In town: Banff is a small, walkable town — the main area along Banff Avenue and Bear Street is easily covered on foot. The town also operates a free Roam Transit local bus service connecting the town centre, the gondola, the Upper Hot Springs, the Cave and Basin, and the campgrounds.
To Lake Louise and the lakes: Roam Transit runs a regional bus service from Banff to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and other key sites during summer and winter seasons. In summer, private vehicles are no longer permitted to drive directly to Moraine Lake (since 2023) — the Parks Canada shuttle from the Lake Louise overflow parking lot is the only access option, and must be booked online well in advance.
In the park: A rental car gives the most freedom for exploring the Icefields Parkway, the Bow Valley Parkway, and the more remote corners of the park. Car rentals are available in Banff town and in Calgary. The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North) from Lake Louise to Jasper is 230 km and takes 3–4 hours without stops, but a full day with the viewpoints, short hikes, and the Columbia Icefield is better.
Cycling: Dedicated cycling paths run through the town and out to the Cave and Basin, the golf course, and along the Bow River. Mountain biking is permitted on designated trails throughout the park.