Imagine mountains so big they touch the sky, lakes that shine like bright blue jewels, and trails that lead you to hidden waterfalls. Your perfect Banff National Park itinerary doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can see some of the most amazing views in Canada without emptying your wallet.
This post is your guide to three awesome days in Banff, filled with hikes, lakes, and views you’ll never forget, all while keeping your spending in check. Get ready to explore the wild beauty of Banff, and learn how to do it on a budget!
3-Day Banff National Park Itinerary
What National Parks are Nearby?
Banff National Park is located within the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are the other national parks that make up this site, all very close to Banff:
- Jasper National Park: Located to the north of Banff, Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. It’s known for its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and attractions like the Columbia Icefield.
- Kootenay National Park: Situated to the west of Banff, Kootenay offers a diverse landscape, ranging from glaciers to semi-arid grasslands. It’s famous for the Radium Hot Springs.
- Yoho National Park: Also to the west of Banff, Yoho is known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls (like Takakkaw Falls), and the Burgess Shale fossil site, which is of significant paleontological importance.
These parks are all easily accessible from Banff, often via scenic drives like the Icefields Parkway, which connects Banff and Jasper. Add them on to your weekend trip for the best way to experience the Canadian Rockies.
Perfect Banff National Park Weekend Itinerary
Banff National Park is a great place to spend a weekend. Explore the town of Banff, deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and it’s surrounding natural wonders! Road trip the area to experience glacial lakes, breathtaking summits, and wildlife such as grizzly bears, big horn sheep, elk, and moose.
This 3-day budget-friendly Banff National Park itinerary will highlight some of the best views in North America without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best places to explore in the Banff Area.
Day 1: Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon Adventure
Arriving in Banff National Park is a joy! As you approach the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies, you’ll be filled with excitement to climb up into the steep, narrow sandstone ridge to the incredible 105-mile Skyline Drive.
Morning
To experience the sunrise at Lake Louise, it’s essential to arrive extremely early, often even before the sun appears, to secure a good viewing spot and navigate the parking situation. Remember that mornings in the mountains can be quite chilly, so dressing in warm layers is advised.
Parking at Lake Louise is limited, particularly during the busy summer months from June to October. Paid parking is in effect at the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot. As an alternative, visitors can use the Parks Canada shuttle service from the Park and Ride at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, but reservations for the shuttle are required.
There are a few costs to consider when visiting Lake Louise. There is a daily fee per vehicle for parking at the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot. Additionally, a valid Parks Canada pass is required to enter Banff National Park. If you choose to use the shuttle service, there will also be a fee for the ride.
Lake Agnes Tea House
4.6 Miles | 1,646 Feet
The hike to Lake Agnes Tea House is a popular and rewarding trail that begins near Lake Louise. The 4.6 mile (3.5 km) trail climbs roughly 1,646 feet (400 meters) through a forested path, eventually leading hikers to the beautiful Lake Agnes and its charming tea house.
Hikers can enjoy stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains during the ascent. Upon reaching Lake Agnes, the tea house offers a selection of teas and light fare, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Devil’s Thumb
7.3 Miles | 3,018 Feet
The trail from Lake Agnes continues beyond the Tea House, leading to the challenging ascent towards Devil’s Thumb. This portion of the hike involves steeper terrain and more demanding switchbacks as hikers climb towards the distinctive rock formation that gives the trail its name.
Devil’s Thumb is a prominent landmark, easily recognizable for its unique shape, and offers rewarding panoramic views. From its peak, hikers can see stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, including glimpses of Lake Louise and Lake Agnes, making the strenuous climb well worth the effort.
Choose your morning hike! After spending a stunning morning watching the sun rise at Lake Louise, begin the climb to Lake Agnes Tea House. If you want tea, be prepared to wait in line but the views might just be worth it! If you’re up for it, continue on to Big Beehive or Devil’ Thumb!
Afternoon
No Banff National Park itinerary would be complete without a trip into town. Make your way downtown to grab some lunch before embarking on your afternoon adventure. These are three of our favorite diverse dining options in the town of Banff.
- Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant is a lively spot, featuring a stargazing retractable roof and beer garden, and serves chef-inspired food alongside its own craft beers.
- Farm & Fire offers fresh and simple meals inspired by adventure and friendship, with a focus on wood-fired cuisine.
- Grizzly House is known for its unique fondue dining experience, featuring a variety of meats and cheeses.
If you’re lucky enough to be in town during the farmer’s market, be sure to take a trip through the tents! You’ll find incredible artwork, local gems, and unique eats.
Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls
3.4 miles | 898 feet
The Johnston Canyon trail is a popular hike in Banff National Park, known for its dramatic canyon scenery and waterfalls. The trail to Upper Falls is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it accessible for most hikers.
As you hike, you’ll follow a walkway built into the canyon walls, with stunning views of the turquoise water flowing below. The trail passes Lower Falls, a popular stop, before continuing to Upper Falls, the larger and more impressive of the two.
Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots
7 miles | 1,846 feet
The Johnston Canyon trail offers hikers the opportunity to continue beyond the Upper Falls to reach the Ink Pots, a unique geological feature. This extension of the hike takes you further into the canyon and then through a forested area, eventually leading to a meadow where the Ink Pots are located.
The Ink Pots are a series of colorful mineral springs, known for their distinct turquoise hues. They offer a worthwhile destination for those seeking a longer and more diverse hiking experience in the Johnston Canyon area.
Arriving in the Johnston Canyon area later in the afternoon will help with the crowds! It is a popular natural attraction in Banff National Park, known for its dramatic canyon carved by Johnston Creek. The trail features catwalks built into the canyon walls, offering stunning views of waterfalls and the creek… so you’ll understand why it’s so popular!
Parking is available at the Johnston Canyon trailhead, but the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended to secure a spot. While there isn’t a fee to access the Johnston Canyon trail itself, you will need a valid Parks Canada pass to enter Banff National Park. These passes can be purchased online or at various locations within the park.
Day 2: Alpine Starts and High-Altitude Hikes
Prepare to be mesmerized as the first light illuminates the Valley of the Ten Peaks, a truly awe-inspiring sight, to start day 2 of our Banff National Park Itinerary. Following this serene experience, the adventure continues with an invigorating hike to Helen Lake, where we’ll trade the tranquil lakeside for a more active mountain trail. This transition promises a change of pace and stunning new scenery, giving us a full day of exploration amidst Banff National Park’s majestic landscapes.
Morning
This portion of the itinerary begins with an early start to experience the breathtaking sunrise at Moraine Lake. To ensure access to this iconic location, you’ll be taking a pre-booked shuttle, as personal vehicles are restricted. This allows for a smooth and organized arrival, maximizing your time to soak in the stunning views as the first light illuminates the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
Whether you want to enjoy the view from the rock pile or complete a hike, you’ll need a shuttle reservation to explore this iconic Banff location. To secure your Moraine Lake shuttle reservation, the best time to book is at 8:00 AM Mountain Time (MDT) on April 16th, 2025, when the initial 40% of seats are released, and then again two days before your desired departure date for the remaining 60%.
Afternoon
Following this serene experience, the adventure transitions from the tranquil morning at Moraine Lake to an invigorating afternoon hike to Helen Lake and Dolomite Pass, where we’ll trade the tranquil lakeside for a more active mountain trail. This promises a change of pace and stunning new scenery, giving us a full day of exploration amidst Banff National Park’s majestic landscapes.
Looking for something in the middle? Head on up to Dolomite Pass after Lake Helen, just before the Cirque Peak climb truly begins. It’s a stunning spot with incredible 360-degree views.
This hike can and does get busy in late morning, but by the afternoon, it should be low key.
Day 3: Departure and Memories
Hopefully you have a full day to explore! If not, the morning suggestions would be the perfect way to squeeze in one more epic adventure before heading on your way. If you’re lucky enough to have the full day, you wont regret spending it on icefields parkway!
Morning
Peyto Lake is renowned for its vivid turquoise waters, a result of glacial rock flour, and the view from the viewpoint is simply breathtaking. The lake’s unique shape, often likened to a wolf’s head, combined with the surrounding mountains, creates a picture-perfect scene that’s a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
A short hike from the Peyto Lake viewpoint leads to the Bow Summit overlook, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway. Here, visitors are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Bow Lake, the Bow Glacier, and the highway below. If you only had time for one of these in your Banff National Park Itinerary – definitely make your way to. Peyto Lake.
Looking to feel refreshed for a day on the icefields parkway? Stop by Bow Lake. While swimming isn’t very common in Bow Lake due to its cold, glacier-fed waters, if you’re down for a cold dip this is a serene spot to clean up for a day of low-key exploration.
If not, walking along its shores is a popular and enjoyable activity. A short, easy trail traces the edge of the lake, offering beautiful views and a chance to stretch your legs. The Bow Lake shoreline trail is family-friendly and relatively flat.
Afternoon
The Icefields Parkway is a stunning 143-mile (230-kilometer) stretch of highway that winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connecting Lake Louise in Banff National Park with Jasper in Jasper National Park. This world-renowned scenic drive is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, offering unparalleled access to a vast wilderness of towering snow-capped mountains, pristine turquoise lakes, expansive glaciers, and lush alpine meadows.
Along the parkway, travelers are treated to numerous viewpoints, hiking trails, and picnic areas, inviting them to stop and immerse themselves in the natural splendor. Get excited to experience the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle. The drive also offers opportunities to witness diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and mountain goats. Driving the Icefields Parkway is an unforgettable experience, showcasing the raw, untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Want to do them both!? YOU CAN! Combine the two experiences and really get the best of the Columbia Icefield. If this is going to be a part of your Banff National Park itinerary, we recommend you book your tickets early!
If you’re looking for even more budget-friendly activities? There is plenty of hiking to be had along the Icefields parkway. And hiking, minus a parks pass and some gear, is free! Popular hikes include Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, and Edith Cavell Meadows Trail.
Budget Banff Travel Tips
Your Banff National Park Itinerary can be budget-friendly if you know how to plan your trip. Here are 5 Banff Itinerary Travel Tips to help you save on your next big adventure!
Accommodation:
- Camping in Banff National Park offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, allowing you to wake up to stunning natural beauty and enjoy easy access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. Book these campgrounds here.
- Tunnel Mountain Village Campground: Offers a range of sites from unserviced to those with electrical hookups, suitable for tents and RVs.
- Lake Louise Campground: Provides both tent and RV camping with amenities, close to the iconic Lake Louise.
- Two Jack Main Campground: Features unserviced and serviced sites near Two Jack Lake, with opportunities for hiking and water activities.
- Hostels in Banff provide budget-friendly accommodations and a social atmosphere, making them ideal for solo travelers and those looking to connect with other adventurers.
- HI Banff Alpine Centre is a dream! Located up a bit out of town (but still close enough to walk) this is a budget friendly option for those who aren’t into camping.
- Banff International Hostel is another budget-friendly option in town.
- HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre is nestled into the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park, features an on-site cafe and 2 self-catering guest kitchens, and a lovely place to sit outside and enjoy a fire.
- Vacation rentals offer a home-away-from-home experience, providing more space and privacy, and are a great option for families and groups. If you’re traveling in a large group, looking into Vrbo’s in Banff might be your best bet!
- Looking for free and dispersed land nearby? Crown Land is pretty equivalent to BLM or National Forest Land in the states. We found an incredible camping spot about a 30 minute drive from Banff National Park in British Columbia that we would 100% recommend.
Transportation:
Renting a car in Banff offers greater flexibility and freedom to explore the park at your own pace, allowing you to visit off-the-beaten-path locations and customize your itinerary. While relying on shuttles can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly, a car provides the convenience of traveling on your own schedule, especially for those planning to visit multiple destinations or travel outside of the main tourist areas.
If your renting a car, here are a few ways to save on gas in the massive Banff National Park. Fill up your gas tank in nearby towns like Canmore or Cochrane, where prices are typically lower than in Banff. Try and take advantage of free parking options, such as the Banff Train Station, and utilize shuttle services to reach destinations like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Consider using Banff’s public transportation system, Roam Transit, to get around the townsite and access popular attractions, reducing the need for parking.
Activities:
Banff offers several public transportation options and shuttle services to help visitors get around without a car. Roam Transit provides bus service within the town of Banff and to surrounding areas, including Lake Louise. During peak season, Parks Canada operates shuttle services to popular destinations like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, helping to manage traffic and parking congestion.
- Visiting Bow Falls: Enjoy scenic views of the Bow River and the cascading Bow Falls.
- Exploring the Banff Hoodoos: Witness these unique rock formations shaped by erosion.
- Driving the Vermilion Lakes Scenic Drive: Take a leisurely drive past a series of stunning lakes with mountain backdrops.
- Taking in the views from Surprise Corner: Discover panoramic vistas of the Bow Valley and the Banff Springs Hotel.
- Hiking Johnston Canyon: Explore the canyon’s waterfalls and unique geological features.
Banff offers many free activities that allow visitors to experience its natural beauty without spending any money. Some popular options include:
A Canada Parks Pass grants access to all national parks, national marine conservation areas, and national historic sites across Canada. There are different types of passes available, including:
- Day Pass: Valid for one day at a specific park.
- Family/Group Pass: Admits up to seven people in a single vehicle at a specific park for a day.
- Annual Pass: Provides unlimited admission to all participating locations for a year.
Purchasing a Parks Pass is required to enter Banff National Park and allows you to explore its many attractions.
Food:
Our budget friendly Banff National Park Itinerary included cooking a lot of meals at camp and eating lunch on the trail almost every day. We went grocery shopping prior to arrival and stocked up on all the things we knew we would need.
Now, we firmly believe that no trip is complete without a few local eats. Banff’s culinary scene features diverse dining experiences, from Tooloulou’s vibrant Cajun and Creole dishes to Farm & Fire’s wood-fired pizzas and rotisserie meats made with local ingredients. Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant offers Canadian cuisine and craft beers in a family-friendly brewery setting with a retractable ceiling!
Planning:
Booking accommodations and shuttle services in advance is crucial, especially during peak season, to ensure you have the best options and avoid the disappointment of things being fully booked. This proactive approach guarantees a smoother and more enjoyable trip.
Traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) can be advantageous, as you’ll often find lower prices on accommodations and encounter fewer crowds compared to the bustling summer months. This allows for a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience, but you might also be experiencing some less than favorable weather.
Packing layers is highly recommended for Banff’s unpredictable mountain weather, as conditions can change rapidly. Additionally, essential items like sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and a hat will help you stay comfortable and prepared for various outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Banff National Park is calling your name with its majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and incredible hiking trails. This 3-day budget Banff National Park itinerary provides just a glimpse of the unforgettable experiences that await you. Don’t just dream about Banff – start planning your adventure today and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies!
From the iconic shores of Lake Louise to the stunning viewpoints along the Icefields Parkway, Banff offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This budget-friendly guide proves that an extraordinary trip is within your reach. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to be amazed by the natural wonders of Banff National Park!
Love National Parks trip? Check out some of my favorites!