EvanBanff National Park is one of Canada’s most iconic destinations. With its stunning mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife, it attracts millions of visitors each year. But where should you stay to make the most of your Banff adventure? Banff has something for every traveler and every budget. Here’s a guide to the best places to stay in Banff National Park.
Banff Town: Convenience & Comfort
Staying in Banff town offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. You’ll be close to shops, restaurants, museums, and visitor centers, while also having easy access to nearby trails and attractions.
Explore the scenic trails of Tunnel Mountain, visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs, or take a ride on the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the Rockies.
| Accommodation | Type | Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Banff Springs | Luxury Hotel | Luxury spa, championship golf course, fine dining, indoor and outdoor pools, pet-friendly | $$$$ |
| Moose Hotel & Suites | Hotel | Rooftop hot pools, fitness center, spa, pet-friendly | $$$ |
| Banff Aspen Lodge | Lodge | Outdoor hot tubs, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi | $$ |
| HI Banff Alpine Centre – Hostel | Hostel | Shared kitchen, common areas, free Wi-Fi, on-site bar and restaurant | $ |
Fairmont Banff Springs
Address: 405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1J4
Price Range: $$$$
Highlights: Luxury spa, championship golf course, fine dining, indoor and outdoor pools, pet-friendly
Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs offers a luxurious retreat with stunning mountain views. Guests can indulge in the full-service spa, play a round at the championship golf course, or dine at one of the many on-site restaurants. The hotel’s historic architecture and elegant accommodations provide a unique and memorable experience.
Its regal design and mountain backdrop make it a favorite for honeymooners and celebrities alike. Rooms are luxurious yet cozy, and guests have direct access to mountain trails, the Bow River, and more. Whether you’re here for a spa retreat or an active adventure, this place oozes luxury and history.
Moose Hotel & Suites
Address: 345 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1H8
Price Range: $$$
Highlights: Rooftop hot pools, fitness center, spa, pet-friendly
Moose Hotel & Suites combines rustic elegance with modern comfort. Located right in town, it’s perfect for travelers who want convenience without sacrificing style. The rooms are spacious, many with kitchenettes or balconies, and the rooftop hot pools offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The on-site Meadow Spa & Pools is a bonus for relaxation after a long day of hiking or skiing.
Banff Aspen Lodge
Address: 401 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A9
Price Range: $$
Highlights: Outdoor hot tubs, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi
Banff Aspen Lodge offers comfortable accommodations just a short walk from downtown Banff. Guests can start their day with a complimentary full breakfast, relax in the outdoor hot tubs, or explore the nearby shops and restaurants. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort and a great location.
Guests appreciate the clean, modern rooms and complimentary perks like ski storage and parking. It’s a great home base for skiers, hikers, and explorers looking for a comfortable place to unwind.
HI Banff Alpine Centre – Hostel
Address: 801 Hidden Ridge Way, Banff, AB T1L 1B3
Price Range: $
Highlights: Shared kitchen, common areas, free Wi-Fi, on-site bar and restaurant
HI Banff Alpine Centre provides budget-friendly accommodations with a social atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or backpackers. Guests can prepare meals in the shared kitchen, relax in the common areas, or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. The hostel’s location offers easy access to hiking trails and public transportation.
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake:
For Lake Lovers and Mountain Views
A serene location with jaw-dropping scenery and access to skiing, hiking, and glacier adventures. Hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House, paddle on Lake Louise, or hit the slopes at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
| Accommodation | Type | Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Luxury Hotel | Lakeside, luxury spa, fine dining, fitness center, canoe rentals, pet-friendly | $$$$ |
| Moraine Lake Lodge | Eco-Lodge | Lakefront cabins, fine dining, guided hikes, canoe rentals | $$$$ |
| Lake Louise Inn | Hotel | Indoor pool, fitness center, multiple dining options, pet-friendly | $$-$$$ |
| Mountaineer Lodge | Lodge | Complimentary breakfast, hot tub, free Wi-Fi | $$ |
| HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre | Hostel | Shared kitchen, common areas, on-site cafe | $ |
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Address: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$$$
Highlights: Lakeside, luxury spa, fine dining, fitness center, canoe rentals, pet-friendly
Situated on the shores of Lake Louise, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers a luxurious mountain escape. Guests can enjoy canoeing on the lake, indulge in spa treatments, or dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants. The hotel’s elegant accommodations and stunning surroundings make it a popular destination year-round.
Moraine Lake Lodge
Address: 1 Moraine Lake Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$$$
Highlights: Lakefront cabins, fine dining, guided hikes, canoe rentals
Moraine Lake Lodge offers an intimate retreat with breathtaking views of Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Guests can stay in lakefront cabins, enjoy gourmet meals at the on-site restaurant, or participate in guided hikes. The lodge’s serene setting provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Only summer access from June to October.
Lake Louise Inn
Address: 210 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$-$$$
Highlights: Indoor pool, fitness center, multiple dining options, pet-friendly
Lake Louise Inn offers a variety of accommodations including rooms, suites, and apartments. It features an indoor pool, three restaurants, and easy access to the ski resort. The hotel’s convenient location makes it easy to explore the surrounding area.
Mountaineer Lodge
Address: 101 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$
Highlights: Complimentary breakfast, hot tub, free Wi-Fi
Mountaineer Lodge provides comfortable accommodations with easy access to Lake Louise and the ski resort. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast, relax in the hot tub, or take advantage of the free Wi-Fi. The lodge’s friendly service and convenient location make it a great choice for travelers.
HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre
Address: 203 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $
Highlights: Shared kitchen, common areas, on-site cafe
HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre offers budget-friendly accommodations with a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can prepare meals in the shared kitchen, relax in the common areas, or enjoy a meal at the on-site cafe. The hostel’s location provides easy access to hiking trails and public transportation.
Bow Valley Parkway & Icefields Parkway
Great for travelers exploring both Banff and Jasper National Parks.
| Accommodation | Type | Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baker Creek by Basecamp | Cabins | Creekside cabins, wood-burning fireplaces, no Wi-Fi, romantic setting | $$$ |
| Storm Mountain Lodge | Historic Cabins | Historic log cabins, gourmet dining, fireplace, no Wi-Fi, eco-conscious | $$$ |
| Castle Mountain Chalets | Chalets | Pet-friendly cabins, gas fireplaces, kitchenettes, store and gas station on site | $$-$$$ |
| Glacier View Lodge | Hotel | Glacier-facing rooms, fine dining, guided glacier tours, immersive experiences | $$$ |
| The Crossing Resort | Motel | Motel-style rooms, gas station, convenience store, restaurant | $$ |
| The Lodge at Bow Lake | Lodge | Historic lakeside lodge, rustic rooms, no TV or Wi-Fi, communal dining | $$$ |
Baker Creek by Basecamp
Address: Bow Valley Pkwy, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$$
Highlights: Creekside cabins, wood-burning fireplaces, no Wi-Fi, romantic setting
Tucked along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, Baker Creek by Basecamp is the definition of a romantic escape in the wild. These cozy cabins and suites are beautifully designed with rustic wooden interiors and feature crackling wood-burning fireplaces. Most accommodations have kitchenettes, and the absence of Wi-Fi helps guests truly unplug and soak in the tranquility. Great for couples and families wanting a cozy mountain escape.
The parkway is rich with hiking opportunities like Johnston Canyon and the Ink Pots. Wildlife sightings, especially elk and bears, are common in this peaceful stretch of the park.
Storm Mountain Lodge
Address: Banff National Park Of Canada, Highway 93 South, AB T1L 1C8
Price Range: $$$
Highlights: Historic log cabins, gourmet dining, fireplace, no Wi-Fi, eco-conscious
Storm Mountain Lodge is a charming historical lodge situated near the intersection of Highway 1 and Highway 93. Each cabin here is a step back in time, complete with claw-foot tubs, wood-burning stoves, and hand-built log interiors. The on-site restaurant serves hearty gourmet meals using local ingredients. With no phones or TVs, the lodge offers a rare escape from the digital world, making it perfect for couples or solo travelers looking to unplug.
Hike to Boom Lake or Twin Lakes directly from the lodge, or take a short drive to Marble Canyon for one of the most underrated canyon walks in the Rockies.
Castle Mountain Chalets
Address: Banff-Windermere Hwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1B5
Price Range: $$-$$$
Highlights: Pet-friendly cabins, gas fireplaces, kitchenettes, store and gas station on site
Castle Mountain Chalets sit halfway between Banff and Lake Louise, making them an ideal base for exploring both towns. These well-equipped cabins are spacious, pet-friendly, and come with kitchenettes and gas fireplaces for a cozy mountain experience. The quiet, forested location is perfect for wildlife watchers and hikers. There’s also a general store and gas station right on-site, which adds extra convenience.
Castle Lookout and Rockbound Lake trails are within minutes, offering some of the best alpine hikes in the area with fewer crowds.
Glacier View Lodge
Address: Highway 93 N, Icefields Pkwy, Improvement District No. 12, AB T1L 1J3
Price Range: $$$
Highlights: Glacier-facing rooms, fine dining, guided glacier tours, immersive experiences
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a glacier outside your window, Glacier View Lodge is your spot. Located across from the Athabasca Glacier along the Icefields Parkway, this upscale lodge offers breathtaking views and a uniquely curated guest experience, including access to the Glacier Skywalk and Columbia Icefield Adventure. Rooms are stylish, modern, and thoughtfully designed to keep you comfortable while maximizing views of the massive icefield.
Take the Columbia Icefield Adventure snowcoach tour or step onto the Glacier Skywalk. There are also excellent hiking opportunities to Wilcox Pass and Parker Ridge.
The Crossing Resort
Address: Highway 93 and Highway 11, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$
Highlights: Motel-style rooms, gas station, convenience store, restaurant
Situated at a critical junction on the Icefields Parkway, The Crossing Resort provides basic, clean accommodations perfect for road trippers. With on-site gas, food, and a store, it’s a practical pit stop for travelers heading between Banff and Jasper. While not luxurious, its location surrounded by massive peaks makes it a memorable place to rest and recharge.
Explore nearby Mistaya Canyon or hike to Glacier Lake for a remote and scenic adventure off the beaten path.
The Lodge at Bow Lake
Address: Icefields Pkwy, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Price Range: $$$
Highlights: Historic lakeside lodge, rustic rooms, no TV or Wi-Fi, communal dining
The Lodge at Bow Lake (formerly Num-Ti-Jah Lodge) is a charming heritage lodge nestled at the base of Crowfoot Mountain. This quiet retreat is a true escape into the wilderness, offering rooms that emphasize simplicity and views over Bow Lake. Without the distractions of technology, you’ll find yourself enjoying long walks around the lake or cozying up with a book by the fireplace. Meals are served family-style in the dining room, creating a communal feel.
Hike the Bow Glacier Falls Trail directly from the lodge or enjoy photography and paddling on the turquoise waters of Bow Lake.
Sunshine Village Area
Sunshine Mountain Lodge
Address: 1 Sunshine Access Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1J5
Price Range: $$$$
Highlights: Ski-in/ski-out access, hot tub, fine dining, gondola access only
Sunshine Mountain Lodge is Banff’s only ski-in/ski-out hotel, located right on the slopes of Sunshine Village. Accessible by gondola, the lodge offers cozy, upscale mountain lodging with the bonus of zero commuting to the ski lifts. During winter, you can ski straight from your room. In summer, it becomes a hiking haven with trails into alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. The hot tub, mountain views, and high-quality dining make this a year-round gem.
In winter, hit Sunshine’s legendary powder. In summer, hike Sunshine Meadows—arguably one of the most beautiful alpine hikes in the Rockies.
Campgrounds in Banff National Park
If you want to sleep under the stars and truly immerse yourself in nature, Banff’s campgrounds offer fantastic options.
| Campgrounds | Location | Types | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds | Near Banff town | Tents, RVs, and oTENTik options | Washrooms, fire pits, some sites with electricity |
| Two Jack Lakeside Campground | Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive | Tent and small RV | Lakeside views, basic facilities, fire pits |
| Lake Louise Campground | Lake Louise Village | Tents and RVs (with separate sections) | Fencing for bear safety, showers, fire pits, close to hiking trails |
| Johnston Canyon Campground | Bow Valley Parkway | Tent | Fire pits, restrooms, direct trail access |
Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds: I, II & Village
Address: Tunnel Mountain Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1B3
Location: Near Banff town
Types: Tents, RVs, and oTENTik options
Features: Washrooms, fire pits, some sites with electricity
Tunnel Mountain offers three campground options and caters to both tent and RV campers. Its close proximity to Banff town makes it the most convenient spot for those wanting to experience nature without straying far from shops and restaurants.
Two Jack Lakeside Campground
Address: Banff National Park Of Canada, Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2
Location: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive
Types: Tent and small RV
Features: Lakeside views, basic facilities, fire pits
Two Jack is beloved for its serene location right on the lake. Ideal for those who love sunrise photography or paddling, it offers a peaceful experience in nature with a rustic feel.
Lake Louise Campground
Address: Fairview Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L
Location: Lake Louise Village
Types: Tents and RVs (with separate sections)
Features: Fencing for bear safety, showers, fire pits, close to hiking trails
This well-run campground offers proximity to Lake Louise and its trails while still giving you the thrill of camping in bear country—with electric fencing and safe food storage facilities.
Johnston Canyon Campground
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1J5
Location: Bow Valley Parkway
Types: Tent
Features: Fire pits, restrooms, direct trail access
Located steps from the famous Johnston Canyon, this site is perfect for early-morning hikes before the tour buses arrive. It’s quiet, wooded, and ideal for hikers and families.
Tips for Booking Your Stay in Banff
- Book Early: Hotels and lodges fill up quickly, especially from June to September and during holidays.
- Shuttles & Parking: Some lakes like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise have limited parking—consider shuttle services or staying nearby.
- Budget Options: Hostels and campsites offer affordable alternatives to resorts and hotels.
- Winter vs. Summer: Choose accommodations based on your preferred activities—ski resorts shine in winter, lakeside lodges are stunning in summer.
Banff National Park has no shortage of beautiful places to stay, whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or solitude. With careful planning, you can find the the best places to stay in Banff that aligns with your itinerary, style, and budget.
FAQs
What is the most luxurious place to stay in Banff?
The Fairmont Banff Springs and Chateau Lake Louise are top-tier choices for travelers looking for luxury, history, and amenities.
Can I camp year-round in Banff?
Most campgrounds operate seasonally (May–October), though Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court offers limited winter availability.
Which lodge has the best glacier views?
Glacier View Lodge offers direct views of the Athabasca Glacier and exclusive access to Icefield tours.
Is there pet-friendly accommodation in Banff?
Yes! Options like Moose Hotel & Suites, Castle Mountain Chalets, and some Fairmont properties are pet-friendly.
What’s the best place to stay for hiking?
Mountaineer Lodge and Storm Mountain Lodge both provide excellent proximity to major trailheads and alpine routes.
Time for Adventure
