What to do in Improvement District No. 9

The dramatic mountains, lakes and forests of Banff National Park's 6,641 square kilometres make it the ideal destination for scenery lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Mountain bikers, hikers, white-water rafters and kayakers take advantage of the unspoiled wilderness in the summer, while skiers and snowboarders tackle the many and varied ski runs during the winter months.

One of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Moraine Lake has appeared in countless photographs and postcards and has even graced the Canadian 20-dollar bill. Hence the nickname "Twenty Dollar View", when in reality, this vista of snow-topped mountains, lush larch forest and startlingly blue lake is simply priceless.

Survey miles of the magnificent Canadian Rockies from the top of Sulphur Mountain. The Banff Gondola takes you from the base of the mountain to the Summit Complex in just eight minutes, during which time you'll also be able to catch some spectacular vistas from your fully glazed cabin. Get a bird’s-eye view of Banff, and marvel at the snowy peaks and valleys of six of the area's mountain ranges.

Upper Hot Springs is a thermal pool within the gorgeous landscapes of Banff National Park. Come here to relax in the geothermally heated and bubbling mineral water that flows from the Earth’s crust through the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault. Marvel at panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains as the therapeutic water cleanses and soothes your body. Have a scenic picnic or eat at the café at Upper Hot Springs.

Find adventure sports, breathtaking mountain scenery and wildlife at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Ski on challenging trails, enjoy a scenic gondola ride or hike through forests seeking wildlife. The resort is within Banff National Park, part of the Canadian Rockies. It offers over 4,200 acres (1,670 hectares) of skiable terrain, exquisite dining and lively après-ski entertainment.

Sunshine Village's long ski season runs from early November to the end of May. This, along with its 12 lifts, more than 100 runs, and 1,335 hectares of slopes, makes it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. Its many scenic trails are ideal for hikers during the summer months.

The Stoney indigenous people who once inhabited the shores of this lake believed it was home to spirits. They called it "Lake Minnewanka": literally "Lake of the Spirits". It was later christened "Devil's Lake" by early European settlers. Despite these slightly eerie names, Lake Minnewanka is an idyllic spot and hugely popular for hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking and even scuba diving.