Gearing up for summer activities in Banff National Park
You’ve got your bucket list planned for everything you want to do in Banff National Park. Wondering how you’ll get the gear to make it all happen? Leave your worries (and equipment) behind and travel light. Between rental companies and gear shops, you’ll be well-equipped for any adventure in Banff and Lake Louise.
Here’s where to get the goods:
Wheels and Transportation
Car Rentals
Various regional transit options can make your trip easier, including airport shuttles that’ll bring you straight to Banff. If you’d like to rent a car once you’re in the park, you can do so at Avis, Budget, Enterprise, or Hertz.
Bicycle
Eager to experience the park on two wheels? Choose from mountain bikes, road bikes or fat bikes at Banff Adventures, the Adventure Hub, Snowtips-Bactrax, Soul Ski and Bike, Ultimate Sports (Banff), and Wilson Mountain Sports (Lake Louise). Got kids in tow? Try a tandem, trail-a-bike hitch, or Chariot.
Scooters
Put a motor with two wheels and you’ve got another great option for sightseeing in the mountains. Conveniently located in Banff, Banff by Scooter and the Banff Scooter Company have everything you need to hit the road.
Tip: Many companies now also rent electric bikes. Not to be confused with scooters, these are battery-powered, but also pedal-assisted. You decide how much extra oomph you want as you cycle.
For Your Adventures
Climbing Gear
Whether you’re mountaineering with an accredited guide or in need of some extra equipment for your own adventure, gear up with helmets, ice axes, crampons and more at Snowtips-Bactrax or Wilson Mountain Sports.
Bear Spray
If you’re planning on hiking, camping, or spending any time on the trails in Banff National Park, you’ll need to carry bear spray. Rent a canister at Snowtips-Bactrax or the Adventure Hub in Banff, or Wilson Mountain Sports in Lake Louise.
Camping Equipment
Sleeping under the stars sounds simple enough, but camping requires a lot of equipment. Get everything you need for backpacking or car camping at Snowtips-Bactrax.
Tip: New to camping or just want a hassle-free experience? Snowtips-Bactrax offers a “Set Up and Pack Down” service to get your site set up!
Other Sports
Water Sports
Banff National Park has some of the most beautiful lakes and rivers on the planet. The best way to experience them is to get right on the water. Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddleboard (SUP) from the Banff Canoe Club and paddle your way up the Bow River. Easily transportable, inflatable SUPs are available at the Adventure Hub on Banff Avenue allowing you to venture out of town to Two Jack Lake or Johnson Lake. Or, bob in a canoe while you enjoy the splendour of Lake Louise or Moraine Lake (boat rentals are available right on these lake shores).
Golf Clubs
Ready to play on a world-renowned course? You can leave the clubs behind because the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course rents out the latest TaylorMade M2 golf clubs.
Tip: You’ll find many other unique rental options to make your trip more enjoyable. Wilson Mountain Sports, for example, rents out hiking poles, gaiters, child carriers, and backpacks! Simply inquire at the store.
ARE YOU COMING TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK?
Make sure you purchase your Parks Pass in advance for express entry into the park. All of the details, including frequently asked questions can be found in our Guide To The Parks Canada Pass.
