Why not add another dimension to admiring the Banff wilderness? Experience it by sunrise or sunset! Enjoying nature in a different setting is a fantastic way to enjoy the park and it’s perfect for stunning pictures. Below you’ll find the best locations.
Just imagine: the silence of Banff sunrise, when roads are not yet busy, the lakes are without tourists, undisturbed wildlife calmingly grazing while the sun is rising from behind the mountains.
Or imagine Banff sunset: when the sun paints the sky in beautiful colors as the summer heat gradually lowers. Meanwhile, hungry tourists have left for restaurants, so you’ll have the spot for yourself.
Sounds good? It’s what awaits you if you go out at sunrise or sundown in summer. Let’s have a closer look at the park’s miraculous daily wonders.
The Best Sunrise and Sunset Locations in Banff National Park
Below I listed the nine top spots in the park for enjoying a stunning sunrise in Banff. And for enjoying an equally stunning sunset in Banff, of course.
1. Castle Mountain (Sunrise)
Sunrise over Castle Mountain is a marvel of nature. This peculiarly shaped and impressive mountain (looking like a castle indeed) on the way between Banff and Lake Louise provides stunning vistas early in the morning.
To have the best view of the mountain during sunrise, go to the 93S (Banff-Windermere Highway) from Storm Mountain, heading towards Castle Junction. You’ll see incredible light on Castle Mountain about midway down the highway.
On this highway, there are no pullouts where you can park and have a good view of the sunrise over Castle Mountain. However, driving toward the mountain and looking at the impressive image in front of you is a spectacular experience in itself.
There’s an exit at the Storm Mountain Lodge (left side of the road). However, this exit is solely for the lodge, so basically, you’re entering private property. Probably the people at the lodge won’t like you to pull out there and watch the sunrise for some time.
2. Lake Louise (Sunrise and Sunset)
Lake Louise is the park’s most famous lake for a reason. It’s setting and beauty are unparalelled. Sunrise is spectacular at this world-famous location. See how the sun rises from behind the Fairmont Château Lake Louise to light up the lake and the glacier.
The early-morning dew and the still water make for a quiet and almost eerie experience in an otherwise super touristy location. Yes, even early in the morning there will be quite a few tourists.
It’s the biggest downside of visiting the lake at this time of the day.
Lake Louise is also a fantastic spot at sunset. At this time of the day, you’ll see the sun sink behind Mountain Victoria and Victoria Glacier, throwing long shadows across the lake.
The multi-colored sky provides gorgeous reflections in the water. Bring your camera!
A good thing to know is that at this time of the day, crowds thin out at the lake, making for a bit more relaxed experience.
3. Lake Minnewanka (Sunrise and Sunset)
See how low-hanging clouds hug the tree tops during sunrise at Lake Minnewanka, giving Banff’s biggest lake a somewhat mysterious appearance. Visiting Lake Minnewanka at this time makes for a good chance to see wildlife like bighorn sheep and elk.
You might encounter them during your early-morning trip to the lake if you take the Two Jack Lake route. Bighorn sheep are often seen next to the road between Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka. Also, check the rocks to your left, just before you arrive at Lake Minnewanka.
During sunset, the mountains, and Lake Minnewanka’s extensive body of water reflecting a multitude of colors, make for simply unbelievable pictures. At this time of the day, it’s generally quiet at the lake. Sit at (the bench on) the boat dock and enjoy the marvel of nature. Just don’t forget to take pictures when musing about your Banff experiences.
4. Moraine Lake (Sunrise and Sunset)
Moraine Lake is an absolute gem during sunrise and sunset. If you ask me, this lake even provides even more stunning images than Lake Louise at both moments of the day.
The Valley of the ten peaks is so picture-perfect that any time of the day offers a jaw-dropping scene.
The rockpile near the parking lot is an excellent location to observe the sunrise at Moraine Lake. From here, you can see the glow on the mountains very well. A bonus is that the lake is usually at its stillest at this time of the day, making for perfect reflections on the ripple-free water.
There is one major downside to visiting Moraine Lake at sunrise. You have to take a shuttle bus to get there, as (most) vehicles are no longer allowed on the road to the lake. The first shuttle bus leaves at 6:30 am and arrives at the lake just before 7 a.m.
This means that in the summer months you’ll be too late to see the sun rise over the lake. You should be fine in September though.
The only other option in the summer months is to either walk or cycle to the lake, or book a room at the Moraine Lake Lodge.
That’s why coming for sunset at Moraine Lake is a better choice. Generally, there are fewer people at the lake, the temperature is better and you don’t have to get up extremely early.
If you’re lucky, the sky is full of shades of yellow, red, orange, pink and indigo. No need to explain that this will provide you with one of the most extraordinary views you’ve ever seen.
5. Norquay Lookout (Sunrise and Sunset)
Mount Norquay has a beautiful vantage point that lends itself perfectly to witnessing sunrise and sunset. It’s known as the Green Spot. It’s an easy-to-reach grassy slope halfway up the road to the mountain’s ski resort. You’ll find it on your right-hand side.
This lovely meadow offers views of Sulphur Mountain, Tunnel Mountain, Mount Rundle, the Bow River, and the town of Banff as you look over the Bow Valley.
At sunrise, you can expect shrouds of clouds hanging over the valley, while the tips of the snow-capped mountains slowly light up, providing a more mystical view. Just make sure you dress warmly as it can be chilly on the hillside.
At sunset, temperatures are much nicer; when the lighting is right, you can see a glowing red Mount Rundle. Just sit down in the grass and enjoy the stunning view.
While more people will come to this spot to enjoy sunrise or sunset, it’s generally not too busy. You should be able to park your car on the side of the road.
6. Sulphur Mountain (Sunset)
Taking the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain to watch the sunset is a no-brainer. Just imagine seeing a multi-colored sky over the Bow Valley and the town of Banff. Magic guaranteed.
This may well be the ultimate sunset viewing platform. Just understand that it will be busy at the top as the Gondola organizes a Sunset Festival at the summit, including live music, until September.
At least there’s lots of space to walk around and enjoy the stunning vistas the top of Sulphur Mountain provides.
Visiting the summit to enjoy the sunrise from the mountain requires much more effort. At this time of the day you can’t take the gondola up the mountain, so you’ll need to hike up to the summit. The gondola’s operating hours start at 8 am or 9 am, depending on the time of the season.
The hike from the gondola’s parking lot takes about two hour to complete.
To experience the sunrise – between 5.31 am and 6.54 in July and August (see the table below) – you’ll need to start your hike in total darkness about two hours before. Besides needing to get up extremely early, this is not your safest option. I’d advise you to go for experiencing sunset instead.
Sulphur Mountain is one of the five vantage points on the town of Banff. Want to read about the other four? Check the post Where to View the Town of Banff from Above.
7. Tunnel Mountain Viewpoint (Sunrise and Sunset)
Seeing sunrise and sunset from Tunnel Mountain requires a relatively short 50-minute hike. You can park close to the trailhead at the Banff Centre premises. Or, if you’re staying in the town of Banff, just walk there; it’s not far.
If you’re going to witness the sunrise, you’ll need to hike through the dark, so take a torch with you or use your cellphone’s lamp – if it’s strong enough – to hike to the top. Be careful when doing this, as hiking in the dark is obviously more risky.
Another downside is that you’ll have to get up very early in July and August to be at the top in time.
The reward is a stunning view of the giant Mount Rundle, facing you on the east side of Tunnel Mountain. Watch how the sun slowly lights the unique wedge-shaped mountain and the entire Bow Valley. At this time of the day, there will hardly be any people on Tunnel Mountain, so you can experience this moment in relative solitude.
Witnessing sunset from Tunnel Mountain is relatively easy. Yes, you still need to hike to the top, but the temperature should be pleasant at this time of the day. Besides, seeing the sun disappear behind the mountains, throwing long shadows over Mount Rundle, is a real treat.
If you’re lucky, a multi-colored sky allows you to take the most beautiful pictures of the Bow Valley, Mount Rundle and the golf course below, sandwiched between Mount Rundle and Tunnel Mountain.
8. Two Jack Lake (Sunrise and Sunset)
Two Jack Lake is one of the best locations in the park to watch sunrise and sunset. First off, the lake is very close to the town of Banff, making it easy to reach, and early in the morning you shouldn’t have any problems parking your car.
Regarding parking, Two Jack Lake has a lower and an upper parking lot. Both are not very big, so they quickly fill up. At the lower parking lot, you can drive your car right to the lake shore.
Watching sunrise or sunset at Two Jack Lake is an extraordinary experience. The mighty Rundle Mountain in the background, reflecting in the still water, makes it a unique, tranquil place at sunrise. If you’re lucky, the colors of sunrise will add an extra dimension to the experience.
The same goes for visiting the lake at sunset. With the pleasant temperatures, you could enjoy a relaxing summer night surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot wildlife here as the clamor of the daily tourists will have subsided.
9. Vermilion Lakes (Sunrise and Sunset)
The Vermilion Lakes are one of the park’s most photogenic locations, right outside the town of Banff. You can walk there from Banff Avenue. If you decide to take your car here, parking shouldn’t be a problem, despite lacking a parking lot. Just park your side beside the road. It won’t be busy.
The docks make for perfect locations to sit down and enjoy the scenery while the sun rises or sets. Bring a coat or sweater if you visit at sunrise because it can be chilly around 6 am.
The dark water with the day’s first sunlight makes for stunning reflections. Also, enjoy the silence because there are hardly any cars on the adjacent Trans-Canada Highway. It makes for an unbelievably serene place to start your day.
At sunset, look in the direction of Tunnel and Rundle Mountain and enjoy dazzling skies with shades of pink, yellow, orange and indigo when the sun slowly sinks behind the mountains. After a good sunny day, the temperature will still be nice and warm, making it an incredibly relaxing experience. Make sure you bring your camera or smartphone.
What times to Expect Sunrise and Sunset in Banff National Park?
The times of sunrise and sunset change day by day, all year. That’s why it’s good to know when exactly these phenomena occur.
That’s why I compiled the table below. It lists the months of July and August, with the sunrise and sunset times for each day, so you know you’ll be at your desired location in time.
| JUNE 2023 | SUNRISE (AM) | SUNSET (PM) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5:32 | 9:52 |
| 2 | 5:31 | 9:53 |
| 3 | 5:30 | 9:54 |
| 4 | 5:30 | 9:55 |
| 5 | 5:29 | 9:56 |
| 6 | 5:28 | 9:57 |
| 7 | 5:28 | 9:58 |
| 8 | 5:27 | 9:59 |
| 9 | 5:27 | 9:59 |
| 10 | 5:27 | 10:00 |
| 11 | 5:26 | 10:01 |
| 12 | 5:26 | 10:02 |
| 13 | 5:26 | 10:02 |
| 14 | 5:26 | 10:03 |
| 15 | 5:25 | 10:03 |
| 16 | 5:25 | 10:04 |
| 17 | 5:25 | 10:04 |
| 18 | 5:25 | 10:04 |
| 19 | 5:26 | 10:05 |
| 20 | 5:26 | 10:05 |
| 21 | 5:26 | 10:05 |
| 22 | 5:26 | 10:05 |
| 23 | 5:26 | 10:06 |
| 24 | 5:27 | 10:06 |
| 25 | 5:27 | 10:06 |
| 26 | 5:28 | 10:06 |
| 27 | 5:28 | 10:05 |
| 28 | 5:29 | 10:05 |
| 29 | 5:29 | 10:05 |
| 30 | 5:30 | 10:05 |
| JULY 2023 | SUNRISE (AM) | SUNSET (PM) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5:30 | 10:05 |
| 2 | 5:31 | 10:04 |
| 3 | 5:32 | 10:04 |
| 4 | 5:33 | 10:03 |
| 5 | 5:33 | 10:03 |
| 6 | 5:34 | 10:02 |
| 7 | 5:35 | 10:02 |
| 8 | 5:36 | 10:01 |
| 9 | 5:37 | 10:00 |
| 10 | 5:38 | 9:59 |
| 11 | 5:39 | 9:59 |
| 12 | 5:40 | 9:58 |
| 13 | 5:41 | 9:57 |
| 14 | 5:43 | 9:56 |
| 15 | 5:44 | 9:55 |
| 16 | 5:45 | 9:54 |
| 17 | 5:46 | 9:53 |
| 18 | 5:47 | 9:52 |
| 19 | 5:49 | 9:51 |
| 20 | 5:50 | 9:49 |
| 21 | 5:51 | 9:48 |
| 22 | 5:53 | 9:47 |
| 23 | 5:54 | 9:46 |
| 24 | 5:55 | 9:44 |
| 25 | 5:57 | 9:43 |
| 26 | 5:58 | 9:41 |
| 27 | 6:00 | 9:40 |
| 28 | 6:01 | 9:38 |
| 29 | 6:03 | 9:37 |
| 30 | 6:04 | 9:35 |
| 31 | 6:06 | 9:34 |
| AUGUST 2023 | SUNRISE (AM) | SUNSET (PM) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6:07 | 9:32 |
| 2 | 6:09 | 9:30 |
| 3 | 6:10 | 9:29 |
| 4 | 6:12 | 9:27 |
| 5 | 6:13 | 9:25 |
| 6 | 6:15 | 9:23 |
| 7 | 6:16 | 9:22 |
| 8 | 6:18 | 9:20 |
| 9 | 6:19 | 9:18 |
| 10 | 6:21 | 9:16 |
| 11 | 6:23 | 9:14 |
| 12 | 6:24 | 9:12 |
| 13 | 6:26 | 9:10 |
| 14 | 6:27 | 9:08 |
| 15 | 6:29 | 9:06 |
| 16 | 6:31 | 9:04 |
| 17 | 6:32 | 9:02 |
| 18 | 6:34 | 9:00 |
| 19 | 6:35 | 8:58 |
| 20 | 6:37 | 8:56 |
| 21 | 6:39 | 8:54 |
| 22 | 6:40 | 8:52 |
| 23 | 6:42 | 8:50 |
| 24 | 6:43 | 8:48 |
| 25 | 6:45 | 8:46 |
| 26 | 6:47 | 8:43 |
| 27 | 6:48 | 8:41 |
| 28 | 6:50 | 8:39 |
| 29 | 6:51 | 8:37 |
| 30 | 6:53 | 8:35 |
| 31 | 6:55 | 8:32 |
| SEPTEMBER 2023 | SUNRISE (AM) | SUNSET (PM) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6:56 | 8:30 |
| 2 | 6:58 | 8:28 |
| 3 | 6:59 | 8:26 |
| 4 | 7:01 | 8:23 |
| 5 | 7:02 | 8:21 |
| 6 | 7:04 | 8:19 |
| 7 | 7:06 | 8:17 |
| 8 | 7:07 | 8:14 |
| 9 | 7:09 | 8:12 |
| 10 | 7:10 | 8:10 |
| 11 | 7:12 | 8:07 |
| 12 | 7:14 | 8:05 |
| 13 | 7:15 | 8:03 |
| 14 | 7:17 | 8:01 |
| 15 | 7:18 | 7:58 |
| 16 | 7:20 | 7:56 |
| 17 | 7:22 | 7:54 |
| 18 | 7:23 | 7:51 |
| 19 | 7:25 | 7:49 |
| 20 | 7:27 | 7:47 |
| 21 | 7:28 | 7:44 |
| 22 | 7:30 | 7:42 |
| 23 | 7:31 | 7:40 |
| 24 | 7:33 | 7:37 |
| 25 | 7:35 | 7:35 |
| 26 | 7:36 | 7:33 |
| 27 | 7:38 | 7:31 |
| 28 | 7:39 | 7:28 |
| 29 | 7:41 | 7:26 |
| 30 | 7:43 | 7:24 |
Distances Table
If you want to visit one of the locations mentioned above, it’s essential to know how far it is from the place you’re staying. That’s why I wrote down the distances from the town of Banff and Lake Louise to the nine locations. The table below also includes the average traveling time by car. This way, you can perfectly plan your trip and not miss the most memorable parts of the day.
| DESTINATION | DISTANCE FROM BANFF | DISTANCE FROM LAKE LOUISE | TRAVEL TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castle Mountain | 37 km (23 mi) | 32 (20 mi) | 26 min / 23 min |
| Lake Louise | 61 km (38 mi) | – | 40 min / – |
| Lake Minnewanka | 10 km (6 mi) | 69 km (43 mi) | 14 min / 51 min |
| Moraine Lake | 75 km (47 mi) | 18 km (11,18 mi) | 64 min / 26 min |
| Norquay Lookout | 6.4 km (4 mi) | 62 km (39 mi) | 10 min / 44 min |
| Sulphur Mountain | 4.5 km (2.8 mi) | 62 km (39 mi) | 8 min / 46 min |
| Tunnel Mountain Viewpoint | 2.9 km (1.8 mi) | 61 km (38 mi) | 6 min / 45 min |
| Two Jack Lake | 11.3 km (7 mi) | 68 km (42 mi) | 14 min / 49 min |
| Vermilion Lakes | 2.4 km (1.5 mi) | 58 km (36 mi) | 5 min / 39 min |
Want to propose to your partner while enjoying a romantic sunset or sunrise? Then I recommend reading the post on the several special options you have to pop the big question.