Timeline
15:33
Drive the scenic loop north from Banff townsite. The route takes you past Cascade Ponds, the historic Bankhead coal mining site, and along the shores of Lake Minnewanka. This is the best time to spot bighorn sheep near the road, particularly around Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake.
16:43
Pull over at the viewing spot. Park safely and wait for the final moments of daylight. The area is known for bighorn sheep, so keep your eyes on the slopes and roadsides.
17:03
Watch the sun set toward the WSW. The sky will shift colors as the light fades over the water and mountains.
17:33
Drive back down the loop. The return route offers different views of the landscape as the evening sets in.
Local tip
Check the route if you are unfamiliar with the drive. The loop is free to access.
Check before you go
- Sunset is at 17:03 on 15 January. Arrive early to secure a good parking spot and view.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Banff (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).