How to Beat the Crowds at Three Must-See Attractions

The welcome sign on the way into Banff

Thinking about visiting Banff? Two options probably come to mind: a summer sightseeing and hiking trip or a winter ski vacation. Depending on your tastes, both are great choices, but before you search for flights and accommodation, have you considered shoulder season? 

When I’m planning a trip anywhere, factors such as prices, weather and crowds are usually what will convince me to either pull the trigger or steer clear of the vacation spot that I’m considering. Some people may find the downtime during shoulder season limiting to their favourite activities, but spring and autumn in the Rocky Mountains still provide a generous selection of beautiful sights to see with cheaper lodging and fewer crowds. After having experienced trips out West during both peak season and off-season, I can safely say that I much preferred the latter. 

1. Lake Louise

Arguably the most popular spot in the park, you’ve probably already seen pictures of Lake Louise, but it isn’t until you see it with your own eyes that you will be truly blown away by the breathtakingly vast landscape of mountains and water. Visiting this spot during peak times might leave you waiting in line to get the perfect picture, so make sure to get there early in both the day and the season!

Visitors taking out rental canoes on the lake

2. Moraine Lake 

Moraine Lake contains some of the most stunningly vibrant glacier water I have ever seen and I struggled to make my camera do it justice. It was significantly less popular than the nearby Lake Louise, giving me and my girlfriend much more time to enjoy the natural scenery and take a peaceful, leisurely hour-long hike along the shoreline which I’d highly recommend.

Moraine Lake seen from the top of a rock pile

3. Johnston Canyon

Standing on the pathway in Johnston Canyon

Even in the colder weather we experienced at this spot this spring, Johnston Canyon was still surprisingly busy and it wasn’t easy finding an open parking spot in the early afternoon, so make sure you get there early! I loved listening to the sound of rushing water as we followed the 2.6 km trail up a beautiful pathway that snakes through the canyon and forested sections. If you’re up for it, the challenging additional 3 km trail found after the Upper Falls will lead you to the Ink Pots which were deserted and absolutely worth it.

The Ink Pots beyond Johnston Canyon

Have you visited the Canadian Rockies before? If so, when and where did you go?