Moraine Lake

Located about an hour's drive north of town, Moraine Lake (which is featured on the back of several versions of the Canadian $20 bill) is the visual highlight of any Banff trip. Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, the lake mirrors the snowcapped peaks and is surrounded by back-country hiking trails. One TripAdvisor user writes: "You should definitely find time to make it to this spot if you are in or near Banff National Park … Come in the morning and be sure to bring your camera!" However, because of its popularity, visitors should be prepared to encounter limited parking.