A Local's Guide To Summer In Banff National Park

If Banff National Park sparkles in the winter, it shines in the summer. With all of Banff’s critters out, wildflowers in bloom, and long summer days, there is no better time to explore some of the secret gems the park has to offer.

Here are some ways you can buck the trends as a visitor and see Banff National Park like a local.

Special Spots

The Bow River, which starts at Bow Glacier on the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93 north), makes its way through the national park. If you’re a paddler with whitewater experience, instead of seeing the water from the shore, bring your canoe or kayak and explore the river. If you're a less experienced paddler, consider visiting Banff Canoe Club in the town of Banff. Rent a canoe, kayak, or SUP from shore and within a minute you'll find yourself with your own slice of the river. Read up about the various sections of the Bow on Parks Canada’s website and plan your route according to your time, gear and experience. Don’t forget to check Transport Canada’s rules for boating safety.

Looking for a rustic way to spend an evening away from busy downtown Banff? Head to the Cascade Ponds on the Minnewanka Scenic Drive. Make a campfire (in the provided fire pits), grill some smokies, and enjoy the views. When you’re done, don’t forget to put the fire out and clean up all food and garbage. For more picnic inspiration, check out our blog: Perfecting the Classic Mountain Picnic in Banff National Park.

If driving the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93 north) is part of your itinerary, be sure to add Mistaya Canyon to your list of stops. Just under an hour’s drive heading northwest on the Parkway, you’ll come across the small parking area for Mistaya on the west side of the road. This is the hidden gem of the Icefields Parkway. The Mistaya River carved out this canyon gradually over millennia, and the outcome is striking. When enjoying the canyon, be aware there are no guardrails - stay a safe distance from the water and don’t step on wet rocks. Note, the short but steep trail to the canyon is not wheelchair accessible.

Perfect Patios

Looking to relax, grab a beer and snacks, but still enjoy the views? Snag a coveted table on a patio!

At street level, you might not see the Rose & Crown patio hidden on top of their Banff Avenue location. Meander in and enjoy the views of Cascade Mountain with some refreshments.

On the other side of Banff Avenue, head over to Park Distillery, where you can sip on one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails with their own spirits and look out at majestic Mt. Rundle.

For more patio inspiration, check out the patios you need to try this summer.

Swimming Holes

On a hot summer’s day, do as the locals do and make your way to Johnson Lake. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Banff, follow the signs for Johnson Lake Road off of the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive. The water here is far warmer than the glacial-fed lakes you’ll find in most of the park.

Heading up the Icefields Parkway? Check out Herbert Lake. As you first turn onto the scenic road, if you aren’t looking for it, you’ll miss the turnoff on your left. If it’s a hot day out, make a stop and go for a dip or bring your SUP! This small lake gets much warmer than most of the lakes you’ll find in Banff.