Banff Gondola
It takes eight minutes for the Banff Gondola aerial lift to sweep up the tree-covered slope of Sulphur Mountain to the upper platform, at an altitude of 7,500 feet, where mountain peaks stretch to the horizon. Cafes and restaurants allow you to linger at the heights, or if you prefer to stay outdoors, take a short hike along the ridge or gather around a fire pit in winter.
Upper Hot Springs
Geothermal hot springs emerging out of a massive fault in Sulphur Mountain brought visitors to Banff for the water cure in the late 19th century, and this outdoor pool, which averages 100 degrees Fahrenheit in winter and summer, continues to instill restorative bliss. (Bring a swimsuit, or rent one.)
Lake Louise
This gorgeous lake is almost as big a draw as Banff — even the spectacular 35-mile drive between the two cities is a must-do. The turquoise lake is cradled by a host of peaks. You can kayak or canoe in its glacial waters, hike up the domed Beehive mountains, or meander around the town of Lake Louise.