Location
Geobiology 2025 will be held in picturesque Banff National Park from May 20-24th, 2025 at the Banff Park Lodge conveniently located in close proximity to the Banff Town Centre and National Park.
Banff, founded in 1885, is Canada’s first National Park and attracts visitors from around the world each year. Located a short distance from Calgary International Airport (~150 km), Banff is nestled in the Bow Valley and is home to some of Canada’s most iconic scenery. Banff has a number of amenities and outdoor activities making it an ideal place to spend a few extra days or bring the family. Both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, iconic mountain settings, are located only an hour away from the conference centre. They include world-class restaurants, shopping, as well as several museums and historic sites. For those interested in spending some time in the great outdoors, there is a great deal of hiking, road or mountain biking, horseback riding, climbing, white water rafting, canoeing, and even a via ferreta easily accessible from Banff.
The conference centre itself offers guided tours and hikes. Information can be found here.
For well-seasoned travellers there is a multitude of information on what activities are available within the spring season on the National Parks Canada website.
Special discount on travel to Banff
Our official airport shuttle provider for this event is Banff Airporter. Receive a 15% discount on their daily shuttle service between the Calgary Airport and Banff. Click Banff Airporter and then Book Now. Proceed through the reservation and type
GeoBioBanff
in the "Promo Code" section on the final payment page to receive the discount. This special rate is valid for travel dates between May 20-24, 2025 if reservation is made at least 1 week prior to the event start.
Things to do in Banff
If you are looking to make the most out of your trip to Banff, check out these activities below!
Banff National Park
There are many stunning hiking trails in and near the Banff National Park. Some of our favourites include:
However, many moderate and difficult hikes are not recommended in spring. Please always refer to the Parks Canada website for the most recent trail conditions and safety warnings.
Hiking Gear Rentals (Ice Cleats, Etc.)
If you need hiking gear like ice cleats (traction aids) or other equipment in May, several local outfitters offer rentals. Here are some places in Banff and nearby that rent gear (cleats, trekking poles, bear spray, etc.):
Snowtips-Bactrax (Banff) – Banff’s well-known gear rental shop (225 Bear Street). They rent microspikes/ice cleats, bear spray, camping gear, bikes, etc.
Banff Adventures – An outdoor activity center in Banff (211 Bear Street) that rents winter hiking gear. Ice cleats are available for ~$18/day.
Ultimate Sports Banff – A sports rental shop on Banff Avenue. Rents Ice Trekkers cleats (~$15/day) and other gear.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most popular and thus the busiest tourist attractions in the Banff National Park. You can visit Lake Louise by public transportation or your own car. Click here for more information!
For real-time information to visitors including availability of parking and major traffic event in the Banff area use BanffNow.
Icefield Parkway
The Icefield Parkway is widely considered as one of the most scenic drives in the world! The current road condition is excellent. Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake and Jasper National Park Icefield Information Centre and Glacier Gallery are just a few among many remarkable sites that are well worth a stop.
Medical Information & Accessibility
Medical and Health services are available in Banff, however to non-residents there may be fees if you do not have travel or health insurance. More information can be found here.
Local Alberta Health Services:
- Alpine Medical Clinic | Unit 201A, 211 Bear St. (403.762.3155)
- Banff Mineral Springs | Hospital 305 Lynx St. (403.762.2222)
Call 811 or 1-866-408-5465 to reach Alberta's non-emergency health line for health advice 24/7.
There are a number of Pharmacies in the town centre:
Gourlay's Pharmacy located at 220 Bear Street. Call at 403.672.2516.
I.D.A. Neighbourly Pharmacy located inside Cascade Mall, 317 Banff Ave. Call at 403.762.2245.
