Experience Banff National Park - The Amazing Race Canada Style

Banff National Park has been a source of awe and inspiration to visitors for more than one hundred years.

Home to several of Canada’s most iconic lakes and endless soaring peaks, it is a fitting final stop on The Amazing Race Canada.

Here’s how you can retrace the steps of the final teams on The Amazing Race Canada and have your own adventure in Banff and Lake Louise.

Road Block #1 - Above The Mountains

Taking in the craggy peaks of the Canadian Rockies from the sky is a transformative experience. Redefine your sense of scale and join Alpine Helicopters for an aerial adventure you’ll never forget. Several sightseeing options are available, while those looking for more of an adventure will love heli-hiking. Your pilot will set you down high on a peak where you’ll be able to explore the incredible high-alpine landscape. Don’t forget - you’re not actually racing here, so make sure to spend some time breathing in the air and soaking in the panoramic views.

Road Block #2: Ready for some sunshine

Banff Sunshine Village has been a hub of skiing since the early days of Banff National Park. From humble roots as a backcountry cabin, Sunshine Village is now home to more than 3,300 skiable acres of terrain, a stunning backcountry lodge, and one of the longest ski seasons in the world. Skiing at Sunshine continues until late-May when locals and visitors come together to celebrate another great season with the annual “Slush Cup”.

You may have noticed that teams tried their hand at skijoring while at Banff Sunshine Village. While this is not an activity that visitors can typically experience (this was a special event for The Amazing Race Canada), we do have an amazing alternative for you - Dogsledding! A truly Canadian activity, you won't want to miss the chance to float through the forest behind a team of beautiful dogs. There are several providers in the area, so check out Your Guide to Dog Sledding in Banff and Lake Louise for more inspiration.

Route Marker: Exit Through The Gift Shop

Souvenirs are an essential part of any trip and lucky for you, Banff is home to an incredible array of gift shops.

Branches Marketplace features uniquely handcrafted and quality made goods, including home decor items, locally-made jewelry, and more.

Looking for a cozy gift? Combine an exclusive Banff Tea Co. loose leaf tea with some Rocky Mountain Flannel for a winter combination that can’t be beaten.

The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies has an incredible array of locally crafted goods, archival prints, and a local book selection that will inspire every bookworm in your family.

With roots just down the road in Canmore, AB, Rocky Mountain Soap Company is quickly becoming a go-to for lovers of 100% natural soaps and skin care products.

While you’re here, you should consider ticking off some of your Christmas shopping and swing by The Spirit of Christmas, Banff’s famous holiday store that spreads cheer 365 days a year.

Pit Stop: The Finish Line

While you won’t be able to traverse over Bow Falls (again, this was a special event for The Amazing Race Canada teams) - don’t fret! A stunning footpath will take you from downtown, along the beautiful Bow River to the base of Bow Falls. Be sure to bring a camera and snap a photo of the famous falls. Did you know that Bow Falls was featured prominently in 1954 Marilyn Monroe movie, The River of No Return?

If the river is calling your name, then you’ll find Rocky Mountain Raft Tours just steps away from Bow Falls. Climb aboard a raft with an experienced interpretive guide and discover facts about the river, Tunnel Mountain, and HooDoos - the delicate geological wonders of Banff National Park.

As you start your raft trip down the river, you’ll notice a golf course on your right, recognizable for those who viewed the 2018 season finale of The Amazing Race Canada. This is the stunning Banff Springs Golf Course and avid golfers will want to make sure to add this to their itinerary. Explore the breathtaking scenery of Banff from the course and keep your eyes peeled for elk which love to share the fairway.