Adventure Dates: 09/17/2025 – 09/23/2025
Introduction
Our trip to Banff was filled with amazing views, cozy moments, and plenty of smiles. My wife and I stayed at the Fox Hotel and Suites for the entire visit, and it quickly became the perfect home base for our adventures. The spacious suite gave us plenty of room to relax, and the welcoming atmosphere made it easy to unwind after long days exploring.
One of our favorite parts of the hotel was the hot pool grotto. Tucked away like a hidden spot, it was exactly what we needed to soothe sore muscles after hours of hiking and exploring. It became a nightly ritual that helped us recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Map of Locations
Below you’ll find a map of where our hotel was located (Fox Hotel and Suites) and some of the points of interest that we were at in or around the town of Banff.
Bow Falls
One of the highlights of our trip was stopping at Bow Falls. Standing at the edge near the rushing waterfall with the river flowing by felt like stepping straight into a postcard. Even with other visitors around, it was easy to pause for a moment and take in the scene together.
Not far from the main viewing area, the river bends eastward into shallower spots where people could wade around. Watching the water shift and sparkle in different ways gave the place a calm, refreshing feel.
Fenland Trail
Later, we went for a walk on the Fenland Trail near the edge of town. What started as a quiet, peaceful walk quickly turned into an unforgettable adventure. We spotted elk along the trail, a surprise that felt magical at first, until another hiker behind us got too close to the elk cows. Suddenly, a bull charged out of the brush towards him but that other hiker dipped behind a tree.
The cows ran right down the trail toward us, and we stepped aside to let them pass. But then the bull kept coming. I told my wife we needed to run, and we darted down the path to a fallen tree that stretched into a marshy area. From there, we climbed out on it and waited. Thankfully, the bull stopped about 10 meters away, turned back after spotting the other hiker, and eventually disappeared into the brush. It was a nerve-wracking moment, but also one we’ll never forget!
Vermilion Lakes
We ended the evening at Vermilion Lakes, and it was the perfect way to wind down after such a full day. The water was calm and glassy, reflecting the warm colors of the sunset. Watching the sky light up with pinks, oranges, and purples was a magical moment we got to share together. It felt like time slowed down, and all that mattered was standing there, side by side, soaking in the beauty.
Quick Impressions
The town of Banff is very beautiful and quiet. Mountains jutting out behind the town from all sides make it feel like a fairy tale setting.
Elk encounter was unforgettable! Got the adrenaline pumping!
Bow Falls and Vermilion Lakes are easy. Fenland Trail was a bit more rugged, but still a pretty flat trail.
Could definitely take the kids. Just be cautious when wildlife is around especially elk.
Closing Thoughts
Our adventure around the town of Banff was everything we hoped for: scenery that left us speechless, trails that brought unexpected excitement, and quiet moments that felt magical. From Bow Falls to Vermilion Lakes, every stop had its own charm and made the trip feel truly unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip to Banff, take the time to explore beyond the main town and soak up the natural beauty. Keep your distance from wildlife, go early or late to avoid crowds, and don’t forget to pause and just enjoy the moment because it’s what makes Banff so special.
Photo Gallery
We captured so many moments during our time in Banff, from waterfalls to sunsets and even our surprise elk encounter.
