12 AMAZING Scenic Drives in Banff National Park

Author: Celine Brewer

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In all honesty, every time you get in your car driving through Banff National Park, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. In all likelihood, you’ll already be driving many of these Banff scenic drives while you explore the park, but it’s easy to forget to appreciate the scenery if you are rushing off to another activity.

A major part of seeing the incredible scenery around Banff National park will be from your car.

We’ve put together a list of the top scenic drives in Banff National Park and the surrounding area, each offering unique and breathtaking views. From the famous Icefields Parkway to the tranquil Vermilion Lakes Drive, these routes are perfect for anyone looking to slow down and soak in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive in Banff National Park

1. Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North)

Big Bend Icefields Parkway

The one that everyone knows about! The Icefields Parkway is renowned as one of the world’s most scenic drives, and it’s easy to see why. This 230 km (143 miles) stretch of highway from Lake Louise to Jasper offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, towering peaks, and pristine lakes.

The Icefields Parkway is the connector road that will take you from Banff National Park into Jasper National Park, in the best way possible!

Throughout your drive, be prepared for the numerous pull-offs and viewpoints where you can stop and soak in the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. The Icefields Parkway isn’t just about the drive, but making all the stops along the way. You can easily spend the entire day driving this scenic road between Lake Louise and Jasper.

Keep your camera ready for potential wildlife encounters, as bears, elk, and mountain goats are often spotted along this route. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply a nature lover, the Icefields Parkway is a must-see.

Be prepared for your drive along the Icefields Parkway by filling up with gas and snacks. Also be aware that there is no cell coverage along this highway.

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2. Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A)

A car drives on the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park with Castle Mountain in the background

For a more relaxed driving experience, the Bow Valley Parkway is a perfect choice. This scenic route, stretching approximately 48 km (30 miles) between the town of Banff and Lake Louise, is known for its abundant wildlife and stunning viewpoints.

Once the main highway between the two towns, this secondary highway parallels the Trans-Canada Highway. If you are in a rush, by all means, hop on the Trans-Canada Highway, but if you have more time then the Bow Valley Parkway is an excellent choice.

Numerous viewpoints, picnic spots, trailheads and other stops along the Bow Valley Parkway provide ample opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural beauty along your scenic drive in Banff National Park. The slower speed limit on the Bow Valley Parkway scenic drive make it easier to spot wildlife, including deer, elk, and occasionally black bears.

A visit to Johnston Canyon is a must, where you can include the Johnston Canyon hike to see beautiful waterfalls and dramatic canyon walls. Castle Mountain, with its distinctive castle shape and flat-topped peak, offers excellent photo opportunities.

The eastern section of the Bow Valley Parkway has a seasonal closure March 1 to June 25 from 8pm to 8am for wildlife.

3. Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive

Two Jack Lake along Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive in Banff National Park

The Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive is a short loop of 24 km (15 miles) offering spectacular views of three Banff Lakes. Lake Minnewanka (one of Banff’s largest lakes), Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake are perfect spots for picnicking, kayaking, and enjoying the mountain surroundings.

Between the lakes, hiking trails and picnic areas, it’s easy to spend the entire day in this area.

Your first stop should be Cascade Ponds, with it’s Banff red chairs offering a stunning view of Cascade Mountain. At Johnson Lake you’ll find plenty of activities including hiking, picnic tables and a small sandy beach. At Lake Minnewanka, visit Stewart Canyon or continue along the Lake Minnewanka trail. Finally Lower Bankhead and the C-Level Cirque hike offer a glimpse into Banff’s mining history.

Several pull-off areas allow you to stop, take in the views, and snap some photos. The area from Banff to Lake Minnewanka is also rich in wildlife, with bighorn sheep often grazing near the road. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful drive or planning to engage in some outdoor activities, the Lake Minnewanka loop road is an ideal place to spend a day.

4. Tunnel Mountain Road

Parks Canada Red Chairs along Hoodoo Trail in October.

Tunnel Mountain Road is a short scenic drive in Banff but you’ll find some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains along this road. Connecting Tunnel Mountain Road with Tunnel Mountain Drive, you’ll enjoy lookout points for the Banff Hoodoo’s, sweeping vistas of the Bow Valley, Tunnel Mountain (Sleeping Buffalo), the iconic Mount Rundle and finish with a stop at Surprise Corner.

It’s well worth it to stop at the the Hoodoo’s viewpoint parking lots to take in these views. You’ll even find a set of the Banff red chairs!

The Tunnel Mountain road is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a golden glow over the landscape. For those interested in a short hike, the Tunnel Mountain trailhead is easily accessible along Tunnel Mountain Drive. Alternatively, you can also hike from Surprise Corner to the Hoodoo’s.

This Banff scenic drive is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the mountains without venturing too far from town.

Read More

See our full list of best viewpoints in Banff National Park! You won’t want to miss these!

5. Vermilion Lakes Road

visiting Vermilion Lakes in Banff with kids

Found just as you are entering the town of Banff, the Vermilion Lakes Road offers a serene escape into nature. This 4.3 km (2.7 miles) drive winds through the Vermilion Lakes area, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. The calm waters of the lakes reflect the towering peaks of Mount Rundle, creating a picturesque scene.

The Vermilion Lakes scenic drive is especially popular during sunrise and sunset, when the light is at its most dramatic. Numerous pull-offs along the road allow you to stop and enjoy the views. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax or a scenic backdrop for photos, Vermilion Lakes Road is a must-visit.

This road also has a reduced speed limit as you’ll often find cyclist, runners and walkers along this road. Don’t rush it!

6. Mount Norquay Scenic Drive

Norquay chairlift with Banff townsite in distance.

The Mount Norquay Scenic Drive ascends up to the Mount Norquay Ski Area, with hairpin turns and stunning views along the way. Nearing the top of this 6 km (3.7 miles) scenic drive in Banff National park, you’ll find the Mount Norquay Lookout viewpoint with sweeping vistas over the town of Banff and of the Bow Valley.

Once at the Mount Norquay ski hill, in the summer you’ll find access to hiking trails and the Via Ferrata, a guided climbing experience suitable for all skill levels. The Cliffhouse Bistro at the top of the chairlift it also worth a visit.

In the winter, you can enjoy skiing or tubing at Mount Norquay.

This road has several twists and turns, so take it slow and enjoy this Banff scenic drive. You’ll often see some sort of wildlife along this road, whether it’s deer or a group of bighorn sheep.

7. Banff Golf Course Road

The Golf Course road in Banff is a popular road for spotting wildlife and one of the best scenic drives in Banff. You’ll often find elk or deer along the road. There’s always the possibility of spotting a bear as well.

While this is just a short 8 km (5 miles) road, it’s well worth the short drive and can easily be paired with other scenic routes around Banff. It also goes right by the popular Bow Falls Viewpoint.

The Golf Course Road is best driven early in the morning or at sunset for the best chance of spotting wildlife. It is closed from November until May each year.

8. Sunshine Village Road

Rock Isle Lake at Sunshine Meadows in Banff NP

The Sunshine Village Road takes you to the Sunshine Village ski resort. This 8 km (5 miles) drive is beautiful any time of year, but particularly beautiful in the winter when the trees are snow covered. I don’t recommend taking the Sunshine Village Road as a scenic drive on a busy ski day, however make sure you take the opportunity to enjoy the drive on your way to the ski hill!

The spring and summer is a much better time to drive this road. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way to take the gondola to Sunshine Meadows. As a bonus, the likelihood of spotting some wildlife, like bighorn sheep, on this road is good.

9. Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) from Canmore to Lake Louise

TransCanada Highway view of Cascade Mountain

Let’s be honest, the entire stretch of the Trans-Canada highway through the Canadian Rockies is incredibly scenic. And while you’ll no doubt be driving this stretch of highway when you visit, don’t forget to take the time to appreciate the scenic views!

As you leave Canmore, you’ll catch a long-distance peek at Tunnel Mountain, setting the stage for the breathtaking scenery ahead. The highway then leads you towards Cascade Mountain, a majestic peak that dominates the skyline as you approach Banff. Once past Banff, the views continue to impress with the iconic Castle Mountain coming into sight.

Even as you pass Lake Louise into Yoho National Park in BC, you’ll love the amazing mountain scenery along the way. Driving amongst the mountain scenery is just part of the overall experience of visiting the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

10. Highway 40 in Kananaskis

Kananaskis Fall Hikes

For more scenic drives near Banff, you can had east to Highway 40, also known as Kananaskis Trail. This is a stunning drive that offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Canadian Rockies. This route takes you through the heart of Kananaskis Country, a less-crowded but equally beautiful alternative to Banff National Park. Starting at the Trans-Canada Highway, the drive takes you south with views of dense forests and towering peaks.

There are plenty of opportunities to stop along this drive, from a short walk along the Mt Lorette Ponds to longer hikes like Wasootch Ridge.

Along Highway 40 you’ll find Highwood Pass, the highest paved pass in Canada, which offers breathtaking views and access to numerous hiking trails.

You can also veer off Highway 40 onto the Kananaskis Lakes Trail, that will take you past both Lower and Upper Lakes. This is the perfect place to stop for a hike, a picnic or a leisurely paddle on the water. The area is also rich in wildlife, with frequent sightings of elk, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears.

Whether you’re visiting in the summer for the lush greenery or in the fall for the golden larches, Highway 40 is a must-drive for anyone exploring the Rockies.

11. Smith-Dorrien Trail (Highway 742)

View of Spray Lakes Reservoir from West Wind Pass hiking trail

The Smith-Dorrien Trail, also known as Highway 742, connects the town of Canmore to the Spray Lakes Reservoir and eventually links up with Highway 40. This gravel road winds through the rugged mountain landscapes Kananaskis Provincial Park.

Starting from Canmore, the drive takes you up a steep ascent with panoramic views of the Bow Valley and the town below. As you continue along the trail, you’ll pass the beautiful Spray Lakes, where on a calm day the blue waters reflect the surrounding peaks. There are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery, whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the views.

Wildlife is abundant in this area, so keep an eye out for moose, deer, bears and more. The Smith-Dorrien Trail is a perfect route for those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path drive through the Rockies.

This highway can get rough for driving, so watch out for big potholes and always drive with caution. You also won’t find any cell service along this stretch of road.

12. Banff-Windermere Highway (Highway 93 South)

Vista Lake in Banff National Park

Highway 93 South, also known as the Banff-Windermere Highway, is a stunning drive that takes you from Banff National Park into Kootenay National Park and all the way to Radium Hot Springs in British Columbia. This drive is approximately 105 km (65 miles) and offers scenic mountain views and plenty of places to make stops along the way. Just be aware that there is no cell service along this stretch of highway.

As you leave Banff and head south, you’ll cross the continental divide into Kootenay National Park. There are a multitude of amazing hikes along this stretch of highway. For moderate hikes, choose Boom Lake hike or Stanley Glacier hike.

If you want easier and shorter stops, visit Vista Lake, Marble Canyon or the Paint Pots.

As you approach Radium Hot Springs, the landscape opens up, and you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Columbia Valley. A visit to the Radium Hot Springs is a great place to end your scenic journey!

Throughout the drive, keep an eye out for wildlife. This highway offers plenty of opportunities to spot bighorn sheep, deer, and occasionally bears.

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Celine Brewer - Travel Banff Canada
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Celine Brewer, a local Canmore resident, is the co-owner of Travel Banff Canada. She has a passion for being out in the mountains any time of year. In the summer, you'll often find her hiking or mountain biking. In the winter, she enjoys cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking the most.

As much as she loves the mountains, she also loves travel! When she's not playing outdoors at home, she's either traveling the world with her husband and two kids or working on their other two travel sites: Family Can Travel and Baby Can Travel.

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