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Best Places to Visit in Canada has a way of pulling you in with its wild beauty and lively cities. With so much to see, it’s easy to feel stuck trying to pick the perfect place. Should you hike across the towering Rockies? Wander the cobblestone streets of Quebec City? Relax by the ocean on Vancouver Island? Or head north to see the Northern Lights swirl across the sky?
Let’s sort through some of the best spots so you can find the one that feels like your kind of adventure.
If your heart beats a little faster when you think of mountains, turquoise lakes, and wildlife roaming free, Alberta’s Banff and Jasper National Parks belong at the top of your list. These parks are not only close to each other, but together they form one of the largest protected wilderness areas in the world.
Mountain Views That Take Your Breath Away
- The Canadian Rockies are famous for their rugged peaks, and it’s not hard to see why. Mountains like Mount Edith Cavell, with its glaciers and wildflower meadows, and Mount Rundle, with its distinctive ridge, create dramatic landscapes you’ll remember forever.
- Even a simple walk through town feels like stepping into a giant postcard.
- If you love photography or just want to stand somewhere that makes you feel small in the best way, you’ll love it here.
Iconic Turquoise Lakes
- It’s almost impossible not to be amazed by Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. Their bright blue-green color comes from tiny rock particles left behind by glaciers.
- Depending on the light and time of day, the lakes can appear teal, emerald, or even deep blue.
- Rent a canoe, walk the lakeshore trails, sit by the water with a coffee, and watch the clouds move over the mountains. It’s peaceful and jaw-dropping all at once.
Wildlife Up Close
- This region is a safe home for a wide range of animals. You might spot grizzly bears, black bears, elk, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep — sometimes right by the road!
- For safety, it’s smart to join a wildlife tour, where trained guides know how to find animals without disturbing them. Seeing a bear in the wild (from a safe distance) is one of those experiences you’ll never forget.
Hiking Trails for Everyone
- You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy the trails here. Some paths, like the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail, offer incredible views after a short climb.
- If you’re up for something a bit longer, the Plain of Six Glaciers trail takes you close to massive glaciers, offering nonstop scenery.
- For an easier day, the Valley of the Five Lakes trail gives you a beautiful forest walk with five colorful lakes along the route.
One of the World's Best Drives
- The Icefields Parkway is a drive you’ll talk about for years. Stretching 232 kilometers (144 miles) between Lake Louise and Jasper, it passes glaciers, waterfalls, wildlife, and endless forested valleys.
- Stop at spots like Peyto Lake (which looks like a wolf’s head from above) and the Athabasca Glacier, where you can walk on ancient ice.
Perfect for
- Outdoor lovers who dream of mountains, lakes, and big skies
- Families who want a mix of adventure and chill time
- Photographers looking for epic landscapes
- Couples seeking cozy, scenic getaways
Whether you want to hike all day or relax in a hot spring while staring at snow-capped peaks, this part of Canada feels like a giant outdoor playground.
Where to Eat
The Bison Restaurant (Banff)
This spot focuses on farm-to-table food using local Alberta ingredients. Their bison short ribs are rich and flavorful, and the setting — huge windows with mountain views — makes it even better. Book ahead if you can, because this place fills up fast.
Evil Dave’s Grill (Jasper)
It has a fun atmosphere, a creative menu, and big flavors. Their “Malicious Salmon” dish is a local favorite, with spicy seasoning and fresh vegetables. It’s casual enough for families but still feels special.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning Natural Beauty:Every turn feels like it belongs on a postcard.
- Wide Range of Activities:Hiking, skiing, sightseeing, boating — there’s something for everyone.
- Good Infrastructure:Well-marked trails, guided tours, and a wide range of hotels make it easy for first-timers.
- Great Year-Round:Summer and winter both offer unique, amazing experiences.
Cons:
- Summer Crowds:Expect popular spots like Lake Louise to be busy during peak months.
- Costs Can Add Up: Hotels, tours, and restaurants tend to be higher during the summer.
- Weather Surprises: Pack smart and be ready for rain, sun, or even snow in a single day.
Where to Relax After Dark
Banff Ave Brewing Co. (Banff)
Laid-back, lively, and full of character. It’s a great place to unwind with a flight of local beers after a day on the trails. They often have board games and live music, so settling in and enjoying yourself is easy.
Whistle Stop Pub (Jasper)
A cozy pub where you can kick back with a pint and swap hiking stories with other travelers. Some nights there’s live music, but the easygoing vibe is a big draw even when quiet.
Other Adventures Worth Adding
Banff Gondola:
Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain and look out over six mountain ranges. At the summit, you can explore an easy boardwalk that leads to an old weather station, take in the sweeping views, and learn a bit about the area’s history.
Athabasca Glacier Tour:
Hop onto a giant Ice Explorer vehicle and drive right onto the glacier. Guides explain how the glacier formed and how it’s slowly changing. If you’ve never stood on ice that’s thousands of years old, it’s a surreal feeling.
Lake Minnewanka Cruise:
This lake is massive — 21 kilometers long! A guided cruise takes you across its waters while sharing local legends, stories about sunken villages, and facts about the wildlife that call it home.
Helpful Tips
Book Early:
Hotels and tours sell out quickly, especially in July and August. Lock in your plans early if you want the best options.
Pack for All Seasons:
You might start the day in a T-shirt and end it needing a jacket. Layers are your best friend here.
Hire a Guide for Specialized Tours:
Local guides can make exploring glaciers, watching wildlife, or tackling harder hikes safer and more enjoyable.
Show Respect to Local Cultures:
Some areas are on Indigenous land. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred places, and approach experiences with an open heart.
5 Days in the Canadian Rockies
Your sample itinerary for Banff and Jasper
🗓️ Day 1: Arrive in Banff
- Morning:
Fly into Calgary International Airport, rent a car, and drive 1.5 hours to Banff. Enjoy the scenic drive as the mountains begin to rise around you. - Afternoon:
Check into your hotel or lodge. Head into downtown Banff for lunch at The Bison Restaurant. Afterward, explore the charming town, browse local shops, or relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs. - Evening:
Take a short sunset walk by the Bow River or Vermilion Lakes. Then, grab dinner at a casual spot like Bear Street Tavern or Banff Ave Brewing Co.
🗓️ Day 2: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
- Early Morning:
Wake up early to beat the crowds. Drive to Lake Louise (about 45 mins). Hike the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail(around 2-3 hours round trip). - Midday:
Head to Moraine Lake (seasonal road open June–mid-Oct). Take in the views or do the short Rockpile Trail for postcard-perfect photos. - Afternoon:
Picnic by the lake or return to Banff for a relaxed lunch. Optional stop at Lake Minnewanka for a short walk or cruise. - Evening:
Enjoy dinner at The Maple Leaf or Saltlik Banff. If you’re up for it, check out live music or night views of the stars.
🗓️ Day 3: Icefields Parkway to Jasper
- Morning:
Pack up and hit the road early. Drive the Icefields Parkway toward Jasper. This is not just transportation—it’s the highlight of the trip. - Stops to make:
- Bow Lake
- Peyto Lake Viewpoint
- Mistaya Canyon
- Columbia Icefield / Athabasca Glacier (book a guided tour or walk to the toe)
- Afternoon:
Continue the drive to Jasper. Check in, then explore the town or unwind in your accommodation. - Evening:
Dinner at Evil Dave’s Grill. Stroll through downtown Jasper or relax at your lodge.
🗓️ Day 4: Explore Jasper National Park
- Morning:
Hike the Valley of the Five Lakes Trailor take the Jasper SkyTram up Whistlers Mountain for panoramic views. - Afternoon:
Visit Maligne Canyonand walk along the bridges. Drive to Maligne Lake and take an optional boat cruise to Spirit Island. - Evening:
Dinner at Jasper Pizza Placeor a cozy café. End the night with stargazing — Jasper is part of a designated Dark Sky Preserve.
🗓️ Day 5: Wildlife Drive + Return Travel
- Morning:
Drive along Highway 16 early in the day — a good time to spot elk, bighorn sheep, or even bears. - Optional Stops (if heading back to Calgary or Edmonton):
- Athabasca Falls
- Sunwapta Falls
- Scenic breaks along the Icefields Parkway (again!)
- Afternoon:
Begin your return trip to Calgary or Edmonton. Depending on flight times, you may want to stay an extra night in either city.
Final Tips
- Best photo spots:Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, Icefields Parkway, Spirit Island
- Things to book in advance:Glacier tour, Maligne Lake cruise, accommodations, Banff Gondola
Pack essentials: Layers, rain jacket, sunscreen, camera, reusable water bottle, bear spray (for hiking)
Quick FAQs
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
- June to September is ideal for warm-weather activities like hiking and lake tours.
If skiing and snowboarding are your thing, the parks become a winter wonderland from December to March.
How Do I Get There?
- Banff is about a 90-minute drive from Calgary International Airport. Jasper is about 3.5 hours from Edmonton. If you’re visiting both parks, drive the Icefields Parkway between them — it’s an experience in itself.
Where Can I Stay?
- Luxury hotels like the Fairmont Banff Springs and Jasper Park Lodge offer top service and stunning views.
- More budget-friendly options include cozy cabins, motels, and campgrounds — something for every traveler.
Will I See Wildlife?
- Very likely! Keep your distance, use a zoom lens for photos, and carry bear spray if hiking in more remote areas. Follow park guidelines to keep both yourself and the animals safe.
Do I Need a Park Pass?
- You can buy a day pass or get the Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which covers entry into multiple national parks and historic sites nationwide. Passes are available online or at park entrances.
Conclusion
If you want a trip packed with jaw-dropping views, wildlife sightings, and unforgettable moments, Banff and Jasper are calling your name. Whether lacing up your boots for a mountaintop hike or sipping coffee by a glacier-fed lake, you’ll walk away amazed at how beautiful nature can be.
