4 Unique Banff Wildlife Tours That Families Will Love

Explore Banff’s wild side with unforgettable wildlife tours! See grizzly bears, elk, and wolfdogs up close—perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Banff is a paradise for wildlife lovers, with over 393 unique species of animals within park limits! From elusive grey wolves to majestic elk, there’s no shortage of fascinating animals to discover! Getting too close to these animals in the wild should be avoided for their safety and yours. But fortunately, there are safe and respectful ways to see them up close! We offer a range of unique Banff wildlife tours, perfect for giving you a glimpse into the lives of these enchanting animals!
Here are four of the top wildlife tours for families looking to experience Banff’s wild side like never before! Read on with us at Banff Adventures to find the perfect adventure for you.
Banff Wildlife Tour #1: Discover Grizzly Bear Tour
Starting at $303
Grizzly Bears are native to Banff, having roamed the Rockies for thousands of years. Sadly, these magnificent animals have become rarer over recent years due to run-ins with humans. Thankfully, you can still see a real-life grizzly up close, without putting you or the animal at risk!
Meet Boo, Kicking Horse Mountain’s resident bear! Boo was rescued in 2003, after being left orphaned. Fortunately since then, he's been able to enjoy life at the Grizzly Bear Refuge, which was built specifically for him! Today, you’ll be able to find him foraging for snacks, soaking up the sun while resting, and going for refreshing swims! This tour will also bring you to several key landmarks around the Great Canadian Rockies. Watch as the light catches the silvery flow of water at Takakkaw Falls, then visit the daringly stunning Golden Skybridge!
Banff Wildlife Tour #2: Evening Wildlife Safari
Starting at $69
While the sun might be setting for us, for wildlife, the day is just beginning! As dusk breaks, animals become more active, foraging, exploring, and tracking other animals. As you embark on this exciting Banff wildlife tour, you’ll have a chance to spot wildlife from a safe and respectful distance! You’ll visit the most popular areas to see Banff’s wild residents, and if deemed safe by the guide, you can even get a closer look! Strap on your safari hats and pack your binoculars for this Banff wildlife tour!
Banff Wildlife Tour #3: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour
Starting at $154
Experience Banff’s natural beauty, and the wildlife that comes with it, on this charming adventure! On this half-day tour, you’ll be taken to the ethereal Lake Louise and Moraine Lake! You’ll be able to explore the beauty of these lakes either on a short walk or by simply sitting and observing. Though not solely focused on wildlife, this tour offers plenty of opportunities to see animals near Banff’s pristine lakes! These famous Banff lakes are home to several wildlife species, from furry marmots scurrying from tree to tree, to rugged mountain goats!
Banff Wildlife Tour #4: Wolfdog Sanctuary Tour
Starting at $33
Though not native to the Rocky Mountains, wolfdogs continue to capture the hearts of many across the world! Wolfdogs are rare hybrids, known as a cross between a wolf and a domestic dog. Despite their popularity and striking appearances, proper care for these dogs is often misunderstood. Wolfdogs are highly active and require special care, which sadly leads to many being surrendered.
Fortunately, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary provides a safe environment for these magnificent animals. This sanctuary exists to be a forever home for these animals and acts to educate visitors about what wolfdog ownership is really like. Please keep in mind that you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, located one hour away from Banff.
Stunning Wildlife Wonders Await with Banff Adventures
Ready to embrace your wild side with these family-friendly Banff wildlife tours? We are, too! Reach out to Banff Adventures today to book one (or more!) of these unforgettable experiences.