Banff, Alberta RV Rentals

For many, the city of Banff, located in the mountainous province of Alberta, Canada, is one of the most beautiful and welcoming cities on the continent. This resort town is located inside Banff National Park, where the peaks of Mt. Cascade and Mt. Rundle stand like snowy sentinels guarding over it. No matter the time of year you visit, Banff is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

An RV rental in Banff is the perfect way to explore this stunning region of the Rocky Mountains. There’s a plethora of RV rental options in and around Banff that offer everything from a small two-behind trailer to large, luxury RVs. With so many beautiful campgrounds to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick your favorite. 

In fact, you may find yourself planning a subsequent return trip to further enjoy the region. Check out just a small smattering of fun and amazing things to do in this friendly and funky town.

Popular RV Destinations in Banff

Banff Hot Springs

Discovered by three railway workers back in 1883, the Banff Upper Hot Springs flow out of Sulphur Mountain. They’re actually part of a set of nine sulfurous hot springs but are the only remaining springs left open to the public. The soothing and rejuvenating properties of these mineral-rich springs are the perfect recovery from a long day of hiking, skiing, and exploring.

Just picture yourself soaking in the steaming waters during sunrise or sunset, gazing up at the snow-covered, storybook mountains — it’s the stuff that dream vacations are made of. The springs are open year-round and feature a large pool and cafe, as well as towel, swimsuit, and locker rentals.

Johnston Canyon

Banff National Park is a juxtaposition of towering mountain peaks and low-lying canyons and valleys. It’s a hiker’s heaven on earth, and Johnston Canyon has got to be at the top of the list. The dramatic waterfalls, steep canyon walls, and deep pools will leave a lifelong impression on you.

The best part about it is that the hike itself is relatively easy and is suitable for people of all ages and physical fitness levels. Of course, it’s easiest to explore during the warmer months, when the smooth trails and suspended catwalks are free of ice and snow. There are plenty of excellent photo ops at the many viewpoints along the trail.

The Lower Falls are an easy 1.1-kilometer trek from the main parking area. The Upper Falls trail offers a bit more of a challenge, rising up through the forest from the lower canyon. It takes you over 2.6 kilometers to a dramatic 40-meter drop to a deep pool down below. 

If you’re feeling energetic and want a bit more of a challenge, try the trail past the Upper Falls, which leads to the Ink Pots. The Ink Pots are seven deep pools of mineral spring-filled green water that await you about 3 kilometers in. 

Columbia Icefield Adventure

There are so many activities and attractions that you can only find in a place like Banff. One of those is trekking the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, the Columbia Icefield. Hitch a ride on the massive Ice Explorer, a large bus-like vehicle designed specifically for this unusual terrain.

It will take you to the huge Athabasca Glacier, where you can walk, feel, and drink it. We can’t even exaggerate the feeling of amazement you will have at this ancient place. Learn all about glaciology while you marvel at the dramatic scenery.

If you’re feeling bold, be sure to check out the glass-floored Skywalk. It’s a one-kilometer-long walkway that’s completely see-through and extends out over a 280-meter drop. It features wildlife, fossils, and waterfalls, and an interpretive storytelling format. 

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Just because you’re “roughing it” on an RV adventure, doesn’t mean you can’t get fancy for one night. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is one of the largest and most astounding resorts in the world. A specially planned dinner and tour is the ideal way to experience this luxe hotel if you’re not staying in it.

You can book your guided tour of this UNESCO National Historic Site and dinner for up to six people online here. The tour starts in the main lobby of the hotel with special welcome refreshments. Progress through the resort, learning all about things that make this place a world-class destination, all while sampling Alberta native fare.

Enjoy a fine-dining experience at the hotel’s main restaurant, the 1888 Chop House. It’s one of the best ways to see this historic castle setting over a 2.5-hour memorable experience.

Cave and Basin Discovery Tour

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the underground terrain in an informative and awe-inspiring guided tour. A five-stop guided journey takes you throughout the cave and the basin that was discovered by railway workers in 1883. This momentous discovery led to the birth of Canada’s famed National Park System.

As the light fades, you can also choose to take a one-of-a-kind guided lantern tour. Walking through the darkened passages lit by ethereal lantern light is an otherworldly adventure. People of all ages are impressed by this 25-minute tour that is offered each Saturday evening, May through August.

Ski the Big 3

There’s a reason that Banff is famous for skiing and snowboarding. The jagged and rugged mountain terrain and fluffy snow offer some of the most enjoyable and memorable skiing and snowboarding you’ll ever experience. With three world-class resorts to choose from, why pick just one?

You can test your skills at Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay all in one trip with the SkiBig3 Tri-Area Lift Ticket. Get access to all three resorts and enjoy skiing or snowboarding some of the most scenic terrain in the world. Banff’s altitude and climate allow it the privilege of hosting one of the longest ski seasons in North America.

People are often surprised at how early in the season and how late into the spring they can ski here. Definitely look into it no matter what time of year you’re planning to visit. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Horseback Riding

Exploring the mountains and backcountry of Banff National Park on horseback is a must-do. There are a number of tour companies that offer excellent horse-riding excursions, either full- or half-days. Choose from Banff Adventures, Banff Trail Riders, Brewster Mountain Pack Trains, Timberline Tours, and more. 

These well-known and long-time tour providers cater to a wide variety of horseback riding skills and abilities. You can even just do an hour-long introductory lesson to decide if a larger tour is for you or not. Longer tours are such a fun and memorable way to see this amazing region, and some of them even culminate at a historic tea house.

Get a feel for what it must have been like for early settlers of this untamed region. It’s an outing that everyone in your group will be talking about for years to come.

Events and Entertainment in Banff

Banff Craft Beer Week

Led by Alberta Beer Festivals, Banff Craft Beer Week is considered the world’s most beautiful beer festival. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day of skiing, hiking, or exploring. The festival takes place each November in Banff’s Cave and Basin National Historic Site. 

It's the only festival of its kind to exclusively feature Alberta-brewed beers. Get a true sense of Alberta’s brewing culture and preferences by sampling craft beers from over 40 different vendors. Chat with local brewmasters and enjoy plenty of live music and entertainment. 

Of course, no top-quality beer festival would be complete without the area’s best food offerings from the finest chefs and restaurants. The week features a variety of beer-themed special events and offerings at local restaurants, hotels, and bars. You can even try one-of-a-kind brews that you won’t see anywhere else. 

Banff Iiniskim Powwow

Experience the cross-cultural celebration that is the Banff Iiniskim Powwow if you visit in June. The event takes place at the Fenlands Recreation Centre. It invites people from all nations to witness a lively and endearing celebration of traditional Native American culture. 

Different indigenous nations meet to compete in traditional singing and dancing competitions. The costumes are authentic and intricately detailed, each one specific to its people. A live panel of judges determines the winners.

The event takes place from noon to 10 p.m. and also features an interesting market. Here, you can find the perfect souvenir or gift as you browse through the wide array of indigenous arts and crafts.

Taste for Adventure

While Banff is a mecca for outdoor activities, it’s also one of the top-most foodie destinations in all of Canada. The region attracts uber-talented and passionate chefs from all over the world to work in this world-class resort town. Held in October, Taste for Adventure is literally a feast for the senses.

It’s a month-long festival that pits the top local restaurants and chefs in a challenging competition to create the most delicious and never-before-seen culinary offerings. 

The best part? The prices.

You can get some top-notch food samples for as little as $10, or an exclusive prix fixe multi-course meal for as low as $45 — and that’s in Canadian dollars. If you like to eat, you will not want to miss out on this highly-anticipated event.

Melissa’s Road Race

Also held in September is the local favorite, Melissa’s Road Race. This is a beloved family-friendly event that offers 5K, 10K, or 21K running events to participate in, or just cheer on your favorite runner.

This colorful, fun race has something for everyone. There are even various entertainers set up along each of the racecourses. This is one of the most scenic and laid-back races in all of Canada. 

Just the after-party alone is reason enough to show up for the race. There’s plenty of music, food, beverages, prizes, and camaraderie to be had. You can even take advantage of some of the specials offered by several spa and wellness providers to relax and pamper yourself during the weekend. 

Banff Whisky Experience

Okay, so for whatever reason, Banff really loves to host festivals in September. It might be a good time to plan to take your RV trip, especially if you like Whisky. The Banff Whisky Experience features two days of whisky tasting classes and one grand tasting event. 

More than 70 of the top whisky distilleries from around the globe meet to create one of the most scenic and iconic whisky-related events to ever take place. Alberta likes to flaunt the fact that it's the largest rye whisky producer in the world with a weekend filled with mountain top tastings of more than 300 different whisky samples.

Experience a multitude of master classes taught by industry experts and insiders. Put your newfound knowledge to the test at the Grand Tasting Event. This memorable night pairs delectable light foods with intricate craft cocktails, stunning mountain views, and warm fires. 

FAQs

Q: What are RV rentals?

RV rentals work much like any other vehicle rentals. You pay a daily or weekly rate. You can expect these rates to fluctuate based on the time of year and the geographic location that you're renting. Naturally, rates tend to increase during peak seasons. You can get an RV for a certain period and enjoy all its benefits while traveling without the hassles and large cost of owning your RV. It’s also a great way to try out some different RV models if you’re considering purchasing your own.

Q: How much are RV rentals?

RV rentals in Banff can range between $75 and $150 per night for most small- to medium-sized trailers and campervans. Larger RVs and travel trailers can cost from $100 to $250 per night, depending on the season and the RV’s year, make, and model. Some companies offer a discount if you rent for longer than a week.

Q: Do I need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Banff?

While many Canadian provinces require you to be at least 25 years old to rent an RV, the legal age to rent one in Alberta is 21. This may not be the policy of your RV rental agency, however. Most companies require you to be at least 25 to rent.

Q: Do I need insurance when I rent an RV?

Yes, you'll need insurance to rent an RV in Banff. It's meant to cover the vehicle in case of an accident and is mandatory in most states. Most rental companies will have RV-specific insurance that you can purchase.

Q: Do I need to return my rental RV with a full tank?

This policy varies among rental agencies, but most RV rental facilities in Banff will expect you to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas. At the very least, the fuel should be at the same level as when you picked up the vehicle. 

Q: Are RVs pet-friendly in Banff?

Many RV and camper rentals in Banff are pet-friendly, and there are even vehicles specially designed for accommodating animals. Still, it’s important to double-check the policy with your chosen rental agency before renting a particular vehicle.