More to Know: Banff & Lake Louise

History of Banff National Park & Lake Louise

Canada's largest and oldest National Park conveniently lies along the heart of the Trans-Canada Highway nestled between the village of Lake Louise and the vibrant community of Banff. Banff National Park represents many of the finest natural treasures in the Canadian Rockies and boasts over 2500 square miles of mountains, glaciers, alpine forests, waterfalls, lakes, and fascinating wildlife.

Established in 1885 after the discovery of the soothing Basin Hot Springs and cave in Banff, this National Park enjoys a rich and colorful history. As with all North American regions, Banff and Lake Louise provided a home or seasonal hunting grounds for droves of early native cultures, and it's likely that European eyes never sighted these lands until the late 1700s. A major exploration of the region fostered the construction of Canada's first transcontinental railroad in the late 1800s, which is when the workers stumbled across the hot springs in a cave at Sulphur Mountain.

Naturally, this discovery set off a major land ownership dispute that was eventually resolved within two years upon the agreement to set aside these lands as a national landmark, and Banff National Park was born – in its initial form at least. The Canadian Pacific Railway understood the tourism potential of the majestic Canadian Rockies complemented with beautiful scenery, easy transportation options, and lodging availability – hence, the creation of the unrivaled historic Banff Springs Hotel in 1888.

This lodge in Banff National Park was a success, and the railroad continued to construct many grand hotels along the main lines, making Banff an international tourist destination. However, as the park drew more visitors, all of the native Assiniboine natives who still lived here were forcibly and permanently removed. By the mid-1900s, Lake Louise, most of the surrounding nearby rivers, and several other points of interest were added to the park's boundaries, making it the largest in Canada even today.

Activities in Banff National Park / Lake Louise

Summertime in Banff National Park brings moderate temperatures in the 60s and 70s, which is ideal for those soaking in the eagle-eye views from the gondola that traverses the park. The chilly winters fall into the teens at night often, but backcountry campers love it. Spring and fall temps can vary, but the flora and fauna truly burgeon during these seasons. Activities in Banff National Park and Lake Louise are seasonal to some extent, but many including hiking, mountain climbing, backpacking, and biking excursions are fabulous anytime.

Summer activities in Banff National Park and Lake Louise are as wild as the terrain. Rafting in the Canadian Rockies is an experience like no other, and outfitters in Banff offer combination packages to popular attractions that including rafting and zip lining, rafting and ATV trekking, rafting and horseback riding tours. No professional experience necessary, but prepare to get wet during the rafting portion down Kicking Horse River's class 4 rapids!

Fishing the lakes, picnicking and viewing wildlife from a remote spot, spending time in solitude – there are no limits here. Beyond Lake Louise, there is Bow Lake, Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka and of course the relaxing hot springs near Banff, so even water activities are limitless!

Winter Activities in Banff National Park include dog sledding, ice skating, cross-country and heli-skiing, snowshoeing, and so much more. Touring the bounties of Lake Louise and Banff National Park via dog sled is arguably one of the most thrilling ways to explore the backcountry region. Downhill and cross-country skiing at Banff's Sunshine Village is wildly popular, and there are 3500 feet of verticals across 3000 acres of mountainous terrain.

Icefield Parkway hiking in Banff National Park is certainly some of the area's best. Two moderate hikes accessible off Icefield Parkway stand out: Bow Glacier Falls and Helen Lake / Dolemite Pass. Discover the rewarding endpoint at Bow Glacier Falls after a relatively easy trek through the canyon and over a large natural boulder bridge that starts at the base of 'Iceberg Lake.' Hike the Helon Lake Trail along an alpine wonderland until the apex of the tree line where sparkling Helen Lake rests. Continue on the trail to Dolomite Pass and Katherine Lake to enjoy impressive views of Mr. Assiniboine.

Lodging in Banff National Park & Lake Louise Lodges

With so many appealing attractions and activities in Banff and Lake Louise, it's no wonder millions of visitors flock here annually. Great lodging in Banff National Park is available, but early reservations are highly recommended. Those seeking luxury lodges in Banff National Park and Lake Louise area have two remarkable options that earn rave visitor reviews: the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Simply the most remarkable hotel in Banff National Park, this historic hotel treats guests like royalty amid this Scottish-style castle surrounding by sheer luxury, world-class golfing, first-rate amenities, and amazing views of the Banff Hot Springs and mountains.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – Enjoy the royal treatment on the opposite side of the park and soak in the luxury and glacier-views at the historic Chateau Lake Louise, just as many reclusive celebrities have for a century. Sumptuous dining and spa experiences have visitors dubbing this Lake Louise lodging a 'Diamond in the Wilderness.'