is a stunning place for eco-tourism, and this five-day plan moves from town exploration to forest trails, wildlife watching, geothermal hot springs, cycling and dark-sky stargazing. Along the way it leans on eco-friendly stays and low-impact activities like hiking, canoeing and biking, so you can enjoy the mountains with a light footprint.
Arrival and exploring Banff town
A gentle start, arriving, settling in and getting to know the town and the region's history.
Morning
Arrive at
Make your way to by shuttle or rental car.
Afternoon
Check into an eco-friendly stay
Settle into a considerate place to stay, such as the Fairmont Springs Hotel or the .
Afternoon
Explore the town of
Wander the shops, restaurants and galleries of this mountain town.
Evening
Visit the
Learn about the history and culture of the region before you head out on the trails.
Hiking and wildlife watching
A day on the trails in search of wildlife, finished with a guided tour to learn about the animals that call home.
Morning
Hike an early trail
Start early on one of the park's many trails, such as , Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
Morning
Keep an eye out for wildlife
Watch along the way for elk, moose and bears.
Afternoon
Join a guided wildlife watching tour
Learn more about the animals of the park from a guide.
Hot springs and canoeing
A restful day in the warm waters and on the lake, ending with the history of the park's hot springs.
Morning
Relax at the
Soak in the waters warmed naturally by geothermal sources.
Afternoon
Canoe on
After lunch, rent a canoe and paddle across the lake, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Evening
Visit the
Learn how the hot springs shaped the history of .
Cycling and stargazing
Pedal the park's trails by day and look up at the night sky in one of its designated dark-sky areas by night.
Morning
Ride a mountain bike on the
Rent a mountain bike and head out on the trails, starting with the .
Afternoon
Cycle the
Continue pedalling along the .
Evening
Take a stargazing tour
Join a stargazing tour to see the night sky. is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, with minimal light pollution, which makes it perfect for stargazing.
Rafting and departure
A thrilling river trip to close the trip before you head to the airport.
Morning
White-water rafting on the
Start the day with a thrilling white-water rafting trip.
Afternoon
Head to
After lunch, pack up and make your way back to the airport for your flight home.