Undoubtedly one of Canada's most picture-perfect settings, Banff National Park and the town of Banff makes for a perfect day trip from Calgary. Driveable in under 90 minutes, the route itself is nothing short of spectacular, taking in incredible mountain vistas shortly after leaving the city, and which never let up along the way.

After passing Canmore and enterting the park gates, you'll find yourself in the town of Banff, the only community located in magnificent Banff National Park. It's a great place to explore either before or after touring the park, and features plenty of shopping and dining opportunities.

One of the highlights of your visit, though, will be seeing Lake Louise. Famous for its dazzling turquoise waters framed by stunning snow-capped mountains, the tallest reaching heights of over 3,000 meters, it's the ultimate (safe) selfie spot-especially with the handsome Fairmont Château Lake Louise in the distance-and a great place to pause and reflect the splendor and natural beauty of this part of the world.