The park is characterized by rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, dense forests, alpine meadows, and turquoise-blue lakes. It is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Banff is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, wolves, and mountain goats. Visitors often have the chance to spot these animals in their natural habitat.

Popular activities in the park include hiking, camping, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and fishing.

Iconic attractions within the park include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the town of Banff, the Icefields Parkway, and the Columbia Icefield. These attractions draw millions of visitors each year.

Conservation efforts in Banff National Park focus on preserving the natural environment, protecting wildlife habitat, and maintaining the ecological integrity of the ecosystem.

There are several visitor centers within the park, including the Banff Visitor Centre, Lake Louise Visitor Centre, and the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where visitors can learn about the park's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

Banff National Park was established in 1885, making it Canada's first national park and the third national park in the world. It was established to protect the hot springs and surrounding wilderness area.

The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway played a significant role in the park's early history. The railway brought increased accessibility to the area and facilitated tourism, leading to the development of hotels and resorts.

Banff quickly became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who came to admire the stunning mountain scenery, explore the hot springs, and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Over the years, infrastructure was developed within the park to accommodate the growing number of visitors. This included the construction of roads, trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers.

Throughout its history, Banff National Park has been a focal point for conservation efforts. Initiatives have been undertaken to protect wildlife, preserve fragile ecosystems, and maintain the park's natural beauty.

In 1984, Banff National Park, along with several other national and provincial parks in the Canadian Rockies, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance.

The park is also home to significant cultural heritage sites, including Indigenous archaeological sites and historic landmarks such as the Banff Springs Hotel and the Cave and Basin National Historic Site.