Banff’s stunning alpine lakes and mountain backdrops make it a popular destination for tying the knot. From the panoramic scenic views to the various activities in summer AND winter, with it’s easy accessibility from the Calgary International Airport, it truly is the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.

As a licensed Banff wedding photographer, I’ve photographed many proposals, weddings, and elopements throughout the beautiful Banff National Park. Here are some of my favorite locations within the Canadian Rockies.

Two Jack Lake

Just a quick drive off from Highway 1, Two Jack Lake is a small, intimate spot with clear lake and mountain views in the distance.

If you two are eloping with family & friends and want to stay nearby overnight, the lake is right next to the Two Jack Lake Campground.

If you decide on Two Jack Lake as a photo spot but aren’t staying overnight at the campground, be aware that the parking lot is very small and can be quite crowded during the peak summer months. To avoid the crowds, choose sunrise or sunset as your photoshoot time!

2. Lake Minnewanka

Further down the Lake Minnewanka loop is the iconic Lake Minnewanka itself. Spanning 21 kilometers long, it’s one of the longest lakes in the Canadian Rockies, giving you a picture-perfect view of Mount Inglismaldie.

The waters at Lake Minnewanka are always a stunning blue and with activities such as the lake cruise, hiking, and camping at the nearby Two Jack Lake campground, it’s a lovely spot surrounded by nature.

This lake can get busy during the peak summer months, but show up at sunrise and you’ll surely have most of the large space to yourselves!

3. Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake is an hour drive north of Lake Louise. Nestled in the Icefields Parkway, it has the panoramic alpine lake and mountain views that many dream of when thinking of Banff National Park.

As a Banff wedding photographer, I know all of the best photo spots away from the crowds to allow for a more intimate and romantic experience. If you’re down for a bit of a walk (it’s not a hike!), this hidden spot is my favorite Banff wedding spot for photos! If your wedding party has someone with accessibility needs, this might not be the best spot but if you’re able to climb on the rocks and looking down at the lake is an incredible experience!

Sunrise is the best time to photograph at Peyto Lake because you can see the the golden peaks lighting the mountain range while taking in the whole view.

I can’t say enough great things about this spot!

4. Bow Lake

Bow Lake is just a few minutes away from Peyto Lake and if you get the chance to see the perfect lake reflection - it truly is a jawdropping location. Imagine your wedding photos here!

This spot is a short walk from the limited parking lot next to plenty of hikes and Bow Glacier Falls. The long shoreline is lined with picnic spots and is the perfect backdrop for a wedding ceremony!

If you want to make it here for sunrise but don’t want to wake up too early or travel too far, Bow Lake even has accommodations at The Lodge At Bow Lake but make sure to book your room in advanced!

5. Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a sought-after destination for a good reason. The iconic view of the Victoria Glaciers is beautiful no matter what the season, and, in addition to the pristine turquoise-blue waters, attracts plenty tourists from all over the world. If you can handle the crowds, this backdrop never disappoints.

Activities in the summer at Lake Louise include taking a canoe ride or going on the Beehive hike, or in the winter, skating on the lake!

6. Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is the post-card-perfect favorite of Banff National Park. From the turquoise waters to the large peaks - this is Mother Nature at its finest.

You must book a shuttle in order to visit Moraine Lake - no personal vehicles are allowed. You can read more about visiting Moraine Lake at this link.

It can be difficult climbing up to the top of the rockpiles in a dress - so good shoes are highly recommended! Some choose to make the climb in casual wear before changing into their wedding attire at the top - but note that any long dress trails will likely get dirty here!

Activities at Moraine Lake include taking a canoe ride on the lake, walking the shoreline, and enjoying the views at the top of the Rockpiles!

7. Bonus! Canmore, Alberta

If you have some time and a vehicle, consider Canmore, Alberta as a backdrop for your wedding photos!

There are typically less crowds in Canmore compared to Banff and plenty of mountains all around!

It requires different photography licensing but as your Banff & Canmore wedding photographer, I am equipped with the proper licenses to photograph here!

Thank you for reading this far! These are only some of my favorite photo spots for wedding photos in Banff National Park.

Hire me as your Banff wedding photographer, and I’ll share even more location ideas with you!