The Best Banff Viewpoints - for When you Don't Feel like Hiking!

If you’re spending a week (or longer) in Banff National Park there’s going to be a few times where you’re tired and don’t have enough energy for another hike. On those days, use this list of Banff viewpoints to have a restful day, but still see some amazing sights!

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Viewpoints Close to the Town

Cascade Mountain Viewpoint– only a short drive from town & they have the iconic red chairs! There is a trail that goes around the lake if you feel up for it, but you will be rewarded with stunning views just by walking to the lake. This is the perfect place for a picnic!

Mount Norquay Lookout– located only ten minutes from the town, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset. It is located halfway up Mount Norquay and offers stunning views of the town, nestled between the surrounding mountains.

Cascade of Time Garden-Located in the town of Banff, across the Bow River. This garden offers incredible views of the town with the Cascades mountain in the background. The garden itself is beautifully kept, with a variety of flowers and trees throughout.

Surprise Corner– just a quick drive from the center of Banff. Surprise Corners offers views of the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel with the Bow River and Sulphur Mountain in the background.

Lake Minnewanka Shoreline– Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff so you definitely don’t want to miss it! The shoreline is large so you can spend some time walking along the rocks or sitting in the famous red chairs.

Banff Viewpoints Outside the Town

Bow Lake Viewpoint – located on the Ice Fields, about 1 hour from the Town of Banff. If you’re already in the area exploring the Athabasca Glacier or hiking to Bow Summit, you definitely need to stop by this viewpoint.

Hector Lake Viewpoint– also located on the Ice Fields, a little less than an hour from the town of Banff. Another one to stop by if you’re already on the Ice Fields. You can walk through the trees to get to the lake. We didn’t have the energy so we just enjoyed the view from the parking lot.

Morant’s Curve– located on the Bow Valley, just under an hour from Banff. This viewpoint is known for its views of the railway tracks curving along the Bow River with the Canadian Rockies as the backdrop.

Castle Cliffs Viewpoint– Also located on the Bow Valley Parkway. It provides a scenic view of Castle Mountain.

Banff National Park is full of hikes and scenic views, but some days you just need to recover from a long hike. This list will help you see gorgeous views, with out hiking long distances!