Banff National Park

Banff National Park is in the Alberta Rockies region of Alberta, Canada. Together with six other national parks it makes up the UNESCO World Heritage site "Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks".

Towns & villages

• Banff
• Lake Louise

Introduction to Banff National Park

Established in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada's first national park and its creation gave birth to Canada's national park system. At 6,641 km², it is also one of the largest national parks in Canada. The park sees visits well into the millions annually.

• Banff Information Centre 224 Banff Av 51.177946,-115.570639 ☎ +1 403-762-1550 +1 403-762-3380Banff. Hours: Winter (Jan 1 to May 17) 9AM Monday - 5PM; Spring (May 18 to June 20) 9AM Monday - 7PM; Summer (June 21 to Sept 3) 8AM Monday - 8PM; Fall (Sept 4 to 19) 9AM Monday - 7PM; Winter (Sept 20 to May 16) 9AM Monday - 5PM. Closed December 25.

• Lake Louise Visitor Centre 201 Village Road 51.426146, -116.179144 near Sampson Mall Lake Louise ☎ +1 403-522-3833 +1 403-522-1212 Opening Hours: Winter (January 1 to April 29) 9AM Monday - 4PM; Spring (April 30 to June 21) 9AM Monday - 5PM; Summer (June 22 to Sept 8) 9AM Monday - 8PM; Fall (Sept 9 to Sept 15) 9AM Monday - 7PM; Fall (Sept 16 to Sept 22) 9AM Monday - 5PM; Winter (Sept 23 to April 30) 9AM Monday - 4PM. Closed December. 25

The park starts in the north at Sunwapta pass GPS 52.199927,-117.135401 just south of the Columbia Icefield and Jasper National Park with the southern park entrance GPS 51.134891,-115.406497 just north of Canmore. The town of Banff and the village and resort of Lake Louise are within the park. The other park entrances are from the east near the Saskatchewan River Crossing GPS 51.977849,-116.736481 and from the west at Kicking Horse Pass GPS 51.452723,-116.296148 and Vermilion Pass GPS 51.232688,-116.048269}}.

History of Banff National Park

This area was inhabited by the Nakoda (Stoney) Indians thousands of years before the white man stole the land. The area was explored by the settlers building the transcontinental railway in 1882. At first the park was centered around the Hot Springs and was officially born in 1885. The first Banff Springs Hotel was built three years later and the current incarnation was built in 1928. The first highway through the park was completed in 1923. The park boundaries as they are today were drawn up in 1930, as part of the National Parks Act passed by Canadian Parliament.

How is the Landscape of Banff National Park

Other than the townsites of Banff and Lake Louise and the three ski areas (Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise) and the highways that bisect the park, it is about 93 percent untouched wilderness. The most dominant feature is of course the mountains, of which vistas are present from anywhere in any direction.

Flora and fauna

The most common wildlife seen in the park are bighorn sheep, deer and North American elk. Moose are more elusive (their population is in decline) and mountain goats are virtually undetectable on the mountainsides without a good pair of binoculars. (Visitors often mistake female bighorn sheep for mountain goats, because female bighorns have short horns somewhat like those of mountain goats.) Although caribou are present in the park and they are rarely seen by visitors. It is important to keep in mind the park is also home to black bears, grizzly bears, wolves, coyotes and cougars (mountain lions).

On the warmer and fuzzier side and the park is home to many tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunks and marmots. The occasional porcupine and beaver may also be found. Bird lovers will want to watch for Ruffed Grouse, Bald Eagles and the ubiquitous Canada Goose.

Weather in Banff National Park

In summer the climate is generally mild. July is the warmest month, with an average temperature of 22 °C. There is commonly snow at highway level in the summer, but the mountain tops will be snow covered year round. In winter the average temperature drops drastically. January is the coldest month with an average of -15 °C. Snow will be found at any elevation in the winter and harsh winter conditions can be expected anywhere at any time. No matter the season, it is important to consider that the temperature will drop 1 °C for every 200 m of elevation gained.

Islam in Banff

The Bow Valley Muslim Association (BVMA) in Banff and Canmore is more than just a masjid; it's a vibrant hub for the Muslim community in the Bow Valley region. Established with the goal of serving both the spiritual and social needs of Muslims in the area, BVMA has become a vital institution for fostering a sense of belonging and connection among community members.

The association provides a range of essential services, including daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers, and special observances during Ramadan and Eid. The mosque is open to locals and visitors alike, making it an accessible space for worship, reflection, and community engagement. For many Muslim travelers visiting the picturesque town of Banff, the BVMA serves as a spiritual sanctuary amidst the stunning natural landscape.

In addition to its religious functions, the Bow Valley Muslim Association is deeply committed to education and outreach. The mosque often hosts educational programs, including Quranic studies, lectures, and youth activities aimed at nurturing the next generation of the Muslim community. These programs are designed not only to enhance religious knowledge but also to instill values of compassion, respect, and community service.

Moreover, the BVMA actively engages with the broader community in Banff and Canmore, working to build bridges of understanding and cooperation. Through interfaith dialogues, community service projects, and cultural events, the association promotes a message of unity and inclusivity. By fostering positive relationships with other local organizations and residents, the BVMA plays a crucial role in enhancing the multicultural fabric of the region.

For Muslims living in or visiting Banff, the Bow Valley Muslim Association offers a welcoming environment where they can practice their faith and connect with others. Whether you’re attending a prayer service, participating in a community event, or seeking guidance, the BVMA is dedicated to supporting the spiritual and social well-being of its members. Its commitment to fostering harmony and understanding in the community makes it an integral part of life in Banff and Canmore.

How to travel to Banff National Park

How to travel to Banff National Park by car

Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) bisects the park east/west. Banff is about an hour and a half from Calgary Alberta and the same from Golden British Columbia. Other ways to enter the park by automobile include the Icefields Parkway from Jasper, Highway 11 from Rocky Mountain House and Red Deer Alberta and Highway 93 from Radium Hot Springs and Cranbrook British Columbia.

Travel by Bus to Banff National Park

• Brewster provides regular scheduled coaches that serve Banff and Lake Louise, departing from Calgary and points in British Columbia.

• Rider Express +1-833-583-3636 Bus service along the Trans-Canada Highway from Winnipeg to Vancouver, twice daily. Service from Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Kamloops, Hope, Abbotsford and Vancouver (British Columbia); Calgary, Strathmore, Canmore, Lake Louise and Banff (Alberta); Medicine Hat, Swift Current, Moose Jaw, Regina, Whitewood and Moosomin (Saskatchewan); and Brandon and Winnipeg (Manitoba).

• Another option is to book one of the many guided bus tours that visit the park. Most of these will depart from Calgary or Vancouver.

There are three airport shuttle providers from the Calgary Airport to Banff and Lake Louise:

• Banff Airporter offers many shuttles daily or private charter shuttles if needed.
• Brewster Banff Airport Express offers shuttle service from the Calgary airport, downtown Calgary, Edmonton airport and the West Edmonton Mall. (Edmonton service is via Jasper and is offered in partnership with Sunday Dog Tours. Schedules vary with the seasons.

Travel by train to Banff National Park

Explore the Canadian Rockies by rail. Day rail tours depart from Banff connecting to Vancouver.

• Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, provides independent year round vacation packages to the most unique and scenic regions of Canada, including travel on the world acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer rail journey.

Between Mid-April and Mid-October and the two-day, all daylight Rocky Mountaineer travels between Vancouver or Whistler, British Columbia and the Rocky Mountain destinations of Jasper, Banff or Calgary Alberta. Guests relax in Redleaf or Goldleaf Service, enjoying onboard commentary and bi-regional cuisine as the awe-inspiring scenery passes by at a leisurely pace. For selected departure date in December and the festive Rocky Mountaineer travels through a winter wonderland where the mountain valleys are covered in a blanket of snow.

What is the best way to fly to Banff National Park

The closest international airport is in Calgary. Vancouver International Airport is roughly 12 hours' drive to the West. Springbank Airport (west of Calgary, towards Banff) is nearly 80 kilometers from Banff. Springbank operates short charter flights with small aircraft. There is a heliport in Cochrane, 5 minutes drive east of the park boundary and a 15-minutes trip from the town of Banff.

Fees and permits for Banff National Park

All visitors stopping in the park (even just for gas) require a park permit. If you are driving through non-stop and the pass is not required. Day passes and annual passes are available.

All Canadian National Parks require visitors to pay an entry fee. Your citizenship or place of residence does not change what you pay; Canadian residents and international visitors pay the same fees. The national parks in Alberta and BC are fairly close to each other and it is feasible to visit several of them in a single day. If you pay an entry fee in one mountain park (e.g. Banff National Park) and visit another on the same day (e.g. Yoho National Park), you will not have to pay a second time. Your paid entry fee is valid until 4PM the following day.

The fees that visitors pay do not go to general government revenues; they are used to enhance and maintain the parks and visitor services.

The daily entry fees for 2018 are:

• C$9.80 for an adult (aged 18-64)
• C$8.30 for a senior (aged 65+)
• free for children and youth (17 and under)
• C$19.60 for a family/group (up to 7 people arriving in one vehicle)

A Discovery Pass includes admission to national historic sites operated by Parks Canada, such as the Banff Park Museum, Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Cafe U Ranch, Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, Fort Langley National Historic Site and more. Parks Canada does not operate all of Canada's national historic sites.

All passes can be purchased at the visitor centers at Banff and Lake Louise or at the tourism website. The Parks Canada website only allows purchase of the Annual Discovery Pass. Visitors staying in for at least 7 days are better off purchasing the annual Discovery Park pass. If you purchase online at the tourism website, it will recommend the cheapest method after you enter your visiting dates.

Additional variable fees are required for camping and backcountry exploration. See the official Parks Canada website for a complete current schedule.

How to get around in Banff National Park

• By far the easiest way to get around is by vehicle. Vehicle rentals are available in Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise. The only places to purchase fuel in the park are in Banff and Lake Louise.
• It is also feasible to cover the park on bicycle, but the mountainous terrain will make this quite a workout.Bicycle rentals (town, road and mountain bikes) are also available with inBanff and Lake Louise.

What to see in Banff National Park

There are several nature trails within half an hour of Banff township. These feature wildlife, waterfalls, lakes, rivers and mountains. Banff is located at a high latitude and thus the scenery is four-seasonal; Banff looks completely different in the winter than it does in the summer.

• Lake Louise 51.417034,-116.218622 Glacial lake with impressive mountain backdrop.

• Peyto Lake 51.717059,-116.515038 - A scenic location on the Icefields Parkway about 40 kilometers north of the town of Lake Louise. Access to the viewing area for this magnificent area is instantly off the parkway and is well signposted. Upon climbing the short distance to the viewing point you are greeted by what many consider to be one of the best views in Canada. The lake is located in a convergence of valleys neighbored by majestic mountains and rich forests. The lake system is fed from the Peyto Glacier to the left of the view point and this gives the lake a magnificent blue colour in the summer months due to the mineral content.

• Moraine Lake 51.327501,-116.1818 - Scenic mountain location with the lake an incredible blue colour due to the glacial rock flour. A short paved walk up from the vehicle park provides some stunning views of the lake. By 8:30AM the coach groups start to arrive.

• Johnston Canyon 51.24545,-115.839869 Parking next to Johnston Canyon Resort - 11-km hike up the narrow Johnston Creek passed a stunning waterfalls (2.7 kilometers from vehicle park) to the Ink Pots, six blue-green spring-fed pools.

• Sunshine Meadows 51.115162,-115.767925 For hikes amongst beautiful alpine meadows. Circular hike of about 6 kilometers from the Sunshine Village.

• Lake Minnewanka 51.247733, -115.497923 Scenic drive to the lake from Banff

Top Muslim Travel Tips in Banff National Park

• Banff Gondola 1 Mountain Ave 51.148017,-115.555537 is located just at the edge of the town of Banff - Opening Hours: Operates year-round (except for a week of scheduled maintenance in January)
• Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola 1 Whitehorn Road 51.442292,-116.160779 at the Lake Louise Ski Area - Opening Hours: Only operates in the summer season.
• Ski Sunshine Village 1 Sunshine access Road 51.115135,-115.763372 ☎ +1 403-762-6500 - 8 kilometers west of Banff on Highway 1. 3358 acres of lift-accessed terrain on three mountains. With a peak elevation of 2730 m, you can see well into British Columbia from the top. Adult C$83/day, student C$49/day.

• Ski Lake Louise 1 Whitehorn Road 51.440821,-116.16266 - 60 kilometers west of Banff on Highway 1. 4200 acres of lift-accessed terrain on four mountains makes this resort the largest single ski area in Canada. Adult C$64/day, student C$51/day.

• Ski Mount Norquay 2 Mt Norquay Road 51.202985,-115.598195 - 6 kilometers north of Banff on the Mount Norquay access road. 190 acres of lift-accessed terrain. Norquay is well known for its super-steeps serviced by the original double chair. Adult C$52/day, student C$40/day.

• Golf - The Fairmont Banff Springs 4,14,112,113 405 Spray Avenue 51.166401, -115.551049 - Teeing-off amongst the backdrop of dramatic mountain ranges, with local wildlife as your gallery, is an unequalled golfing experience. Stanley Thompson, Canada's master golf course architect, used his expert talent when he designed the original 18 holes in 1928. The course winds along the Bow River under the snow-capped peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. In 1989 and the course was complemented with the construction of an adjoining 9 holes, designed by Cornish and Robinson, resulting in 27 holes of championship layout.

• Kayaking - A lot of the lakes in Banff National Park allow kayaking. Some nice places to do it are Lake Louise or Lake Moraine.

• Johnston Canyon Icewalk 51.245691,-115.839508 - A walk along the suspended catwalks of Johnston Canyon (30 minutes from Banff) to see the frozen Lower and Upper Falls. Hiking poles, ice cleats and a Snacks is included. Make sure to dress warmly.

Shopping in Banff

In nearby towns, such as Banff, Canmore and Jasper, you may enjoy strolling alongside local residents and world-travellers as you discover a cosmopolitan collection of galleries, boutiques and cafés. Shops range from internationally recognized clothiers or independently-owned establishments to Canada's oldest department store. The village of Lake Louise also has a few places to purchase supplies.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Banff

Banff is an exciting place to visit on all fronts and the palate is not excluded. There are fine Halal dining and even Candies shops.

Banff can be an expensive place to dine as it is a tourist destination but the Halal restaurants are fairly priced.

Saffron Indian Bistro

Rating: 4.5 | Price: $20–30 | Location: 205 Wolf St
Saffron Indian Bistro offers a delightful array of Halal options with a menu that showcases the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. Guests rave about the delicious food and warm ambiance, making it a must-visit spot in Banff.

The Balkan Greek Restaurant

Rating: 4.3 | Price: $$$ | Location: 120 Banff Ave
This popular Greek restaurant offers Halal lamb dishes, including their renowned lamb shank. It's a great spot for those seeking a mix of Mediterranean flavors and Halal dining options.

Banff Shawarma

Rating: 4.0 | Price: $10–20 | Location: 317 Banff Avenue
Known for its delicious and authentic Shawarma, Banff Shawarma offers a fully Halal menu, making it a convenient and tasty choice for Halal-conscious travelers.

Zyka Elevated Indian Restaurant Banff

Rating: 4.7 | Price: $20–30 | Location: 211 Banff Ave (2nd floor)
Zyka is a top-rated restaurant offering elevated Indian cuisine with Halal options. The restaurant is praised for its flavorful dishes and excellent service.

Night Owl Shawarma Donair & Convenience

Rating: 2.9 | Price: $10–20 | Location: 211 Banff Ave
Night Owl provides a quick and satisfying Shawarma experience, with Halal options available. It's a convenient stop for those looking for a late-night bite in Banff.

Masala Authentic Indian Cuisine

Rating: 4.4 | Price: $20–30 | Location: WOLF & BEAR MALL, 229 Bear St
Masala is known for its authentic Indian dishes, including the highly recommended Zafrani Murgh Tikka. The restaurant offers a variety of Halal options in a cozy setting.

Indian Curry House-Banff

Rating: 4.4 | Price: $20–30 | Location: 225 Banff Ave #202
This popular spot offers a wide range of Halal Indian dishes with excellent service, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Banff offers a diverse selection of Halal restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of flavors and cuisines in this beautiful mountain town. Whether you're in the mood for Indian, Greek, or Middle Eastern, there's something for everyone.

Ramadan Celebrations in Banff National Park

Ramadan 2025 in Banff National Park

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels in Banff

Being a national park, Banff has plenty of lodging. However, book early, because places fill up quickly in winter and summer. To live in Banff, as opposed to being a perpetual tourist, residents must have a business in town. If you have access to a car, another often cheaper alternative is to stay in Canmore and drive to the ski resorts or into Banff.

Most hotels are along Banff Avenue or on Tunnel Mountain Road.

• Aspen Lodge Banff
• Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
• Banff Voyager Inn
• Best Western Plus Siding 29 Lodge Banff
• Brewster's Mountain Lodge Banff
• Buffalo Mount Lodge Banff
• Caribou Lodge & Spa Banff
• Delta Lodge At Kananaskis
• Delta Royal Canadian Lodge Banff
• Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets Banff
• Driftwood Inn Banff
• Fox Hotel & Suites Banff
• Inns of Banff Hotel
• King Edward Hotel Banff
• Ptarmigan Inn Banff
• Rundle Manor Hotel Banff
• Spruce Grove Inn Banff
• Swiss Village Lodge Banff
• The Fairmont Banff Springs
• The Rimrock Resort Hotel Banff

Stay safe as a Muslim in Banff National Park

Although cougar and bear attacks may get sensationalized in the media, statistically the greatest threat for injury or death in the park is driving through it. If you are unfamiliar with _e.asp?oPark=100092 driving in winter conditions it is highly recommended you either find other transportation, or visit in the summer. If venturing in the backcountry you must also be aware of ontagne-mountainsafety/avalanche avalanche danger. This also applies to skiing out of bounds, in three words: Don't do it.

Elk, moose and deer are unpredictable and potentially dangerous, especially females with young (May and June) and males during the mating season (September through November). Remember, stay at least 30 metres (3 bus-lengths) away from any elk, moose or deer.

Elk in some areas of the park are accustomed to the presence of people and automobiles. Do not think you can photograph a bull elk (i.e. one with antlers) from close-up by driving slowly past it while you shoot. Especially during mating season, bull elk will attack an automobile without warning and can cause serious damage.

Wolves and coyotes are often seen on trails and along roads. Cougars are elusive and rarely seen, but they do live here. The chance of being approached by these carnivores is unlikely, but if you are approached, send a clear message that you are not prey.

• Pick up small children instantly.
• Try to appear bigger, by holding your arms or an object over your head.
• Face the animal and retreat slowly. Do not run or play dead.
• Maintain steady eye contact with the animal.
• If the animal continues to approach, deter an attack by yelling, waving a stick or throwing rocks.
• If you are attacked, fight back. Hit the animal with a heavy stick or rock.

Rules to follow for your safety and theirs:

• Give all the wild animals you see the respect they deserve and the space they need.
• Use your binoculars to see animals up close and use telephoto for your photos.
• Remain at least 100 metres (10 bus lengths) away from bears, cougars and wolves.
• Keep back at least 30 metres (3 bus lengths) from elk, moose and deer. Bighorn sheep are especially tolerant of our presence, but you should still give them at least 10 metres of space.
• When viewing roadside wildlife remain in your vehicle and move on after a few seconds.

Emergency contacts

• Ambulance, Police and Fire: 9-1-1.
• Park Wardens ☎ +1 403-762-4506 Opening Hours: 24 hours
• Banff Mineral Springs Hospital 305 Lynx Street 51.17902,-115.576068 ☎ +1 403-762-2222
• Lake Louise Medical Clinic 200 Hector Road 51.427096,-116.178597 ☎ +1 403-522-2184

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Banff National Park

Although Banff is considered one of the best places to "get out" of the nearby city's and these nearby destinations are great:

• Jasper National Park: Just as stunning scenery with a little fewer tourists
• Yoho National Park: Once away from the few vehicle parks, real away from people destination.

The nearest major city's are:

• Edmonton - Capital of Alberta, from the National part to Edmonton Mall for a real cultural contrast.
• Calgary - Colder and smaller version of Dallas. Stampede week, one of the great world parties and rodeo.

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