The Best Things to See and Do In Banff National Park For Summer 2025
The Best Things To See And Do In Banff National Park For Summer 2025
Best Lakes In Banff National park
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most popular lakes to see in the Rockies and one of the top things to see near Banff. The lake is a pale, blue-green color in the summer sun and reflects an incredible scene of Mount Victoria and Victoria Glacier at the far end of the lake. There is a very crowded viewing and photo area at the start of the lake where most people take their photos from. If you’d like to escape the crowds a bit, you can walk 2 km (one way) along the shoreline trail that follows the lake to the far end. You can also hike up to Agnes Tea House from Lake Louise to enjoy some alpine tranquility and some more amazing views.
Pro tip: Get here early to avoid parking lot dramas! Lake Louise is one of the most popular places to visit in Banff National Park, so the lot is almost always full.
Moraine lake
Moraine Lake is located 24 km up a mountain road from the base of Lake Louise village. The moment you see Moraine Lake you will recognize it from most of the iconic photos of the Rockies. The Valley of Ten Peaks looms impressively in front of you, reflecting off the surreal blue water of the lake. Moraine Lake is easily the most famous lake in the Rockies and for good reason! The blue water is a result of sunlight being reflected off particles of ground up rock, which blocks all light rays except blue ones. Being one of the most popular natural attractions in Banff National Park means the lake is crowded and access is limited. You need to book a tour or take a shuttle to reach the lake, from Lake Louise or Banff town center.
Pro tip: Book your shuttle early to avoid missing out! You can have breakfast at the lodge at Moraine Lake.
Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park and is one of the closest lakes to the town of Banff. This lake offers views of the surrounding mountains, plus an opportunity to swim and a great place to head out for a hike. The beach area at the start of the lake ais also home to a set of the famous Park’s Canada “Red Chairs”, which offer a fun photo opportunity or relaxing place to enjoy the views! Lake Minnewanka is one of the best lakes in the Rockies for a variety of activities.
Bow lake
Bow Lake is located on the Icefields Parkway, roughly an hour north of Banff and still within the boundaries of Banff National Park. Bow Lake is a popular viewpoint in the Rockies and photo stop, with a convenient roadside pullout for vehicles to stop and enjoy the views. There is a beautiful lodge on the shores of Bow Lake, which also has a convenient coffee and gift shop so you can stop for a warm beverage to enjoy at the lake. Bow Lake is a must see attraction on your next trip to Banff, and is a great place to head for a hike, a swim or just relax and enjoy the views and take photos from.
Pro tip: There are some really great picnic spots at the south end of Bow Lake!
Peyto lake
One of the best things to see in Banff National Park is Peyto Lake, named after Wild Bill Peyto. You will likely recognize the lake from many photos of the Rockies with its unique shape and beautiful shimmering blue color. Peyto Lake has one of the most popular viewpoints in the Rockies, from which you can get a really great view and photo angle of the lake. Peyto Lake is 5 minutes from Bow Lake and also along the Icefields Parkway, so the two lakes pair well together.
Pro tip: Bring a wide angle lens so you can capture the whole lake in your photo!