Visit Banff National Park

One of the top tourist destinations to Canada is the Banff National Park that is nestled within the magnificent Canadian Rockies. It is always a good idea to start planning trip to Banff Canada in advance since the region has a variety of things to do. This article will give you an overview of the best time to visit along with key places of attraction and useful tips to help you plan the perfect vacation.

Best Time to visit based on Month

Skier’s Paradise: December-March

This is the time of peak snowfall with temperatures rarely crossing 32 degrees during day time and falling well below zero degrees at night. Despite the cold temperature, it is considered one of the best times to visit Banff as you get to see the frozen lakes and the snowcapped mountains. The weather is perfect for skiers and Banff national park has everything to cater to the needs of both novice and expert skiers.

Tip: Because of the significant swing in temperature, it is important to pack layered clothing so you can remove or add layers depending on the temperature.

Nature Lover’s Delight: April-May

This is an unpredictable time during which visitors at Banff may be caught by surprise at the weather. However, this is the peak of the hibernation season and bears are slowly stocking up on food to prepare for the cold months ahead. So, it is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of some wildlife. Within the Banff National Park, rangers will guide you through early morning or late night bear watching trips.

Tip: Unlike popular fiction bears do not leave you alone if you pretend to be dead. If you see a bear, back up slowly (in the opposite direction) until you reach a safe place to run.

A Fun Filled Family Vacation: June-August

By far, these months are the most pleasant months in the Banff national park as they are characterized by relatively warm climate. Unfortunately, however, this time of the year is usually packed with tourists who want to take advantage of the brief respite from cold weather to get a good hike to the top of the peaks.

Tip: Summer in the Canadian rockies is not the same as summer elsewhere. The lakes are likely to be still frozen and you should expect an occasional snowstorm or blizzard.

Budget Travel: September-November

If you choose to time your vacation rights to get the best deals and bargain prices, then choose to travel during this time. Since the weather swings from fall to blizzard-y cold in a span of a month, several hoteliers and travel agencies will offer you discounts that no one else will

Tip: Because you are travelling during unpredictable conditions, it is best to obtain travel protection in case your flight or stays are canceled due to inclement weather.

Top Places to Visit

The Canadian Rockies is a behemoth that stretches across over 600 acres in Canada’s Alberta province. So admittedly there are numerous places of interest along the way. But the following places are not to be missed.

Vermilion Lake

This is technically not one lake but rather a system of lakes that became a single entity due to the low-lying marshland that separated them.  Reflecting the beautiful Mt. Rundle and Sulphur Mountain from the frozen waters, this is a good place for wildlife watching, hiking and canoeing (weather permitting).

Tip: Visit during the sunset to catch a glimpse of the beautiful rays of sun bouncing off the waters.

Johnston Canyon

Most tourists who visit Banff take this hike which traverses along a limestone canyon. And if you visit it during the snowy season, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the frozen waterfall. The canyon was formed by a small creek that empties into the Bow River, a little way from Banff. While the hike is not arduous, it is also not for the faint of heart and needs a little advance preparation. 

Tip: While it is usually very crowded with tourists during the day, early morning and late afternoons might be good times to visit.

Moraine Lake

Seen from the vantage point of the Valley of Ten Peaks, this glacially-fed lake is every Zen lover’s paradise. This lake is so crystal clear that there is visibility for up to 20 feet into its depths. It has immense cultural significance for Canadians and is on the reverse of their 20-dollar bill. It also features as one of the background screensavers of Windows 7 computers.

Tip: Check before you plan a visit as the lake is only open during certain times and days of the year.

Lake Louise

Called as the lake of the little fishes, this is undoubtedly another stunning lake within Banff National Park. There are several hiking trails that are also open to biking and horseback riding during the summer and open to snowmobiles and sledding during the winter.

Tip: Arrive early and rent a canoe to go out into the water and enjoy its serenity as you waddle to its center.

Peyto Lake

You will be mesmerized by this lake with a water that is so deeply turquoise that you’ll wonder if it is for real. The lake gets its color from the glacial rock flour that flow from the melting glaciers.

Tip: Come with a picnic basket, some light snacks and a spread so you can watch this mesmerizing lake from the vantage points along the Rockies. 

Whether you are planning on a relaxed holiday or an exciting hiking adventure, there is something for everyone at the Banff National Park. Banff National Park is truly one of Canada’s hidden treasures!