Banff, Alberta is a great place to travel any time of year thanks to its natural beauty. Situated within Banff National Park, the town of Banff is surrounded by mountains and glacier-fed lakes, making it one of the most beautiful destinations in Canada. In addition to being an all-around favourable vacation destination, Banff is particularly well-suited for trips with friends because there’s just so much to see and do.
Thinking about planning a vacation with a few of your besties? Here’s a taste of why Banff is a no-brainer when it comes to a BFF-focused trip and what you and your friends can do while you’re there.
Hang out in a hot spring
If you and your BFFs feel like being pampered, head to Banff Upper Hot Springs for an ultra-soothing soak any time of year – even in the winter as water temperatures are kept between 37-40 Celsius. Picture this: You’re gazing up at snow-covered peaks as you get enveloped by the steaming waters of the hot springs. Banff Upper Hot Springs are also the highest springs in Canada at an elevation of 1,585 metres.
Swoosh down the slopes
For BFFs who like to hit the slopes together, there is no better place then Banff. Banff National Park is one of the best places in North America for skiing and snowboarding and also has one of the longest ski seasons. There are three options: Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village and the Lake Louise Ski Resort. Or you can pick up a Tri Area pass, which will provide you and your friends with access to 8,000 acres of ski terrain, including night skiing at Mount Norquay.
Quick tip: Head to the Upper Banff Hot Springs après-ski for a muscle-soothing soak and to discuss where to get dinner and drinks that night.
Or slide down in a snow tube
Got your fill of skiing or snowboarding? Grab your BFFs and head to ski areas in either Banff or Lake Louise for some serious fun skidding down the slopes in a snow tube. If you’ve never done it, the experience is pretty exhilarating and will most definitely make you feel like a kid again. Think of snow tubing like tobogganing only a lot more epic and you don’t need to climb to the top of the hill – you get towed up and then hit top speeds sliding down.
Glide around on a scenic skating rink
You might’ve been ice skating, but have you ever skated on a glacier-fed lake surrounded by mountains? If the answer is no, then you and your friends need to add skating to your itinerary ASAP. There are several rinks scattered throughout Banff National Park so you’ve got plenty of options, most of which are free. Definitely check out the rink at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which is right on beautiful Lake Louise and was voted number one on CNN Travel’s list of 10 most beautiful skating rinks in the world. Another rink to check out is at Fairmont Banff Springs. It has a heated shelter and a crackling fire if you need to warm up.
Stuff your face
What’s a trip with your friends without being able to stuff your faces with delicious food? Finding places to do that in Banff won’t be a problem, so bring your appetite. No matter what you’re in the mood for, what your budget is or what kind of culinary experience you want to have, you’ll find it in Banff. Head to The Grizzly House to share some decadent cheese fondue – a perfect indulgence after a day on the slopes. If you’re looking to sample local cuisine, have dinner one night at The Bison, where you can order (as the name suggests) local bison steaks. Beer fans will want to visit Banff Ave. Brewing Co. for elevated pub food and beer brewed on-site. If you’re celebrating a special occasions or just want a really fancy night of fine dining, make a reservation at The Eden Restaurant, Western Canada’s only 5-Diamond restaurant.
Shop until you drop
BFFs who shop together, stay together (or something like that). Banff is filled with fun places to spend a few dollars, whether you’re looking to add to your wardrobe, find some funky souvenirs or upgrade your ski gear. Some interesting places to check out include Rocky Mountain Soap Co. for natural soap, skin care and body care products; Banff Sweet Shop, a popular place to stock up on candy and homemade fudge; 4 Dangerous Dolls for unique fashion and accessories; and Banff Trail Riders to get decked out in Western wear.
Featured image: istockphoto.com/AZarubaika
