How To Spend One Day In Banff – 1 Day Itinerary

So, you only have one day in Banff? That’s okay! Although there is so much to do in Banff, you can still enjoy this stunning place in the space of a day, and in this post I’m going to show you exactly how.

Sure, Banff deserves a solid 2 or 3 days (more if you can swing it!) to soak it all in. But I get it – life’s not always that simple. Maybe you’re just passing through en route to Jasper and have a lone day to spare.

I have clocked in some serious Banff time, and I’ve got all the details on what I’d get up to if I only had a single day. Having visited Banff on many occasions, I’ve created the ultimate plan for those squeezing Banff into a single day. This way, you can soak in the best Banff attractions while making the most of your limited time.

From the shores of Lake Louise to the heights of the Banff Gondola, there are so many things to do in Banff, but this itinerary hits all of the most iconic and beautiful spots. So even though you are short on time, you’ll feel like you have truly experienced the best of Banff.

Put on your walking (or hiking shoes!) because this is going to be a full-on day.This guide also includes additional information such as suggested day tours, where to stay and how to get to Banff.

A City Girl Outside contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for reading!

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One Day In Banff Itinerary

This one day in Banff itinerary is based around having a car – although you can visit Banff without a car, I recommend renting one to get the most out of your day. I have also mentioned some alternatives for anyone who isn’t visiting with a car, and suggestions for amending the itinerary.

Sunrise At Lake Louise

I make sure to visit Lake Louise on every trip I make to the Rockies. Lake Louise is a stunning bright turquoise blue glacial-fed lake, and should be at the top of your list of things to do in Banff.

Starting your one day in Banff with a sunrise at Lake Louise is an unforgettable experience. Sunrise at Lake Louise is by far one of my most special memories of Banff. The first time I watched the sunset from the lake shore there were around 15 other people max (this was in June).

This event has now become super popular though so don’t expect there to be that few people. I have watched the sunrise from Lake Louise in mid-July and it was substantially busier.

If you’re staying in Banff, it’s best to set off early – around 5:00 am – for Lake Louise. It takes about an hour to drive from Banff townsite to Lake Louise so you can be there for sunrise. Trust me, it’s worth the early start! Not only is the morning light beautiful for photos, but you’ll also avoid the crowds (mostly) that are drawn to this popular spot throughout the day.

Visit Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Located right by the lake, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a grand hotel that has been an icon of Banff since 1890. Take some time to explore its opulent interiors and learn about its history and connection to the area.

If you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a hot breakfast at one of their restaurants or grab a coffee from their cafe and sip it while taking in the stunning views of Lake Louise (try the ham & cheese or chocolate croissants, seriously good and I never leave without one!)

Staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise comes with a high price tag. But if you are considering this hotel for your stay in Banff National Park, I have a full review of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel here.

Go For A Hike In Lake Louise

The Lake Louise area is my favourite for hiking, but it’s also one of the busiest, and for good reason! Some of the best hikes in Banff can be found in Lake Louise, such as the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike, Big Beehive, and the Plain of Six Glaciers Hike. All are gorgeous hikes, and you can even combine them if you’re feeling ambitious!

The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is a 3.4 km (one way) trail that leads to a charming tea house sitting by the scenic Lake Agnes. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round-trip and is suitable for all skill levels, so it’s perfect if you’re short on time. The tea house serves delicious homemade soup, sandwiches, and baked goods – the ideal spot to refuel before continuing your Banff adventure.

If you have more time and energy, I highly recommend adding the Big Beehive hike (5.3 km round trip) to your itinerary, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains. Or, you can continue on to the Plain of Six Glaciers hike (10.6 km round trip) for even more stunning vistas and a chance to spot some native wildlife.

Go Canoeing On Lake Louise

If hiking isn’t your thing, consider renting a canoe from the Fairmont Boat House. Canoeing on Lake Louise is a Banff bucket-list activity. There is usually a long-wait for these canoes so it’s best to get there as early as you can. Prices

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is not just the most iconic of lakes in Banff, but the whole of Canada. This deep turquoise blue lake once graced the face of the Canadian $20 bill. Unlike Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is not accessible year-round. The road to Moraine Lake typically opens around mid-May and closes around the first week of October.

There have been a few changes in regards to visiting Moraine Lake in recent years. Being the busiest attraction in Banff National Park it became increasingly difficult to access due to lack of parking, as a result Parks Canada has restricted access to personal vehicles.

If you do want to visit Moraine Lake during your 1 day in Banff, you will need to book a Parks Canada shuttle, take the Roam Transit bus, book a tour, or use the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus.

Visiting Moraine Lake at sunrise is still possible however! There is currently only one tour company offering sunrise tours to Moraine Lake, which is Moraine Lake Sunrise Shuttle – booking in advance is highly recommended as tours sell out fast.

The Rock Pile Viewpoint

The best place to witness the beauty of Moraine Lake is from the top of the Rockpile trail. The trail is an easy 0.8 kilometres (0.5 miles) trail with a slight elevation gain of about 24 metres (80 feet). It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to hike to the top, making it an easy hike in Banff.

The Rockpile Trail, as its name suggests, is essentially a large pile of rocks left behind by glacier activity. It provides a spectacular vantage point to view the deep blue waters of Moraine Lake and the surrounding Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s arguably the best spot to snap photos, especially if you’re there during sunrise.

The trailhead is located at the parking lot, if you get to the lodge or lakeshore, you’ve gone too far. The trail is well maintained, consisting of numerous steps and viewpoints for you to catch your breath and enjoy the view.

Bow Valley Parkway

The next “big attraction” on this one day Banff itinerary is Johnston Canyon. But I recommend taking the Bow Valley Parkway to get there. The Bow Valley Parkway runs parallel to the highway and Johnston Canyon is located on this road, so you’ll have to get onto the parkway at some point to access the canyon.

There are some roadway attractions that are worth a stop on your drive to Johnston Canyon, one of them being Morant’s Curve. Morant’s Curve is one of the most photographed locations in Banff National Park. It’s a great spot to stop for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is just right.

The Bow Valley Parkway also provides some opportunities for wildlife sightings, so keep your eyes peeled and have your camera ready!

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is a popular hiking destination that leads you through stunning canyons and waterfalls. You’ll be walking on elevated catwalks that provide breathtaking views of the canyon and its two waterfalls – Lower Falls and Upper Falls.

The hike to the lower falls is approximately 2.3km and is suitable for all skill levels. The hike to the upper falls from the trailhead (including lower falls) is 5.3km round-trip (2-3 hours) and is steeper than the trail to lower falls.

If you only have a day in Banff I would recommend only hiking to the lower falls to save on time. (Unless you are a quick hiker!)

During winter, Johnston Canyon transforms into a frozen wonderland, with ice formations that are truly stunning. You can even take a guided ice walk tour to explore the canyon and its frozen waterfalls.

Banff Avenue

Banff Avenue is the main shopping and dining are of Banff National Park. It’s a perfect spot to hunt for souvenirs to remember your one-day Banff adventure. Some of my favourite stores include The Spirit of Christmas, a year-round Christmas store, or The Banff Candy Store, which offers an array of sweet treats. I also love the Roots store with their Banff themed t-shirts.

Make your way to the Grizzly House for a truly Canadian dining experience. With a history dating back to 1967, this iconic establishment features an expansive menu that showcases local specialties, from Alberta beef to exotic game meats. This is my favourite restaurant in Banff and a really unique experience that’s hard to get elsewhere in Canada.

Don’t forget to look up while strolling Banff Avenue – Cascade Mountain dominates the centre of Banff Avenue, it’s one of the best views in Banff!

Banff Gondola

After satisfying your appetite and exploring the shops on Banff Avenue, it’s time to take a ride on the Banff Gondola! From Banff Avenue the gondola is just a short-drive, or you can take the Roam bus.

Situated at the foot of Sulphur Mountain, the gondola ascends to an elevation of 2,281 meters, providing the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Bow Valley.

Once you reach the top, you’ll get unobstructed views of six mountain ranges, the town of Banff, the winding Bow River, and vast, untamed wilderness. It’s a unique perspective that truly emphasizes the grandeur of Banff National Park.

I highly recommend walking along the 1km Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak for an even more stunning vista. This boardwalk takes you to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site and the historic Sanson’s Peak Meteorological Station. From the viewpoint is the most fantastic view of the Banff Springs hotel.

There are dining options at the Gondola, but I was not impressed with the Sky Bistro and recommend having dinner somewhere on Banff Avenue.

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Where Is Banff?

Banff is located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in the province of Alberta. It is part of Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park and one of the nation’s largest and most visited. Approximately an hour and a half drive from Calgary, Banff is renowned for its picturesque peaks, clear blue lakes, and abundant wildlife.

How To Get To Banff

From Calgary

Banff is located roughly 130 kilometres west of Calgary, which makes for an easy 1.5-hour drive via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). After leaving the city, the trip to Banff will take you through some stunning landscape of the Canadian Rockies. If you prefer public transportation, several shuttle services run daily from Calgary Airport to Banff.

From Vancouver

To reach Banff from Vancouver, you’ll be embarking on a longer journey, but it’s one that’s sure to be memorable. The drive is about 850 kilometres and usually takes around 9-10 hours via the Trans-Canada Highway. This trip will take you through some of Canada’s most beautiful scenery, including the Fraser Valley and the Canadian Rockies. Alternatively, you can catch a flight to Calgary from Vancouver, which takes about an hour, and then drive or take a shuttle from there to Banff.

From Whistler

Traveling from Whistler to Banff is an adventure in itself, with the journey covering approximately 800 kilometres. This trip can take around 10 to 11 hours, depending on driving conditions and routes. The most popular route is via Highway 99 North from Whistler to Lillooet, then Highway 97 to Cache Creek, followed by Trans-Canada Highway 1 East right into Banff. This takes you through a diverse terrain of coastal rainforest, arid desert, and towering mountain peaks.

Is One Day In Banff Enough?

The short answer is no. I think Banff is one of the most beautiful places in Canada, and while this one day Banff itinerary does hit most of the iconic landmarks, there is SO MUCH more to do! In my opinion, 4 days in Banff is the ideal amount of time, more if you can wing it!

The town and the surrounding national park boast an abundance of natural beauty and activities that could easily fill multiple days. However, if you only have a day in Banff, rest assured that it can be a day well spent!

Banff Full & Half Day Sightseeing Tours

Lake Louise & Banff Tour From Calgary or Banff

Experience the best of Banff in just a day this small group tour. Starting from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore, this tour takes you to the picturesque Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, where you can explore the historic hotel, and take stunning photos. Then head to Johnston Canyon for an exciting ice walk, equipped with provided ice crampons. This all-inclusive tour is designed to ensure you don’t miss any of the must-see places in Banff like Lake Louise. Experienced guides will not only be your navigators but also your personal photographers, helping you capture the beauty of Banff in the best possible way. With the logistics of driving and parking taken care of, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and take in the scenery of Banff!

Lake Louise & The Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour

Embark on an exciting full-day tour of Banff’s impressive sights with this Lake Louise & Icefields Parkway Tour. Designed as the perfect one day Banff itinerary, this tour takes you to the most iconic spots of Banff National Park. The tour starts with a visit to the stunning Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, known for their dazzling turquoise waters and breathtaking snow-capped peaks.

Depending on the day’s itinerary, you might also explore other spots including Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka, Hoodoos Lookout, Mt. Norquay, or Marble Canyon. Along the way your guide will share insightful details about the region’s rich history.

You might even get the chance to witness local wildlife and go on a short hike. Although the tour is packed, by the end of the day, you’ll agree that Banff is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful places! This tour guarantees an exciting experience for those wanting to make the most of their day in Banff.

Where To Stay In Banff

There are many accommodations options for your one day in Banff, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. I have stayed in quite a few hotels in Banff and Lake Louise, from hostels to 5-star hotels. Here’s my favourites for all budgets.

The best luxury stay in Banff National Park is the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. I stayed here in 2022 and loved every single minute of it. To wake up early and walk to Lake Louise for sunrise was only the best experience. The hotel as a whole is a must-see, it’s incredibly gorgeous both inside and out. The spa isn’t bad either! Check out my full review of the Chateau Lake Louise for more information.

If you’re looking for a more traditional stay, I highly recommend staying at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. This iconic castle-like structure is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offers luxurious rooms and exceptional amenities.

For a more affordable option, check out the Banff Park Lodge, I also stayed here in 2022 and got what I imagine to be a glitch rate ($350 CAD for 3 nights!!) Although I think these rates are long-gone, the Banff Park Lodge continues to be a good affordable option. You can’t get a better location and the rooms are soooo big!

I have also stayed at Irwin’s Mountain Inn which a little further out of the way but still a great location on Banff Avenue. If you are visiting with a vehicle I would avoid this hotel as their parking is limited and the underground parking is for really small cars only.

There are also many options for budget accommodations in Banff such as Samesun Backpacker Lodge or HI Banff Alpine Center. These hostels offer dorm-style rooms, private rooms, and even family rooms, making it a great option for travellers on a budget. I have stayed at many HI hostels, including Lake Louise, San Fransisco and Santa Monica.

If you prefer to stay closer to nature, there are also many campgrounds and RV parks in the area.

Commonly Asked Questions: One Day In Banff

Do I Need A Car For Banff?

Having a car for your one day in Banff can be advantageous, but it’s not a necessity. The town of Banff is quite compact and most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, so visiting Banff without a car is do-able.

Banff offers excellent public transportation options including Roam Transit, which services the town and has connections to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. You can also buy tickets for the Hop On Hop Off Bus.

However, having a car gives you flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially if you’re planning to visit places further afield. So, while a car can be useful, it’s not a must-have for a fun day in Banff.

Is Banff Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Banff is more than worth visiting! I think it is one of the most naturally stunning places in the world. You really need to see it for yourself to believe it! There are so many fun things to do in Banff, from hiking and wildlife spotting to skiing and snowboarding in the winter!

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