Within Banff National Park, there are several main roads that provide access to various attractions, viewpoints, and recreational areas. These roads offer scenic drives through the park's stunning landscapes and connect visitors to a wide range of outdoor activities and natural wonders. Here are the main roads in Banff National Park:

Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1)

The Trans-Canada Highway passes through the southern portion of Banff National Park, providing a major east-west route across Canada. In the park, it connects the towns of Banff and Lake Louise and offers access to popular attractions such as Lake Minnewanka, Johnston Canyon, and the Banff townsite.

Banff National Park's Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A)

Running parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway, the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) offers a scenic alternative route between Banff and Lake Louise. This slower-paced road provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, with viewpoints, interpretive stops, and hiking trails along the way.

Icefields Parkway (Highway 93)

The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93, is renowned as one of the most scenic drives in the world. Stretching from Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper National Park, the Icefields Parkway winds through rugged mountain landscapes, past turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and ancient glaciers.

Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive

Lake Minnewanka Road offers a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park. The road provides access to picnic areas, hiking trails, boat launches, and interpretive sites, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Lake Louise Drive

Lake Louise Drive leads visitors to the iconic Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in the world. The road passes through the village of Lake Louise and provides access to the lake's shoreline, hiking trails, canoe rentals, and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Banff National Park's Moraine Lake Road

Moraine Lake Road leads to the stunning Moraine Lake, known for its turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. The road winds through forested terrain and ends at the Moraine Lake Lodge parking lot, from where visitors can access hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

These roads offer opportunities for scenic drives, wildlife viewing, photography, and access to a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, boating, and sightseeing. Whether you're exploring the park by car, bike, or on foot, Banff's roads provide unforgettable experiences amidst the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Banff National Park Home