3-Day Rockies Itinerary

Day 1: Calgary to Banff

Drive: 1.5 hours (125 km)

Activities:

• • Walk around Banff town and visit iconic Bow Falls.

• • Hike: Tunnel Mountain Trail (4.5 km, moderate, offering panoramic views of Banff and the
    Bow Valley).

• • Visit the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel for a tour or to enjoy a meal, afternoon tea,
    or simply marvel at the castle-like architecture and surrounding scenery.

• • Relax and soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

• • Visit the Banff Gondola for stunning sunset views a top of the Sulphur Mountain.

• • If you prefer a different type of sunset experience, head to Banff Ave Brewery. There’s a cozy little balcony where you can watch the sunset while enjoying a pint of freshly tapped beer.

Overnight: Tunnel Mountain Campground

Day 2: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Drive: 40 minutes (57 km)

Activities:

• • Morning: Visit Moraine Lake for a breathtaking sunrise (shuttle required).

• • Hike: Lake Louise: Lake Agnes Tea House (7.4 km, 3h, moderate, with beautiful alpine lake
    views).

• • Optional Add-On: Extend the hike to Big Beehive and Devil's Thumb for
    unforgettable views.

• • Afternoon: Stroll along the shores of Lake Louise or rent a canoe to explore the lake.

Must-See Tip: Don’t miss the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for a photo stop, coffee break, or lunch overlooking the lake.

Overnight: Lake Louise Campground

Day 3: Icefields Parkway Day Trip

Drive: Explore north along the Icefields Parkway (considered one of the most scenic drives in the world).

Stops and Activities:

• • Peyto Lake Viewpoint: A short walk to one of the Rockies' most iconic turquoise lakes.

• • Bow Lake: Take a short hike to Bow Glacier Falls or enjoy a peaceful lakeside break.

• • Wilcox Pass Viewpoint: Stop at the trailhead near the Icefields Centre. A short, uphill hike
    (3 km trip) leads to the Red Chairs and offers incredible views of the Columbia Icefield and
    surrounding peaks.

• • Athabasca Glacier: Stop at the Columbia Icefield for a quick view or join a glacier tour (if time allows).

• • Johnston Canyon: On your way back to Banff or Calgary, explore the stunning canyon with
    its waterfalls (Lower Falls: 2.6 km round trip, easy). If you have extra time, you can extend
    this trail and continue to the Ink Pots. The entire trail is 11.5 km, takes about 4 hours,
    moderate.

• • Must-See Tip: Stop at roadside viewpoints like Mistaya Canyon or Crowfoot Glacier for quick photos.

• • Return: Drive back to Banff or Calgary in the evening.

Tip: Check the shuttle schedule to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in advance.
Pack Layers: Mountain weather is unpredictable - prepare for both sun and sudden chills.
Fuel Up: Gas stations are sparse on the Icefields Parkway; top up in Banff or Lake Louise.
Safety: Carry bear spray if hiking and be mindful of trail conditions and closures.