Top Banff Wildlife Watching

The Rockies boast some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery, but the rugged mountain terrain poses a unique set of challenges. On this full-day sightseeing tour, enjoy round-trip travel from Banff and reach far-flung attractions including Lake Louise and the Icefield Parkway in comfort. Stop at picturesque spots including Bow Falls and Moraine Lake, and enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour—limited to 15 people.

Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure. Get out of the car and onto the trails of the Bow River or the Spray River and enjoy the area’s beautiful outdoor environment, largely unchanged from the days of the pioneers. This equine-themed odyssey includes a guide, use of a horse, and all necessary equipment.

Join an animal-spotting bus tour in Banff National Park, observing the park’s amazing wildlife at dusk on this 2-hour, small-group tour that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy Banff’s beautiful landscapes in the evening searching for elk, deer, bears and more because each tour has a 95% success rate of viewing animals in their natural environment. You'll also hear about the park's efforts to protect animals and their habitat from your expert guide.

Maximize your views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion during this round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Take in views of six different mountain ranges and nearby rivers aboard your state-of-the-art alpine transport, offering large windows and seating for four guests. Enjoy time exploring the ridge line boardwalk before returning back to town.

Discover Banff National Park at your own pace with a ticket for the Hop-On bus. Buy your ticket in advance to guarantee your spot on the shuttle that zips around to attractions in the park not easily accessible without wheels. The modern school bus style shuttle goes between the town of Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Samson Mall, and the Lake Louise gondola. You choose where to visit and when. 

Discover Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on this guided tour from Banff. Located inside the Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the lakes are well-known for their distinct turquoise hues. Gain insight into the area’s mountaineering history, admire views of the Valley of Ten Peaks and leave with plenty of frame-worthy photos. Round-trip transportation is included on this small-group tour. Don’t miss this seasonal tour that operates from April to November.

Delve deep into the Banff National Park and admire the scenery from the water on this canoe adventure. Paddle along the pretty Bow River and listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of Canadian history and heritage. Watch the riverbanks for sightings of native wildlife, then finish your canoe tour with light refreshments.

Saddle up for a ride along the Bow River in Banff and a Western style cookout. Choose from riding on horseback or in a covered wagon through the beautiful Rocky Mountain terrain. At the dining site, spend some time perfecting your roping skills or relaxing with a game of horseshoes before “tucking in”--that’s cowboy speak for “eating”—a yummy BBQ meal.

Enjoy an introduction to the fun of whitewater rafting on an idyllic stretch of the Kananaskis River during this afternoon excursion that’s perfect for families and groups. During your rafting trip along the pristine waterways of the Kananaskis River, scout for local wildlife and enjoy the unrivaled beauty of the Canadian wilderness. This tour includes optional pickup from select hotels in Banff and Canmore, an experienced river guide, all equipment, and a free digital photo of your rafting adventure.

Paddle along the Bow River in a 12-seater canoe as the sun sets in Banff’s backyard during this guided canoe tour. Dip your oars into the water as team and take in the wildlife and mountain scenery as your guide tells you about the animals and land. Be on the lookout for elk, bald eagles, beaver, and muskrats as the current carries you along.

Enjoy this full day hike, explore a narrow canyon and see how water in its many forms has shaped the mountains over time. After reaching the back of the canyon, go further to the ink pots, a great day out covering 11.6 km with 315 m elevation gain and loss. This hike is perfect for couples, families and friends. Minimum age: 13. Youth should be accompanied by a guardian.