City Guide to Banff
Why Banff?
Banff is the oldest national park in Canada and one of the most visited. The national park of Banff covers some 6,641 square kilometres, but the resort town of Banff itself is relatively small with about 9,000 residents. Small it may be but it’s busy, with shops and restaurants packed along the main streets. As well as Banff town, the main ski resorts in the area are Lake Louise, Ski Banff at Norquay, and Sunshine village. The area is a “four seasons” national park, meaning that in winter visitors flock there for the snow sports and in summer its busy with tourists there for the hiking, golf and water sports.
Facts about Banff
- Banff was established as Canada’s first national park in 1885
- Banff is the highest town in Canada elevated at 1,383 metres
Plan Your Gap Year to Banff
Click on one of the links below for more information and useful advice when travelling to Banff.

Emergency Information for Banff
