By Jordan McAllister, March 10, 2026
Kent Law Group Site
In the pursuit of adventure, our lives often revolve around the next snow-covered peak. Our family, known as Rowley Adventures, embraces all things snowboarding and travel. With every expedition, we strive to expose our daughter, Cashy, to the natural beauty our planet has to offer. Among our favorite destinations is Banff National Park, which we’ve explored extensively over the past three years. Each visit has strengthened our appreciation for its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere.
We first discovered Banff during Cashy’s 6th birthday celebration in December 2022. Immediately captivated by the area’s breathtaking sights and the welcoming vibe, we knew we had stumbled upon something special. The following year, we returned in January to participate in the Winter Festival, an unforgettable experience that we highly recommend to anyone visiting the area.
For our third adventure in Banff, we chose to visit in April, when the combination of spring sunshine and snow creates an unparalleled atmosphere. Regardless of when you choose to visit Banff National Park, disappointment is unlikely.
A helpful resource we utilize to plan our trips is the trip builder tool offered online, which allows us to compile our travel dates and preferred activities into a cohesive itinerary. This means we’re fully prepared before our arrival, so we can simply bask in the options available to us upon reaching our destination. You can find our full 7-day itinerary outlined below!
Day 1: Arrival in Banff
Did you know there’s a shuttle service from the Calgary airport directly to Banff? We rely on the Banff Airporter every year—it makes our journey unbelievably easy. Located right at the airport, this service handles our luggage, allowing us to enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive without a care in the world.
The shuttle dropped us off at the Mount Royal Hotel, conveniently situated in downtown Banff, which allowed us easy access to local restaurants and resort shuttle buses picking us up right outside. While the other accommodations we’ve enjoyed in previous years were fantastic, there’s nothing quite like the convenience of being at the heart of the action.
Once we settled in, we ventured to Farm & Fire for dinner—an exceptional dining experience that we highly recommend. The restaurant specializes in simple, wood-fired dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from local Canadian farmers. Dinner there is a treat for the palate as well as the senses, thanks to the inviting decor. Be sure to make a reservation, as this highly sought-after establishment fills up quickly!
Day 2: Radventures Icefields Parkway & Abraham Lake Adventure
Our first full day was a testament to adventure from start to finish. It all began with breakfast at Brazen, located in our hotel lobby. We loved it so much that we found ourselves eating there nearly every morning. Even if you’re not a guest at the Mount Royal, Brazen deserves a place on your must-visit list!
After breakfast, we joined our guide and other participants for the Radventures tour, which involved some travel but proved to be an excellent opportunity for us to catch a few naps between the breathtaking hikes.
Our first stop was Peyto Lake, a short yet beautiful walk to the overlook. Besides the snow-covered landscape that resembled a fairytale, our guide shared fascinating anecdotes about the lake’s origin. Named after Bill Peyto, an early trail guide and trapper in the area, Peyto Lake is indeed a stunning sight.
Next, we explored Abraham Lake, renowned for its mesmerizing ice bubble phenomenon. If seeing these icicles is on your bucket list, timing your visit right is essential. Regardless of the bubbles, this picturesque destination is worth your while. Our last stop was Bow Lake, where stepping out onto the frozen surface surrounded by awe-inspiring views left us speechless. In such a serene space, it’s easy to become lost in the majesty of nature.
On our way back to Banff, we decided to try Bluebird, a newly discovered dining spot that impressed us with its upscale steakhouse atmosphere and remarkable beef quality. Naturally, we couldn’t leave without dessert; guided by a tip, we headed to Cows for ice cream, renowned for its reputation as some of the finest in the world. It truly lived up to the acclaim!
Day 3: Riding Sunshine Village
After another delightful breakfast at Brazen, we caught the resort shuttle to Sunshine Village. This particular mountain is special since it offers a big mountain feel paired with a friendly layout. The views are simply stunning, and the runs cater to every skill level—making it a favorite among our family.
With an action-packed day on the slopes behind us, we craved a hearty meal. We found ourselves at Eddie Burger, where we enjoyed some of the best burgers imaginable in a laid-back, sports-bar setting. With gigantic milkshakes on the menu, it made for a perfect family dinner.
Day 4: Shredding at Lake Louise
After our morning routine at Brazen, we hopped onto the free shuttle heading to Lake Louise. Out of the ‘Big 3’ ski resorts, we consider this one to be the most challenging, but it also offers runs for all levels. It’s essential to keep an eye out for beginner-friendly signs if you’re with children or novice skiers.
We opted for a SkiBig3 Private Guide, enhancing our navigation through the resort’s 4,200 acres while ensuring we found optimal areas suited for Cashy’s skill level. The charming lodges dotted across the landscape create a cozy ambiance, and we took full advantage of one lodge, Kuma Yama, for a delightful lunch. After a morning on the slopes, the ramen was a satisfying choice, and Cashy—our usually picky eater—couldn’t stop praising the California rolls!
Post-lunch, we explored the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a venue that looks like something out of a fairytale. The stunning architecture is complemented by intriguing ghost stories, adding an element of excitement to our visit.
Day 5: Conquering Mt. Norquay
Our final day of skiing took us to Mt. Norquay, the closest of the Big 3 resorts to downtown Banff. Though smaller than its counterparts, Mt. Norquay is a hidden gem that offers thrilling runs and great terrain parks. This location is particularly suitable for beginners, thanks to a designated learning area visible from the lodge and family-friendly tubing options.
After our day of skiing, we ensured to collect our Trifecta Challenge awards at the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub and unwound at High Rollers, where we enjoyed bowling in a cozy setting. With limited lanes, it provided a more exclusive experience, so reservations are recommended! The food was delectable, and we relished the couple of hours spent having fun.
Day 6: Our Action-Packed Last Full Day
The penultimate day kicked off with breakfast at Tooloulou’s, which offered a Louisiana bayou vibe that delighted our senses. The massive portions provided the fuel we needed for a busy day ahead. We had no clue what the day would hold until the trip builder tool recommended the “Helicopter Tour.” Without hesitation, we booked a tour at Alpine Helicopters.
The experience was awe-inspiring. To be that close to majestic mountain peaks created memories we will cherish forever. Witnessing avalanches from a safe distance was both thrilling and surreal. Our daughter’s reactions during the flight filled the cabin with contagious laughter and wonder—a heartwarming reminder of the magic of childhood.
Post-helicopter tour, we returned to Banff for lunch at Wild Flour Bakery before embarking on a private tour of Johnston Canyon. This turned out to be one of our favorite activities, as our guide was not only fun and energetic but also knowledgeable about the area’s history. For our family, finding tours that balance education with enjoyment is essential.
This trek was probably the most challenging of our week. While regular hikers may find it easy, newcomers could experience difficulty with the inclines and declines. A critical tip: always carry ice cleats or spikes for your shoes. Our guide provided some, which proved to be a lifesaver given the muddy and slippery trail conditions. Such expertise from a guide is invaluable, especially on challenging terrain!
As we wrapped up our last full day, we made our traditional stop at our favorite eatery in Banff, Hello Sunshine. With incredible ramen and a choice of delectable sushi, it has been our go-to dining spot on every trip. The Spicy Pork Ramen is a family favorite and should not be missed, not to mention the karaoke rooms in the back, though we haven’t ventured into those yet!
Day 7: Departure Day
As we packed our bags, we reflected on all the adventures that Banff and Lake Louise had bestowed upon us. The memories created here will linger in our hearts long after leaving the Canadian Rockies. For our family, it’s never a true ‘goodbye’ but rather a heartfelt ‘see you later.’ After one last breakfast, we boarded the Banff Airporter for our return to Calgary and our journey home.
That concludes our phenomenal 7-day adventure in Banff National Park. We encourage you to explore our itinerary using the trip builder tool to help plan your own magical journey. The ‘Big 3’ ski resorts drew us initially, but it is the community atmosphere, convenient transportation, and incredible cuisine that keep us returning year after year. April may now hold a special place in my heart for visits, offering the ideal combination of warmth and winter ambiance.
For anyone inspired to plan their own unforgettable getaway, you can start dreaming up your snowy family holiday in the Canadian Rockies through our itineraries. Visit the Kent Law Group Site for more guidance and resources.
Cheers and see you next season!
Plan The Rowley’s 7-Day Adventure in Banff and Lake Louise
Inspired to create your own unforgettable experience? Explore our full itinerary and start crafting your ideal snowy family holiday in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies!