15 Best Intimate Wedding Venues in Banff

So, you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding in the heart of the Rockies? We love that for you. Banff and the surrounding areas offer some of the most breathtaking intimate wedding venues for couples who want something a little more wild, cozy, and meaningful. Whether you’re looking for a rustic lodge, mountaintop views, or somewhere you and your guests can stay for the weekend, this guide has you covered.

As Banff elopement photographers (hi – we’re Liz and Dom!), we’ve photographed dozens of dreamy venues—and today, we’re rounding up our top 15 picks for intimate wedding venues in Banff and the surrounding area. Some are perfect for cozy gatherings with a small guest list, while others make incredible bases for two-day elopement adventures. Soooo here we go – our list of the best intimate wedding venues in Banff, complete with guest capacity, accommodations, ceremony locations, activities nearby, and even pet-friendliness.

Table of Contents

1. Mount Engadine Lodge (Kananaskis)
2. Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
3. Emerald Lake Lodge (Yoho National Park)
4. Baker Creek by Basecamp (Bow Valley Parkway)
5. Buffalo Mountain Lodge (Banff)
6. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
7. Tunnel Mountain Reservoir (Banff)
8. Sky Bistro + Banff Gondola
9. Mt. Norquay (Banff)
10. The Post Hotel (Lake Louise)
11. Storm Mountain Lodge (Kootenay National Park)
12. A Bear & Bison Inn (Canmore)
13. Panther River Lodge (Sundre Foothills)
14. Hillside Lodge & Chalets (Golden, BC)
15. Luxury & Backcountry Alpine Lodges

1. Mount Engadine Lodge (Kananaskis Country)

Location: Kananaskis Country, Smith-Dorrien Trail
Closest town: Canmore (about 45–50 minutes)

Mount Engadine Lodge is one of our favourite places in the whole word. Liz and I have both stayed there before and love it so so much. It’s a bit of a drive on a gravel road—but once you get there, it’s absolute heaven. Surrounded by meadows, mountain peaks, and frequent wildlife sightings (moose included), this backcountry-style lodge is the perfect spot for a peaceful, intimate wedding or elopement weekend. And the food there is sooo freaking good.

There are several ceremony options- the open meadow and platform in summer or up on the patio. The lodge provides all meals for overnight guests, including their famous afternoon tea. You can book out the whole lodge or keep it small with just a few loved ones (knowing that there will be other guests there if you go this route).

Pet-friendly: Yes, very pet-friendly

Guest capacity: Up to 38 guests

Accommodation: Lodge rooms, glamping tents, pet-friendly cabins

Vibe: Secluded, cozy, adventurous and off-the-grid

Ceremony options: Outdoor meadow, forest edge, lodge deck, inside the lodge, or we could even hike up Tent Ridge for sunrise private vows before heading back down to the lodge for the rest of the festivities

Activities nearby: Hiking (Kananaskis is one of our fave areas in the province – ask us if you need some suggestions!), fat biking, cross-country skiing, stargazing

For more info on eloping in Kananaksis, don’t miss our complete guide here.

2. Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

Location: Kananaskis Village, Alberta
Closest town: Canmore (about 40 minutes away)

If you’re dreaming of a mountain wedding with all the beauty of Banff but fewer crowds—and maybe a spa day thrown in—Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge might be the perfect match. Nestled in the heart of Kananaskis Country, this lodge is surrounded by pine forest, towering peaks, and a quieter, more laid-back energy than some of the busier spots in the Rockies.

There are a couple different outdoor ceremony options (viewpoint 5 is our fave) or you can get married indoors. And then after the wedding, definitely don’t miss out on the Kananaskis Nordic Spa. It’s magical AF.

The lodge offers everything you need for a relaxing wedding weekend—on-site dining, comfortable modern rooms, and incredible scenery right outside your window. It’s also family- and pet-friendly, making it ideal if you want your people (or your pup!) close by.

Pet-friendly: Yes—dogs are welcome in designated rooms and outdoor areas

Guest capacity: Ideal for 2–60 people for intimate weddings

Accommodation: Lodge rooms and suites with modern mountain styling

Vibe: Quiet luxury, woodsy, spa retreat meets alpine adventure

Ceremony options: Different viewpoints along the path, indoors, or off-site in Kananaskis (like below!)

Activities nearby: Nordic Spa, hiking (so many options nearby!), horseback riding, biking trails, snowshoeing

3. Emerald Lake Lodge (Yoho National Park)

Location: Yoho National Park, BC
Closest town: Field, BC (10 minutes), Lake Louise (30 minutes)

If you’ve ever seen a photo of a cabin off a tiny bridge surrounded by turquoise water—chances are it was Emerald Lake Lodge. This iconic location is just across the border from Banff in Yoho National Park and offers a setting that feels straight out of a postcard. The lodge sits on its own private peninsula with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.

Ceremonies usually take place right on the point overlooking the lake or in one of the charming indoor spaces. The reception can be held in the main lodge or in Cilantro on the Lake—a private restaurant space just steps from the water. It’s also a fantastic overnight option, with cozy cabins and suites available, and plenty of room for guests to stay the weekend.

Pet-friendly: Yes, some pet-friendly rooms available

Guest capacity: Up to 150 guests (different spaces have different guest limits)

Accommodation: They have 24 stand alone cabins and 85 rooms in the main lodge (each room has a fireplace and a balcony)

Vibe: Classic, dreamy, romantic with historic charm

Ceremony options: 3 indoor private rooms available or the outside viewpoint

Activities nearby: Sauna, Hot tub, Canoeing, hiking, Takakkaw Falls, Natural Bridge

Check out our how to Elope at Emerald Lake guide for more info on this pretty place!

4. Baker Creek by Basecamp

Location: Bow Valley Parkway, between Banff and Lake Louise
Closest town: Lake Louise (15 minutes)

Baker Creek is one of those places that feels like a secret hideaway in the woods. The log cabins are full of character, there’s a bunch of fire pits right by the creek, and everything about the place feels intimate and inviting. It’s a great venue for low-key weddings that still want a ton of charm and cozy atmosphere.

The resort offers a small event space or the option to do a ceremony outside by the creek. Many couples choose to book out a few cabins and keep it intimate, using the firepits and picnic areas for casual gatherings. It’s especially magical in fall and winter when the whole place feels like a mountain retreat.

Pet-friendly: Yes, select cabins are pet-friendly

Guest capacity: Around 20–30 for intimate events

Accommodation: Cozy log cabins with fireplaces and kitchenettes

Vibe: Rustic, charming, private, cozy

Ceremony options: Creekside, small indoor event space

Activities nearby: Hiking, wildlife spotting, cross-country skiing

Check out this How to Elope in Banff blog for all things related to Banff!

5. Buffalo Mountain Lodge (Banff)

Location: Banff (5 minutes from downtown)

Buffalo Mountain Lodge is one of those venues that feels tucked away in the woods, even though you’re just minutes from the town of Banff. The property sits on Tunnel Mountain and offers a cozy, cabin-like feel with beautiful log architecture, wood-burning fireplaces, and Rocky Mountain charm throughout. It’s perfect for couples looking for something rustic yet refined. Fun fact, Liz and her husband got married here (see below – photos by Tricia Victoria Photography)!

They have 3 rooms available for weddings – the Wapiti Longhouse, Strathcona Room and Wainwright Room. You can have your ceremony and your reception in the same one if you want. It’s also super easy to rent Tunnel Mountain Reservoir in 2 hour blocks for your ceremony which is right next door. The lodge has multiple spaces available for receptions, including a private dining area with vaulted ceilings and mountain views. They have 108 super cute guest rooms available for rent which makes it easy to have all your people in the same place!

Nearby, there are endless hikes, including Tunnel Mountain right out the door, and it’s a short drive to the Bow Falls trail or Lake Minnewanka. It’s also a great base if you’re planning a two-day celebration or a weekend elopement with guests who want to explore Banff.

Pet-friendly: Yes, with designated pet-friendly rooms available

Guest capacity: Up to 99 guests

Accommodation: Lodge-style rooms and suites on-site

Vibe: Rustic elegance, woodsy, romantic

Ceremony options: Indoor or outdoor depending on weather

Activities nearby: Hiking, canoeing, hot springs, Banff Avenue shops

6. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Location: Banff (walking distance)

Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs is one of the most iconic venues in Canada. While it’s a larger resort, there are smaller, intimate spaces within the hotel that are perfect for micro weddings and elopements. Think candlelit ceremonies in a historic library or cocktails overlooking the mountains.

This venue is ideal for couples wanting luxury, history, and sweeping views in one place. The Fairmont offers full-service wedding planning, elegant ballrooms, and refined guest accommodations. Guests can enjoy the spa, golf, fine dining, and direct access to forested trails and viewpoints like Bow Falls.

Even though it’s a high-end venue, the staff is amazing at working with smaller weddings and elopements, and the photo ops here are endless—from stone staircases to mountain backdrops just outside the castle walls.

Pet-friendly: Yes, pets are welcome with a small fee

Guest capacity: Multiple options, from private rooms for 2–30 guests to large ballrooms

Accommodation: Luxury hotel rooms and suites

Vibe: Grand, romantic, fairytale with modern luxury

Ceremony options: Indoor heritage rooms, terraces with mountain views

Activities nearby: Spa, golf, trails, gondola, Banff townsite

7. Tunnel Mountain Reservoir

Location: Banff (about 5 minutes by car)

Tunnel Mountain Reservoir is one of the most scenic—and surprisingly affordable—larger ceremony locations in Banff. It’s an open grassy field framed by views of Mount Rundle and the Bow Valley. You’ll need to rent the space from the town of Banff.

This is a ceremony-only location (there are no indoor spaces or buildings), so it’s ideal for couples planning an outdoor elopement or micro ceremony followed by a reception elsewhere in town. Because it’s a public space, you’ll want to keep things simple and respectful of the surroundings—but it’s perfect for couples who value the outdoors and epic views over anything too formal.

Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on leash

Guest capacity: You can fit up to 150 people here

Accommodation: Nearby hotels, lodges, or Airbnbs in Banff

Vibe: Simple, natural, dramatic mountain views

Ceremony options: Outdoor only, open grassy area with no facilities

Activities nearby: Hiking, picnicking, town of Banff

8. Sky Bistro + Banff Gondola

Location: Sulphur Mountain, Banff (10 minutes to gondola base)

If you’re dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony with 360-degree views and easy access, Sky Bistro might be your perfect match. Accessible by a scenic 8-minute gondola ride, this mountaintop restaurant and event space offers a really pretty location for intimate weddings. It’s available to book from mid-October to mid-May.

Couples can book the Bistro for a private dinner reception after their ceremony, which typically takes place on the observation deck or inside with panoramic windows. It’s modern, sleek, and very unique, especially for couples who want to do something a little different.

Pet-friendly: Pets are not allowed on the gondola

Guest capacity: Up to 80 guests

Accommodation: Hotels and lodges in Banff

Vibe: Modern, adventurous, elevated (literally)

Ceremony options: Indoor mountaintop spaces or outdoor observation deck

Activities nearby: Sulphur Mountain hike, hot springs, Banff townsite

9. Mt. Norquay

Location: Mount Norquay, just outside Banff (10 minutes)

This hidden gem sits at the top of a chairlift on Mount Norquay and is one of the prettiest and romantic venues in the Rockies. It’s a small venue, but that’s what makes it so special—perfect for elopements or tiny weddings with your very closest people.

There are two outdoor ceremony options – The Cascade Lodge Patio & The Lone Pine Lawn with a weather alternative inside The Cascade Lodge. Mt. Norquay also offers catering services, including a la carte menus, dinner buffets, and plated dinner options.

Pet-friendly: No, pets aren’t allowed on the chairlift

Guest capacity: Best for 2–120 guests

Accommodation: Lodging in Banff town

Vibe: Intimate, adventurous, private mountaintop escape

Ceremony options: The Lodge patio, the Lone Pine Lawn, or inside the lodge

Activities nearby: Sightseeing chairlift, Via Ferrata, hiking trails

10. The Post Hotel (Lake Louise)

Location: Lake Louise, AB

If you’re dreaming of a luxurious alpine getaway with a touch of old-world charm, The Post Hotel in Lake Louise might be the one. Tucked away just a few minutes from the lake itself, this cozy chalet-style hotel blends elegance with rustic mountain vibes—and it’s seriously romantic.

You can host your intimate wedding in one of their charming private rooms, or (for the smallest celebrations) even elope in your suite or by the crackling fire in their library lounge. The dining here is tasty AF—their on-site restaurant is award-winning, and they even have an extensive wine cellar if you’re planning a celebratory toast.

When it comes to photos, the location is hard to beat. You’re just a short drive from the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise and incredible nearby spots like Moraine Lake or the Lake Agnes Teahouse hike. After your ceremony, you can soak in the spa, take a dip in the heated pool, or cozy up with cocktails in front of a fire. It’s a whole vibe.

Guest capacity: Best suited for elopements or weddings with up to 20 guests but they can accommodate weddings up to 72

Accommodation: Yes—charming suites, some with fireplaces and jacuzzi tubs

Ceremony spots: Indoor rooms, cozy lounges, or nearby outdoor locations like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake

Activities nearby: Canoeing, hiking, skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort, spa days

Pet friendly: Call ahead and request a pet friendly room

11. Storm Mountain Lodge (Kootenay National Park)

Location: On Highway 93 South between Banff and Radium
Closest town: Banff (35 minutes)

Storm Mountain Lodge is what cozy mountain dreams are made of. Tucked away in the forest just off Highway 93, this venue features a cluster of rustic log cabins, a candlelit main lodge, and some of the best food in the park (for real, soooo good!). It’s quiet, charming, and perfect for couples who want to disconnect and soak up nature with their loved ones.

Weddings here feel like a weekend getaway. The ceremony can be held in the forest clearing or on the lawn surrounded by towering pines and peaks. The log cabins offer beautiful, simple accommodations, and it’s open year-round. They have a variety of packages you can chose from which include food options.

Pet-friendly: Yes, some pet-friendly cabins available

Guest capacity: Up to 34 people

Accommodation: They have 16 cabins with a variation of one and two beds that can accommodate a maximum of 34 people. Their cabins have wood burning fireplaces, clawfoot soaker tubs and cozy Canadian decor

Vibe: Wild, romantic, cozy, and unplugged

Ceremony options: Forest, lodge lawn, or intimate cabin elopement

Activities nearby: Hiking, wildlife watching, scenic drives on Highway 93

12. A Bear & Bison Inn

Location: Canmore, Alberta (just 3 minutes from downtown)

Tucked into the hillside just above the Bow River, A Bear & Bison Inn is a charming boutique lodge that feels both homey and elegant. It’s owned and run by a husband-and-wife team, and you can feel the love and personal touch in every detail—from the gourmet meals (seriously so tasty) to the warm, rustic interiors.

This venue is perfect for couples looking for a relaxed, all-in-one location where guests can stay, celebrate, and soak in the views. Ceremonies can be held by the gazebo just outside the inn and receptions take place in the cozy dining room with space for dancing and dining.

It’s ideal for weekend weddings where everyone stays together, eats together, and makes it a full celebration. It’s one of our favourite winter elopement locations too. We can head nearby to the three sisters viewpoint for photos after.

Guest capacity: Up to 35 guests

Accommodation: 10 guest suites on-site with breakfast included

Vibe: Intimate, cozy, personal and welcoming

Ceremony options: Outdoor garden or inside lodge dining area

Activities nearby: River walks, Canmore hikes, spa days, downtown exploring

Pet-friendly: No, pets are not allowed on-site

13. Panther River Lodge

Location: West of Sundre in the Canadian Rockies foothills (about 1.5 hours from Banff)

Panther River Lodge is a wild and remote wedding venue nestled along the Panther River in the foothills of the Rockies. It’s not your typical mountain venue—it’s more rustic, off-grid, and totally surrounded by nature. If you’re dreaming of horses, log cabins, and a wedding weekend away from wifi, this is for you.

The lodge offers a mix of cabins and lodge rooms, plus a large event space with panoramic windows. Ceremonies can happen riverside, in the meadow, or in front of the fireplace indoors if the weather rolls in. It’s a dream for couples who want to bring their people together for a backcountry retreat and an unplugged, adventurous wedding experience.

Guest capacity: Up to 100, though smaller groups are common

Accommodation: Lodge rooms and rustic cabins

Vibe: Western, remote, down-to-earth, peaceful

Ceremony options: Riverfront, meadow, or indoor lodge

Activities nearby: Horseback riding, hiking, fishing, stargazing

Pet-friendly: Yes! Dogs are welcome on the property

14. Hillside Lodge & Chalets

Location: Golden, British Columbia (about 15 minutes away)

If you’re after a peaceful forest setting with stunning mountain views and a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe, Hillside Lodge & Chalets just outside of Golden might be the perfect fit. Tucked into a quiet valley along the Blaeberry River, this venue strikes a beautiful balance between rustic and refined—ideal for couples who want a relaxed atmosphere without compromising on beauty.

The heart of the property is a cozy log reception lodge and ceremony meadow surrounded by forest and towering peaks. For ceremonies, you can say your vows under a handcrafted wooden arch with the mountains behind you, or opt for an indoor lodge space in case of rain. The on-site chalets give guests a full weekend experience (think campfires, starry skies, and coffee with a mountain view), making it feel more like a mini getaway than a single-day event.

Golden is a great little adventure town, too—close to Yoho, Glacier, and Kootenay National Parks, with plenty of hiking, rafting, and wildlife watching nearby. It’s also close enough to Banff to be accessible for couples wanting a mountain wedding slightly off the beaten path.

Guest capacity: Up to 100 for the ceremony. There is space for 40 guests to stay on site and they can arrange transportation from Golden if you have more you’d like to attend.

Accommodation: Private log cabins, perfect for couples and guests to stay on-site

Vibe: Peaceful, private, woodsy, and nature-forward

Ceremony options: Outdoor meadow, riverside, or inside the cozy log lodge

Activities nearby: Hiking in Yoho or Kicking Horse area, rafting, gondola rides, exploring Golden

Pet-friendly: Yes—dogs (max 2) are welcome for the ceremony and overnight stays in select cabins

15. Luxury & Backcountry Alpine Lodges (Lake O’Hara, Assiniboine, Skoki & Shadow Lake Lodges)

Location: Yoho National Park, Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, and Banff National Park
Closest towns: Lake Louise, Banff, and Canmore (with hiking or helicopter access required)

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like a once-in-a-lifetime alpine escape, these iconic backcountry lodges are for you. Tucked deep in the mountains, far from crowds and cell service, these spots are all about serenity, scenic beauty, and a slower pace. Whether you hike, ski, or fly in, you’ll be rewarded with an intimate wilderness setting that feels like your own private corner of the Rockies.

Here’s a peek at your options:

• Lake O’Hara Lodge in Yoho National Park is legendary for its turquoise lake, world-renowned hiking trails, and peaceful setting. Vows by the water, followed by a candlelit lodge dinner? Yes, please.
• Assiniboine Lodge, nestled beneath the towering Mount Assiniboine (often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies”), is a helicopter-access-only (or you can hike in & out) experience that blends rugged mountain energy with warm lodge hospitality.
• Skoki Lodge, near Lake Louise, is rustic and charming, with historic character and a backdrop that feels straight out of a painting.
• Shadow Lake Lodge offers an elevated vibe with comfortable cabins, a serene lakeside location, and meadows that absolutely explode with wildflowers in summer. It’s a 14km hike, ski, or snowshoe from the trailhead. It’s one of the quieter corners of Banff—perfect for a secluded elopement.

These lodges all cater to small guest counts, and while amenities are simple, the atmosphere is rich in connection, nature, and unforgettable views. Think alpine meadows, fire-warmed cabins, and the kind of silence that only comes with being far, far away from everything else.

Pet-friendly: It depends on the lodge!

Guest capacity: Ideal for 2–12 people depending on the lodge

Accommodation: Heritage lodges and rustic cabins

Vibe: Remote, soulful, adventurous, cozy and romantic

Ceremony options: Lakeshores, wildflower meadows, mountain viewpoints, lodge clearings

Activities nearby: World-class hiking, wildlife spotting, canoeing, photography, stargazing

Access: Via hiking, skiing, or helicopter—no road access

If this sounds like something you would like to know more about – check out this How to Plan a Backcountry Elopement guide blog!

There you have it! Our list of the best intimate wedding venues in Banff! We hope that you find whatever you’re looking for! You seriously can’t really go wrong out here. From Banff to Kananaskis, Emerald Lake to Golden, each of these spots offers something beautifully unique—just like your love story. Need help narrowing it down or planning your elopement? We’re always here to chat!

Reach out today to get started planning your dream intimate wedding in Banff.