Banff National Park for First Timers
We've explored Banff National Park four times in the past two years — and each visit has been packed with adventure. We've brought friends and family along, tackled all kinds of itineraries, and fine-tuned the logistics time and time again. Now, we're sharing everything we've learned to make your trip planning way easier.
Get access to our Banff google my maps to open all of these spots easily with the purchase!
Here’s what you’ll find inside this guide:
- The must-see locations, best food spots, local cafes, and memorable activities
- A variety of ready-to-go itineraries tailored to different travel styles
- Honest tips we wish we knew the first time (yes, some learned the hard way!)
- Personalized help if you have questions or need recommendations
And so much more to help you make the most of Banff!
Follow us @theadventuretwosome and send us a message with any questions you may have!
Park Pass
You need a pass to enter Banff or any National Park. Details below (NOT NEEDED FROM JUNE 19 to SEPT 7, 2026)
Getting to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Plan ahead if you want to see of the most iconic lakes in Canada.
OUR CURATED VIDEO RESOURCE LIST!
If you're looking for us to guide you through the process of visiting, here is a list of reels we've created helping you plan.
Booking Campsites
It's the wild west out here - campsites get reserved quick.
Best times to visit
See details below!
Visiting Sunshine Meadows
Get there early!
If you pre-purchase a park pass
Save some time when entering Banff
Road Etiquettes
Useful for USA travelers
Get groceries
CHEAPER GROCERIES?
Don't have a car to get to Banff?
No car, no problem!
No car rentals? Looking for other options?
Try Renting a Turo instead
Save money with attractions
A great hack to save some dollars!
Seasonality!
Some things aren't open all year round.
Stargazing
Light Pollution is low in the Rockies and with areas like Jasper being a Dark Sky Preserve, it's a great place to stargaze.
Parks Canada Discovery Pass
Save money
Keep your distance from wildlife!
For your safety and theirs!
Toilets near Lake Louise
Because being uncomfortable in such a beautiful place should be illegal.
Lake Agnes Teahouse Details
So you don't wait for no reason
If you want to canoe
Save money by not renting expensive canoe's or paddle boards. Emerald Lake is also a cheaper alternative.
Booking restaurants
Don't wait till the last minute or else everything will be taken!
Renting a car
We suggest booking an SUV for comfort but any car will do!
Visiting Kananaskis
NEED TO KNOW!
Bathroom breaks on the icefields parkway
don't stress!
Look at road conditions before you head out
Mountain weather can be unpredictable so always looks at road conditions before you head out.
Leave no trace
Seriously, respect nature!
bear spray!
It's so much cheaper and more sustainable.!
Start your days early
Make the most out of early hours!
Download offline maps
Don't get lost!
Fuel on icefields parkway
Another money saving hack!
Consider avoiding the drive to Lake Louise
Skip the Parking Stress. You Should Take Roam Transit to Lake Louise
Travel on the shoulder season?
Consider travelling on the shoulder season if you don't like crowds and chaos
PARKING!
Parking is a pain in Banff so use this tool to help find a spot to park.
Get AllTrails+
Make sure you're always on trail by having AllTrails Premium and downloading offline maps.
Where to stay!
Save money and stress
Always bring layers!
Mountain weather is extremely moody so always carry layers.
Public transport
For the popular sites and book early!
Book Early!
Earlier the better! For everything!
Bow Valley Parkway Closures
This road closes seasonally - dates and times below: