Banff National Park

Scenic viewpoints in Banff National Park

This collection highlights key observation points throughout Banff National Park, ranging from roadside stops along the Icefields Parkway to elevated hiking trails. It features the turquoise glacial waters of Moraine and Peyto Lakes, the historic Bow Falls, and the naturally eroded pillars of the Hoodoos. These sites provide perspectives on the region's unique geological features, including the Valley of the Ten Peaks, the Bow River watershed, and the massive limestone faces of Mount Rundle and Castle Mountain.

Scenic Viewpoints — Map

Yoshio Kohara / CC BY 3.0

A

Bow lake

Glacial lake at the base of Bow Summit. It serves as the source of the Bow River and provides views of the Crowfoot Glacier and Wapta Icefield.

B

Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint

Roadside stop on the Icefields Parkway featuring views of Mount Chephren's pyramid-shaped peak and the Mistaya River valley.

Gustavo Gerdel / CC BY-SA 4.0

C

Moraine lake

Glacial lake situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks at an elevation of 1,884 meters. Its distinct turquoise color comes from light reflecting off rock flour.

D

Moraine lake

Glacial lake situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks at an elevation of 1,884 meters. Its distinct turquoise color comes from light reflecting off rock flour.

E

Peyto Lake View

Elevated vantage point at Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway, overlooking a glacier-fed lake known for its wolf-like shape.

Tobi 87 / CC BY-SA 4.0

F

Peyto Lake - Viewpoint

Elevated vantage point at Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway, overlooking a glacier-fed lake known for its wolf-like shape.

G

Waterfowl Lake - Viewpoint North

Northern observation point overlooking the lake and the surrounding peaks of the Mistaya Valley.

Jim Ghoshdastidar / CC-BY-SA

H

Banff Pedestrian Bridge

Timber-supported bridge spanning the Bow River, connecting the central townsite to the Cascade of Time Garden and trails leading to Bow Falls.

Qyd / CC-BY-SA-3.0

I

Hector Lake

The largest natural lake in Banff National Park, named after James Hector, a geologist with the 1850s Palliser Expedition.

Jack Borno / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Two Jack Lake

Glacial lake providing clear reflections of Mount Rundle. The site is a popular spot for viewing sunrise and local wildlife.

K

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Guided boat tour on the park's largest lake, offering historical insights into the submerged former village of Minnewanka Landing.

Jim Ghoshdastidar / CC BY-SA 4.0

L

Bow falls viewpoint

Observation area for the low, powerful waterfall where the Bow River drops over a layer of resistant limestone near the townsite.

M

Viewpoint

Roadside vantage point overlooking the Vermilion Lakes and the north face of Mount Rundle.

N

Tunnel montain Trail

Switchback hiking path leading to the summit of the park's smallest mountain, offering views of the Banff townsite and the Bow Valley.

O

First Grassi Lake

Clear, shallow lake known for its vibrant green and blue hues, fed by underground springs and surrounded by ancient reef fossils.

P

Castle Mountain Lookout

Elevated platform providing views of the 2,766-meter massif, characterized by its fortress-like battlements and horizontal rock layers.

Q

Mount Norquay Lookout

Roadside pull-off on the Mount Norquay access road, offering a panoramic perspective of the town of Banff and the Fairholme Range.

R

Path to Hoodoos

Trail leading to a series of naturally eroded pillars made of glacial silt and clay, topped with harder rock caps.

S

Johnston Creek Valley

Area featuring deep limestone canyons, multiple waterfalls, and the unique Ink Pots mineral springs.

T

Fairview Lookout

Hiking trail vantage point on the side of Mount Fairview, providing an elevated view of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau.

Other Lists

Banff National Park: The Absolute Essentials Majestic Mountain Peaks Glaciers and Glacial Lakes Alpine Camps & Huts Majestic Waterfalls