A long weekend getaway in Banff NPThis is everything I recommend doing in Banff National Park if you have a long weekend to explore and get the most out of this amazing park! (secret code: enchanting)Authorsdanistumbling
DestinationsBanffItinerary

Stay

Moraine Lake Lodge
This is a great place to stay for a romantic weekend getaway if you want to splurge. You'll be right on the lake with amazing views of the surrounding Rockies.
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Book
Lake Louise Hardsided Campground
If you are trying to go to Banff on a budget, this is a great campground close to Lake Louise and the heart of town. The sites are close to one another, but that's to be expected in a National Park!
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Viewpoints & Roadside Stops

Icefields Parkway
Start your long weekend by entering Banff National Park, which will take you to the Icefields Parkway. This is one of the most magical drives - and you can enjoy the drive almost as much as the stops and hikes themselves.
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Hector Lake
This is a great spot along Icefields Parkway to stop and enjoy the views, get a nice stretch it, or have a picnic lunch.
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Bow Lake
Although we only spent about 30 minutes here for a roadside stop, this was one of the most breathtaking views we had. It started to rain and clouds rolled in. The water of Bow Lake is so turquoise - unlike anything else I'd ever seen before.
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Weeping Wall viewpoint
This is easy to miss becasue we didn't have service here, so make sure to map it beforehand. It's a viewpoint for the Weeping Wall, so would be a quick stop.
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Hikes

Peyto Lake
We almost skipped this hike because we hadn't read anything about it in time, but we decided to stop on a whim - and wow, are we glad! This short hike (about 1.5 miles round trip and paved) leads you to a breathtaking view of another turquoise blue lake with surrounding mountains. We went around 7pm and had it basically to ourselves in July. This is one of the busiest spots (and for good reason), so make sure to go later like we did or very early morning to beat the crowds!
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The Beehive
You can hike Little Beehive or Big Beehive, which brings you past Lake Agnes Tea House. The Big Beehive is 6.7 miles and definitely worth the treck for the views at the end. The hike also goes by Mirror Lake, which is quite literally the most mirrored lake I've ever seen.
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Moraine Lake
There is a lot to do near Moraine Lake - so much so that you could spend an entire day here. You have to get shuttle reservations or bike to the lake as no personal vehicles are allowed anymore. This can be done online. You can spend time on the Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail (2 miles out and back) or you can hike more off-the-beaten path on Consolation Lakes Trail (4.6 miles out and back). Both are beautiful with very different views (Consolation doesn't have views of Moraine Lake). You will also need to visit the Rockpiles which is where every amazing picture of Moraine Lake is taken! Maybe try to go canoeing on the lake as well if you have time.
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Johnston Canyon
One of the most underrated parts of Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon is away from everything else. You can hike to both Upper or Lower Falls (or just choose to go to the lower falls). I recommend doing both. It's a 3.4 mile round trip paved hike through the canyon. Parking is tough, but if you wait about 10 minutes if you don't get a spot, one will most likely open up!
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Eat

Lake Agnes Tea House
An amazing tea house that you have to hike to! Part of the Lake Agnes Trail and the Big/Little Beehive Trail. There is no coffee, though! Definitely get the biscuit.
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The Eddie Burger + Bar
Great place to grab an amazing burger, a drink, or a shake! Perfect casual date night spot.
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Banff Ave Brewing Co.
Great beer and a great place to sit on the second level to overlook the street and people watch. There is also food here that you can enjoy as well.
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O2 Bubble Tea Obento
If you're looking for a quick bite or a nice scoop of ice cream after a hike, you won't want to miss this spot! It's right in the Lake Louise Village area so you can grab it and walk around as well.
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Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant
Such a fun brewery in Banff! You'll want to make reservations as it is also a very busy restaurant. Grab some apps or stay for an entire meal! The vibe in here is one that can't be beat!
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