3, 4, 5, and 7 Days Banff and Jasper Itinerary: An Epic Canadian Rockies Holiday
If you’ve been dreaming of strolling past turquoise lakes, hiking ridgelines framed by snow-capped peaks, and soaking in hot springs under alpine skies – Banff and Jasper National Parks are your answer. These iconic Canadian Rockies destinations are not just about the views (though they’re jaw-dropping), but about the unforgettable moments you’ll collect along the way. Our Banff itinerary (or Banff and Jasper itinerary, if you have the time) will ensure that this place stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
You should trust this Banff and Jasper itinerary as we have visited these national parks a few times across seasons – once as a couple looking for a cozy mountain escape, once with our parents and once while working remotely and hiking on our lunch breaks. Our favorite time to visit Banff is during autumn, after labor day weekend in September, the crowds start thinning out and there is less traffic in the National Parks.
Whether you’re short on time or planning a full week, we’ve curated these Banff and Jasper National Park itineraries from personal experience to help you make the most of your visit. If you ask us, we recommend our Banff and Jasper itinerary for 7 days. But if you are super short on time, we also have a 3 day Banff itinerary for you. As you go through this blog, expect to find details on scenic stops, hikes, packing tips and family or solo travel insights. Let’s dive in!
Planning a road trip from Seattle to Banff/Jasper?
Check out our blog for the ultimate guide to planning your perfect road trip from Seattle to Banff!
Planning a couples getaway? Don’t miss our guide to Romantic Hotels in Banff: 12 Dreamy Stays for Every Budget, featuring cozy lodges, luxury resorts, and hidden gems perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or mountain escapes.
Which Banff and Jasper Itinerary is Right for You?
| Trip Length | Best For | Includes Jasper? | Trip Style |
| 3 Days | Short on time, weekend getaways | No | Fast-paced Highlights |
| 4 Days | Balanced with a taste of Jasper | Optional | Moderate-paced |
| 5 Days | Full Rockies adventure | Yes | Relaxed |
| 7 Days | Deep exploration + flexibility | Yes | Deeply Immersive |
IMPORTANT: You can no longer drive your personal car to Moraine Lake - make sure you have booked the Parks Canada shuttle or a guided tour!
If you want to catch sunrise or sunset at Moraine Lake in the summer, we recommend you book a tour because Parks Canada shuttle timings do not align with sunrise/sunset times.
Quick Summary of Itineraries
| Day | 3 Day Banff Itinerary | 4 Day Banff Itinerary | 5 Day Banff and Jasper Itinerary | 7 Day Banff and Jasper Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Explore Banff town, gondola, hot springs, Bow Valley Parkway (optional) | Same as 3 day itinerary Day 1 | Same as 3-day itinerary Day 1 | Same as 3-day itinerary Day 1 |
| Day 2 | Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Lake Agnes hike (optional), Bow Valley Parkway, Johnston Canyon | Same as 3-day itinerary Day 2 | Same as 3-day itinerary Day 2 | Same as 3-day itinerary Day 2 |
| Day 3 | Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Wrap-up | Icefields Parkway stops (Bow, Peyto), Columbia Icefield (optional) | Drive Icefields Parkway to Jasper (Bow, Peyto, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca falls) | Same as 5-day itinerary Day 3 |
| Day 4 | — | Lake Minnewanka, Yoho National Park | Jasper: Maligne Lake + Canyon, Spirit Island, SkyTram, Valley of the Five Lakes (optional) | Same as 5-day itinerary Day 4 |
| Day 5 | — | — | Yoho National Park + Lake Minnewanka | Yoho National Park exploration |
| Day 6 | — | — | — | Lake Minnewanka, Bow Falls, optional hikes or Fairmont experience |
| Day 7 | — | — | — | Canmore town + Farewell |
YouTube Video
If you prefer video content – here is a video that we made for our YouTube channel when we visited Banff!
3 Day Banff Itinerary: Perfect Weekend Escape
Day 1: Arrival + Welcome to Banff
After you arrive in Banff, either from Calgary International Airport (just 1.5 away) or a scenic road trip, take a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air. Check into your accommodation and unwind from your journey.
Spend your afternoon wandering Banff Avenue, the heart of the town, lined with charming boutiques, cozy cafés, and outdoor gear shops. Stop by Whitebark Cafe for a local latte and soak in the views of Cascade Mountain towering over the town. For the art lovers, pop into one of Banff’s many art galleries.
Later, head up the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views of the Bow Valley, Mount Rundle, and Tunnel Mountain. The panoramic vistas will leave you in awe and you can stroll the Sanson’s Peak Boardwalk (easy 1 km roundtrip) for an unforgettable photo op.
End the day with a relaxing soak at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. The mineral-rich waters are soothing after a day of travel, and the mountain views from the pool feel like a spa in the sky. Alternatively, you can take the scenic Bow Valley Parkway known for its postcard-worthy views. You will get beautiful views of the Castle Mountain and Bow Lake.
Day 2: Moraine Lake + Lake Louise + Johnston Canyon
Start early to catch the sunrise at Moraine Lake, one of the most photographed lakes in the world. The early morning light on the Ten Peaks is simply magical. Hike the Rockpile Trail (0.8 km, 20 mins) for a stunning viewpoint of the lake’s iconic reflections. If you’re feeling more adventurous, continue on the Consolation Lakes Trail (6 km return, ~2 hours). This tranquil hike takes you through alpine meadows and dense forests, leading to two serene glacial lakes surrounded by towering cliffs.
Next, head to Lake Louise for the classic lakeshore walk, or if you’re up for a challenge, tackle the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail (7 km return, moderate). The steady climb through forested paths leads to the tea house, where you’ll be rewarded with fresh-baked treats and incredible views.
On your way back, consider driving the Bow Valley Parkway (if not done on Day 1). Next, head to Johnston Canyon for an easy hike to the Lower Falls (2.4 km return, ~1 hour). The trail is easy and family-friendly, following catwalks along the canyon’s edge. If you have the time and energy, extend the hike to the Upper Falls (5.4 km return total, ~2 hours) for a quieter experience and beautiful cascades.
Head back to Banff town for dinner then relax in your hotel!
Day 3: Lake Minnewanka + Wrap Up
Start the day by exploring the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive. Take a leisurely stop at Two Jack Lake, perfect for a peaceful picnic or just to take beautiful photos. Continue to Lake Minnewanka, where you can also take a 1-hour boat cruise on this expansive glacial lake – it’s ideal for families or those looking for a relaxing way to take in the surrounding mountains.
Stop for a final coffee or souvenir along Banff Avenue. We love grabbing a magnet or postcard as a keepsake to remember our unforgettable trip.
4 Day Banff Itinerary: Add Icefields Parkway Magic
Days 1 & 2: Same as the 3 Day Itinerary
Explore Banff’s top sights and follow day 1 and day 2 as outlined in the Banff itinerary for 3 days above.
Day 3: Icefields Parkway Wonders
Today, you’ll drive the Icefields Parkway, which is one of the most scenic roads in the world. Your first stop is Bow Lake, a peaceful spot perfect for a photo and you will see the Crowfoot Glacier looming behind the lake. Then, make your way to Peyto Lake for a short 10-minute walk to the viewpoint. The wolf-shaped lake is stunning from above, framed by jagged peaks, one of our favorite spot in Banff/Jasper!
Continue driving to Mistaya Canyon, a short, dramatic 0.5 km hike that takes you to swirling limestone formations and rushing waters. If you’re up for an extended detour, drive an extra hour towards the Columbia Icefield Visitor Center. From the parking lot, you can catch a glimpse of the Athabasca Glacier without the need for a full tour.
Finish the day by returning to Banff, where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxed dinner.
Day 4: Lake Minnewanka + Yoho National Park
Kickstart your day with the scenic drive around Lake Minnewanka, making stops at Two Jack Lake and continuing onward to the lake itself. From there, cross into British Columbia and head to Yoho National Park.
Your first stop in Yoho is the Emerald Lake, where you can rent a canoe and paddle across its vivid green waters or take the easy 5.2 km/2.5 hours loop around the lake to soak in the stunning scenery. Next, visit the Natural Bridge, a fascinating rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. End your day with a visit to Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls. The short, paved path will take you right to the base of the falls, where you’ll feel the refreshing mist spray.
Return to Banff for your final evening stroll and farewell.
5 Day Banff and Jasper Itinerary: The Rockies, Reimagined
Days 1 & 2: Same as the 3 Day Itinerary
Use the first two days to explore Banff town and its iconic lakes, scenic drives, hikes and hot springs as mentioned above in the Banff itinerary for 3 days.
Day 3: Icefields Parkway to Jasper
Begin your drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most awe-inspiring roads in the world. Stop at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake, both offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and turquoise waters.
Continue your journey, making a pit stop at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, where you can choose to take a glacier tour to walk the Athabasca Glacier or you can also do the Glacier Skywalk bridge which will give you panoramic views. Make sure you have booked your glacier walking tour in advance especially in peak summer. Next, after 30 mins of driving, stop at Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls – both quick stops with incredible views and accessible trails.
Arrive in Jasper town by evening and check into your hotel. For dinner, try The Raven Bistro for Mediterranean-inspired Canadian dishes with great vegetarian options. Their falafel was our favourite!
Day 4: Jasper’s Natural Gems
Start your day with a Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island, this is one of the most photographed places in Canada, and a true must-see. Alternatively, if you are up for some adventure, you can rent a canoe if you prefer to paddle and explore at your own pace.
Next, explore Maligne Canyon, a deep limestone gorge with stunning waterfalls. The 3.7 km/1.5 hours trail will lead you through multiple bridges with incredible views, you can always opt for a shorter hike that takes you to the first bridge, providing beautiful views of the canyon and falls.
Later in the afternoon, take the Jasper SkyTram up Whistlers Mountain. The hike to the summit (1.4 km return) offers 360° views of Jasper National Park. The hike is short but steep, it is very rewarding at every step of the way. You can also consider hiking the Valley of the Five Lakes. This moderate difficulty 4.6 km loop offers a peaceful trek through alpine forest, leading you to five stunning glacial lakes. This hike is a great option if you’re seeking a quieter, more tranquil experience.
Day 5: Yoho National Park + Lake Minnewanka
Today you will start your drive back to Banff, but take a detour to Yoho National Park. Your first stop in Yoho is the Emerald Lake, where you can rent a canoe or take a peaceful stroll around the 5.2 km/2.5 hours trail. Next, stop at Takakkaw Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. The short paved trail will lead you to the base, where you can feel the mist from the waterfall.
Once you arrive in Banff, take the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive and stop at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka for a final taste of mountain views behind the glacial turquoise water.
Before leaving, grab a souvenir from Banff Avenue to remember your unforgettable Rockies adventure.
Optional night activity in Jasper: head to Pyramid Lake for stargazing. Jasper is part of a Dark Sky Preserve, so the night starry skies here are exceptional on a clear night.
7 Day Banff and Jasper Itinerary: Ultimate Mountain Escape
Days 1 to 4: Same as the 5 Day Itinerary
Spend the first four days as outlined above in the 5 day Banff and Jasper itinerary!
Immerse yourself in the charm of Banff town and exploring its iconic lakes, hiking trails and relax in the hot springs. Enjoy your scenic drive to Jasper National Park via Icefield Parkway and explore Jasper’s hidden gems.
Day 5: Jasper to Yoho National Park to Banff
Start your return journey to Banff, but take a detour through Yoho National Park on the way. Visit the Natural Bridge, a fascinating rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. Then, head to Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls. The short paved 0.5 km trail leads directly to the base, where the mist will cool you off on a warm day. Next, stop at Emerald Lake, one of Yoho’s most beautiful spots. Rent a canoe or enjoy a 5.2 km/2.5 hours loop trail around the lake for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
If you are interested in hiking more and exploring Yoho, there 2 hike that you can consider doing. The Wapta Falls trail leads to one of Yoho’s most impressive waterfalls. The (4 km/1.5 hours) hike is relatively easy, with a few uphill sections, and it takes you to a viewpoint where you can enjoy a full view of the Wapta Falls. Other one is the Twin Falls trail (5.6 km/2 hours) which takes you through the dense forest to a viewpoint of Twin Falls. Along the way, you’ll also pass through the Paget Lookout, which provides panoramic views of the valley below.
Afterward, head back to Banff town by evening and relax!
Day 6: Hiking + Lake Minnewanka + Relax
Start your by hiking the Plain of Six Glaciers trail (14 km round trip). This stunning trail takes you through forests and alpine meadows to the Plain of Six Glaciers. The views of the Victoria Glacier and Lake Louise are jaw-dropping. It’s a more challenging hike but offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Banff.
Next, you can do the scenic Lake Minnewanka Drive. Make a quick stop at Two Jack Lake, perfect for a peaceful break. Continue on to Lake Minnewanka, where you can take a 1-hour boat cruise to enjoy the stunning landscape from the water or just soak in the beautiful views of the glacial lake.
For a more relaxing experience, treat yourself to a luxurious spa day at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel or indulge in their renowned afternoon tea. Make reservations in advance, as these experiences are popular. Afterward, head to Bow Falls viewpoint for a stunning view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, which is often referred to as the “Castle in the Rockies.” The view from here is truly magical, especially with the surrounding natural beauty.
Day 7: Wind Up + Canmore
On your final day, do any activities that you missed in Banff, or head to Canmore, a charming mountain town with stunning views of the Rockies. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, grab lunch at a local café, and pick up some souvenirs before you bid farewell to the majestic Canadian Rockies.
If you have some extra time and want to do an easy hike with scenic views, check out our blog post on easy hikes near calgary!
What to Pack for Your Banff Trip?
Clothing & Layers
- Base layers: Quick-dry tees, thermal tops (for spring/fall)
- Warm layers: Fleece, hoodie, packable puffer or vest (essential for early mornings)
- Rain jacket: Waterproof or windbreaker-style for mountain storms
- Bottoms: Jeans/leggings for travel, quick-dry hiking pants/shorts for trails
- Footwear: Hiking boots/shoes, comfy sneakers, flip-flops
- Accessories: Swimwear, hat, sunglasses, beanie, gloves, bug spray, binoculars (optional): Great for wildlife watching
Road Trip Essentials
- Cooler & snacks: Granola bars, fruit, jerky, extra water (especially in summer)
- Offline maps/GPS: Cell signal is non-existent on Icefields Parkway
- Chargers: Car charger, battery pack, bluetooth adapter
- Entertainment: Road trip playlist, podcasts or audiobooks
Camera & Adventure Gear
- Camera/phone tripod: For sunrise/sunset and lake shots
- Extra batteries & memory cards
- Daypack: For water, jacket, snacks, sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle: Tap water is fresh mountain glacier water
- Headlamp/flashlight: For early hikes or dark evening
- Camping gear: For anyone planning to camp in Banff/Jasper
First Aid & Health
- Mini first aid kit: Band-aids, painkillers, allergy meds, motion sickness tabs
- Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF: High UV at elevation
- Bear spray (essential for hikers – rent/buy in Banff only, not air travel safe)
- Personal meds: Prescriptions + extras
Final Thoughts
Banff and Jasper are more than just picture-perfect, they’re a reminder of nature’s power, stillness, and ability to ground us. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, there’s always more to uncover. We consider ourselves semi-local to Banff National Park as we live 6 hours from Banff town and we are fortunate to be able to drive over to the Canadian Rockies for a weekend!
We hope our itineraries help you plan a trip that’s not just well-organized but unforgettable. Happy adventuring! 🍁🗻
