Banff's new ROAM (tel. 403/760-8294) public bus system has hybrid buses zipping all over town, with stops at all the attractions and near most hotels. One route runs from the Fairmont Banff Springs down Banff Avenue and on to Tunnel Mountain; the other runs between the north end of Banff Avenue and the Sulphur Mountain Gondola and Upper Hot Springs. The bus operates year-round. Fares are $2 adults, $1 seniors and children 6 to 12, and free for children under 6. An unlimited day pass costs $5 per person. For a taxi, call Mountain Taxi and Tours (tel. 403/762-3351).
For a rental car, contact National at Caribou and Lynx streets (tel. 403/762-2688) or Budget at the corner of Banff Avenue and Caribou Street (tel. 403/762-4565). Reserve well in advance, as cars are frequently sold out.
Orientation -- Banff's townsite is a simple place to understand; Banff Avenue is the main drag running north-south, with the Bow River Bridge at the south end. Bear Street, which has become increasingly developed as Banff has grown in recent years, parallels Banff Avenue 1 block west.
Just over the river stands the park administration building, an historical landmark, in the midst of well-kept grounds. Banff Avenue ends on the south side of the bridge, splitting into a T; to the left are the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Upper Hot Springs, and the Banff Gondola; turn right, and you'll be on your way to Cave and Basin Historic Site, where the park was born.
At the northwestern edge of town is the old railroad station, and a little farther northwest, the road meets the Trans-Canada Highway again, branching off to Lake Louise and Jasper. In the opposite direction, northeast, is the highway going to Canmore and Calgary. The Greyhound and Brewster Bus Depot (tel. 403/760-8294) is located at the corner of Gopher and Lynx streets, at the north end of town, about a block west of Banff Avenue.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
