The journey from Calgary to Banff is one of Canada’s most scenic drives. Complete with breathtaking views, small towns, and a range of experiences. This guide will prepare you with everything that you need to know, so you can make the most of your trip.

To make your trip even better, download Canoo! Designed for newcomers to Canada, Canoo offers free and discounted access to various cultural and outdoor experiences across the country. Along this route, several attractions are included on the Canoo app.

The Route: Calgary to Banff

The drive from Calgary to Banff stretches approximately 130 kilometres and typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Following the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), stunning views of the Rocky Mountains appear as you get closer and closer to Banff National Park.

Top Spots to See on the Way to Banff

Kananaskis Country is a must-see stop on the way. About 45 minutes from Calgary, this break is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its hiking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife. And the perfect driving break is Boundary Ranch: A Canoo partner located in Kananaskis. Boundary Ranch offers western experiences with trail rides, BBQs, and more! As a Canoo member, you can enjoy free access to some of these experiences. Making your stop here even more memorable.

Looking for the less travelled scenic route? Consider taking the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). This road runs parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway bringing you to your destination while also getting even closer to the mountain views. There are several pullouts where you can safely stop for photos or take short hikes. Wildlife sightings are common along this route because it sees less traffic, so keep your camera close.

A photo of a person driving to Banff from Calgary — Credit: Anna Claire Schellenberg

Canmore at a Glance

Just 20 minutes from Banff lies Canmore, a charming mountain town that offers much more than the average rest stop. With its blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, Canmore offers a variety of activities and attractions. Whether you’re exploring the local art galleries, enjoying a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants, or taking a stroll along the Bow River, Canmore has something for you.

The Canmore Museum is a must-visit spot, which you can go to for free with your Canoo membership. It provides an affordable way to explore the town’s history and cultural heritage from its history as a mining town to what you see today. Canmore is not just a stopover. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the mountain lifestyle and learn about the region’s past.

Photo of someone hiking in Canmore near Banff — Credit: Devon Hawkins

Making the Most of Your Canoo Membership in Banff

As Banff National Park is your end point for the journey ahead, we want to give you a gift! Parks Canada provides free daily entry for Canoo members in their 1st year of membership. And this could be you.

As Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it covers over 6,600 square kilometres of mountainous terrain, including glaciers, ice fields, and dense forests. The park offers countless opportunities for exploration, including hiking and canoeing.

Banff National Park, established in 1885, is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a wide range of activities and sights.
Lake Louise is one of the park’s most famous attractions, known for its turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountains. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a paddle in a canoe, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery.
Moraine Lake, often considered more beautiful than Lake Louise, offers a tranquil setting with its deep blue waters and the Valley of the Ten Peaks as a backdrop. A short hike to the Rockpile will reward you with one of the most iconic views in Canada.

The town of Banff itself is a hub of activity, offering shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. While you’re there, consider visiting the Banff Park Museum or the Whyte Museum.

Hear from Canoo members about their trip to Banff! They included their entire itinerary for you.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip

When planning your journey from Calgary to Banff, consider a few practical tips. Check road conditions before setting out, especially during the winter, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Plan your stops along the way—Kananaskis Country, Canmore, and the Bow Valley Parkway all offer great opportunities to explore the Rockies.

Be sure to take advantage of your Canoo membership, which provides access to several attractions along your route. With Canoo, your trip can be both affordable and filled with unique experiences.

From the cultural richness of Canmore to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park, this journey offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in one of Canada’s most beautiful regions.