Banff travel, tours and Vacations.

A short guide about Banff

Imagine waking up to snow-capped peaks, glistening glaciers and sweeping vistas – well that is just one of the appeals of the Banff National Park. The park sits right on the door step of the town of Banff and here in these surroundings you can enjoy all the comforts of home with roaring log fires and hot hearty meals. Or step out into the wilderness – the home of some of North America's wildest creatures including the Grizzly Bear and Wolves.

In 1883, the transcontinental railway started to cut its way through the formidable Rocky Mountains. That same year, three railway workers chanced upon simmering hot springs, and a tourist destination was born. The Cave and Basin National Historic Site - as these Hot Springs are now called, became Canada's first National Park in 1885, and was later expanded to become Banff National Park.

Banff is recognized as Canada’s highest town above sea level and is home to over 6,000 people and it is a busy small town with a densely developed core of about three square blocks. Due to development restrictions within the National Parks most of the buildings are only three stories high - with the towns in the Canadian Rockies having an average population of about 5,000 people.

Although Banff is known as a ski resort, during the summer months it becomes a wall of people and cars – Banff is surrounded by areas providing glorious hiking opportunities. Prime time to hike is July and August as the days are warm and sunny—the sun doesn’t set until around 10:30pm—so you can hike the Park during the day and take shorter hikes around the town in the evening.

Tourabout’s vacation packages to Banff can involve plenty of adventurous activities - spend your time exploring the Waterton Lake National Park or visit the designated World Heritage Site – Head-Smashed-in Buffalo Jump. Banff is also home to elegant shops, delectable international dining, museums, and tasteful entertainment. Visit or stay in the spectacular Banff Springs Hotel, take a dip at the Hot Springs and be sure to take in the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.