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72 Hours In Banff
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Banff is a small mountain community with world-class amenities and incredible natural beauty. Nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains and only 1.5 hours from Calgary, the resort town is an easy getaway for some winter adventure. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks in only 72 hours you can get a taste of the adventures it has to offer and a little après too.
Banff is bustling at any time of year so you’ll want to book sooner rather than later to get the space you want.
If you want to stay close to all the action the new Moose Hotel is close to all main services and boasts an unrivaled view of Cascade Mountain from their rooftop hot tub.
photo credit: instagram.com/p/BKoQrRAhleE/
Day 1
Morning
Get out for some powdery action with skiing or snowboarding at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine, or Lake Louise. Each resort has a shuttle to pick you up from the hotel, so slip into your boots and enjoy the view as you relax en route to the mountains.
photo credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ6J-StgJIr
Alternatively, if you’re reluctant to slide down a mountain strapped to a board or skis, you can try Fat Biking In The Mountains. A safe, unique and beautiful way to explore the snowy terrain Banff has to offer. Just rent a bike from Soul Ski and Bike downtown in Banff and they’ll let you know what trails would be best to explore.
We learned that Fat Biking was even an option through the.A for Adventure company. A team of storytellers and content creators who help spread messages through the use of video, photos and social media.
Mid-Morning
After your mountain session, dust off the snow, you’ll be hungry. Celebrate your victory and grab a quick bite to eat at the world-famous BeaverTails pastry store for an epic treat (you won’t regret it). There are two locations in Banff, one near Wild Bill’s Legendary Saloon on Caribou St. and the other near the Dancing Sasquatch on Banff Ave.
photo credit: beavertails.com
Afternoon
Soak in the traditions of Banff at the Upper Hot Springs, or indulge in a relaxing massage at Meadow Spa & Pools.
photo credit: hotsprings.ca
Dining
Sink your teeth into the local flavour at the Elk and Oarsman or Eddie’s Burger bar with an Elk burger and a craft beer.
photo credit: elkandoarsman.com
Play
Stroll down the main street to Park Distillery for an incredible cocktail crafted with house-made spirits in a cozy, cabin style dining room.
photo credit: parkdistillery.com
Day 2
Morning
Drop into the Whyte Museum or Cave and Basin Historic Site to learn about the history of Banff’s hot springs or visit the Banff Centre to try out rock climbing and visit the Walter Philips Gallery.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous and thrilling you could try The Ultimate Ice Climbing Experience hosted by the Mountain Skills Academy which starts at 9:00am at the Rocky Mountain Bagel Co.
photo credit: mountainskillsacademy.com
Interesting Fact: The Canadian Rockies is uncontested in its title as the world’s top ice climbing destination in canada. Not surprising when one considers it has over 1000 easily accessed ice and mixed routes in well over 30,000 square kilometers of terrain!
Afternoon
Step out on Top of the World with a Snowshoe Tour at Sunshine Meadows that brings you to the backdoor of Assiniboine Park and views of the Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies.
photo credit: whitemountainadventures.com
Dining
A Banff must-try is The Grizzly House for traditional Swiss fondue. Reservations highly recommended!
photo credit: banffgrizzlyhouse.com
Play
You can’t go wrong with bowling and foosball at High Rollers while enjoying a few selections from their 48 taps. I recommend the Village Brewing Blonde Natural Golden Ale.
photo credit: highrollersbanff.com
Day 3
Morning
Get your fill of breathtaking views and get ready to get your adventure on with an intimate and fun dog sled session with Kingmik tours through the Canadian Rockies. The tour takes about 2 hours and will give you plenty of time to take photos for your friends, family and instagram followers.
photo credit: kingmikdogsledtours.com
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon getting Instagram memories of your adventure. Head up Tunnel Mountain before you venture out of town on a drive around Lake Minnewanka, down the Bow Valley Parkway, or up to the Mt. Norquay lookout. Watch for signs of wildlife; Elk are common in this area.
photo credit: instagram.com/p/BO8WYqYlOaq
Dining
Saving the best for last – The Bison or The Maple Leaf have amazing menus and matching wine lists.
Play
Catch some live music at the Rose and Crown every night at 10pm or head over to Wild Bill’s for a laid back, country atmosphere.
photo credit: instagram.com/p/BRaZcLZh5e-
This is only a taste of the activities Banff has to offer in the winter, but don’t let your sense of adventure get in the way of the purpose of your vacation in canada. The mountains are a wonderful place to slow down and take in the natural beauty of your surroundings.
