Please dress accordingly as our ceremony will be held outside (pending weather of 56 degrees Fahrenheit or above). The venue will provide blankets if they are needed!
Hannah & Thomas
Hannah & Thomas
Things to Do
Downtown Banff is nestled in the Canadian Rockies giving it an incredible scenic view of the mountains as you meander the charming streets! The town is full of hotels, restaurants, shopping, and it is very walkable. Beyond the downtown area there is a ton to do around Banff, Canmore and the larger surrounding area. I am listing a few things below that we have actually done and can speak to, but there are many more things to do, of course.
You'll notice that in my recommendations below, Moraine Lake is not on this list, this is because the lake is not open until June 1st, so it will be a little too early to go there:(
It is so beautiful though, so you'll just have to come back again another time to experience it!
Banff Gondola
Take a ride up the gondola for a spectacular view at the top! (the gondola is located right next to the Rimrock Resort-- a short distance from the Fairmont)
You also have the option of hiking the trail that follows the gondola path (you can always take the gondola back down if you're too tired once you get to the top :))
AFTERNOON TEA
Lake Louise is under an hour drive from downtown Banff! This is a great place to spend a few hours.
There is a beautiful "hike" located directly in front of the Fairmont Lake Louise. I use the term hike loosely because it is much more of a walk that anyone can easily do--this would be an ideal activity if you're not a big hiker:) There are other more difficult hikes located around here but because May is "shoulder season" some areas may be less accessible if there is still some snow coverage higher on the mountains.
There is also canoeing, a gondola nearby to see some wildlife, and of course afternoon tea at the Fairmont!
Bow Falls Trail
Banff's most easily reached hike! The Bow Falls can be conveniently reached from downtown Banff using the scenic Pedestrian Bridge that passes over the Bow River. The Falls are even closer to the Fairmont at Banff Springs, so if you're staying there its just a quick walk outside to the path. This would be a great way to start your day with a leisurely hike/walk and then choose your own adventure for the rest of the day!
Johnston Canyon, Lower Falls
This hiking spot is open year round! Johnston Canyon is located about 30 minutes from downtown Banff, it's a very quick and easy trip to get there. Parking is quite easy as well. This hike, although very beginner friendly is a pretty long one if you plan to reach some of the lower falls, of course you can always choose to turn around at anytime. You could spend a couple hours here exploring and hiking, there are some snack spots nearby and a cafe not too far from the start of the trail.