5 day itinerary for Banff National Park, Canada

Itinerary

Banff National Park is a stunning destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts. Here's an ideal itinerary for 5 days in Banff National Park:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive at Calgary International Airport and take a shuttle or rental car to Banff National Park.
• Check into your eco-friendly accommodation, such as the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel or the HI Banff Alpine Centre.
• Spend the day exploring the town of Banff, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
• Visit the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies to learn about the history and culture of the region.

Day 2: Hiking and Wildlife Watching

• Start the day early with a hike on one of the many trails in Banff National Park. Some great options include Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, such as elk, moose, and bears.
• In the afternoon, take a guided wildlife watching tour to learn more about the animals that call Banff home.

Day 3: Hot Springs and Canoeing

• Relax in the morning with a visit to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, which are heated by natural geothermal waters.
• After lunch, rent a canoe and paddle around Lake Minnewanka, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• End the day with a visit to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where you can learn about the history of Banff's hot springs.

Day 4: Mountain Biking and Stargazing

• Rent a mountain bike and hit the trails in Banff National Park. Some great options include the Legacy Trail and the Tunnel Mountain Trail.
• In the evening, take a stargazing tour to see the night sky in all its glory. Banff National Park is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, which means it has minimal light pollution and is perfect for stargazing.

Day 5: Rafting and Departure

• Start the day with a thrilling white-water rafting trip on the Kicking Horse River.
• After lunch, pack up and head back to Calgary International Airport for your flight home.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable eco-tourism trip to Banff National Park!