I LOVE the outdoors! Not to get super into horoscopes, but I'm an earth sign so I find myself happiest immersed in the natural wonders of the Earth. I love being able to escape the grasps of technology and cell service in order to focus on the path ahead, versus the virtual one that I hold in my hand. It definitely reminds me to truly live in the moment and not just "for the 'gram."Banff National Park is located a few hours outside of Calgary in Canada's Alberta province. It exists as part of the Rocky Mountain landscape and is home to beautiful hiking trails and glacier lakes. You can hike, bike, camp and ski! This is actually a great place for families because there's literally an activity for everyone to enjoy.When I visited Banff National Park recently, it was so refreshing to be able to place myself as part of the landscape. I was able to witness the beauty in the nature, weather and wildlife all within 24 hours. I definitely plan on making another trip up here soon. There is so much to do and see, especially if you're an outdoorsy-type, but you're definitely going to need more than 24 hours to get enough done to fill your fix.If you're on a time crunch like myself, here are the things you definitely should do on your first visit to Banff National Park:Lake LouiseParking for Lake Louise is a bit tricky. They have a lot right by the historic Fairmont Chateau, but it gets crowded easily. If you're unable to find close enough parking, there's a few lots located down the aptly named Lake Louise Drive. They provide a shuttle service as well if you have no choice but to park at the visitor center. I suggest you get here early enough because what isn't pictured is the swarm of tourists trying to capture that perfect shot of these glacier waters. This is also where I was able to witness a mother bear playing with her three cubs! Such an amazing experience!Stroll DowntownHungry or just want to find yourself lost in a Hallmark movie? Banff's downtown area is absolutely picturesque! Because this is a ski town, the buildings will definitely remind you that you're in the mountains. Obviously I had to find myself a drool-worthy ice cream parlor and COWS definitely did the trick. Try the Cookie MOOnster and Cownadian Maple!Moraine LakeOkay. To get to Moraine Lake is a gamble. Throughout the day the entrance to the lot closest to the lake is blocked off and only a certain amount of cars are let in and out up until 6PM each day. After 6PM, the barriers are taken down and it's a free-for-all frenzy for a parking spot. If you don't mind an uphill elevation hike, you can park at one of the lots designated for Lake Louise and trek your way up 12km (that's roughly 7 miles). Let me tell you, the gamble is WAY worth it. Pictures won't ever do this place justice. You have to go here and witness these breathtaking waters yourselfBanff Upper Hot SpringsAfter a long day's hike, you definitely should consider making a visit to a hot spring. Within the Banff area there are three, but Banff Upper Hot Springs is closest to the main part of the national park. For shits and giggles you can rent a "historic" swimsuit. The warm waters are perfect to enjoy when the weather gets a bit chilly. If you're here during daylight savings, the sun doesn't start setting until 10PM (yep, you read that right). I suggest getting here around 9-9:30PM to enjoy enough swim time and to witness the beautiful Rocky Mountain sunset24 hours definitely wasn't enough to get a full course experience at this magnificent national park. I got a taste, but it left me craving for more. I hope to be back here another time to truly enjoy a few of the numerous hikes that carve their ways around the Canadian portion of the Rocky Mountains. Maybe I'll even go camping! Who knows?What's your favorite national park that you've been to? Drop me a comment fam! With love,Jin