Town of Banff

Getting to Banff

Use our interactive Google Map for detailed directions from Calgary International Airport to downtown Banff

By Air

Banff is easily accessible from Calgary International Airport, a hub for world-wide connections. Major airlines operating regular flights to Calgary include Air Canada, Westjet, American Airlines, United Airlines, Continental Airlines, and Northwest Airlines.

Scheduled van and motorcoach services connect Banff with Calgary Airport, with frequent departures throughout the day. Chartered shuttle and limousine services are also available.

All major car rental agencies are represented at the Calgary International Airport, and some also have outlets in Banff. The airport Rental Car Centre is located on the departures level across the roadway from the main terminal building.

• Interactive Map & Directions, Calgary Int'l Airport to Downtown Banff

By Car

Transportation to and from Banff is easy on Canada's national Highway 1, the Trans-Canada Highway. The drive from Calgary International Airport takes a little less than 2 hours, a distance of 145 km (90 miles). Because Banff townsite is inside Banff National Park, you will need to purchase a national park pass at the Park gate. Rates are $9 per day per person, or $18 per day for a car with 2-7 people.

• Road Conditions Report: Rocky Mountains (Alberta Motor Association)
• Road Conditions Report: Calgary Area (scroll down to see "West of Calgary")
  

Directions from Calgary International Airport

• Exit the airport parking and car rental lot and follow signs for Barlow Trail and City Centre
• Follow Barlow Trail South to 16th Avenue
• Turn right (west) on 16th Avenue
• 16th Avenue becomes Trans-Canada Highway 1, which takes you directly to Banff
• After approximately 120 km (72 miles), stop at the National Park Gates to obtain your Park Pass
• 15 minutes past the park gate, exit Highway 1 at the Banff/Lake Minnewanka exit
• Turn left at the exit ramp stop sign onto Banff Ave

By Train

There is no regular passenger rail service to Banff. However, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations operates seasonal two-day sightseeing trips, May to October, with stops in Banff. Eastbound trips start from Vancouver and westbound trips from Calgary.