Banff and Jasper with a Toddler: 6 Awesome Activities

Banff and Jasper with a Toddler: 6 Awesome Activities

Traveled in August 2023

When you hear Banff and Jasper, your mind probably conjures up images of crystal clear lakes and dramatic hikes. And you would be right! Banff and Jasper are Instagram darlings for a reason. The natural beauty really is that stunning. And while you might think that there is no way you could see all of those things with a toddler in tow and have it actually be enjoyable, that is far from the truth! There are absolutely some stunning hikes that you can easily do with a toddler in a carrier and many of the lakes don’t require hikes at all. Toddlers are all little explorers who really thrive in nature. They might not care much for the scenery, but they can definitely make their own fun throwing rocks into lakes and rivers. Here is just a taste of the activities you can do in Banff and Jasper to enjoy the natural beauty with ways to make them toddler-friendly.

Ready to plan your toddler-friendly trip to Banff and Jasper? Check out our toddler-friendly itinerary to Banff and Jasper to see how to connect all of these activities while still making time for naps!

1. Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon in Banff is an easy 1-2 hour paved hike along a canyon gorge that ends in a waterfall. You can walk into a cave to view the waterfall up close through an opening in the cave. Our kiddo loved throwing rocks into the river rapids as we were hiking. Getting close enough to the waterfall to feel the spray also earned us some toddler giggles.

2. Drive the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is basically a long highway that connects Banff and Jasper. But not just any highway, it is a highway with some of the most gorgeous pit stops you have ever seen. Some of these lakes and attractions are literally next to the road, while others require a bit of hiking. The hikes are usually on paved or gravel roads, but can be somewhat steep (kids should be in a carrier since these are generally not stroller friendly). There are so many beautiful stops on the Icefields Parkway that you would have to spend a couple days to see them all. But to hit the highlights (without overtiring your toddler), check out our picks from our Banff and Jasper toddler-approved itinerary. There are lots of opportunities for energetic toddlers to get their wiggles out on each of these stops, whether it be looking for rocks and pinecones, or racing up a section of the hike.

3. Maligne Lake Cruise

The Maligne Lake cruise in Jasper is a 1.5 hour scenic boat ride across Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. Our kiddo had a blast on the boat; he loved stepping outside to feel the spray and wind on his face. Spirit Island is sacred to the indigenous people, so you are only allowed about 15 minutes on the island and are asked to stick to the designated loop path, but it’s enough time to take pictures and enjoy the serenity of the place. The boat ride is the real highlight for the kids, but Spirit Island is the prize for the adults.

4. Animal Spotting on the Bow Valley Parkway

Little kiddos love animals. And animals love to hang out near the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff! Driving along the Bow Valley Highway at dawn and dusk when the animals are most active is a good way to spot wild animals doing their thing in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you will see some bears and deer just hanging out along the side of the road. And it is super exciting for kiddos when they spot them! It’s common for cars to stop along the side of the road during bear sightings, but remember these are wild animals. So stay in the car for both your and the animals’ safety!

5. Lake Louise and Lake Moraine

Lake Louise and Lake Moraine are two of the quintessential lakes in Banff. These glittering turquoise blue lakes are the ones that pop into mind when people imagine a trip to Banff. While you get your fill of the views, your toddler will probably be throwing rocks into the lake (noticing a trend here?). You can also rent canoes at both of the lakes (probably best for older kids) to enjoy the lakes from a different perspective.

Visiting Lake Louise and Lake Moraine is a little more complicated now that you can’t drive directly to the parking lots. Check out my Banff and Jasper itinerary for all the details on how to book the shuttle that takes you to the lakes. Or, book a day tour to have all the transportation handled for you.

6. Ride a Gondola

Does your toddler love vehicles? Of course they do! A ride up a gondola is as exciting as spotting the garbage truck on garbage day. There is a gondola in Banff as well as in Jasper. The kiddos will love soaring over the trees and parents will love the spectacular views. Just make sure to go on a clear day, or all you’ll see is clouds.

Looking to see even more of Canada? Check out our epic toddler-friendly road trip from Banff and Jasper to Vancouver!