The Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest and greatest national treasures, it was established in 1855 and is located in the Rocky Mountains. Rocky Mountains, turquoise glacial lakes, abundant wildlife, scenic long drives and a picture perfect mountain town and village are what makes Banff National Park so special. Banff National Park receives over three million visitors a year who come visit the park for a variety of activities inclusive hiking, biking, skiing and camping on some of the worlds most breathtaking mountain scenery. There are over thirty activities that visitors can do while at the national park, so there’s not a day that will go by where you’ll be left bored.
Here are some highlights of Banff National Park that make this the number one National Park of Canada:
The Town of Banff
The little town is located towards the south end of the Banff National Park, the town is surrounded by mountains and is the main tourist destination of Alberta. This town is made to accommodate tourists from all over the world with hotels, interesting shops and restaurants that range from casual to high end. In the winter the town maintains it’s lively atmosphere as skiers descend on Banff to enjoy the nearby slopes and in the summer the streets are packed with tourists from all over the world who come see the Canadian Rockies.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is the main jewel of Banff with its shimmering turquoise green water and is surrounded by 3,000 meters high snowcapped mountains. The water is too cold for swimming but its ideal for canoeing in the summer and in the winter the frozen lake transforms into a skating rink. The Lake Louise Ski Resort also features a wildlife interpretive center at the top of a gondola. You can also choose to do full day guided coach tours that take you to some of the most scenic locations in the area.
Wildlife
The wildlife is one of the greatest tourist attractions of Banff National Park. There are more then fifty species of mammals that can be found in the rocky region, the larger wild animals are most likely to be spotted early in the morning. Elk are more often seen in the damp meadows of the valleys, while caribou and deer frequent the thicker woods and meadows. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are found on the higher mountain slopes. The park is also home to grizzly bears, they prefer wooded areas and have poor sight but can smell or hear approaching humans. Hikers should never approach one but should definitely check out the wildlife tours which are safe professional guides that will take you to some of the best viewing areas of wildlife.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is in the Valley of the Ten Peaks is as impressive lake Louise but attracts a lot less visitors. The picturesque turquoise-colored water is surrounded by ten peaks, each more than 3,000 meters high, and the Wenkchemna Glacier. The lake is located beyond Lake Louise, and the 13-kilometer road leading from Lake Louise up to Moraine Lake reveals one great view after another.The most scenic walk involves a short climb up the Rockpile Trail to the best view of the lake, and the view most often seen on posters and postcards.