According to forum posts, some recommended hiking trails in Banff National Park include the Plain of Six Glaciers, Lake Agnes, and the Big Beehive, which offer stunning views and varying degrees of difficulty. The Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots trail is also suggested, providing a scenic route through forested areas ending in beautiful open valleys.

Travelers have called out the importance of checking trail conditions before heading out, as some trails, like the Plain of Six Glaciers and Johnston Canyon, can be quite busy or have different conditions depending on the season. It's advised to prepare adequately with proper gear and possibly consider guided hikes for more informative experiences.

For those looking for less crowded options, hikes such as the Parker Ridge and Wilcox Pass are noted for their great views and are described as not overly strenuous, fitting for those who want a fulfilling but manageable hiking experience.

According to forum posts, several shuttle services operate to Lake Louise, including the Parks Canada shuttle, Roam Transit, and private company shuttles like the Moraine Lake Bus Company. Parks Canada shuttles run from the Lake Louise Ski Resort Park & Ride to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and there's also a connector shuttle between the two lakes.

Travelers have noted that Parks Canada shuttle tickets must be booked in advance, costing $8 per adult with a $3 reservation fee. Roam Transit offers a Super Pass allowing connectivity to Moraine Lake via the Lake Connector Shuttle, but specific prices and booking details were not discussed in the posts.

Private shuttles, such as those offered by Moraine Lake Bus Company, provide an alternative, especially when Parks Canada shuttle tickets are sold out. Prices for these services range from $50 to $100 per person, depending on the time and day.

According to forum posts, personal vehicles are no longer allowed on Moraine Lake Road. Only guests at Moraine Lake Lodge and those with a handicapped parking permit can drive up the road.

For most visitors, there are several transportation options to Moraine Lake. Travelers can reserve a seat on a Parks Canada shuttle, take the Roam Public Transit from Banff with a superpass, use commercial transportation providers such as charter buses, guided tours, or taxis, or bike to the lake.

Some travelers have highlighted that the Parks Canada shuttle offers predictable travel times but requires advance booking. 40% of the shuttle tickets are released in the spring, with the remaining 60% available 48 hours before departure.

According to forum posts, Icefields Parkway offers numerous scenic views and attractions. Travelers highlighted stops like the Athabasca Glacier, Bow Lake, Sunwapta Falls, Mistaya Canyon, and the Weeping Wall. The drive itself is renowned for its stunning landscapes encompassing towering mountains and pristine lakes.

Some travelers mentioned that Icefields Parkway offers excellent hiking opportunities, including the Wilcox Pass trail and Parker Ridge. These hikes provide panoramic views and encounters with diverse flora and fauna native to the region.

Forum users noted that the area is a great spot for wildlife observation, particularly in Jasper National Park, which is accessible from the parkway. Early morning or twilight times are suggested for the best chances to spot wildlife.

Travelers have also called out the availability of guided tours, such as the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure, which includes a unique ride on a specialized Ice Explorer vehicle onto the glacier. For those interested in a deeper exploration, guided hikes on the glacier are available, offering a safe way to experience the icy terrain up close.

According to forum posts, the most recommended route from Calgary to Banff is via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), which offers direct and scenic access to the mountains. This route is well-signed and easy to navigate.

For those seeking a more scenic and less direct route, some travelers have suggested using the David Thompson Highway. This route connects to the Icefields Parkway, providing stunning views and an opportunity to explore different landscapes before reaching Banff.

According to forum posts, Banff National Park offers a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to rustic lodges and backcountry cabins. Some travelers recommended higher-end properties like Moraine Lake Lodge for a special stay, noting its magical atmosphere when day-trippers leave.

For those seeking remote, backcountry experiences, travelers have called out Skoki Lodge and Lake O'Hara Lodge as excellent choices. These lodges provide a unique wilderness experience, but reservations can be challenging to secure, often requiring planning well in advance.

Travelers have mentioned Baker Creek Resort and Castle Mountain Chalets for those looking for something more rustic but still within a scenic setting. These accommodations offer a more traditional mountain experience and are praised for their proximity to hiking trails.

For budget-conscious visitors, forum users suggest looking at properties like the Johnston Canyon Chalets, which offer a more basic, cabin-style lodging experience. These are ideal for hikers who prioritize easy access to trails over luxury amenities.

According to forum posts, you can purchase a Banff National Park pass at several locations. Some travelers recommended buying the pass at the visitor center in Canmore, which is near the exit from Highway 1. Others mentioned that it is possible to purchase the pass directly at the park gates, where you can also receive maps and brochures.

For many users, purchasing the park pass online before the trip was also a viable option. This method allows you to avoid potential lines at the park entrance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Travelers have called out that the park pass can be bought at Calgary Airport. This is convenient if you are coming directly from the airport and heading towards the park.