Canada: Two Days In Banff
Another year, another anniversary! Last year, Mike and I celebrated 13 years together by visiting the Great Smoky Mountains and Asheville, NC. This year, we’re venturing to our neighbors up north in Canada, specifically Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks. As the pandemic rages on, we’re content to travel to the wilderness and escape the crowds of major cities (especially since we live in one every day!).
While July in Banff usually requires 4 to 6 months in advance reservations for hotels, Airbnbs, restaurants, etc., Covid has clearly had an impact on tourism there. We were able to get affordable lodging in both Banff and Jasper with no issues.
Banff and Jasper National Parks are separated by “one of the most scenic drives in the world” (according to Conde Nast Traveller) which will take 4-5 hours with stops along the way. Because Banff is closer to the Calgary Airport (which we fly into), we’re opting to begin our trip there.
Here’s what’s on the agenda for our first two full days:
Courtesy of FredMiranda.com
Lake Minnewanka
We plan to drive out to this lake our first morning there at sunrise. It’s close to the town of Banff so we won’t have to wake up too early (though sunrise is at 5:45 a.m.). We’re looking forward to seeing this glacial lake that is the second largest lake in the Canadian Rockies!
The driving loop around the lake is famous for wildlife spottings (particularly at dawn). We’re excited to see big-horned rams, moose, elk and bears (from the safety of our car).
Courtesy of theBanffBlog.com
Cascade Ponds
After driving the loop around the lake, we’re going to head over to nearby Cascade Ponds for an easy morning hike (bear spray in hand!). After that, we’ll head back into town for a hearty lunch and more coffee.
Courtesy of travelbanffcanada.com
Surprise Corner
After lunch we’ll drive over with our coffees to Surprise Corner for a view of the iconic castle-like Fairmont Hotel.
Courtesy of RoadTripAlberta.com
Bow Falls Trail
On the other side of the Bow River, lives the Bow Falls Trail (shocking, I know) for an easy hike to see some waterfalls.
Courtesy of brewstermountainlodge.com
Town of Banff
We’ll also spend a decent amount of time in the cute AF town of Banff, exploring local breweries, delicious restaurants, festivals, farmers market and boutiques.
Courtesy of boundtoexplore.com
Vermilion Lakes
Day 2 will start with another sunrise, this time at Vermilion Lakes. well enjoy some pastries (which we’ll pick up the night before) while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
Courtesy thebanffblog.com
Johnston Canyon
After sunrise, we’ll head over to Johnston Canyon for a mild hike to see the Upper Falls. We’re not going to hike the entire trail as I fear it’ll be a day-killer.
Courtesy of bowvalleynetwork.com
Canmore
We’ll spend the rest of the day exploring the town of Canmore (where our Airbnb is located). It’s super pedestrian-friendly and has tons of great distilleries, cafes, and spots to hang.
We’ll be on the lookout for viewpoints and light hiking opportunities on both days, so the itineraries are not completely locked in. I’m really excited to experience one of my bucket list places!
-Jen
