Banff Must Do Winter Activities: Don't Miss This!
While most people flock to Banff in the summer to marvel at its mountain peaks, ice fields, meadows, lakes, and more, we're not your average tourists. We've decided to shake things up and experience Banff in all its winter glory!
In the colder months, Banff transforms into a winter wonderland with fresh snow and frozen lakes, perfect for snowmobiling, skiing, ice skating, dog sledding, and more.
There are many stunning national parks along the majestic Rocky Mountains in the US and Canada. Established in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada's first national park and is recognized under the UNESCO World Heritage program.
Our Trip to Banff in the Winter!
BEST banff WINTER Activities
Today, we are sharing the best winter activities for Banff and the surrounding area. You do not want to miss any of these iconic and exhilarating activities!
Sleigh Ride across Lake Louise
If you want to feel like you are traveling through a winter postcard, this is the activity to choose. Brewsters Lake Louise Stables offers carriage rides around Lake Louise with majestic views of Victoria Glacier and the ice falls. We went during the day, but you can also go at night and see the Fairmont Hotel glowing with twinkly lights.
The sleighs are pulled by the most majestic, beautiful horses. They weigh as much as 2600 pounds and stand up to 17 hands. It was magnificent to see these beauties pulling us around the lake.
This 60-minute ride provides a view of skaters twirling on the lake, people braving the deep snow to walk the trail around the lake, and, if you are lucky like us, mountain climbers coming down the side of the glacier. It was so fun to watch. Oh, we even witnessed a proposal! She said yes!
Tip: Be sure to bring something warm to drink and a blanket to cuddle up with. We snuck in a few bottles to warm the soul!
Snowmobile around Banff
If fast and furious is more your speed then snowmobiling through Banff might be what you are looking for. We chose Banff Adventures Snowmobile Tours, and we are so glad we did!
This was my first time driving a snowmobile. Even with low visibility and heavy snowfall, it was a total blast! I had to work through some nerves initially, but I got the hang of it quickly and went full throttle!! I am so glad my first time was in a place so beautiful.
The tour provides you with a helmet, boots, goggles, gloves, and a snowsuit. Trust me, you will stay warm and cozy. We even had heaters on the handlebars, so our hands were nice and warm.
Your tour guide cooks your lunch on top of the mountain. I had the burger, and it was delicious! They get the meat from a local butcher.
My only warning would be the bathroom! It is an outhouse, which usually is not a problem. But with temperatures near zero, dropping your warm snow suit while the wind whips through the cracks in the wall was quite the experience!
Snowmobiles are prohibited in Banff National Park as they disrupt the animals and may cause an avalanche. So we had a bit of a drive for this tour, but it was totally worth it!
Visit a historical cave
While visiting the park, a little history is always required. We fulfilled that requirement by visiting the Cave and Basin National Historic Site. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of nature while gaining a deeper appreciation for Canada's conservation efforts.
The Cave and Basin became the first national park in Canada in 1885 after three railway workers discovered the hot springs in 1883. This discovery prompted the creation of Banff National Park, setting the stage for preserving Canada's natural landscapes for generations to come.
The Basin featured a few winter sports for us to play, including box hockey. It was a blast and a great way to warm up!
Share the Chair
Did you know the Canadian National Park system has over 400 red Adirondack chairs in breathtaking parks nationwide? It all started in 2011 in Gros Morne National Park to lure people to lesser-known locations throughout the park. It has become our quest to find as many red chairs as possible!
Banff has 11 sets of red chairs, all carefully placed in unique spots, and you will find 8 sets in Jasper. If you decide to make the chairs a part of your quest, don’t forget to #sharethechair on social media. Then check out all 200 sets of Canada’s Adirondack chairs.
Gondola Ride
Hop on the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views, mesmerizing wildlife, and unforgettable experiences. The 8-minute ride to the top offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and rivers. Even while covered in snow and ice, the vistas are spectacular.
The temperature will be at least 10 degrees colder at the top of the mountain, so make sure you bring your coats, hats, and gloves. You will need them. Schedule the gondola ride around the weather. You will want good visibility once you are at the top.
When you arrive at the top, you will find Sky Bistro. It’s the perfect place for lunch or a cocktail. The prices are not cheap, but the views are worth it. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time to guarantee a table. They will fill up in peak times.
Hike the Catwalk
Suspended over an icy canyon, The Johnston Canyon Catwalk is a series of elevated steel walkways that cling to the walls of Johnston Canyon. These catwalks offer a safe and accessible way to explore the canyon, even in winter when the paths can be icy and treacherous. In the winter, the snow-covered trails and frozen waterfalls create a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Highlights of the winter canyon include the frozen waterfalls. If you are feeling adventurous, you can try to climb the icy waterfall or watch others ascend it.
You can tackle this trail on your own or book a guided tour.
CLICK TO GET YOURS TODAY!
Tubing in Banff
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just looking for some winter fun, Mount Norquay’s tubing is a must-try. Imagine speeding down a snow-covered hill with the wind in your face and adrenaline pumping through your veins. It's a heart-pounding adventure that's perfect for all ages.
Located in the heart of Banff National Park, Mount Norquay provides breathtaking views that make your tubing experience even more memorable. Surrounded by stunning mountains and pristine wilderness, you'll find yourself in awe of nature's beauty as you glide down the slopes.
Mount Norquay has multiple tubing lanes that are meticulously maintained to ensure a smooth and thrilling ride. Each lane offers a different level of excitement, so whether you're a beginner or a tubing pro, there's a lane for you.
Don’t forget to dress warm and bring a good pair of sunglasses!
Skate the Lake
Lake Louise is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters during the summer, but come winter, it becomes a frozen paradise perfect for ice skating. Imagine gliding across the crystal-clear ice, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the serene wilderness. Whether you're an experienced skater or a beginner, the magical ambiance of Lake Louise will captivate your senses.
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers skate rentals on-site, ensuring you have everything you need for a fantastic day on the ice. For the best photos, come early in the morning.
Looking for something more adventurous? You can also snowshoe, ski, snowboard, and even go ice climbing at Lake Louise.
Visit the ice bar
Imagine sipping your favorite cocktail surrounded by walls of glittering ice and stunning views of snow-capped mountains. The Lake Louise Ice Bar is an outdoor bar carved entirely out of ice, offering a magical setting for visitors to enjoy drinks and socialize in a truly unique atmosphere. This icy wonderland is open during the winter season, providing guests with an enchanting experience amidst the beauty of Lake Louise.
The Ice Bar is constructed from 20 ice blocks weighing 300 pounds each. Spaces in the walls are carved out for the benches. It is open only on certain days and hours, so check the website and plan ahead.
Shopping
Banff Avenue is the bustling main street of Banff, lined with charming gift shops, local craft stores, and the usual touristy places. But don’t limit yourself to Banff. The surrounding towns offer small-town shops and craft stores worth the stroll.
If you're not a big shopper like Phil, strolling along the avenue for people-watching and soaking in the local charm is a must.
Here are a few of our favorites
Spirit of Christmas Store - (Banff) Christmas all year!
Cafe Books LTD - (Canmore) was Voted one of the top 11 dreamiest bookstores to visit in Canada by Chatelaine.
Stonewaters - Not your typical souvenir shop! Find terrific, unique things here you didn’t know you needed!
Banff in the winter
After experiencing Banff in the winter, we can absolutely say it should not be missed. We fell in love with the snowy wonderland. We arrived as tourists but left as adventurers pushed out of our comfort zones. From snowmobiling to hiking for red chairs in knee-deep snow, every activity was a new and thrilling adventure.
more Winter in Banff tips & activities
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Meet Stacy! Stacy and her husband, Phil, are a wanderlust couple who have been roaming the great USA for an epic 5 years! They ditched the daily grind to embark on thrilling adventures and inspire fellow dreamers to chase their travel dreams. Curious about how they do it? Check out their awesome YouTube channel, Today is Someday, where they're spilling all the secrets to living a life on the move. Get ready to pack your bags and join them on this incredible journey.