Jasper is Open: We're thrilled to welcome guests back to Jasper National Park. Please note that we are in the process of updating this page for accuracy. For the latest information, visit our Jasper Re-Opening Update page.
The sun is out, and it's time for a family vacation.
There are countless things to do in Banff with kids, from easy hikes to sky-high gondola rides. Some of the national park's top attractions even offer family deals, and you’ll also find plenty of free family fun.
There’s nothing like the view from a mountaintop. Thankfully, the Banff Gondola can get you to the peak of Sulphur Mountain in about eight minutes — and the views will keep kids entertained the whole way up. Visit within two hours of opening and get free admission for the kids (plus a treat) with each adult ticket purchased. The gondola tends to be quieter in the morning, so it’s a win-win. Stroll the boardwalk at the top and visit the engaging interpretive centre.
Spending a day on the water is a quintessential summer activity, and Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park. The Lake Minnewanka Junior Explorer Cruise is best for kids under 12, featuring a treasure hunt, fun games and treats. Even better? Each kid goes free with the purchase of an adult ticket.
There are endless hiking trails that show off the incredible beauty of Banff National Park, and even the easiest hikes lead to stunning views. Family-friendly routes are simple to access and will spark a love of the mountains in hikers of all ages. Try these to get started, and don’t forget to pack extra layers of clothing, plenty of snacks and water, a first aid kit and bear spray.
This hike, which is a short drive from town or a seven-kilometre bike ride along the west side of the Lake Minnewanka loop, combines nature and local history. The Lower Bankhead trail is 1.1 km (1.8 miles) long, so it’s quick enough for kids to stay engaged. They’ll get to explore the remains of a mining ghost town from the early 1900s, including an old lamp house and former dwellings.
You’ll find this trail just past the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, which shares stories of Banff’s history (more on that below). The first section is 3.9 km (2.4 miles) long and paved, making it easy to navigate with bikes or strollers. You’ll reach the canyon, where you can continue on foot for another 1.6 km (1 miles) to the top of the canyon to see rushing waterfalls.
This is often the first summit both locals and visitors tackle. It’s considered a moderate hike, thanks to an elevation gain of 260 m (853 feet), but the views are worth the climb. At the top, you’ll find two viewpoints — one to take in the distinct knife-edge of Mount Rundle and the other to see a bird’s-eye view of the town and valley below. Challenge kids to spot recognizable landmarks like Banff Avenue or the Fairmont Banff Springs (the "Castle in the Rockies").
You’ll find this mostly paved riverside trail just steps from downtown Banff. There’s minimal elevation gain, plus benches and quiet spots to stop and enjoy a picnic or take in the scenery. The trail winds all the way to Bow Falls near the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. In the summer, watch for colourful artwork along the way as part of the Art in Nature Trail.
The history of Banff is fascinating, and there are fun ways to immerse your family in it. The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is an essential stop to learn all about how a discovery by three railway workers in 1883 led to the creation of Canada’s first national park. The Cave and Basics Tour offers a quick introduction to the site, and kids can stay busy with an Xplorers club booklet. It’s filled with a dozen activities that will have them acting as slime sleuths, snail detectives and more.
Continue your history lesson at the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies. It was created to encourage people to connect with the culture of the region, and you can explore exhibitions, heritage homes, a library and Banff’s only local bookstore.
Leave room in your family vacation itinerary for some adventure outside of town, too. The Columbia Icefield is a natural wonder that’s found along the Icefields Parkway. It’s best explored on the Columbia Icefield Adventure, where you’ll climb aboard a massive Ice Explorer vehicle and ride onto the glacier. The tour includes admission to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway perched 280 m (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley. Go early and take advantage of the Kids Go Free deal, which is available daily before 11 a.m.
If you want to see two provinces in one day, it’s possible with Brewster Sightseeing’s round-trip Golden Adventure. You’ll leave from Banff and head west towards British Columbia, winding through Yoho National Park. In Golden, walk the two canyon-spanning bridges — including Canada's highest suspension bridge — soar to new heights on the zipline, climb the rock wall, speed through the forest on the Railrider Mountain Coaster and enjoy more family-friendly thrills with the included Adventure Pass.
Downtown Banff is a walkable area where you’ll find plenty to keep the whole family entertained. If the kids need to burn off some energy, stop by High Rollers for a round of bowling. For dessert, take a short walk to Cows Ice Cream, the Banff Sweet Shoppe or Mountain Chocolates.
If you’ve got some horse lovers in the family, visit Banff Trail Riders on Banff Avenue to book a trail ride and experience the mountains in a new way. If you want to stay closer to town, try a private downtown carriage ride.
When everyone’s ready for a break, the Banff Recreation Grounds have picnic areas to relax in, plus playgrounds and a skate park when the kids are ready to go again.
Adventure awaits in Banff National Park. Plan your family getaway and get ready to create memories together.
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