Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park and is the crown jewel of the national park system.
Spanning 2,564 square miles of the Canadian Rockies on the border of Alberta and British Columbia, the park is really one of the most amazing places you will ever see.
I would say hat it rivals the Inside Passage of Alaska for it's dramatic views and natural beauty, and that really says a lot, since I truly love Alaska.
More and more cruise ship passengers are adding on a tour of Banff and the Canadian Rockies before or after their Alaska cruises out of Vancouver or Seattle.
The park contains probably the most beautiful lakes you will ever see, including the stunning Lake Louise (home of the wonderful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise resort) and Moraine Lake (pictured below).
The clear turquoise coloring of the lakes is breathtaking, as is their alpine setting.
As you can see from the pictures, this is a truly amazing place.
I can honestly say that, having traveled throughout the Alps, Banff surpasses anything I saw there in terms of sheer, jaw-dropping beauty.
Whether you are going on a bus or train tour or you are looking for some more rugged outdoor adventure, this park has much to offer you.
It is known as "Canada's hiking capitol", and the hiking is indeed incredible.
But the views from the roads and the various world-class hotels and lodges is no less amazing, so no matter what your fitness or mobility level, you'll be able to thoroughly enjoy the beauty of this Banff National Park.
