What better place to propose to your girlfriend or boyfriend than Banff National Park? The Rockies make for incredibly romantic surroundings. Below I conveniently listed the ten most romantic places and activities to make sure the answer is “yes!”.
I know by experience how it goes. You’ve been thinking and thinking about when to pop the big question. And also: WHERE to do it? How to do it? And how do you take your partner to a unique location without making it obvious what you’re up to?
You need to hide your intentions, and then, when the moment and place are perfect, ask the most important question of your life: “Will you marry me?”.
Now, I suppose you’re going to spend your vacation in Banff and you’re ready to get married. Don’t look further—no better place to do it than in Banff. Stunning and romantic locations are aplenty.
Still, I can imagine you wondering what the best sites in the park are for this special occasion. And probably also, where to do it in private. Because the park is quite busy with tourists, especially during summer and winter.
I distinguished between summer and winter locations, including pros and cons. Yours to choose! Alright, what are you waiting for? Read on to find out about the best proposal spots.
Thinking about the next step, your wedding in Banff in winter? Click the link to read more.
Banff Proposal Locations in Summer
Summertime allows for beautiful hikes and other activities to enjoy Banff National Park at its most beautiful. In other words: perfect circumstances for your proposal!
Below you’ll find five of the most extraordinary and memorable locations or activities to propose to your beloved.
On Cascade Mountain
You’ll be hiking the mountain that looms high above Banff Avenue – one of the most breathtaking locations for a proposal. You have two options to make your partner say yes: the Cascade Mountain Amphitheatre or the mountain’s very summit (the image at the top of this page).
The summit is at 2,998 meters (9,836 ft) and provides a unique view over the town of Banff. Different than the ones you find on Instagram all the time. And that’s what makes this location so unusual for a proposal. It’s by far the most impressive, beautiful hike I’ve done in the park and it’s ‘around the corner’ if you’re staying in the town of Banff.
There’s a downside to it – if you wanna call it that: You will need to put in quite a bit of effort to get there. This strenuous hike takes you anywhere between 8 and 10 hours out and back.
Another one is that reaching the top requires some scrambling which is a bit risky. Just take it easy and be careful and you should be fine. One caveat: do NOT deviate from the official trail beyond the Cascade Amphitheatre (as there are quicker options to reach the top, but they are very dangerous).
If you’re an avid hiker, don’t look further, this is it. If you’re not, still consider it for your proposal. You’ll find some stunning scenery along the way, making it a romantic, beautiful effort to hike to the top.
After you’ve popped out of the forest, you’ll find yourself in the Cascade Amphiteatre at the backside of the mountain. Now let’s say your partner thinks this is enough of hiking. This location in itself is well worth the hike. It looks so impressive and beautiful that this is a great alternative to propose.
So either way, you can’t go wrong with this hike for your proposal.
Another good thing: this hike is not too popular, so there won’t be many people on the trail.
Pros:
- Unique location
- Two possibilities on one hike
- Your partner will always clearly remember where he or she said yes
- The views are simply fantastic
- Different views of the town of Banff and the Bow Valley
- Not too many people on this trail, which should allow for a private moment to pop the question
Cons:
- It’s a strenuous, quite long hike
- It’s a bit risky
- There can be many mosquitoes in the forest
Cascade Mountain is one of the five locations that serve as a vantage point on the town of Banff and the Bow Valley. Want to know more about it? Read the post Where to View the Town of Banff from Above?
On the Moraine Lake Rock Pile
While Lake Louise gets all the fame, it’s probably nearby Moraine Lake that’s the most beautiful of the two. The lake is situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks and these ten peaks surrounding the water make for a stunning and romantic location for your proposal.
Now the lake’s northern shoreline happens to be decorated with a huge rock pile just beyond the parking lot. Climbing this rock pile is an excellent activity in itself, but once at the top, you have an overwhelmingly beautiful view of the valley and the lake. Making it a superb location for your proposal.
Unfortunately, there are a couple of big buts about this location. The biggest: it’s jam-packed in summer. The lake, the lakeside hotel, the parking lot AND the rock pile.
There is a way to avoid this, more or less. And that’s showing up very (and I mean VERY) early to enjoy the sunrise over the lake – making the scene even more breathtaking. Or show up in the evening to enjoy the sunset – making for equally breathtaking vistas.
Still, you could find quite a few people here at sunrise or sunset – especially photographers because of the sheer beauty of these moments. But if you don’t mind prying eyes when you propose, by all means, do it. The location’s beauty is unbeatable.
Another downside to this place is that if you don’t come early (before sunrise), you’ll not be able to find a vacant parking spot at the lake. You’d need to take the shuttle bus from the overflow parking along the Trans-Canada Highway near Lake Louise. It’s a bit of a hassle.
Pros:
- Extremely gorgeous setting
- Being there at sunrise or sunset enhances the beauty of the place
- Extremely romantic
- Makes for stunning, happy selfies of you two after you’ve proposed
Cons:
- Bustling, hectic location, so no privacy, even in the early morning or late evening
- It’s a bit of a hassle to get to
- You need to get up very early if you want to be there during daytime
On the Columbia Icefield
The Columbia Icefield is arguably the most spectacular natural phenomenon you’ll encounter during your trip on the Icefields Parkway. Driving this road is already a romantic experience in itself as this is, without exaggerating, one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
At the Glacier Discovery Centre, situated right at the Icefields Parkway, you can book a trip on the famous snow coach that takes you onto the Athabasca Glacier. You’ll be let off the vehicle for some time and in this setting of high mountain peaks, snow and ice, you can pop the magic question. Stunning and memorable location guaranteed!
The only downside to this idea is that you’ll be on the glacier with a group of tourists. But if you’re not averse to some exhibitionism and don’t mind a round of applause, go on your knees on a glacier, high in the Rockies!
Just make sure you dress warmly, as the area can get windy and cold. Also in the middle of summer. Believe me, I will never forget… (I was only wearing a T-shirt under my summer coat)
Pros:
- Spectacular, unique scenery
- Location to never forget
- Site for beautiful, ‘different’ pictures
Cons:
- There will be quite a lot of other people with you on the ice, so you’ll have no privacy
- It can be freezing, even in summer, so maybe it’s not ideal for making some excellent selfies after you’ve popped the question (and the answer was “yes”)
- It’s quite pricy
- You need to book in advance if you want to make sure you’ll have a place on a snow coach
At Hector Lake
If privacy and scenery matter for your proposal, you want to seriously consider this location, close to the Icefields Parkway. It’s somewhat secluded and it takes some effort to get there, which is why most people refrain from going here.
However, there’s an official hiking path, making things relatively easy. It’s important to know that the trail includes a water ford (making things extra romantic).
So please bring an extra pair of shoes and wear some old ones that can get wet. Also make sure that you’re wearing solid footwear. The river bottom is rough and slick. And be cautious about the water level.
It’s best to do this hike in August when the water is not too high. Hector Lake is set far enough from the Icefields Parkway that hikers can enjoy the area in peace and quiet, especially once they cross the water ford. Few people are brave enough to risk crossing the river on foot.
If you want to know more about hiking along the Icefields Parkway, click the link. It takes you to a comprehensive post listing all your options for easy hikes along this breathtakingly beautiful highway.
Trailhead
The trailhead for Hector Lake is located at a parking area off the Icefields Parkway on the left (coming from the direction of Lake Louise). There’s a small dirt pull-out. The start of the Hector Lake Hike is marked by a sign.
Distance: 4.5 km (2.79 mi)
Elevation: 107 m (351 ft)
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hrs
Pros:
- Lots of privacy (except for the odd fisherman)
- Very romantic activity and setting
- Experience the wilderness around you and get the feeling of being alone in the world, which enhances the romantic setting
- Beautiful scenery
- Along the Icefields Parkway, which is a stunning drive in itself
Cons:
- You need to put some effort into getting there
- You’ll get wet feet as the trail includes a river ford
- You need to bring an extra set of shoes for both of you
During a Helicopter Ride
This one is somewhat more obvious for a proposal. Although that doesn’t make it any less memorable as you’re in the Rocky Mountains. The ride will have you soaring high above the forests, lakes, rivers and mountains, making for spectacular views and an unforgettable experience.
You can book several helicopter rides with different companies, but maybe it’s a good idea to take the option including landing on a mountain.
Several tour operators have special flights for this, including champagne and a photo on location. Get down on your knees in the eternal snow while the world is at your feet.
If money is no issue, you could consider heli-hiking. In this case, the helicopter will drop you on a mountain slope, after which you’ll start your hike, only to be picked up by the helicopter again at the end of your little trek through the mountains.
Pros:
- Spectacular
- Unforgettable memory
- Stunning scenery from a unique point of view
- Land on a location you would never get to otherwise
- Depending on the tour you book can be very private
Cons:
- One of the most costly options in the park
- It might become apparent to your partner what you’re up to, taking away the surprise
- With some tour options, you won’t have a private moment (inquire about this before you book!)
- You need to leave the park to get to the heliport, which could be far (though the closest is in Canmore, at half only half an hour from the town of Banff)
If you want to know more about your options for helicopter rides in the park, I highly recommend reading the post The Ultimate Experience: Book a Helicopter Flight in Banff.
Banff Proposal Locations in Winter
While Banff might be at its most beautiful in summer, winter is stunning as well. Hence, the Rockies covered in snow might be even more romantic than without.
Whatever it may be, regardless of when you come to Banff, both summer and winter are beautiful times of the year for a romantic getaway and propose to your beloved.
In winter, you’re likely to come here for skiing or snowboarding fun. But other areas in the park also offer excellent and romantic activities, so you can propose in an unforgettable way. Check the list below to learn about five of the best options.
On the Ice at Lake Louise
Lake Louise is undoubtedly one of the most visited and photographed lakes in the world. With good reason. The lake’s stunning setting is unique. Which makes it a perfect location for your proposal.
Yes, also in winter. Or maybe even: especially in winter, as you can walk onto the ice and stand in the middle of the lake when you ask your boyfriend or girlfriend to marry you.
The scenery is very different from summer with the ice, the “snow ghosts” in the forest (trees totally covered in snow), and the heavily snowcapped mountains around you. This is romantic, I’m telling you.
Though you should be able to tolerate other people – strangers – around you as the lake is also very busy in winter.
Pros:
- World-famous location
- Extra romantic in the snow
- Stunning setting
Cons:
- No privacy as there will be many tourists
During a Helicopter Ride
Just like in summer, you can also do a helicopter ride in winter. Just as spectacular as in summer (see above), just as beautiful. Just different.
The only thing about a helicopter ride in winter is that flights are more prone to being delayed or canceled due to the weather. The weather in winter is more extreme, limiting your possibilities.
Furthermore, all the arguments for doing a helicopter flight in summer apply to your proposal in winter.
Pros:
- Spectacular
- Unforgettable memory
- Stunning scenery from a unique point of view
- Land on a location you would never get to otherwise
- Depending on the tour you book can be very private
Cons:
- One of the most costly options in the park
- It might become apparent to your partner what you’re up to, taking away the surprise
- With some tour options, you won’t have a private moment (inquire about this before you book!)
- You need to leave the park to get to the heliport, which could be far (though the closest is in Canmore, at half only half an hour from the town of Banff)
- Flights in winter are more prone to being delayed or even canceled due to weather circumstances
Frozen Waterfall in Johnston Canyon
Want to make sure you can take spectacular photos of the moment of your proposal? Visit a frozen waterfall in Johnston Canyon. It might be your best option in the entire park. Because, oh my god, does this look spectacular.
The winter setting of the Rockies is very romantic, with snow everywhere. Walking through this stunning gorge is quite something. And the backdrop itself is also very romantic.
Once there, you’ll get to your knees when your beloved admires this fantastic feat of nature. Only for him or her to be perplexed by your unexpected proposal.
The good thing about going here in winter is there won’t be many people at all, as opposed to the situation in summer, when this place is bustling with tourists (and in summer you won’t have a frozen waterfall, of course).
Pros:
- Spectacular scenery
- Works for amazing pictures
- Not too many people, allowing for some privacy
- Unbeatable romantic backdrop
Cons:
- It can be cold, so dress well
- There could be ice-climbing going on during your hike
During a Dogsledding Tour
Nothing comes close to a dogsledding tour when talking about romantic winter activities. Just imagine yourself sitting on the sled, covered in warm blankets, while a pack of huskies pulls you and your partner through the snow in the Canadian Rockies. It’s the experience of a lifetime.
The world around you is silent, except for the dogs barking and the muffled sound they produce while running through the snow. It’s as if you’re in a no-man’s world, devoid of civilization. Is this the ultimate romantic winter trip in Banff?
Halfway, you’ll stop the sled to get to your knees in the snow. No one will be there. Just ask your tour guide to back off for a bit. After you’ve popped the big question, ask him to take your picture. This option is about as romantic as it can get.
Pros:
- Experience of a lifetime
- Gorgeous scenery
- Very romantic
- Very private (except for the presence of your tour guide)
- Picture perfect
Cons:
- It can be freezing cold
- Dogsled tours are pretty pricy
If you want to know more about dogsledding tours, please read the posts Spare no Expense in Banff and Dog Sledding in Banff, the Ultimate Winter Experience.
While Skating on Vermilion Lakes
Looking for a cheaper option ideally suited for an unexpected and romantic proposal? Go skating on the Vermilion Lakes!
The scenery of the Vermilion Lakes is stunning year-round, with Mount Rundle’s striking silhouette in the distance. But at this time of the year, you can walk on the lakes, put on tour skates and enjoy graciously sliding across the frozen water in one of the park’s most beautiful settings.
Just hold hands when skating and then, in an unguarded moment, put your knee on the black ice and do your thing. Success assured.
In case you didn’t bring your skates, don’t worry. You can rent two pairs in the town of Banff. There are several options.
Pros:
- Beautiful setting
- Cheap
- Close to the town of Banff (within walking distance)
Cons:
- Not all too private as there will be quite a few people on the ice
- The day you chose to propose can turn out to be very cold
Other, More Obvious Proposal Locations in Banff
While the list above gives you ten good ideas to propose, there are many more options in the park. While they are more prominent or generic options, I mention them here anyway.
- On Banff Avenue
- Sitting on a dock at Vermilion Lakes
- On Sulphur Mountain
- During a hike on Tunnel Mountain
- Near the Bow Falls
- At Surprise Corner
- While watching the Hoodoos
- While hiking around Johnson Lake
- At Lake Louise (in summer)
- At Peyto Lake
- During a boat trip on Lake Minnewanka
Is Banff LHBTIQ+ Friendly?
If you’re part of the LHBTIQ+ community, you might worry whether Banff National Park is a safe place to propose to your partner.
Of course you don’t have to do it in the open. Still, the opportunities I mentioned above are interesting and exciting to everyone, but with most of them, you’ll be around some strangers at least.
The good news is that Banff, while it doesn’t have a gay scene, it is known for being open to gay people. To underline this, the town of Banff revealed a rainbow crosswalk on Bear Street in 2018 to emphasize its support for the LGBTQ+ community.
If you want to propose in Banff, why not throw a bachelor party in Banff? Click the link to read all the ins and outs!