Banff's Top 7 Underrated Romantic Spots to Avoid the Crowds

The Canadian Rockies in summer are pure magic. But if the thought of fighting for a parking spot at Lake Louise or shuffling shoulder-to-shoulder on the Moraine Lake Rockpile stresses you out, you’re not alone.

The allure of so many world-class destinations gets a little lost in crowds and over-tourism. Banff is absolutely no exception. In the summer, the most-visited spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake reach capacity early morning, leaving many travelers disappointed. If you follow our blog in any way, you may have noticed that we’re all about avoiding over-tourism and finding the best spots without the crowds.

This guide is for couples ready to leave the tour bus circuit behind and discover Banff’s most intimate and underrated spots.

1. Vermilion Lakes: The Hidden Lakes

Forget fighting the crowds for a sunrise at Moraine Lake. The Vermilion Lakes offer one of the most accessible and consistently romantic views in the entire park, yet they are often enjoyed in quiet solitude, especially at dusk.

Why it’s Romantic: The chain of three marshy lakes, located just outside the Town of Banff, provides a stunning mirror for the iconic Mount Rundle, particularly during the golden hour. Grab a park bench on the boardwalk or park your chairs by the shore and watch the alpenglow paint the mountain peaks as the sun sets.
Crowd-Beating Tip: Visit for sunset rather than sunrise. Most visitors are already headed back to town for dinner, leaving the lakeshore road peaceful and perfect for a quiet evening stroll.

2. Waterfowl Lakes: An Icefields Parkway Escape

Located on the scenic Icefields Parkway north of Lake Louise, the Waterfowl Lakes feel like a Canadian postcard. Most traffic rushes past on the way to Jasper, making this an overlooked gem.

Why it’s Romantic: This spot offers the same glacier-fed, turquoise water and towering mountain backdrop as the famous lakes, but with the added privacy of being a little further afield. Rent a canoe from the nearby campground and paddle out into the silence under the stars.
Crowd-Beating Tip: Arrive early or pack a picnic lunch to spend a half-day here. The lower lake, in particular, tends to be exceptionally peaceful. If you’re feeling adventurous, the trailhead for the less-traveled Chephren Lake is nearby, rewarding you with an even more secluded view.

Canoes on turquoise lake in Banff & Jasper park

3. Johnson Lake Loop: The Secret Swing & Swim

For a relaxing day under the sun, head to Johnson Lake. It’s popular with locals, but still a world away from the international crowds at the park’s icons.

Why it’s Romantic: A gentle, 3km loop trail encircles the lake, perfect for a casual and relaxing walk. The lake’s shallower depth means the water warms up enough for a quick, invigorating summer dip—a rarity in the Canadian Rockies! Keep an eye out for the picturesque rope swing for a fun photo spot.
Crowd-Beating Tip: This lake is less about the view and more about the experience. Bring a blanket and a book and find a shady spot under the trees for a quiet and relaxing afternoon.

Rope swing along the Johnson Lake loop trail

4. Bow Falls Viewpoint & Trail: The Town’s Quiet Side

While the falls themselves are well-known, the trail along the Bow River to the Bow Falls Viewpoint offers a lovely, quiet escape without ever having to leave the main town of Banff.

Why it’s Romantic: You can stroll along the river’s edge, starting near the historic Banff Springs Hotel, as the water thunders over the rocky cascades. The mix of rushing water, lush forest, and mountain views provides a perfect romantic couples hike.
Crowd-Beating Tip: Most visitors stop at the official viewpoint parking lot. Start your walk from the edge of Banff town along the river trail instead. This lets you earn the view at a leisurely pace and provides you with quieter, more intimate sections of the path.

Quiet part of Bow Falls Trail along the Bow River

5. Kananaskis Lakes: A Serene Wilderness Escape

For couples truly seeking to escape the Banff crowds entirely, head just a short drive east into Kananaskis Country to the stunning Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. Here, you’ll find all the breathtaking mountain scenery, but with a fraction of the visitors.

Why it’s Romantic: Turquoise waters reflecting towering peaks, without the constant chatter of crowds. Rent a canoe, picnic by the lakes, and find your own private stretch of shore. Many quiet hiking trails to enjoy. Essentially, everything Banff offers without the over-tourism.
Crowd-Beating Tip: The entire Kananaskis region offers a genuine escape. While the lakes can see some local traffic on weekends, it’s still significantly quieter than Banff National Park. Explore the smaller day-use areas like Canyon Day Use for a more secluded experience, or venture onto one of the many less-traveled hiking paths.

Man looking out into a river at Jasper national park

6. Cascade Gardens: Gardens in the Heart of Town

Nestled beneath the majestic Cascade Mountain, the Cascade Gardens offer a meticulously landscaped haven right in the heart of Banff town. While not entirely secluded, if you want a break from the busy shopping streets in town, these picturesque gardens are a short walk away.

Why it’s Romantic: Wander through vibrant flower beds, serene ponds, and elegant gazebos. The tiered layout and the views of the distant mountains provides picturesque backdrops for photos.
Crowd-Beating Tip: To experience the gardens at their most tranquil, visit early in the morning (before 9 AM) or later in the evening (after 5 PM) when the main daytime tourist rush has subsided. This is when the light is most beautiful and the paths are least crowded.

7. Baker Creek Mountain Resort: The Romantic Cabin Retreat

Sometimes, the most romantic spot is one where you can just be yourselves, away from everyone. Baker Creek offers a collection of rustic-chic log cabins situated along the Bow Valley Parkway, perfectly halfway between Banff and Lake Louise.

Why it’s Romantic: The cabins often feature wood-burning fireplaces (you can purchase firewood on site) and jacuzzis, allowing you to recreate the luxury log cabin experience you dream of. The setting is secluded, surrounded by pine forests, offering the perfect base for cozy evenings and stargazing.
Crowd-Beating Tip: Book well in advance! This spot is a local secret, and the limited cabins book up quickly. You are in a prime location to access the quieter Bow Valley Parkway sights like Johnston Canyon (go before 8 am) or the scenic drive itself, offering great chances for wildlife viewing.

Couple at a romantic winter cabin at Baker Creek Mountain Resort

Check out our full list of Romantic Cabins in the Canadian Rockies for more options!

Don’t let the crowds keep you from a romantic mountain getaway. It’s still absolutely possible to have a quiet couples trip in heart of Banff if you go off the beaten path.

Planning a road-trip through Banff and Jasper park? Check out our Ultimate 1-week Itinerary!