You do not have to spend every day chasing the big-name lakes to have an amazing Banff trip. In this episode, Celine walks you through the best things to do right in and around the town of Banff, including easy walks, canoe and kayak options, bike routes, viewpoints, the Banff Gondola, and fun rainy-day activities. If you are feeling overwhelmed by all the choices, use this episode to anchor your itinerary with a couple of slower, close-to-town days that balance out your big driving and...

How many days do you really need to experience Banff National Park? In this episode, Banff travel planning expert Celine Brewer breaks down what you can realistically see and do with 3 days, 5–7 days, or a full 10-day Banff adventure. You’ll learn how to plan the perfect length trip based on your travel style, priorities, and pace, whether you’re a first-time visitor, avid hiker, or just want to soak in the mountain scenery. In this episode: What to expect with 3–4 days, 5–7 days, and 7–10+ d...

Every time I host one of my Banff Trip Planning Workshops, people bring incredible questions and this episode is packed with real ones from my October sessions! In this episode, Banff Travel Expert Celine Brewer is answering your top Banff trip questions for 2026, including how to see a glacier without paying for a tour, the best stops along the Icefields Parkway, whether you can visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in one day, when to start booking hotels, and how to plan your trip if you’re d...

Canmore may sit just outside the Banff National Park gates, but it’s a destination all its own. In this episode, local host Celine Brewer shares what makes Canmore such a great base for exploring the Rockies year-round: from summer hikes, biking trails, and cave tours to winter adventures like dog-sledding, ice walks, and cross-country skiing. You’ll also hear insider tips for parking, passes, getting around, and the best time to visit. In this episode: Why Canmore makes a perfect Banff base&...

Choosing where to stay in Banff National Park can be confusing. Should you split your stay between Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise, or Jasper? In this episode, Celine shares how to decide based on your travel style, budget, and plans. You’ll hear the pros and cons of each area, which makes the best base for first-time visitors, and when it’s worth splitting your stay. In this episode: Banff vs. Canmore + how to choose your baseWhat to expect in Lake Louise and JasperTips for ski season and winter...

Banff in November (and late October) is the in-between season when the crowds are gone, prices drop, and you can experience the mountains at a slower pace. But it also comes with a few surprises: road closures, icy trails, and early winter conditions that can change fast. In this episode, I share what’s really open in November, how to plan around closures, what to pack, and how to make the most of shoulder season. Banff Travel Consultations Need a personalized plan for your fall or early-win...

Banff is packed with scenic drives, but some routes stand above the rest. In this episode, your local Banff Travel Planning Expert Celine Brewer takes you through the must-do drives: the Icefields Parkway, Bow Valley Parkway, Lake Minnewanka Loop, Tunnel Mountain Road, Vermilion Lakes, Mount Norquay, and beyond. You’ll learn the best stops, insider tips for wildlife spotting, when to drive for the best light, and how to avoid common mistakes. Celine also shares advice on planning, fuel stops,...

October is Banff’s transition month, when autumn’s last colours meet the first signs of winter. In this episode, your local Banff Travel Planning Expert Celine Brewer shares what makes October so special, from fall colours to snow-dusted peaks. You’ll hear about the weather, seasonal closures, and what activities are still available plus what to pack for those unpredictable days. Celine highlights hikes, scenic drives, and cozy October experiences, while also giving a reality check on w...

September in Banff means one thing: larch season. In this episode, your local Banff Travel Planning expert, Celine Brewer, breaks down everything you need to know about larch hiking season in Banff National Park. From world-famous Larch Valley to lesser-known gems like Healy Pass, Saddleback Pass, and Taylor Lake, you’ll hear how to time your trip, which hikes are worth it, and what to expect on the trails. Celine explains what makes larches unique, shares practical logistics for Moraine Lake...

Dreaming of Banff’s famous alpine scenery without the grueling hike? In this episode, Celine Brewer (your local Banff Travel Expert) takes you to Sunshine Meadows, one of the most spectacular high-alpine areas in Banff National Park. You’ll hear what makes this spot so special, from wildflower meadows and crystal-clear lakes to panoramic viewpoints you can reach by gondola and chairlift. Celine shares insider tips on when to visit, what trails to choose, and how to avoid the crowds. Ful...

Cycling in Banff isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, it’s about slowing down, soaking up the views, and experiencing the park in a whole new way. In this episode, your Banff Travel Planning expert, Celine Brewer, shares her local guide to the best bike trails in Banff National Park, from family-friendly rides to bucket-list road cycling routes. You’ll learn about: The best bike routes around BanffThe best times to ride the different bike routesSafety tips, wildlife encounters, w...

Planning the ultimate Canadian Rockies road trip? The Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper is one of the world's most scenic drives, but it deserves proper planning to make the most of it. In this episode, Celine Brewer (your Banff Travel Planning expert), shares everything you need to know about driving the Icefields Parkway, including the best time to visit, must-see stops like Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield, timing tips for each location, and how to avoid the crowds. You'll d...

Planning a trip to Banff can feel overwhelming with so many questions, like when to visit, how to get to Moraine Lake, what hikes are best, or whether you really need bear spray. In this episode, I’m tackling the most common questions travelers ask about Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. From shuttles and itineraries to packing, wildlife, and iconic sights like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Icefields Parkway, you’ll get clear, practical answers to help you feel conf...

Planning a September trip to Banff? In this episode, local Banff travel expert Celine Brewer shares everything you need to know to make the most of September in the Canadian Rockies. From the golden larch season (including what they are, where they grow, and how to see them at their peak) to packing for unpredictable mountain weather, Celine gives you insider tips you won’t find in guidebooks. You’ll discover the best hikes, scenic drives, and fall activities plus which attractions are still ...

Did you know there were 3 mountain lakes to explore just minutes from downtown Banff? In this episode of The Banff Travel Podcast, Celine Brewer takes you on one of her favorite scenic routes in Banff National Park: the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive. You'll get the local perspective on: The best stops along the Lake Minnewanka loop Scenic viewpoints, hikes, and picnic spots Tips for enjoying the Lake Minnewanka areaWhether you’re traveling with kids, want a scenic drive with incredib...

August in Banff National Park means turquoise lakes, long summer days, dry trails, and endless opportunities for adventure. This episode will help you make the most of your time and avoid common mistakes. What You’ll Learn: What to expect from the weather and how to packThe best hikes, gondolas, lakes, and scenic drivesTips for wildlife safety and how to see bears safelyWhat’s new for cyclists this month (including road closures for bikes only!)Blog Posts & Guides Banff in August Guide (f...

In this episode, Celine Brewer, your local Banff trip planning expert, shares how you can experience all the jaw-dropping beauty of Banff without blowing your budget. Whether you’re visiting with family, traveling solo, or planning a romantic escape, you’ll learn simple ways to cut costs while still making the most of your adventure. From affordable places to stay and where to find the best picnic views, to free activities, transit options, and even discount tips for top attractions like the ...

In this episode of The Banff Travel Podcast, host Celine Brewer shares why a rainy day in Banff might just be the best thing that happens to your trip. As a local who’s weathered it all, she walks you through the best ways to enjoy Banff and Canmore when the skies open up plus tips for dealing with smoky skies, packing for unpredictable weather, and even getting out on the trails anyway. Inside, you’ll get local tips on: Indoor activities for all agesOutdoor adventures where it doesn’t matter...

In this episode, Celine shares her go-to list of the best easy hikes in Banff National Park. These trails deliver incredible views without a full-day effort. Whether you're travelling with kids, grandparents, or just want a low-key day in nature, these scenic walks pack in the wow factor with minimal elevation gain. You'll learn: Celine’s favorite easy hikes around BanffFamily-friendly and stroller-accessible trailsWhat gear to bring (yes, you still need bear spray!)Mistakes to avoid when cho...

July is one of the most popular and most beautiful times to visit Banff National Park. In this episode, local expert Celine Brewer breaks down exactly what you can expect if you’re visiting in July, including what’s open, what to pack, how to beat the crowds, and what to book in advance. You’ll learn: Why July is peak season in Banff and how to plan accordinglyWhat activities, trails, and tours are open (hint: almost everything!)The best things to do in JulyHow to avoid the biggest crowds whi...