9 Best Photo Spots in Banff for Stunning Family Travel Photos

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All photos in this post were taken by me during our trip. I love capturing real experiences to give you an authentic look at what to expect.

Banff is one of the most photogenic destinations in the world, and many of the best photo spots in Banff are surprisingly easy to access with kids. Whether you’re dreaming of those iconic turquoise lakes or hoping to find a few quiet, off-the-beaten-path gems, this guide is packed with scenic locations perfect for family travelers.

We’ve visited Banff twice now, once with our kids and once without, and every location here is one we personally photographed. From dramatic mountain overlooks to easy trails with postcard-worthy views, you’ll find tips on where to go, when to visit, and how to avoid the crowds. Best of all? Every single photo here was taken with just our iPhones!

Table of Contents

1. Moraine Lake

Man paddling a canoe on Moraine Lake with blue water and pine-covered mountains — Scenic paddle across Moraine Lake in Banff

Colorful canoes lined up at Moraine Lake dock with mountain peaks behind — Canoe rentals at Moraine Lake shoreline trail

Couple canoeing on Moraine Lake at sunrise with mountain reflection — Sunrise canoe ride on Moraine Lake

If you’ve seen a postcard of Banff, chances are it was taken here. Moraine Lake is the most iconic and photographed spot in the park, and it’s just as stunning in person. With its turquoise water and the jagged Valley of the Ten Peaks behind it, this is a must for a jaw-dropping family photo.

How to get there:
Moraine Lake is only accessible by shuttle, and no private cars are allowed. We booked our tickets through Parks Canada about 3 months in advance. Private shuttle companies are usually available closer to your travel dates, but they tend to be more expensive.

Best photo spots:

Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail: great for family portraits with the lake and peaks
In the canoe: paddle to the center of the lake for a wide-angle shot with mountain reflections
Rockpile Trail: stunning views, but it gets crowded fast so go early or late in the day

Pro tip:
Book the first or last shuttle of the day to avoid crowds. We went at sunrise and headed straight to the canoes. We practically had the lake to ourselves.

This was one of our favorite spots in the entire park, and we think everyone should add it to their Banff family itinerary! The water really is that blue, the mountains tower over you, and the air smells like Christmas from all the lovely pine trees.

2. Lake Louise

Lake Louise in Banff National Park, perfect for a Banff photo spot or a Banff Family Itinerary — Lake Louise shoreline in July

family posing near Lake Louise in April — Posing near the Fairview Lookout Trailhead in early spring

Mom carrying daughter on her back on a snowy day at Lake Louise — Piggyback rides on the shoreline of Lake Louise in April

Lake Louise is another breathtaking glacial lake surrounded by the towering Canadian Rockies, and should definitely make your list of stops on your next visit. The lake is stunning and accessible year round. In the summer wildflowers line the shoreline and the water glistens bright turquoise in the sun. In the winter the lake freezes and is surrounded by a snowy wonderland.

How to get there:
The easiest way to visit Lake Louise is by shuttle. Parks Canada offers a convenient day pass that includes stops at both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise on a flexible schedule. If you want to stay past dark (especially in summer for sunset), driving and parking yourself is a good option, just be aware the lot fills up quickly, often before 9 a.m.

We’ve visited in both seasons and loved taking the shuttle in summer and driving in winter.

Best photo spots:

Shoreline: Classic views with the lake and mountains behind your family
Fairview Lookout Trail: A short hike with a unique perspective and fewer crowds
In the water: If you’re brave enough to dip in the glacier-fed lake, the photos are unforgettable!

Pro tip:
Most people stop at the first overlook on the shore, which makes it hard to get a clear photo. Walk a little farther down the shoreline trail (to the right) where you’ll find quiet pockets and even a few sets of stone steps leading into the water. These are perfect for posing without people in the background. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical times to visit with fewer crowds and softer light.

3. Peyto Lake

Couple standing at Peyto Lake viewpoint with snowy mountains and frozen wolf shaped lake in the background in Banff National Park — Peyto Lake’s main viewpoint in early spring

Peyto Lake's wolf-shaped turquoise water surrounded by pine trees in summer, seen from a high viewpoint — Visit in summer for this iconic wolf-shaped view and the lake’s unforgettable glacial blue color.

Young girl smiling at Peyto Lake viewpoint with snowy mountain scenery in Banff — Our daughter’s favorite stop. She loved seeing the lake is actually shaped like a wolf!

Peyto Lake is one of the most unique and photogenic lakes in Banff, and a must-stop along the Icefields Parkway. Its striking glacial blue color and natural wolf shape make it extra memorable (it was our daughter’s favorite stop on the drive!).

If you’re visiting in winter or early spring (like we did in April), expect the lake to be completely snow-covered. You won’t see the signature turquoise color, but the snowy views are still beautiful, peaceful, and worth seeing.

How to get there:
Drive along the Icefields Parkway and watch for signs for the Bow Summit/Peyto Lake Viewpoint. Park in the lot and take a short, paved (but slightly steep) trail to the viewing platform.

Best photo spots:

Peyto Lake Viewing Platform: Easy access and stunning panoramic views
Unofficial trail to the right: A dirt footpath that leads to a more secluded and unobstructed angle (just be cautious and stay safe)

Pro tip:
This spot is very popular in summer, especially mid-day. Visit early in the morning or closer to sunset to avoid the crowds or be prepared to wait a few minutes for your turn at the end of the platform. But when we visited in April, we had the viewpoint completely to ourselves around lunchtime. It was a rare and peaceful moment that made it even more special.

4. Bow Lake

Couple standing on Bow Lakeshore Trail with turquoise lake and towering mountains in the background — Posing on the lakeshore trail at Bow Lake

Man in green jacket swimming in Bow Lake with mountain backdrop — Braving the glacial waters for a quick dip, wearing his REI rain jacket for warmth

Family walking across snow-covered Bow Lake in early spring with dramatic mountains in the distance — Exploring frozen Bow Lake in April

Bow Lake is another breathtaking stop along the Icefields Parkway, and it’s one of the easiest photo spots to access with no hiking required! It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll, a quick dip in the glacial water, or even a hammock break while soaking in the views. In early spring, the lake is still frozen, and the surrounding peaks are dusted in snow, creating a totally different kind of beauty.

How to get there:
Bow Lake is just a short, flat walk from the parking lot, making it very accessible in summer and one of the best places to take pictures in Banff. Follow the signs for Bow Lake along the Icefields Parkway. In winter or early spring, deep snow can make it difficult to reach the lake shore, but the views from the pull-off are still worth the stop!

Best photo spots:

Lake Shoreline: Right from the parking lot the mountain and lake views are immediate and dramatic.
Bow Lakeshore Trail: A flat trail that runs along the edge of the lake for even more photo opportunities.
In the water: Brave the glacial chill for a memorable shot wading or splashing in the water!
From a hammock: Set up under the trees and snap a candid of the kids relaxing with the peaks in the background.

Pro tip:
In summer, this is an awesome picnic stop. There are several benches and rocky areas perfect for relaxing after your mini photoshoot.

5. Sulphur Mountain Summit

Family of four posing at Sulphur Mountain summit with snow-covered Canadian Rockies behind them — Clear day on the Sulphur Mountain Summit

Boy in winter gear sitting in deep snow at the Sulphur Mountain summit in Banff — Taking a snow break at the summit of Sulphur Mountain

Two kids sitting on a bench overlooking mountain peaks at the Banff Gondola summit — A quiet moment taking in the views from the observation deck

If you want jaw-dropping views of Banff without a strenuous hike, the Sulphur Mountain Summit is a must. Ride the Banff Gondola to the top and soak in panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies, it’s an easy and accessible way to get those epic mountain shots. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction!

While you can hike to the top, we weren’t up for the elevation gain, so we opted for the gondola and it was absolutely worth it. Even our kids loved the ride and the sweeping views from the top.

How to get there:
You can either hike the Sulphur Mountain Trail (about 3.4 miles one way with 2,300 ft elevation gain) or take the Banff Gondola from the base up to the summit (ticket purchase required).

Best photo spots:

Rooftop Observation Deck: Take the elevator from the main level of the terminal up to the rooftop for wide-open views and family photo ops.
Summit Boardwalk: An easy, scenic boardwalk trail that leads you to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson’s Peak.
Back Patio of the Terminal: Step out the back of the building for quieter viewpoints and mountain-facing benches, perfect for candid shots.
Sulphur Mountain Trailhead: Epic views looking back down over Banff right from the start of the trail

Pro tip:
Kids ride free during the first two hours of the day, which also happens to be the best time to avoid crowds. Go early for soft morning light, open space to shoot, and fewer people in the background of your photos.

6. Athabasca Glacier

Guided group posing on the Athabasca Glacier wearing crampons and cold-weather gear. — Our guided hike on the glacier

Couple standing on the Athabasca Glacier with bright blue ice and rugged mountains behind them. — Standing on the Athabasca Glacier was a surreal experience

Man standing near the base of Athabasca Glacier with rocky terrain and glacier views in the distance. — Standing at the foot of the glacier about to start our hike!

Walking on the Athabasca Glacier is a true bucket list experience with icy terrain, dramatic crevasses, and the rare chance to explore a glacier up close. You can access the glacier on a guided hike, via the Columbia Icefield Explorer vehicle, or enjoy the view from the nearby Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

We chose the guided hike (kids must be at least 10), and it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The sound of the ice crunching beneath our boots, the glacial streams rushing past us, and the chance to peer into deep crevasses, all with the safety and knowledge of a guide, made it unforgettable.

How to get there:
Drive the Icefields Parkway to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. This is your base for both tours and hikes. If you’re doing the guided hike, check in with your tour company there.

Best photo spots:

Foot of the Glacier: Grab a quick group shot before starting your trek
Top of the Glacier: Capture the panoramic view of the icy terrain stretching into the peaks
Ice Spike Pose: Show off your crampons with a fun foot-out photo

Pro tip:
You can access the toe of the glacier without a tour, but you cannot safely walk on the glacier without a guide. Hidden crevasses and unstable ice make it extremely dangerous. If you’re not up for the full trek, consider booking the Ice Explorer bus or walking the nearby Skywalk for incredible views.

7. Sunshine Meadows

A wide view of alpine lakes and green meadows from the Standish Viewpoint in Sunshine Meadows, Banff. — The view from Standish Viewpoint

A couple takes a selfie with green trees and snow-capped mountain peaks behind them in Sunshine Meadows. — Hiking in Sunshine Meadows

A snowboarder glides down a snowy slope in Sunshine Village with fresh snow falling. — Fresh snow on the slopes of Sunshine Village

Sunshine Meadows offers alpine wildflowers, crystal-clear lakes, and expansive mountain views that truly make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, this spot is a showstopper for photos and outdoor adventure.

How to get there:
Take the gondola from the Sunshine Village base to the top, then hop on the Standish Chairlift (included with your gondola ticket) to reach the upper viewpoint. It’s smooth and family-friendly and no hiking is required unless you want to!

Best photo spots:

Standish Viewpoint: The elevated deck at the top of the chairlift has sweeping views of three different alpine lakes.
Rock Isle Lake Trail: A short, scenic hike leads to this picturesque spot surrounded by mountains.
Slopes in winter: Capture action shots on the snowy runs

Pro tip:
The mosquitoes in summer can be brutal, so bring bug spray! If you forget yours (like we did), you can grab some from the Sunshine Village gift shop.

Keep in mind that visibility can be very low on snowy days or cloudy summer days, so check the forecast before heading up to avoid disappointment.

8. Little Beehive Summit

View from the top of Little Beehive Hike in Banff National Park on Lake Louise, Canada — Little Beehive Summit 🤘

Overhead view of Mirror Lake and Lake Louise surrounded by dense forest, seen from the Little Beehive Trail. — One of the best viewpoints on the hike: look down to see both Mirror Lake and Lake Louise nestled in the trees

Colorful wildflowers blooming along the Little Beehive Trail in Banff National Park, with dramatic rocky peaks rising in the background, one of the best photo spots in Banff — Wildflowers in full bloom along the trail to Little Beehive

Reaching the top of the Little Beehive hike at Lake Louise takes some effort, but it’s absolutely worth it. From the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of snowy mountain peaks, the Bow Valley, and the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise far below. It’s one of the most stunning vantage points in the area and feels like standing on the edge of a postcard.

How to get there:
The Little Beehive Trail starts at the Lake Louise shoreline and follows the Lake Agnes Trail. After reaching Lake Agnes and the Tea House, follow the signs to the Little Beehive Trail. The full hike is about 5.6 miles (9 km) round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 1,800 feet (550 meters). This trail is only accessible late spring through early fall.

Best photo spots:

Little Beehive Summit: The edge of the cliff offers wide-open views of Lake Louise and the Bow Valley.
Lake Agnes Tea House Area: Snap a cozy shot by the lake or enjoy candid moments with a snack and hot cider.
The trail switchbacks: Get some great mid-hike photos with forested backdrops, wildflowers, and glimpses of the lake peeking through the trees.

Pro tip:
There are sheer drop-offs at the top, so use caution, especially with kids. This is a moderately challenging hike with steady elevation gain, but stopping for a treat at Lake Agnes Tea House halfway up is a fun and motivating break for the whole family.

9. Tunnel Mountain Summit

View from Tunnel Mountain summit in summer — Tunnel Mountain hike in Banff

Woman smiling on a rock with panoramic views of the Bow River and Banff town below from Tunnel Mountain Summit — The views of the Bow River from Tunnel Mountain were absolutely worth the climb.

Two people sitting in Parks Canada’s red chairs at Tunnel Mountain Summit overlooking the forested mountains — Don’t miss the red chairs at the summit. Such a fun and classic Parks Canada photo opportunity

Tunnel Mountain Summit has breathtaking views overlooking the town of Banff and the Bow River valley below. This is one of the most accessible summits in Banff, perfect for families looking to get those summit photos without committing to a full day hike. The views from the top are panoramic and stunning, especially in the early morning light or golden hour.

We hiked this on our trip without the kids, but they could have made it to the top! It’s a great beginner summit if your family is new to hiking.

How to get there:
Hike the Tunnel Mountain Trail. It’s about 2.7 miles (4.3 km) round trip and gains about 875 ft in elevation. The trail is open year-round and well-marked, with plenty of switchbacks that make the elevation gain a little more manageable.

Best photo spots:

Summit viewpoint: Panoramic views of Banff town, Mount Rundle, and the Bow River
Iconic red chairs: Found near the top, these Parks Canada chairs frame the view perfectly
Bow River overlook: Snap photos just before the summit where the Bow River winds through the valley

Pro tip:
Park at the upper trailhead on Tunnel Mountain Road to shorten the hike and cut off some of the elevation gain. The lot is small and fills up quickly in peak season, so arrive early or try for a sunset hike!

family in front of northern lights at vermillion lakes, banff, canada — Seeing the Northern Lights at Vermillion Lakes

Banff is packed with picture-perfect moments your family will never forget. Capturing candid laughs on a snowy summit or soaking in those golden hour views over turquoise water are memories your family will never forget and photos you’ll treasure forever.

Want help planning your trip? Grab my Free Banff Travel Guide with our full family-friendly itinerary, top travel tips, and even more can’t-miss stops to make the most of your vacation. It’s everything I wish I had known before our first visit—plus a few extra gems you won’t find on the blog.

Happy Travels!
💛 Michelle