Banff National Park

Banff National Park
Don't Forget These Essentials

Don't forget the following items if you plan on visiting Banff National Park:

Don't miss photo opportunities like this....

1. A camera. If you plan to take pictures of wildlife, then bring along a telephoto lens too (wild animals cannot be approached closely). Film and batteries are available at gift shops throughout the park, but slide film is hard to find.
2. A jacket. Even in summer, the temperature can drop suddenly. It is not uncommon for it to snow in July or August. On the same level though, bring along shorts if you're coming in the summer; temperatures can get up to 30 degrees Celsius (90 Fahrenheit).
3. Sunscreen. The UV rating for Banff and surrounding area is usually high to extremely high throughout the year. Because of our altitude and the thinning of the ozone layer, people tend to burn much faster than usual -- bring along sunscreen, a shade hat and a pair of sunglasses.
4. Hiking boots. Running shoes are adequate in some places, but the majority of trails require hiking boots for proper safety and traction.