The Lonely Planet Banff Jasper and Glacier National Park Travel Guide offers comprehensive information for exploring these stunning Canadian and American national parks. This guide provides detailed itineraries, accommodation recommendations, top activities, dining options, and practical travel tips. From the turquoise lakes of Banff to the rugged peaks of Jasper and the pristine wilderness of Glacier, this guide helps travelers plan an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
What Are the Best Itineraries for Exploring Banff, Jasper, and Glacier National Parks?
A well-planned itinerary is crucial for making the most of your visit to these magnificent parks. Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary that covers the highlights of Banff and Jasper, with an optional extension to Glacier National Park:
Day 1: Arrival in Banff
- Arrive in Calgary and take the Brewster Express shuttle to Banff (2 hours)
- Check into a hotel like Mount Royal Hotel or Rimrock Resort
- Explore Banff townsite and relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
Day 2: Banff Exploration
- Take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain
- Hike easy trails like Bow Falls or along the Bow River
- Visit Lake Louise and hike the Lake Shoreline Trail
Day 3: Banff to Jasper
- Drive to Jasper National Park (3 hours with stops)
- Visit Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls
- Check into a Jasper hotel like Sawridge Inn
Day 4: Jasper Adventures
- Take the Maligne Lake boat tour to Spirit Island
- Explore Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake
- Optional: Ride the Jasper SkyTram for panoramic views
Day 5: Return to Banff or Glacier National Park Extension
- Option 1: Return to Banff for more exploration
- Option 2: Drive to Glacier National Park (requires additional days)
Where Are the Best Places to Stay in These National Parks?
Choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your national park experience. Here are some top options:
Banff Accommodations
- Mount Royal Hotel
- Central location
- Wi-Fi and breakfast available
-
Mid-range to luxury pricing
-
Rimrock Resort
- Close to major attractions
- Wi-Fi and breakfast included
- Higher-end pricing
Jasper Accommodations
- Sawridge Inn
- Comfortable stay
- Wi-Fi and breakfast available
-
Mid-range to luxury pricing
-
Pyramid Lake Lodges
- Scenic location
- Wi-Fi and on-site restaurant
- Mid-range pricing
Glacier National Park Accommodation
- Many Glacier Hotel
- Historic Swiss-style lodge
- Wi-Fi and breakfast available
- Mid-range to luxury pricing
What Are the Must-Do Activities in Banff, Jasper, and Glacier National Parks?
Each park offers unique experiences that showcase the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Here are some top activities:
Banff Activities
- Banff Gondola
- Cost: $40-$60 per person
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
-
Available year-round
-
Lake Louise Hike
- Cost: Free
- Duration: 2-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Available year-round
-
Johnston Canyon Cave
- Cost: Free
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Available year-round
Jasper Activities
- Maligne Lake Boat Tour
- Cost: $75 per person
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
-
Available May to October
-
Athabasca Glacier Tour
- Cost: $100-$150 per person
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Available April to October
-
Jasper SkyTram
- Cost: $30-$50 per person
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Available year-round
Glacier National Park Activities
- Going-to-the-Sun Road Drive
- Cost: Free with park pass
- Duration: Variable
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Available late June to early October
-
Avalanche Lake Hike
- Cost: Free with park pass
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Available late June to early October
Where Are the Best Places to Eat in These National Parks?
After a day of outdoor adventures, refuel at these recommended dining spots:
Banff Dining Options
- Brazen Restaurant
- Location: Mount Royal Hotel
- Cuisine: Breakfast and brunch
- Average meal price: $20-$40
-
Reservations recommended
-
Northern Lights Buffet
- Location: Near Banff Gondola
- Cuisine: Buffet-style meals
- Average meal price: $30-$50
- Reservations recommended for large groups
Jasper Dining Options
- Aalto Restaurant
- Location: Pyramid Lake Lodges
- Cuisine: Breakfast and brunch
- Average meal price: $20-$40
-
Reservations recommended
-
The Hearthstone Lounge
- Location: Sawridge Inn
- Cuisine: Casual dining
- Average meal price: $20-$40
- No reservations necessary
Glacier National Park Dining Options
- Many Glacier Hotel Dining Room
- Cuisine: Fine dining
- Average meal price: $40-$60
-
Reservations recommended
-
Picnic Lunch
- Available at various picnic areas
- Self-prepared or purchased from local shops
- Average meal price: $10-$20
- No reservations necessary
What Are the Best Travel Tips for Visiting These National Parks?
To make the most of your trip to Banff, Jasper, and Glacier National Parks, consider these essential travel tips:
- Book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during peak season (June to August).
- Purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass for entry to Banff and Jasper, and a separate pass for Glacier National Park.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions by packing layers and rain gear.
- Follow park guidelines for wildlife safety and proper waste disposal.
- Consider renting a car for flexibility in exploring the parks, especially for the scenic drives.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it when hiking in bear country.
- Stay on designated trails and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
- Check park websites for current conditions, closures, and fire restrictions before your visit.
- Bring a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
By following this Lonely Planet Banff Jasper and Glacier National Park Travel Guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in some of North America’s most breathtaking wilderness areas. Remember to respect the natural environment and local regulations to ensure these parks remain pristine for future generations to enjoy.