Banff has been sitting on my bucket list for years, and when I finally made the trip in June 2019, it lived up to every bit of the hype. Nestled in the heart of Alberta’s Canadian Rockies, Banff is a place that feels almost too beautiful to be real. Think turquoise-blue lakes, postcard-worthy mountain ranges, and trails that make even casual hikers feel like seasoned adventurers. It’s no wonder this destination has been skyrocketing in popularity.
Since my visit, friends and family have been asking for tips on planning a Banff getaway, so I’ve rounded up everything you need to know—from getting there, to whether or not you should rent a car, and even how to navigate the park itself.
Getting to Banff
Banff is located in Alberta, about 90 minutes west of Calgary. The closest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is where almost every traveler will fly in.
Calgary itself is worth spending a little time in if your schedule allows. It’s the largest city in Alberta and has a mix of modern energy and Western charm. I only got a quick glimpse but wished I had carved out more time. If you want a deep dive into Calgary attractions, I recommend checking out my friend Rachel of Frankly Ray—she’s a pro at uncovering the best local gems.
For anyone traveling from Los Angeles, good news: there are direct flights from LAX to Calgary that clock in at just three hours. From the airport, it’s about a 90-minute scenic drive straight into Banff National Park.
Renting a Car vs. Shuttles
Here’s the big question: should you rent a car in Banff?
My short answer: yes.
From Calgary, it’s roughly an hour to Canmore (a charming mountain town just outside Banff) and another 30 minutes to reach Banff itself. While shuttle services are available, having your own car makes the trip far more flexible and convenient—especially if you want to stop at viewpoints along the way or plan day trips to nearby gems like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
To give you some perspective on cost: a roundtrip shuttle from Calgary Airport to Canmore alone runs about $130. If you’re traveling with friends or family, splitting the price of a rental car is often cheaper and definitely more practical.
That said, if driving isn’t your thing, Banff is still doable without a car.
Getting Around Without a Car
Banff has a reliable local public transit system known as ROAM shuttles, which makes it possible to travel between Canmore and Banff as well as around Banff itself. These shuttles are affordable, easy to use, and a solid option for anyone who prefers a car-free vacation.
There are also seasonal shuttles that run from Banff to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake during peak months, which can be a lifesaver since parking at those iconic lakes fills up fast.
So while a car is more flexible, don’t feel discouraged if renting one isn’t in your plans—Banff is prepared for visitors who want to travel green (or stress-free).
Entering Banff National Park
One thing many first-timers don’t realize: Banff is located inside a national park, which means you’ll need to purchase a pass to enter.
You can choose between paying $10 per person per day or $20 per vehicle per day (covers up to seven people in one car). For groups or families, the per-vehicle option is by far the better deal.
Pro tip: if you’re planning to spend several days exploring or hitting multiple parks in the Canadian Rockies, consider purchasing a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which covers unlimited entry to more than 80 sites across the country for a year.
First Impressions and Must-Do Highlights
Driving into Banff feels like stepping into a nature documentary. The mountains rise dramatically in every direction, and the air has that crisp, alpine freshness that makes you want to inhale deeply just because you can.
Some absolute must-dos in and around Banff include:
- Lake Louise and Moraine Lake – These are the crown jewels of the Rockies, famous for their surreal, glacier-fed turquoise waters.
- Banff Townsite – A charming hub filled with shops, restaurants, and cozy cafés, perfect for a post-hike meal.
- Hiking Trails – Whether you’re into easy strolls or challenging climbs, there’s something for everyone. Johnston Canyon is a favorite for its waterfalls and catwalks.
- Banff Gondola – For sweeping views without the uphill climb, take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain. The panorama is unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Banff is one of those rare places that manages to feel both grand and intimate at the same time. The scenery is larger than life, yet there are countless little moments—quiet trails, serene lake reflections, friendly locals—that make it feel personal.
If you’ve been dreaming about visiting, take this as your sign to start planning. Whether you rent a car and road trip through the Rockies or stick to shuttles and public transit, Banff is accessible, welcoming, and guaranteed to leave you in awe.
And fair warning: once you’ve been, you’ll find yourself wanting to return again and again. I know I do.
