As spring starts to bloom, it’s time to break away from our fireplace and fleecy blankets and head outside to embrace the warmer temperatures, and what better way to break out of your winter blues than planning a trip to Banff, Alberta. If you’re planning a trip to Banff to welcome the new season, Banff offers plenty of activities for both adventure seekers and low-key travelers. From hiking through Lake Louise to relaxing in the steamy natural springs, here are our top travel picks to make the best out of your trip.

Photo: Banff Gondola on Facebook 

1) Take a gondola ride up the Canadian Rockies: There’s no better way to view the Canadian Rockies than taking a ride in a gondola to take you to the peak. Banff Gondola takes you up to the top of Sulphur Mountain to provide you with a stunning bird’s eye view of the vast mountain ranges. For adventure enthusiasts looking to satisfy their cravings for a thrill, there are also hiking trails at the top of the mountain for those wanting to venture on their own to make the most of your trip. Sit back and relax in the glass-encased gondola as you soar through the mountains and take in the breathtaking vistas.

Photo: @Hot_Springs on Twitter

2) Take a plunge in Banff Upper Hot Springs: Located in the heart of Alberta, Banff’s Upper Hot Springs take advantage of the sweeping mountain coasts to provide guests with a relaxing and serene experience to pamper themselves in the soothing waters. Measuring in at 1,585 metres in height, the Banff Upper Hot Springs is the tallest natural hot springs in Canada, making it bucket list-worthy for travelling Canucks. Whether your itinerary consists of skiing or simply just sightseeing, take the time to visit the natural hot springs to relieve your sore muscles and soak in the mineral water for a rejuvenating getaway.

Photo: @brewstercanada on Twitter

3) Tour Lake Louise: No Banff trip is complete without a visit to the world renowned Lake Louise. For nature and outdoor lovers, Lake Louise is the perfect paradise to explore and celebrate its natural wonders, from Moraine Lake and Peyto Lake to Bow Valley and Victoria Glacier. Aside from its brilliant turquoise water and high peaks, it also boasts some of the best hiking trails along with other activities such as Glacier Skywalk, Lake Louise Gondola and canoeing.

4) Go on a boat tour along Lake Minnewanka: If you’re planning a trip to Banff later in the season, make a pit stop at Banff Lake Cruise to glide on the shores of Lake Minnewanka. This one-hour boat tour takes you through the wildlife and vegetation of the mountains along with a tour of the Devil’s Gap, which is a glacial path that travels from the lake to the Canadian Rockies, as the highlight of the ride.