What to Do When You’re Working in Canada and Finally Have a Weekend Off
If you’re on a working holiday visa in Canada and you haven’t made it to Banff yet, sort that out immediately. It’s one of those places that looks fake in photos and then somehow looks even better in real life.
The town itself is small and easily walkable. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are the two big ticket sights and both are genuinely worth the effort. Be warned though, Moraine Lake in particular requires either an early start (before 6am early) or taking the Parks Canada shuttle bus as private vehicles are no longer permitted on the road during peak season. Check the Parks Canada website for current access information before you go as the rules change regularly.
For hiking, Johnston Canyon is accessible and rewarding without requiring serious equipment or experience. The Plain of Six Glaciers trail above Lake Louise is longer but one of the best day hikes in the Rockies if you have the fitness for it. Take layers regardless of the season because the weather changes fast at altitude.
Banff is not cheap. The town is heavily tourist oriented and prices reflect that. Stock up on food in Calgary before you go if you’re on a budget. Eating in the town will cost you significantly more than you’d expect even by Canadian standards.
If you’re visiting in winter and not skiing, the ice walk through Johnston Canyon is one of the most underrated experiences in the whole country. Crampons are available to hire at the trailhead and the frozen waterfalls are genuinely spectacular.
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