Banff National Park Guide : National Parks Navigator
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Banff National Park : Parks Canada
History of the Park.
Banff is Canada's first national park created soon after the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1885. In fact its beginnings are related to railway workers who discovered a cave and hot springs (the Cave and Basin) in this area of incredible natural beauty including towering peaks and pristine lakes within 6000 square kilometres of wilderness.
What to visit?
Hiking adventures abound and culminate in incredible mountain views whether starting from the village of Banff itself or from nearby Lake Louise. Biking trails are plentiful. Canoeing, climbing, horseback riding and even boating are available. Winter sports include skating, snowshoeing, alpine skiing (at three major ski areas) and nordic skiing . From the top of Summit Tunnel Mountain the views are unbelievable with Bow Valley and Banff itself, as well as views of Mount Rundle to the South. Booking.comHow to get to the Park?
The railroad still brings thousands of vistors to this Park. The Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) goes right through Banff. The Icefields Parkway comes into the Bow Valley (93N) connecting with Jasper National Park to the North. Access by car via Trans-Canada Highway Route 1. Banff is accessible via Greyhound bus . By Air travel to Calgary and rent a car (Enterprise Rent-a car) to access the Park. Rail to Banff is by Rocky Mountaineer , or by Via Rail through Calgary or Jasper with bus connections to Banff.
Where to stay?
Accomodations: Camping: Banff National Park has 14 campgrounds in season. Some campgrounds are even open in winter if you enjoy camping in the snow .
Hotels: Suggested in Banff: Moose Hotel and in nearby Lake Louise: Chateau Lake Louise .
Banff Campgrounds
