Explore Banff

Your Queer-Friendly Escape in the Mountains

Two young men sitting on a bus, smiling and looking out the window. One is pointing at something outside.
Two men smiling and talking outdoors, with people standing in line behind them at a bus stop or train station.

No car? No problem. Banff is one of the most walkable towns in Canada, and exploring without a vehicle is not only easy, it’s encouraged.

Roam Transit buses run year-round and connect you to major attractions, trailheads, and the nearby communities of Lake Louise and Canmore. Want to visit Moraine Lake or Lake Louise? Parks Canada shuttles will get you there stress-free.

  • Roam Transit buses run year-round and connect you to major attractions, trailheads, and the nearby communities of Lake Louise and Canmore. 

    Visit Roam Transit

  • Want to visit Moraine Lake or Lake Louise? Parks Canada shuttles will get you there stress-free.

    Book Parks Canada Shuttles

Queer-Friendly Adventures

Banff is more than a postcard-perfect mountain town, it’s a vibrant, inclusive destination where 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors can feel welcomed, safe, and celebrated. Whether you’re here for Banff Pride or just exploring solo, with friends, or chosen family, there’s something magical waiting for you in every direction.

Insider Tip: Most trails and attractions are accessible via public transit or by foot from downtown.

  • Try Fenland Loop or Spray River Trail for views close to town.

    Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned trailblazer, Banff offers scenic routes for every level—no car needed.

    • Fenland Loop: Peaceful, forested, and just minutes from downtown.

    • Spray River Trail: A half-day hike with riverside views and perfect photo ops.

    • Bow River Loop (Lake Louise): Gentle paths and glacier-fed beauty.

    Every trail in Banff offers more than scenery—they’re opportunities to reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with community.

  • Ride the scenic Legacy Trail between Banff and Canmore.

    Feel the freedom of cycling through Banff’s world-famous trails and roads.

    Rent bikes from local shops like SkiBig3 Adventure Hub, Snowtips, or Bear Street Outfitters, and explore dedicated trails with sweeping views.

    🚴 Try this: The Legacy Trail between Banff and Canmore is a local favourite for its mountain panoramas and smooth, paved path.

  • Canoe Lake Louise or take a guided tour on Lake Minnewanka.

  • The Banff Gondola offers sunset views from Sulphur Mountain.

Group of five people with bicycles standing on a rainbow-colored crosswalk, engaging in conversation, surrounded by trees.

Food, Drinks
& Queer Nightlife

Banff’s food scene is as diverse as its visitors. Many Banff Pride partner venues offer inclusive spaces and special menus during the festival—check our Events page for more!

  • Brunch hotspots: Bluebird and The Maple Leaf are local favourites.

  • Cocktails & Craft Spirits: Visit PARK Distillery or join a Banff Pride bar crawl.

  • Drag Shows & Queer Events: Don’t miss drag brunches, bingo nights, and late-night parties hosted during Pride.

Highlight: Many local venues are Banff Pride partners and offer inclusive, affirming spaces all year long.

Queer-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

    • Morning: Fenland Loop walk + brunch at Bluebird

    • Midday: Distillery tour at PARK + souvenir shopping

    • Evening: Bowling at High Rollers

  • Day 1:

    • Arrive by Banff Airporter or Brewster Shuttle

    • Explore Banff Avenue shops & check into your hotel

    Day 2:

    • Morning yoga or spa session

    • Hike Tunnel Mountain or bike Legacy Trail

    • Afternoon cocktail at Sky Bistro (gondola summit)

    Day 3:

    • Brunch at Bluebird

    • Afternoon at the Whyte Museum or canoe at Lake Louise

    • Chill dinner at Nourish Bistro or Block Kitchen + Bar

    • Picnic by Bow Falls

    • Couples massage at the Fairmont Spa

    • Sunset cruise on Lake Minnewanka

    • Star gazing at Vermilion Lakes