Travel like a local and use Public Transit in Banff to navigate through this magical town. Use our smart guide to explore the beautiful Banff.
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains lies Banff. The out-of-fairy-tale streets of Banff have an enchanting aura around them, which can be witnessed as you walk the streets. We highly recommend you use Public Transit in Banff to travel and discover the town authentically.
Getting to Banff
When it comes to reaching Banff, you have options:
From Edmonton: Hop on a direct bus for a scenic 5–6-hour journey, priced at CAD $80.
From Calgary: Enjoy a quicker 2-hour ride on a direct bus, with fares ranging from CAD $20 to $40.
Bus Service Providers
Use Busbud.com to check for best available options for Public Transit in Banff and book your bus online.
Cheap and Cheerful: Consider the Vivo Green Bus.
Mid-Economy Range: Options include The Canada Bus, Rider Express, and RTG Tours and Shuttle.
High-End but Enjoyable: Experience the Brewster Express, where the driver narrates stories and shares information throughout the journey.
Exploring Banff
Banff’s downtown is a picturesque haven filled with charming eateries, cafes, and accommodations. Here are some top places to visit:
- Sulphur Mountain Gondola Ride
- Sulphur Mountain Hot Springs
- Downtown Stroll
- Cave & Basin
- Canmore Town
- Lake Louise, Lake Morraine, Lake Minnewanka
- Johnston Canyon
Public Transport in Banff
Roam Transit is your go-to service for Public Transit in Banff. With 10 routes available, you can explore both the town and the surrounding Canadian Rockies. Consider the following tips:
Routes 1, 2, and 3 are local town routes.
Day passes for CAD $5 and 3-day passes for CAD $12 are available via Roam Transit Token Transit on your phone.
Passes for non-local areas can also be obtained through the website.
Scan your pass on your phone as you board the bus for convenience.
Accommodations in Banff
For travelers seeking affordability and a chance to meet fellow globetrotters, we recommend staying at the HI Banff Alpine Centre – Hostel.
The hostel provides residents with free bus passes for local travel, valid for up to 3 days. Nearby, you’ll find excellent lodges such as Douglas Fir, Buffalo Mountain Lodge, and Tunnel Mountain Resort. The Douglas Fir Bus Stop provides easy access to these accommodations.
Exploring Banff with Roam Transit
- Bus Route 2 will take you from Tunnel Mountain Road to Downtown. En route to Banff Downtown, consider disembarking at the Roam Transit Hub, Elk Stop at Downtown. Additional smaller stops include Caribou East/West and Wolf Street.
- From Downtown Banff, enjoy seamless connectivity. Bus Route 1 will take you from Downtown to Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy the Gondola ride, boardwalk hike, and a rejuvenating dip in the hot springs.
- A quick 20-minute Bus ride on Route 3 transports you to the captivating town of Canmore and other charming Banff regions.
- Route 4 leads to the informative Cave and Basin museum, where you can explore Banff’s hot springs history.
- Routes 5 and 6 venture into areas around Canmore and Lake Minnewanka.
- Keep in mind that Roam Transit does not have Route 7.
- For a breathtaking experience, take Route 8 to Lake Louise, where you’ll witness turquoise waters and rugged mountains. Choose between 8X for an express route or 8S for a scenic journey, both priced at $20 roundtrip. Begin your journey at the Roam Transit Hub Elk Stop, Route 8.
Traveling to Lake Louise
If you’re driving to Lake Louise, consider parking at the Lake Louise Park & Ride and booking a convenient 25-minute shuttle ride to the lakeshore. Don’t forget to pre-book online for this service. Alternatively, if you opt for Route 8X or 8S, your bus will take you directly to Lake Louise Shore.
Exploring Further
Embark on a memorable hike along the Johnstone Canyon trail using Bus Route 9 from Downtown.
Discover the stunning Morraine Lake with ease as Route 10 conveniently takes you there from Downtown.
Conclusion
Don’t wait any longer! Explore the beautiful town and the Canadian Rockies using affordable, accessible, and fun Public Transit in Banff. Immerse yourself in the local culture and savor the flavors of this magical town with ease. Your Banff adventure awaits!
Love traveling locally ? Check out our blog – Discover Beautiful Montreal with Public Transit.
