Banff and Area Detailed Description

Banff National Park is Canada's oldest and most famous national park consisting of 6,641 square kilometres of unparalleled mountain scenery. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff attracts millions of visitors a year who enjoy the four seasons recreational activities as wall as world class dining and shopping in the town of Banff. From its humble beginnings as a 26 square kilometre hot springs reserve Banff National Park has become a world renowned tourist destination.

Banff is a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts providing 1,600 kilometres of hiking trails, more than any other mountain park, all back-dropped by Alberta's magnificent Rocky Mountains. The varied terrain of valleys, mountains, glaciers, forests, meadows and rivers means the opportunities for mountain camping and wildlife viewing are literally endless. Banff is home to some of Canada’s most impressive animals including grizzly bears, caribou and wolves. For those who prefer to stay a little closer to civilization Banff has a full selection of restaurants, decadent spas, specialty boutique stores and hopping nightclubs offering something for everyone.

Located just 144 km from Calgary, Banff is within easy driving distance of several major ski resorts including Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Nakiska. Sunshine Village is the largest of the mountains and popular for its uncrowded slopes, abundant snowfall and lengthy season from mid-November until late May. Only a short 15 minute drive from the town of Banff, Sunshine Village offers world class skiing as well as the opportunity to ski or ride in both the province of Alberta and British Columbia on the same run.

Alternatively Lake Louise is a truly legendary resort with 4200 skiable acres making it one of the largest ski areas in North America. The unique layout allows families and groups of varying abilities to ski together. With beginner, intermediate and expert runs down from every chair there is something for everyone to enjoy. Beginners and intermediate skiers have access to an abundance of gentle slopes and long cruising runs while experts can explore endless chutes, glades, gullies and remote bowls in some of the Rockies' most challenging terrain.

Another must visit location is the town of Canmore, only 5 minutes from Banff National Park. This quaint mountain get away offers a small town atmosphere where guests can enjoy homegrown bakeries, bookshops, galleries and sporting shops. Year-round the stores are kept busy by skiers, hikers and bikers eager to explore and enjoy the surrounding mountains. The soaring peaks, clear lakes and deep forests of the area attract campers by the hundred in summer. In winter, visitors enjoy a variety of accommodations from rustic chalets to modern resorts, and outdoor attractions such as the miles of groomed cross-country ski trails on the town's doorstep.