Are you dreaming of a magical getaway with your closest girlfriends? Look no further! This Ultimate Girls Trip itinerary is designed to make your trip to the fairy tale town of Banff extra special. Safety, ease, and accessibility are what all girls want when traveling… so get ready for a weekend filled with breathtaking views and amazing adventures.
Friday: Visit the Sulphur Mountain
MORNING: Kickstart your Banff adventure with a visit to Sulphur Mountain. Take the 8 to 10 minute Gondola Ride to the observatory at the summit, where you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Banff and the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. If you are from Alberta and have a valid license, you get a discount and your Gondola to-and fro ride is approximately CAD $60.
Continue the journey with a boardwalk hike to work up an appetite for the day ahead.
NOON: Your Ultimate Girls Trip is incomplete without a glass of wine and lavish lunch at the Sky Bistro. Get lost in the snowcapped mountains’ breathtaking beauty.
LATE AFTERNOON: Utilize Banff’s efficient public transport system to journey to your next destination, Lake Louise. If you’re curious about navigating Banff affordably, check out our blog on the “Quick Guide to Efficient Public Transit in Banff.”
Roam Transit is the official transit service in Banff, that is easy, safe and accessible.
EVENING: Relax and unwind at the Sulphur Mountain Hot Springs, offering a soothing end to your first day in Banff.
Saturday: Lake Louise and Hiking Adventures
EARLY MORNING: ‘Rise and shine ladies’ for a trip to the world-famous Lake Louise and Lake Moraine. Witness the spectacular sunrise at Lake Moraine. You can pre-book a shuttle for a convenient journey to these stunning lakes right here.
Alternatively, take an early bus 8X from Downtown Banff to Lake Louise’s shores to catch the sunrise.
LATE MORNING: Stroll along the pristine shores of Lake Louise, allowing its mesmerizing turquoise waters to captivate your senses. Don’t miss the chance to savor morning coffee with your friends while gazing at the lake’s beauty from the iconic Fairmont hotel.
AFTERNOON: Start a scenic hike to Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes, following well-marked trail signs. Return to Downtown Banff for a leisurely lunch at one of the many charming restaurants or cafes that grace this magical town.
LATE AFTERNOON: If you happen to visit Banff during the summer or early fall, explore the Harvest Festival for a taste of local culture and traditions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, take the Fenland trailhead hike, passing amusing bridges and serene water bodies. Extend your adventure with a 45-minute hike to the Bow River waterfall, a highly recommended activity.
Don’t miss out on the nature art walk, where you can support and appreciate local artistry within the forest.
EVENING: No need to worry about hiking back to Banff Downtown; simply catch the Route #2 bus at the Bow Falls Stop, right where your hike concludes.
Don’t forget to stop by the Trading Post Shop at Bow Falls to explore local indigenous crafts and souvenirs.
Sunday: Relaxing is essential on your Ultimate Girls Trip
MORNING: Indulge in a leisurely Sunday brunch at Parks, known for their own gin creations. Treat yourself to a unique vodka and gin platter to start the day on a delightful note. Afterall what is an Ultimate Girl’s Trip if not a treat for the soul!
NIGHT: End your Ultimate Girls Trip on a high note with a fun karaoke night or enjoy live music from a local band at the very popular Rose and Crown. Banff’s nightlife has something for everyone.
LATE MORNING: Discover the historic Cave and Basin, a museum leading to a natural spring that played a pivotal role in Banff’s history.
AFTERNOON: Explore the many souvenir shops in Banff; retail therapy is always a good idea. Wander around Downtown Banff, where you’ll find comfortable seating and cozy fire pits in the pedestrian-only town square.
Our Favorite Places to Eat
Breakfast:
- Brazen
- Evelyn’s Coffee Bar
Lunch or Dinner:
- Una Pizzeria
- Magpie and Stump
- Tavern
- Zyka: Indian Restaurant
- Olde Irish Pub
Our Stay Recommendation
Hi Alpine Hostel is our go to for stay in Banff. Not only is it super safe for solo travelers and women, but its also a great place to meet new people. They have their own cafe and they also provide you with public transit bus passes.
Summary
Trust us, these recommendations will make your all-girls weekend in Banff truly unforgettable. So, pack your bags, gather your girlfriends, and get ready for an amazing adventure in this magical Canadian gem!
Interested in traveling to other parts of Canada? Check out our blog on Discovering Beautiful Montreal easily with Public Transit.
