Banff National Park isn’t just famous for its mountains and lakes, it’s also one of the best places in Canada to see wildlife. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a bear or spot a herd of elk, Banff has so many amazing places to explore. But here’s the thing: knowing where to go, when to go, and how to get there safely makes all the difference. That’s where our experience comes in!
At Ten Peaks Shuttle, we’ve helped hundreds of travelers enjoy Banff while keeping safety and comfort a top priority. Let’s dive into some of the best places to spot animals in Banff, along with tips from the road.
Best Places to Spot Animals in Banff
1. Vermilion Lakes
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to see animals, head to Vermilion Lakes just outside the town of Banff. Early in the morning, the area is quiet, the light is beautiful, and it’s common to see elk or even moose near the water. One morning last summer, I watched a bald eagle dive down to catch a fish, it was one of those moments you don’t forget.
Vermilion Lakes is easy to reach, and we often recommend it as a first stop for anyone wanting a close-to-town wildlife experience. Plus, the views of Mount Rundle reflected in the water? Absolutely stunning.
As shuttle guides with years of early-morning departures under our belt, we’ve learned that sunrise is golden hour, not just for photos, but for wildlife activity. Vermilion Lakes, just minutes from downtown Banff, is a calm and peaceful area surrounded by wetlands, making it perfect for spotting elk, moose, and waterfowl.
2. Bow Valley Parkway
Another top location is the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). This scenic drive is a hot spot for wildlife, especially in the early morning and evening. You might spot deer, black bears, or even a wolf if you’re lucky. It’s also home to a lot of birds and smaller animals like marmots.
With our years of driving guests along this route, we’ve learned how to spot movement in the trees and along the hills. That experience means we know when to slow down and what signs to look for, even from a distance. During an early summer trip, a guest excitedly pointed out a large black bear near the road. Because of our experience, we knew to keep a safe distance, pulled over slowly, and used our shuttle’s quiet engine idle to avoid scaring it. Guests got the photos of a lifetime, without putting anyone at risk.
3. Lake Louise Area
Lake Louise isn’t just about turquoise water and hiking trails, it’s also a great place for animal spotting, especially in the spring and fall. I remember watching a black bear with her cubs foraging near the roadside, safely from a distance. It was magical, and we made sure our guests stayed inside the vehicle for safety.
The nearby meadows and forest edges are places elk love to hang out. And if you’re traveling with us, we’ll help guide you to lookout points where you’re more likely to see them, without putting yourself in harm’s way.
Most visitors rush straight to the lake itself, but our team knows the less-traveled spots nearby where animals are more frequently spotted. We’ve built routes that balance sightseeing with the possibility of witnessing wildlife in natural surroundings.
Lake Louise meadows and forest edges are often teeming with signs of animal activity. We monitor bear safety advisories daily, so we’re always aware of closures or sightings, and adjust routes accordingly.
4. Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway is one of the most beautiful roads in the world, and it’s also one of the best places to see wildlife. On the way to Jasper, you may see mountain goats climbing rocky cliffs, bighorn sheep near the road, and even grizzly bears crossing open fields.
With its mix of alpine meadows, rivers, and rugged terrain, the Icefields Parkway is a corridor rich in wildlife diversity. Over the years, we’ve spotted everything from bighorn sheep and caribou to grizzlies and even lynx. This route requires sharp attention and deep knowledge of where these animals usually roam.
Many drivers pass by too fast, but we know the “hot zones” and use designated pull-offs to safely pause and observe wildlife without disturbing them.
One of our most memorable shuttle rides involved a full circle moment: we were telling guests how rare it is to see a lynx and then 15 minutes later, there it was! Moments like that remind us how lucky we are to travel these roads so often.
Plan Your Wildlife Adventure Today
Spotting animals in Banff is one of the best parts of visiting the Canadian Rockies. But to really enjoy it, you need the right timing, local knowledge, and stress-free travel. That’s why so many visitors choose Ten Peaks Shuttle for their journeys.
When it comes to spotting wildlife, local knowledge matters. At Ten Peaks Shuttle, we’ve spent years on these roads and trails. We know the habits of local animals, and we always prioritize safe, respectful wildlife viewing. Whether you’re heading to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or just exploring Banff’s quiet corners, we make sure your journey is smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable.
If you’re planning to explore more beyond wildlife watching, you’ll love what Lake Louise has to offer during the warmer months, check out our guide to the top summer activities in Lake Louise to make the most of your trip. So if you’re ready to discover the best places to spot animals in Banff, let us help you get there safely and comfortably.
