Banff is a world-renowned resort town located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Situated along the Trans-Canada Highway, the town lies about 126 km west of Calgary and 58 km east of Lake Louise. At an elevation ranging between 1,400 and 1,630 metres (4,590–5,350 ft), Banff is surrounded by breathtaking peaks, alpine forests, and pristine rivers.
Founded in 1885 and incorporated as a town in 1990, Banff holds the distinction of being the first municipality to incorporate within a Canadian national park. Today, it stands as one of the country’s premier tourist destinations, celebrated for its natural hot springs, year-round outdoor sports, and cultural festivals.
History and Origins
The region has been continuously inhabited for at least 10,000 years, with Salishan, Nakoda, and Blackfoot peoples establishing settlements and trading posts in the Bow Valley.
Banff as we know it emerged in the 1880s, when workers building the Canadian Pacific Railway discovered hot springs on Sulphur Mountain. Recognizing the area’s potential, the federal government created a 26 km² reserve around the springs in 1885, later expanded and renamed Rocky Mountain Park—the birthplace of Canada’s National Park system.
The Canadian Pacific Railway capitalized on the location’s allure by building the iconic Banff Springs Hotel, promoting it worldwide as a luxury mountain resort. Over time, Banff grew into a bustling service centre for park visitors.
During World War I, an internment camp was established in Banff and Castle Mountain (1915–1917), where Ukrainian immigrants were forced into labour to build park infrastructure. Despite this dark chapter, Banff went on to achieve global recognition in 1985, when UNESCO declared Banff National Park a World Heritage Site as part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks.
Geography and Climate
Banff sits in a dramatic mountain setting, flanked by Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, Mount Norquay, and Sulphur Mountain. The town is located near the Bow River and Spray River, close to the popular Bow Falls.
The climate is subarctic (Dfc), with long, cold winters and mild summers. Average winter lows dip to –13.5°C, while July highs reach 22.5°C. Snow can fall in any month, and annual snowfall averages 183.8 cm (72 in). Notably, Banff experienced its record high of 37.8°C (100°F) during the 2021 Western Canada heatwave.
Demographics
According to the 2021 Canadian census, Banff had a population of 8,305 with a striking density of 2,033 people per km², reflecting its compact size of just over 4 km².
Banff’s population is remarkably diverse due to its tourism-driven economy. While the majority are of European descent, significant communities of Southeast Asian, East Asian, South Asian, and Indigenous peoples live and work in the town. Many residents are employed in the tourism, hospitality, and outdoor recreation sectors, and Parks Canada regulates residency to ensure housing availability for those who work within the park.
Tourism and Attractions
Banff’s appeal lies in its stunning mountain landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor activities. The town serves as a base for exploring nearby attractions such as:
- Banff Upper Hot Springs – A historic spa experience on Sulphur Mountain.
- Banff Gondola – Ascends to the summit of Sulphur Mountain with panoramic boardwalks at Sanson Peak.
- Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – A castle-like luxury hotel dating back to the late 19th century.
- Lake Minnewanka – Popular for cruises, fishing, and hiking.
- Tunnel Mountain – A short, accessible hike within the townsite.
- Mount Norquay – Known for skiing, biking trails, and via ferrata climbing routes.
Banff also hosts major cultural events, including the Banff Mountain Film Festival, Banff World Television Festival, and seasonal celebrations like the Banff Winter Carnival.
In winter, the town is a gateway to world-class ski resorts, including Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay. In summer, Banff is a hub for hiking, cycling, climbing, and wildlife viewing.
Culture and Notable Figures
Banff has long been a centre for arts and culture. The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, located on Tunnel Mountain, stages concerts, theatre, dance, and visual arts exhibitions.
One of the town’s most influential figures was Norman Luxton, nicknamed “Mr. Banff”. He founded the Crag and Canyon newspaper, built hotels and theatres, and promoted Indigenous culture through the Banff Indian Days festival.
Interestingly, Banff’s global recognition extends even to outer space: in 1976, a crater on Mars was officially named Banff Crater.
Infrastructure and Transportation
Banff is connected to Calgary and beyond via the Trans-Canada Highway. The town also operates Roam Transit, a hybrid bus system with routes linking local attractions and neighbouring Canmore and Lake Louise.
The historic Banff railway station, built in 1910, is now served by luxury trains such as the Rocky Mountaineer, though regular VIA Rail services no longer stop in the town. The closest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC).
Healthcare services are available at the Banff – Mineral Springs Hospital, and community life is supported by strong local governance under the Banff Town Council.
Modern Banff
Banff continues to evolve while balancing tourism with environmental stewardship. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the town converted parts of its main street into a pedestrian-only zone, enhancing its walkable, resort-town feel.
Today, Banff welcomes millions of visitors each year who come to experience its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures, making it one of Canada’s most iconic destinations.
