Kid-Friendly Activities in Banff and Lake Louise to do Summer

Are you planning a family trip to Banff and Lake Louise and wondering, 'Is Banff kid-friendly?' Look no further! Banff National Park has many options for exciting kid's activities to entertain your little adventurers and create unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Read on to discover the best kid-friendly activities in Banff and Lake Louise that you can enjoy in the beautiful Canadian Rocky Mountains.

What’s in the Guide:

• Sightseeing gondolas and chairlifts in Banff and Lake Louise.
• Kid-friendly hiking in Banff National Park.
• Adventures on the water in Banff National Park
• Horseback riding in Banff and Lake Louise.
• Museums in Banff National Park.
• Playgrounds and picnic spots in the town of Banff.
• Shopping in Banff National Park.

Sightseeing Gondolas and Chairlifts in Banff and Lake Louise

Seeing the mountains from above is an unforgettable experience for families visiting Banff and Lake Louise. These sightseeing gondolas and chairlifts make it easy for kids to reach stunning viewpoints, look for wildlife, learn about the natural environment, and enjoy a little adventure along the way.

• Banff Gondola
  Ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and discover one of Banff's most iconic attractions. Kids can explore the interactive interpretive centre, walk the scenic boardwalk to Sanson's Peak, and take in incredible views of the town of Banff, surrounding valleys, and mountain peaks. It's a fun way to combine sightseeing, learning, and outdoor exploration.
• Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola
  Choose between a fully enclosed gondola or an exciting open-air chairlift for the ride up the mountain. This area is one of the best places to spot wildlife, including bears. At the top, families can visit the interpretive centre to learn more about the animals and ecosystems that call Banff National Park home.
• Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift
  For a classic mountain adventure, hop aboard Mt. Norquay's two-person open-air chairlift. As you glide above the slopes, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the town of Banff and the surrounding Bow Valley. The open-air experience makes kids feel like they're soaring through the mountains.
• Banff Sunshine Village Gondola & Chairlift
  The adventure begins with a gondola ride, followed by an open-air chairlift that climbs even higher into the alpine. At the top, families are rewarded with breathtaking mountain views that stretch all the way into British Columbia. There are also hiking trails to explore, making it a great option for families who want to combine sightseeing with a mountain adventure.

Kid-Friendly Hikes in Banff and Lake Louise

Exploring Banff National Park on foot is a fantastic way for families to experience the Canadian Rocky Mountains together. From gentle riverside walks to waterfalls and mountain lakes, these family-friendly trails offer plenty of opportunities for kids to get out and explore Banff and Lake Louise.

• Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail is one of Banff's most rewarding family hikes. Tunnel Mountain offers a manageable climb and big views at the top. Older kids will enjoy the challenge of reaching the summit, where they'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town of Banff, the Bow Valley, and surrounding mountain peaks.
• The Bow River Trail is an easy riverside walk, perfect for younger children and families with strollers. Follow the scenic Bow River from downtown Banff to the powerful Bow Falls, where kids can watch the rushing water and explore the surrounding viewpoints.
• Johnston Canyon is a family favourite thanks to its elevated catwalks, rushing waterfalls, and dramatic canyon scenery. Families can hike to the Lower Falls or continue to the Upper Falls for a longer adventure. For older kids with extra energy, continue beyond the canyon to the Ink Pots, a series of colourful spring-fed pools surrounded by mountain views.
• Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail is a mostly flat shoreline trail follows the edge of the famous turquoise waters of Lake Louise. It's a great option for families looking for a shorter hike with spectacular photo opportunities.
• Sundance Canyon follows a forested path before entering a narrow canyon with bridges and viewpoints. The combination of forest, flowing water, and canyon scenery makes it an exciting adventure for curious young explorers.

Family Hiking Tips: Always check trail reports before you go, stay on designated trails, carry bear spray and know how to use it, and pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers.

Adventures on the Water in Banff National Park

From paddling across turquoise lakes to splashing through river rapids, Banff and Lake Louise offer plenty of ways for families to enjoy time on the water. These experiences combine incredible scenery with fun, hands-on adventures that kids will remember long after the trip is over.

• Canoeing is a classic experience and a great activity for families. Kids will love helping paddle across the turquoise waters of Lake Louise or Bow River, where rentals are available. When renting all of the necessary equipment is provided such as a life jacket. Along the way, families can enjoy mountain views, look for wildlife along the shoreline, and experience the beauty of Banff National Park from a unique perspective.
• Rafting is an exciting way for kids to experience Banff's rivers. Several local operators offer rafting on class 1-2 rapids that are suitable for younger adventurers. All equipment such as wet suites and helmets are provided. It's a fun introduction to river adventures in a safe and guided environment.
• The Lake Minnewanka Cruise introduces families to the area's fascinating history, wildlife, and stunning mountain scenery. For younger visitors, the Junior Explorer Cruise is designed with kids in mind, featuring interactive activities and storytelling that help bring the lake's history and natural environment to life.

Whether you're paddling, rafting, or cruising, these water adventures offer a fun way for families to experience Banff National Park together while creating unforgettable memories on the water.

Horseback Riding in Banff and lake Louise

Horseback riding is a memorable way to experience the landscapes of Banff National Park. Guided rides allow families to explore mountain trails, forests, and scenic viewpoints while enjoying a classic Canadian Rocky Mountain adventure.

• Located near the Banff townsite, Banff Trail Riders offers opportunities for riders of various ages and experience levels. Their guided horseback rides take families through beautiful mountain scenery, creating an authentic western experience in the heart of Banff National Park. Younger children can enjoy pony rides, while families looking for a more relaxed outing can opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride, perfect for taking in the scenery without needing to saddle up.
• Brewster Adventures and Timberline Tours offer guided horseback rides in the spectacular Lake Louise area, allowing families to explore scenic trails surrounded by towering peaks, forests, and alpine landscapes. Knowledgeable guides share stories about the area's history, wildlife, and natural environment, making the experience both fun and educational.

Whether they're riding a pony, taking the reins on a trail ride, or enjoying a leisurely carriage tour, horseback experiences give families a chance to slow down, explore, and see Banff and Lake Louise from a different perspective.

Museums in Banff National Park

Banff's museums and historic sites make learning fun for the whole family. With interactive exhibits, engaging stories, hands-on displays, and opportunities to explore the outdoors, these attractions help kids discover the history, wildlife, culture, and natural wonders of Banff National Park.

• As the birthplace of Canada's national parks system, Cave and Basin is a fascinating place for kids to explore. Families can walk the scenic boardwalks, visit the historic thermal pool, and discover interactive exhibits that bring the story of Banff National Park to life. Best of all, youth under 18 receive free admission.
• Step inside the Banff Park museum and discover a remarkable collection of wildlife specimens from Banff and Lake Louise. Kids can get up close to displays featuring bears, bighorn sheep, birds, and other animals found throughout the region. The museum offers an engaging way for children to learn about wildlife and the ecosystems of Banff National Park. Admission is free for youth under 18.
• The Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum introduces families to the rich cultures, traditions, and histories of Indigenous Peoples from the Plains and Rocky Mountain regions. Through interactive exhibits, artwork, traditional clothing, and cultural displays.
• The Whyte Museum showcases the art, history, and stories that have shaped Banff and the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Families can explore exhibits featuring mountaineering, local history, Indigenous perspectives, photography, and artwork inspired by the mountain landscape. Interactive displays and family-focused programming throughout the year help make learning both fun and engaging for younger visitors.

Whether your family loves history, wildlife, art, or culture, Banff's museums and historic sites offer a fun way to spend a day while learning more about the people, animals, and landscapes that make this region so special.

Playgrounds and Picnic Spots in the town of Banff

When kids need a break from sightseeing, the town of Banff's parks and playgrounds offer plenty of space to run, climb, and play.

Playgrounds in the town of Banff:

• Banff Rotary Park
• Banff Recreation Grounds
• Banff Central Park

Pack a picnic or grab lunch from a local café before heading to the park. Family-friendly options include Wild Flour Bakery, Mountain Folk Coffee Co., Downtown Sally, and Good Earth Coffeehouse, all offering sandwiches, baked goods, snacks, and drinks that are perfect for a picnic in Banff National Park.

Shopping in Banff National Park

A stroll down Banff Avenue is a fun activity for families, with plenty of shops, treats, and souvenirs for kids to discover along the way.

Kid-Friendly Shops in Banff:

• Big Bear Trading Co.
• Cool As A Moose
• Duck Duck Moose
• Freckles
• Little Blue House

After a little shopping, take a break and enjoy one of Banff and Lake Louise’s many sweet treat stops. Whether it's an ice cream cone, handmade fudge, gourmet popcorn, or a bag of candy, these family favourites are sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

Sweet Treat Stops:

• Banff Candy Store
• Banff Sweet Shoppe
• BeaverTails
• Chocolate Board of Canada
• COWS Ice Cream
• The Fudgery
• Mary's Popcorn
• Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe (Lake Louise)
• Rocky Mountain Chocolate

Whether kids are searching for the perfect souvenir or a well-earned sweet treat, Banff Avenue offers plenty of family-friendly stops to enjoy together.

Plan Your Ultimate Kid-Friendly Adventure in Banff and Lake Louise

From sightseeing gondolas and family-friendly hiking trails to canoeing, and sweet treats, Banff and Lake Louise offer endless opportunities for families to explore, learn, and create lasting memories together.

Ready to start planning? Use the Trip Builder tool to start planning your trip to Banff and Lake Louise or use the Ultimate Family-Friendly Adventure Itinerary to build the perfect family getaway, complete with kid-approved activities, dining recommendations, and unforgettable experiences throughout Banff National Park.