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Summer Itineraries: Bike Banff and Lake Louise in 5 Days

Published Date
Jul 6, 2021
Biking Tunnel Mountain Banff National Park Noel Hendrickson

Travel authentically and immerse yourself in Banff and Lake Louise’s culture by seeing the sights by bike.

What are you waiting for? Don your best biking shorts and get ready for four days of non-stop biking adventures.

Before You Arrive

Any great trip requires a little preparation, so whether you like to plan ahead or fly by the seat of your pants, consider at least these two things before you get to Banff and Lake Louise.

If you’ll bring your own bike or rent one.

There are plenty of rental options available with Ultimate Rentals, Chateau Mountain Sports, and Banff Cycle. Along with rentals, some offer guided tour options.

Where you’ll stay.

Most hotels offer secure, indoor storage for your bicycle. Call ahead to let them know you’ll be travelling with your bike.

Day 1 - Stretch Those Muscles

Waldhaus Pub & Patio, Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National ParkWaldhaus Pub & Patio, Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National ParkWaldhaus Pub & Patio, Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park

To extend your day, bike back through town and hop on the Bow River Trail heading towards Vermilion Lakes for an unbeatable view of Mount Rundle.

Day 2: Follow the River

Mt. Rundle looming over the town of BanffMt. Rundle looming over the town of BanffMt. Rundle looming over the town of Banff

At the end of the route, dismount and explore the canyon trails by foot.

Day 3: Ride With the Locals

Cyclists make their way down the Legacy Trail in Banff, ABCyclists make their way down the Legacy Trail in Banff, ABCyclists make their way down the Legacy Trail in Banff, AB

Want to elevate your adventure? Order ahead from Tooloulous. They open for breakfast and lunch—giving you ample options for a well-earned meal ahead.

Day 4: Head Down History Lane

Cycling the Bow Valley ParkwayCycling the Bow Valley ParkwayCycling the Bow Valley Parkway

There are plenty of lookouts along the way to stop and see the sights—such as the picturesque Morant’s Curve and picnic-worthy Storm Mountain Lookout—all of which have interpretive signage explaining the significance of the route.

If you plan for a longer adventure to Lake Louise, stop for dinner at the Lake Louise Village Grill & Bar—where your helmet hair is acceptable if not expected.

Day 5: Bike and Boat

Boating along the waters of Banff National Park, ABBoating along the waters of Banff National Park, ABBoating along the waters of Banff National Park, AB

Instead of packing up and leaving first thing, head out on the Minnewanka Route. It’s a short distance from Banff so you can take your time with a relaxing brunch in the morning before one last ride out to the lake. Here, you can hop on longer routes or take the Lake Minnewanka Cruise for happy hour craft beers to cheers to a successful trip.

If you're up for more adventure outside of cycling, why not jump on a sightseeing tour? Check out our next blog on Thursday July 8 for roadtrip and sightseeing ideas.

Whitney Arnott

Whitney Arnott

Whitney enjoys all things outdoors. Whether she’s camping, hiking, or kayaking, she always has her camera at hand ready to capture life in the Canadian Rockies.