Going late Aug need some advice

Question

Hi all

Planning a trip to GNP late August for 8 days, 2 of them sadly for flights. So 6 days.

Wanted to do 3 full days in GNP.

Fourth day Drive to Calgary/Banff.

Spend two full days going to Banff.

Last day head home.

We enjoy hikes (up to 4 mile RT), beginner to intermediate. Love scenic road trips, driving to lookouts, etc.

I read many various things we can do, and just wanted to see if we can narrow down to the best ones for us in this time.

Thanks in advance :)

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting trip planned! With 6 days in total, 3 full days at Glacier National Park (GNP), and 2 days in Banff, you'll have a great opportunity to explore some stunning scenery and enjoy some fantastic hikes. Here's a suggested itinerary with a focus on scenic drives, short hikes, and the best experiences based on your preferences:

Days 1-3: Glacier National Park (GNP)

GNP offers an abundance of spectacular views and scenic spots, so here are some highlights you can experience in 3 days:

Going-to-the-Sun Road - A must-do scenic drive. It’s one of the most iconic drives in North America and takes you through breathtaking alpine landscapes. Plan to stop at Logan Pass for amazing views and a short hike.
Hidden Lake Overlook - This is a popular short hike (about 2.7 miles round-trip) from Logan Pass. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Hidden Lake below. It’s a great beginner to intermediate hike with a relatively easy elevation gain.
St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls - A relatively easy and scenic hike (2 miles round-trip) that takes you to two beautiful waterfalls. It’s a great option for a half-day hike.
Lake McDonald - Spend some time relaxing at this gorgeous lake. It’s ideal for a peaceful afternoon, with opportunities for a short stroll around the lake or renting a boat. You could also drive around the lake for great views.
Many Glacier Area - For an incredible mix of scenic driving and hiking, consider exploring the Many Glacier area. You can do a short hike to Grinnell Glacier (about 7.6 miles, a bit longer than your preferred range, but offers incredible views) or take a boat tour to really immerse yourself in the area’s beauty.

Day 4: Drive to Calgary/Banff

The drive from GNP to Banff is roughly 4-5 hours, but it’s incredibly scenic and well worth the journey. Be sure to take the time to stop along the way for photos or quick detours. If you leave early enough, you can reach Banff by late afternoon or early evening.

Days 5-6: Banff

Banff offers a mix of natural beauty and charming town vibes, so here’s what to prioritize:

Lake Louise - This is one of the most famous spots in the Canadian Rockies. Take a leisurely walk along the lake’s shore or opt for the Lake Agnes Tea House hike (3.5 miles, an easy to moderate hike) for beautiful views of the lake and a lovely alpine tea house at the top.
Bow Falls - A short and easy walk from the Banff town center, Bow Falls offers beautiful views, especially in the morning light. It’s a great spot for a peaceful break.
Banff Gondola - If you’re looking for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Banff town, the Banff Gondola offers an easy ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. There’s also a boardwalk at the summit for an easy stroll with stunning views.
Drive the Icefields Parkway - If you have time and don’t mind a bit more driving, the Icefields Parkway is a breathtaking route that connects Banff and Jasper National Park. While you might not have time to do the entire stretch, you can drive a portion of it for stunning views. A short stop at Bow Lake is worth it for a photo op.

Day 7: Travel back home

You'll probably have time for a leisurely breakfast in Banff before heading back home, either with a direct flight from Calgary or by driving back to GNP.

This itinerary balances scenic drives, shorter hikes, and incredible views that align well with your interests. It gives you the opportunity to experience the beauty of both GNP and Banff without rushing through it. Enjoy your trip to two of the most beautiful places on earth!