10,000 BC (Prehistoric Times)

Earliest evidence of human occupation in the Bow Valley was found on the shores of Lake Minnewanka.

1750 AD (Historical Time)

Valleys and passes of the Canadian Rockies were well known to the Indian tribes of the eastern foothills. The Crees, Kootanays and Plains Blackfoot Indian Tribes used mountain passes for hunting and trading.

1841 AD

First known European to visit Banff area was George Simpson, Governor of the Hudson’s Bay Company. His route took him through what is known as the Devil’s Gap, along Lake Minnewanka to the Bow Valley and over Simpson’s Pass.

1867

In order to ensure the future of a young nation called Canada, the government had been forced to undertake one of the largest engineering projects of all time. By the construction of a national railway through some of the most difficult terrain in the world, the Rocky Mountains, they staked their claim to the Canadian West. The unexpected cost of construction became a major financial drain on the new Canadian Government.

1883

Railway passes through Siding 29 (Banff) and reaches Laggan Station (Lake Louise). Natural Hot Springs are discovered by two railway workers; Frank McCabe and William McCardell.

1885

A 26 square kilometer reserve (10 square mile) surrounding the hot spring is set aside by the Federal Government. A cooperative business venture between the Canadian Pacific Railway Company and the Federal Government set out to develop the Cave & Basin, a unique resort and sanatorium. The Cave and Basin was an opportunity to help support the new railway and ease the financial pressures upon the Confederation.

1887

Government legislation establishes Rocky Mountain Park and the reserved area is increased to 670 square kilometers (260 square miles).

1888

Building of the first tourist accommodation, the Banff Springs Hotel. Lord Strathcona, a CPR director christens the area BANFF, after his birthplace in Scotland (Banffshire).

1911

Automobile access to the Park is made possible by the construction of the Banff/Calgary Coach Road, causing an immediate impact on the development of the park.

1917

Area is increased to 275 square miles.

1930

Passing of the first National Park Act in the world to ensure the preservation of the natural resources for the enjoyment of all Canadians and future generations.

Size becomes fixed at 6641 square kilometers (2564 square miles)

Rocky Mountain Park is renamed Banff National Park.

1962

Trans. Canada Highway built to British Columbia.

1985

Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay National Parks are declared World Heritage sites by the United Nations’ Educational Scientific and Culture Organization (UNESCO). Considered to be of such exceptional interest and universal value that their protection is of concern to all mankind.

1990

Incorporation of the Town of Banff.

Present Day

Issues to further protect wildlife, the natural habitat and history within the park are being addressed to allow Banff to stay a one of a kind place.