Planning a trip to Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Park in Style

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The Canadian Rockies are among the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. Their rugged and dramatic peaks were formed over 70 million years ago, making them slightly older than their American counterparts. Most visitors know Banff, the National Park in Alberta about a 90 minute drive from Calgary. This is an easy trip for locals but if you are flying, get the most of your trip with a visit to nearby Jasper and Yoho National Parks.

What’s unique about these areas? You’ve likely seen the iconic turquoise lakes on every travel Instagram page. The lakes are glacier-fed, causing tiny rock particles to run off into the waters. These particles are suspended in the water and reflect the sunlight, creating a fairytale-like color. And if you can make the trip north to Jasper, you’ll experience an even more secluded mountain landscape with dark skies perfect for stargazing.

So what does planning a trip to Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Park look like?

Getting There

If you are flying to Alberta, Calgary will likely be your starting point. Depending on the length of your flight, consider a night in Calgary to enjoy the city and get some rest after your travel day. From there, Banff is only about an hour and a half away. Jasper is much farther – about four and a half hours away by car. If you are visiting Jasper, consider a longer trip where you can spend a few nights in Banff, a few nights in Jasper, and then a few more nights in Banff to split up the driving.

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is where you’ll find the iconic Lake Louise, canoeing, and Johnston Canyon. Make time to visit the town of Banff to enjoy cute restaurants and shopping. Don’t miss the Visitor Center, where helpful rangers are available to offer advice on the park.

Many visitors will also stay in Canmore and Kananaskis. These towns are still an easy drive to the town of Banff and Lake Louise but offer more lodging options, restaurants, and trails to explore.

Must-Do Experiences

• Lake Louise: This is the spot where all the famous travel photos are taken. Get there as early as possible for a parking spot. We’re talking before 7 am. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake or hike up to the Lake Agnus Tea House. The tea house can get very busy during peak season, so go as early as possible. Other bigger hikes near the lake include the Beehive and the Devil’s Thumb.
• Moraine Lake: Moraine Lake is another iconic spot for stunning water and mountain views. This is only open from June to October and can only be accessed by shuttle. Book your shuttle early to make sure you get a spot!
• Johnston Canyon: Johnston Canyon is open year-round and very accessible for all activity levels. The trails are easy to explore independently or with a guide.
• Canoeing: Canoeing is available throughout the region, including on Lake Louise and the Bow River. This is a great way to enjoy the beautiful mountain views while giving your feet a break from hiking.

A touch of luxury: While there are many homes and hotels to book in the area, consider at least a couple of nights at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This hotel is a splurge, but it offers spectacular access to Lake Louise, so you don’t have to worry about getting up early for a parking spot. Explore at your leisure and enjoy the onsite restaurants, pool, and spa. Plus, if you book through me, enjoy added benefits including breakfast and a credit for food and beverage.

Yoho National Park

While a visit to Yoho National Park seems obvious to locals and tourists once they get there, this park is often overlooked by first-time planners to the region. This is an easy hour drive from Banff, making it a perfect day trip to add to your itinerary. Arrive early in the day – just because this park is sometimes overlooked, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t attract a large number of visitors. There are plenty of easy trails in this park without a huge elevation gain. Enjoy a walk around the lake and through dramatic landscapes with huge peaks. This could be a good warm-up if you plan to tackle more difficult hikes later.

Yoho National Park is located in British Columbia, so you can check off two Canadian provinces during your trip!

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is about a two-hour drive from Banff along Icefield Parkway. The drive is an adventure in itself, with numerous stops to get out and enjoy the scenery. Fill up your gas tank before leaving Banff and bring snacks for the car.

Make sure you pack a few warm clothes for Jasper. When I visited in early September, Banff still felt like summer, but I needed a sweater and a hat for Jasper. You will be farther north than you think!

Must-Do Experiences

• Icefield Parkway: Enjoy the sights on the drive between Banff and Jasper, including Weeping Wall, Columbia Icefield, and Sunwapta Falls.
• Maligne Canyon: Maligne Canyon features a variety of waterfalls, easy to moderate trails, and a spot to eat. You can explore Maligne Canyon on your own or take a guided tour. It is open year-round with beautiful green views in the summer and frozen waterfalls in the winter.
• Pyramid and Patricia Lake: These two lakes are less crowded than Lake Louise, but beautiful and quiet. Enjoy a walk around these lakes and take in a sense of peace.
• Maligne Lake and Spirit Island: Maligne Lake is a little south of Jasper, but Spirit Island is one of the most photographed spots in the region. If you want to get your own shot of this icon, it is worth the trip.
• Jasper Planetarium: Visit the planetarium for a special look at the stars, including a planetarium tour and a guided look at the dark sky.

A touch of luxury: Jasper offers a variety of lodge-style accommodations, but for an extra special stay, check out the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge near Beauvert Lake and the Planetarium. Enjoy their on-site restaurants, spa, and pool. For groups, two-bedroom suites and multi-bedroom cabins are available. Plus, if you book through me, enjoy added benefits like included breakfast and a credit for food and beverage.

When to Go

The Canadian Rockies are most popular in the summer months from June to August, but you can sometimes find lower rates in the spring and fall. Be aware that the region may not be fully thawed by spring, so if you want to see those beautiful blue lakes in the shoulder season, aim for September and October. The fall brings stunning foliage, so there will still be decent crowds.

Winter is a little slower, but if you visit during this time, expect gorgeous snowy mountain tops and cold weather fun. Activities include dog sledding, tubing, skiing, ice skating, and hot springs. There are also plenty of opportunities for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and sightseeing, but I’d recommend joining a guided tour for safety in the winter conditions.