00 AM - Arrive in Banff: Your first stop in Banff should be the Visitor Information Centre. Here you can get maps, information on park passes, and recommendations for hikes and other activities.
11:00 AM - Hiking in Johnston Canyon: One of the most popular hikes in Banff is the Johnston Canyon trail. This hike takes you through a scenic canyon with waterfalls and natural pools. The hike is 5.8 km round-trip and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.
1:30 PM - Lunch in Banff: After your hike, head back to the town of Banff for a well-deserved lunch break. Banff has plenty of great restaurants and cafes to choose from, so you're sure to find something to suit your taste.
3:00 PM - Drive to Lake Louise: After lunch, drive 40 minutes to Lake Louise. This stunning lake is known for its turquoise waters and picturesque mountain scenery.
4:00 PM - Explore Lake Louise: Spend some time exploring the area around the lake, taking in the scenery and snapping photos. You can also rent a canoe or kayak and paddle around the lake if you're feeling adventurous.
6:00 PM - Return to Calgary: After a full day of hiking and exploring, it's time to head back to Calgary. The drive from Lake Louise to Calgary takes around 2 hours, so plan to arrive back in the city by around 8:00 PM.
At Garden Media, we believe in the importance of taking time to explore and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us. Banff National Park is a true gem of Alberta, and we hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your day trip from Calgary.
