The Best Things To See And Do In Banff With Kids

Banff is both a town and a protected mountain area. A destination for all ages, it is extremely family-friendly with lots to discover – including the town itself and the village of Lake Louise beyond. Culture Trip rounds up the most exciting activities for you to do here with your kids.

When you’re visiting the Canadian Rockies with children, it’s important to take safety precautions. Nature and conservation are the draws here, but nature isn’t always safe. And the mountain range is home to many wild animals, so you are recommended to carry bear spray with you at all times when hiking or walking in the wilderness.

1. Ride the Lake Louise gondola

Natural Feature, Park

The ski resort of Lake Louise is the largest in Canada. During the summer months the resort runs its gondola for sightseeing. Grizzlies frequent the slopes under the lift! You can disembark at the top of the lift and enjoy views across to the Victoria Glacier and the famous lake.

2. Scale the via ferrata at Mount Norquay

Resort

For kids over 12 years of age and more than 35kg (77lb) in weight, Norquay’s via ferrata offers a serious introduction to mountaineering. Simply put, a via ferrata is a climbing experience for non-climbers. There are several cliff-face routes, with participants led up the rock by a professional guide. This experience includes a chairlift ride up to the Cliff House, a cosy mountain bistro that serves drinks and food.

3. Go skiing

Ski Resort

Any guide to activities in Banff must include skiing. There are three resorts within the park: Norquay, Sunshine and Lake Louise. All have ski programs for children and even daycare services. For beginner skiers or snowboarders, there are numerous packages available, which include equipment rentals and lessons.

4. Try snow-tubing

Resort

Perhaps the most accessible and family-friendly winter activity, both Norquay and Lake Louise construct a tube park each winter. A moving travelator, or magic carpet, transports you to the top of the chute – hop in the tube, spin, laugh and slide! Snow-tubing takes very little skill, yet offers the thrill of snow sports. If you have the energy, you can skip the line and drag your own tube up.

5. Enjoy a guided walk

Sports Center

There are any number of guided walks across Banff that are available for all abilities. White Mountain Adventures offer accessible summer and winter trips, including heli-hiking, which, as it sounds, includes a heartstopping helicopter flight with unbelievable views of the Rockies. Hiking and walking tours include a guide and are always educational.

6. Explore the Cave and Basin National Historic Sire

Natural Feature

The shops and museums of Banff are popular with families, and the kids will love the old-fashioned candy store, which families have been visiting for decades. Of the area’s many offerings, it is fun to explore the Cave and Basin National Historic Sire, formerly the location of the main hot springs pool and considered the birthplace of Canada’s park system. Warm water still percolates up through the limestone and the waters are home to a unique species of snail.

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