Lake Louise, located within Banff National Park, is our favorite base for exploring the park. The emerald green lake is spectacular and the region has a range of hikes from easy lakeside strolls to more difficult ascents. With the town of Banff 35 miles from the lake, you’ll be removed from the town’™s summer crowds yet close enough to get into town for dining at one of the restaurants. Like the park area near the town of Banff, the Lake Louise region also has a sightseeing gondola and horseback riding. Read a full review of Lake Louise as a family destination.