While The George is located smack dab in the heart of the city (just named number 2 on Avenue Calgary’s Best Neighbourhoods 2017 list), sometimes you just need to get out of the city.
If you’re not into driving, this guide is for you!
The sesquicentennial celebration of Canada’s 150th is helping to make this the easiest year to get to Banff sans-vehicle by far, including free admission to all Canada’s National Parks. We’re breaking it down for you to get to that glorious Lake Louise, the wide open Lake Minnewanka, and of course the charming town of Banff.
Getting Out of The City
Just outside your front door is the Westbound 17th Avenue bus stop, which will take you up to the 8th Street C-Train station. From here, you’ll hop on the Red-line towards Tuscany, and disembark at the Crowfoot Crossing station.
On-it
On-it is a new transit service from Calgary to Banff, operating weekends and holidays from June 17th to September 4th, for only $10 each way. There is an express route directly from the Crowfoot LRT to downtown Banff, grab the schedule here. We suggest getting your ticket in advance on their website to guarantee your spot, especially coming home!
Lake Minnewanka
Banff Roam and Parks Canada are both offering free shuttle services out to Lake Minnewanka this year, hop on either one at the Banff High School (right where you got off On-it). Both services run every hour; Banff Roam on the hour, Parks Canada on the half. If you’re thinking of camping, the bus runs right past the Two-Jack Lakeside campground too!
Lake Louise
Parks Canada is offering FREE daily shuttle between Banff Train Station and Lake Louise from May 19th to October 10th. Shuttles start at 7am, and run until the last pickup from Lake Louise’ Samson Mall at 6pm. Lake Louise also has shuttles running throughout the village, up to the Ski Area, to Upper Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. See more info and schedules here.
Other Attractions
Several private companies are also running shuttles and sightseeing adventures. Check out HopOnBanff for a tour Banff and Lake Louise including Johnston Canyon, the Lake Louise Gondola and Moraine Lake. It’s a $50 day-pass, but you know it’s worth it if you’ve ever tried to park at Johnston Canyon.
Norquay also offers a ton of adventures including their Via Ferrata. It’s like climbing a series of ladders… just on the side of a mountain. No experience is necessary.
