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Things to do in Banff

Itineraries for Your Trip to Banff

Banff locals share their perfect days.
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2 Days in Banff for First Timers

Curated by Jessica Colley ClarkeNew York–based writer and curious traveler.

Banff is known for its variety of year-round outdoor adventures, from rock climbing to wildlife safaris. Visit this Canadian resort town to hike in the national park, go white-water rafting, and ride in the back of a horse-drawn sleigh. Here are a few ways to spend 48 hours in Banff. 


Day 1: Morning

Start your Banff adventure with an introductory tour. Choose between a ride on the Banff Gondola for mountain and river views or a trip on the hop-on hop-off bus to move quickly between destinations like Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon.

Day 1: Afternoon

Experience the adventurous side of Banff on an afternoon tour. Choices might include an alpine climbing adventure along Via Ferrata, a national park tour focused on seeing grizzly bears, and a guided hike in Banff National Park. See glaciers, mountains, and lakes on the hike.

Day 1: Night

Set out at dusk on an evening wildlife safari. Maximize time with a bus tour that keeps a lookout for bears, deer, elk, and more. Another way to see this landscape at dusk is with a scenic helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies. 

Day 2: Morning

Explore Banff by water with a peaceful lake cruise or an adrenaline-pumping Kicking Horse River white-water rafting tour. Paddle along a calm section of the river and tackle class IV rapids during a rafting adventure that may include a hearty lunch.

Day 2: Afternoon

Continue the outdoor adventure with a horseback ride in Kananaskis or an ice walk in Johnston Canyon to see ice-covered waterfalls and winter wildlife. Travelers interested in photography may want to seek out tours led by professional photographers.

Day 2: Night

Discover the romantic side of Banff with a helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies at dusk or a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Cruise along the snow-covered meadows of Banff in the back of a sleigh and get cozy beneath warm blankets during the ride.

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