The Serengeti of North America

Banff and Jasper are teeming with wildlife. From the massive grizzly bear to the elusive wolf, the park is home to a complex ecosystem. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is a privilege, but it comes with a responsibility to observe them safely and ethically.

The Big 5

Grizzly Bear

The king of the Rockies. Best spotted in spring along the Icefields Parkway or the Bow Valley Parkway.

Elk (Wapiti)

Ubiquitous in Banff townsite. Warning: Males are aggressive in spring (calving) and fall (rut).

Moose

Common on the drive to Maligne Lake in Jasper. Look for them in marshy areas at dawn.

Wildlife Etiquette

Rule #1

Stay In Your Car

If you see a bear while driving, do NOT get out. Pull over safely to the shoulder, turn on your hazards, and observe from the window.

Rule #2

Do Not Feed

"A fed bear is a dead bear." Feeding animals habituates them to humans, leading to their eventual destruction by park rangers.

Rule #3

Give Space

Elk: 30 meters (3 bus lengths). Bears: 100 meters (10 bus lengths). If the animal changes its behavior, you are too close.

Best Viewing Corridors

Where to Go

Bow Valley Parkway (Banff): Great for bears, deer, and wolves. Early morning drive recommended.
Icefields Parkway (Jasper end): High density of black bears and goats near the roadside.
Maligne Lake Road (Jasper): The best place to see Moose and Bald Eagles.

Guided Wildlife Tours

Safe & Educational

Evening Wildlife Safari

Join a guided bus tour at dusk (prime viewing time). Learn from experts and stay safe.

Book Now →

Photography

Private Photo Tour

Work with a local photographer to track and photograph wildlife ethically.