Oct 14, 2020
In the shadows of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, three railway workers came across a natural hot spring in 1883. From there, Canada’s first (and the world’s third) National Park was created, to ensure these precious lands were designated protected for future generations.
Today, Banff is renown around the world as an alpine wonderland of majestic mountain scenery, deep turquoise lakes and dense pine forests along with its neighbouring parks (Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho). Banff is one of the most popular regions within the Rockies’ protected provinces, providing a wealth of sights, wildlife, natural features and discoveries within its cherished boundaries.
Discover Banff with Scenic
Travel to Canada and you’ll journey to the heart of the Banff National Park, experiencing its extraordinary panoramas and natural wonders in-depth. With Scenic, you won’t just see Banff, you’ll live it. Our Journey Designers have handpicked a collection of Scenic Freechoice activities which highlight the adventurous spirit, majestic vistas and wildlife which make this region so truly special.
Banff township sits in the middle of the National Park surrounded by pine and spruce trees and glaciers feeding into vibrant blue lakes. There is also a wealth of wildlife, including wolves, elk, cougars, moose, black bears and of course, grizzly bears.
To give you a taste of what awaits in Canada’s most beloved National Park, here are just some of the Scenic Freechoice experiences you can choose from:
Helicopter Flight Over the Three Sisters
With stunning views, you’ll be keen to get up high to savour the spectacle, and what better way than during a helicopter tour over Banff’s enchanting alpine vistas. Soar like a bird over this astounding region where you’ll see sights like Sulphur Mountain, Banff township, Lake Louise and the Three Sisters peaks - all from a completely distinct perspective. It is the perfect way to understand the scale and grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.
Willow Stream Spa
To experience the National Park from a completely distinct perspective, rejuvenate in the mineral pools of the Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs. This is a sanctuary to purify, strengthen and revitalize the body and mind. Surrounded by the mountains and glaciers of Banff National Park, Willow Stream Spa draws from the elements and energy to give you a peaceful and renewing experience.
Guided Nature Hike
On the surface, Banff’s terrain of ice, snow, forests and rock may appear inhospitable, but look closer and you’ll discover hiking trails in every direction for every fitness level. Unearth the wonders of the region on a guided nature hike, taking in dramatic elements like Bow Falls and Lake Minnewanka as you walk amongst the absolute best of Banff’s natural world.
Bow River Float Trip
The Bow River flows from the heart of Banff National Park, winding its way southeast to form the South Saskatchewan River, which eventually empties into Hudson Bay. On its journey through the Rockies, the river passes through a truly pristine region, providing access to areas rarely experienced by travellers. During this special Bow River float trip, you’ll take your seat on board an oar-powered raft, travelling downstream as you take in the passing scenery and wildlife in the company of an experienced local guide.
Cowboy Cookout Dining Experience
The Canadian Rockies can also conjure images like those in wild west movies. Cowboys pitting their wits against the elements as they strive to make a living in these once hostile lands. As part of a special Scenic Freechoice dining event, you’ll get the Canadian cowboy experience, complete with a wagon ride through the lowlands of Sulphur Mountain and folklore tales told by a local ranger. After an inspiring journey that takes you back in time, stop at the base of the mountain and enjoy a hearty barbecue lunch in the open-air. What better way to experience Banff’s beauty and heritage?
Dogsledding through the Banff Wilderness
For a more visceral experience in the Banff National Park during Christmas in the Rockies, a Scenic Freechoice experience will give you a first-hand taste of an ancient local pastime: dogsledding. Once the only way to navigate the harsh wilderness, Alaskan Malamutes have been relied on as a means of transportation for centuries through the Rockies. You’re invited to take the reins and command your own dogsled team, learn the history, customs and folklore of this traditional activity.
Scenic Special Stays in Banff National Park
With so many adventures by day, you’ll be looking forward to a luxurious place to rest your head by night. Handpicked for their exemplary welcome and unbeatable locations, Scenic Special Stays provide the utmost in luxury and comfort while ensuring you’re always immersed in the heart of your destination.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Set on the shores of Lake Louise, this luxurious and world-famous hotel has been accommodating guests in the heart of Banff National Park for over a century. Enveloped by mountain peaks, the majestic Victoria Glacier and a sparkling emerald lake, the stunning beauty of Lake Louise permeates every nook of the historic resort. Established by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company in the late 19th century, the hotel is a destination in its own right for those drawn to the region for its celebrated natural beauty. In an enchanting setting, you’ll wake in your Lakeview room rested, inspired and ready for the day’s adventures.
Fairmont Banff Springs
Lovingly dubbed the ‘Castle in the Rockies’, the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs is one of the most famous hotels in Canada. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company, this hotel was appointed as a National Historic Site of Canada, thanks in part to the influence it had in popularizing this stunning region. It was styled after a Scottish baronial castle and offers spectacular mountain and valley views. A Scenic Special Stay in this enchanting hotel is the perfect way to complete a memorable day in the Rockies.
