A Week in the Rockies: How to Spend 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points in Banff

Alright, let's talk about using those hard-earned Marriott Bonvoy points for something truly epic. Forget a quick weekend city break; we're going for grandeur. I'm talking about a week immersed in the Canadian Rockies, specifically Banff National Park. With 100,000 points, you can snag yourself a solid stay at a Marriott property and have plenty left for experiences. This isn't your average glamping trip; it's about getting your boots dirty, breathing in that crisp mountain air, and seeing why these peaks are world-famous.

Before You Go: The Nitty-Gritty

First things first, booking. Your 100,000 points will get you roughly 4-5 nights at a category 5 or 6 hotel, depending on peak season. For this itinerary, I’m aiming for the JW Marriott Hotel, Banff Springs. It's an iconic lodge, a landmark in itself, and usually falls into the 50,000 points per night category. Booking during the shoulder seasons – late May to early June, or September to mid-October – will give you the best bang for your points and avoid the summer crowds. **What to Pack:** Layers are your best friend. Mountain weather is notoriously fickle. Think moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Sturdy hiking boots are non-negotiable. Trekking poles will save your knees on descents. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent, especially if you're venturing out in early summer. A reusable water bottle and a small backpack for day hikes are essential. **Fitness:** This itinerary involves moderate hiking. You should be comfortable walking for 3-5 hours with elevation gain. If you're not a regular hiker, start incorporating some hills into your routine a few weeks before you go. **Safety:** Always tell someone your hiking plans, including your route and expected return time. Carry bear spray and know how to use it (most tour operators will provide this or rent it out). Stick to marked trails.

Your Banff Adventure: Day by Day

This itinerary assumes you’re arriving on a Sunday and departing the following Sunday.

Day 1: Arrival and Banff Town Immersion

Morning: Arrive at Calgary International Airport (YYC), pick up your rental car, and drive the scenic 1.5-hour route to Banff. Check into the JW Marriott Hotel, Banff Springs.
Afternoon: Settle in, then take a leisurely stroll through Banff town. Explore the shops on Banff Avenue, grab a coffee at Whitebark Cafe, and soak in the mountain views.
Evening: Dinner at The Bison Restaurant for some fantastic Alberta beef and local ingredients.
Practical Tip: Acclimatize to the altitude. Banff sits at about 1,383 meters (4,537 ft). Drink plenty of water.

Day 2: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Majesty

Morning: Drive to Lake Louise (about 45 minutes). Arrive early – parking fills up FAST. Rent a canoe on the turquoise lake for an unforgettable perspective.
Afternoon: Head to Moraine Lake (road access is often restricted to shuttles or tours in peak season – check Parks Canada for details). The Valley of the Ten Peaks is breathtaking. Hike the short Rockpile trail for iconic views.
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at Bear Street Tavern in Banff for excellent pizza.
Practical Tip: Book shuttle tickets for Moraine Lake well in advance if you’re not driving yourself. Pack a lunch to save time and money.

Day 3: Hike to the Tea Houses

Morning: Back to Lake Louise. Today, we hike! The hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House is a moderate 3.5 km (2.2 miles) climb with rewarding views.
Afternoon: Continue on to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House for a longer, more challenging hike (another 3.5 km from Lake Agnes). Enjoy a well-deserved treat at either tea house.
Evening: Treat yourself to dinner at the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise dining room for a more upscale experience.
Practical Tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots. The trails can be rocky and uneven. Bring cash for the tea houses.

Day 4: Johnston Canyon & Bow Valley Parkway

Morning: Drive the Bow Valley Parkway towards Johnston Canyon. Hike the paved catwalks through the canyon to the Lower and Upper Falls. It’s an easy, accessible walk for most.
Afternoon: Continue exploring the Bow Valley Parkway, keeping an eye out for wildlife like elk and deer. Consider a stop at Castle Mountain.
Evening: Back in Banff, try Park Distillery Restaurant + Bar for a unique, locally distilled spirit and good pub fare.
Practical Tip: Johnston Canyon is popular. Go early or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.

Day 5: Banff Gondola & Sulphur Mountain

Morning: Take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain. The panoramic views from the summit boardwalk are spectacular.
Afternoon: Explore the interpretive center at the top, or hike down the old trail if you're feeling energetic (it's a steep descent!). Alternatively, visit the Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Chuck's Steakhouse for a classic Banff experience.
Practical Tip: Book gondola tickets online in advance, especially during busy periods.

Day 6: Icefields Parkway Scenic Drive

Morning: Dedicate today to the Icefields Parkway, one of the most stunning drives in the world. Stop at viewpoints like Bow Lake and Peyto Lake (a short walk to the viewpoint).
Afternoon: Visit the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. Take the Ice Explorer tour onto the Athabasca Glacier (book in advance!).
Evening: Grab a casual dinner back in Banff. Perhaps revisit a favorite spot or try Block Kitchen + Bar for creative tapas.
Practical Tip: This is a long day trip. Start early and fill up your gas tank before you leave Banff. Cell service is spotty.

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a final Rockies breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a short, easy hike like the Tunnel Mountain Trail for one last panoramic view.
Afternoon: Drive back to Calgary International Airport (YYC) for your departure.

Where to Stay: A Royal Treatment

The JW Marriott Hotel, Banff Springs is my top pick for using your Bonvoy points. It’s a historic castle-like hotel with incredible architecture, stunning views, and excellent amenities. Its location is a short walk or shuttle ride from Banff town. If the Banff Springs is out of your points range or booked, consider the Delta Hotels by Marriott Banff Royal Canadian Lodge for a comfortable, well-located alternative.

Getting Around: Wheels Are Key

While Banff town is walkable, exploring the park requires a car. Renting a car from Calgary Airport is the most practical option. Within Banff National Park, you'll need to purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. You can buy this online or at park gates. Parking at popular spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is extremely limited and often requires reservations or shuttle use during peak season.

Budget Breakdown (Estimate for 2 people, excluding flights):

* **Accommodation:** 4 nights at JW Marriott Banff Springs @ ~50,000 points/night = 200,000 points (This itinerary uses a portion of your 100k points, suggesting a great redemption value if you can get 4 nights). *Correction: The prompt specifies 100k points for a week. This would likely cover 2 nights at the JW Marriott, or more nights at a lower category Marriott property. Let's assume 2 nights here and adjust.* * *Revised Accommodation:* 2 nights @ ~50,000 points/night = 100,000 points. This leaves you needing to cover the remaining 5 nights or find a different redemption. For this article's sake, let's assume you have additional points or are willing to pay cash for the remaining nights. * **Rental Car:** ~$70/day x 7 days = $490 * **Gas:** ~$100 (depending on driving) * **Parks Canada Pass:** ~$145 (for a group/family) * **Activities (Gondola, Ice Explorer, Canoe Rental):** ~$400 - $600 * **Food:** ~$100/day x 7 days = $700 * **Total Estimated Cash Cost (excluding extra hotel nights):** ~$1,435 - $1,585 **Note:** This is a rough estimate. You can save money by cooking some meals, choosing more budget-friendly dining, and opting out of paid tours.

Packing Essentials:

* Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants * Fleece or down mid-layer * Moisture-wicking base layers * Sturdy hiking boots * Trekking poles (optional but recommended) * Daypack * Reusable water bottle * Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses * Insect repellent * Bear spray (rent or purchase locally) * Camera!

Final Thoughts: Worth Every Point

Banff is a place that stays with you. Using your Marriott Bonvoy points here is an investment in experiences that go far beyond a hotel stay. While the 100,000 points might not cover a full week at the premier Banff Springs, it’s a fantastic start. Plan ahead, embrace the outdoors, and be prepared for some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on the planet. Happy trails!