Banff First-Visit Classics
Based in Banff town, see the town gondola, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon in three days.
Day one is an easy outing around Banff after you arrive, with the Sulphur Mountain Gondola for panoramic views and a soak in the hot springs. Day two takes the Parks Canada shuttle to Moraine Lake first, then continues to Lake Louise. Day three follows the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon before returning to the airport. Ideal for first-timers with limited time, skipping the Icefields Parkway and Yoho.
The Moraine Lake Road is served only by shuttle from June to mid-October. Private cars are banned year-round, so reserve in advance.
Day by day
Day 1 · Arrival in Banff and the Sulphur Mountain Gondola
Banff & Lake Louise（Banff Town、Banff Gondola (Sulphur Mountain)、Banff Upper Hot Springs、Bow Falls）
Rent a car at Calgary Airport or take the airport bus to Banff, about 1.5–2 hours. Walk around town; Roam Transit buses serve the gondola station.
Summer evenings are quieter at the gondola. Buy timed tickets online in advance.
Stay: Banff Townsite
Day 2 · Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
Banff & Lake Louise（Moraine Lake、Lake Louise、Lake Agnes Tea House）
Drive or take Roam to the Lake Louise transfer point, about 50 minutes. Then take the shuttle to Moraine Lake and a lake-area shuttle to Lake Louise.
Shuttles require advance booking. Start at Moraine Lake for fewer crowds.
Stay: Banff Townsite
Day 3 · Johnston Canyon and Return
Banff & Lake Louise（Johnston Canyon、Vermilion Lakes）
Drive the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon, about 30 minutes, then return via Banff to Calgary Airport, about 2 hours.
Canyon parking fills up after 9 a.m., so arrive early.