What to do in Banff in Winter

How does snowcapped mountains, ice skating on frozen lakes and rustic dining sound to you? Within two hours from Calgary you can find yourself in the heart of Banff National Park  ready to take on the day’s activities in a truly majestic setting.

I visited Banff for the first time during December 2010. I completely fell in love with the area and everything it has to offer. I now consider myself a local, living and working within the hospitality industry. One of the main questions I get asked by short term visitors is ‘How can I get the most out of a day in the park?’ Here's 7 things you should do when visiting Banff National Park during winter!

1. See the northern lights in Banff

This doesn’t happen every night but if you are lucky and timing is on your side the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as The Northern Lights can be seen from Banff National Park. One of the popular places to view this spectacle is at Lake Minnewanka but depending on where your days activities have taken you, they can also be seen looking back towards the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise , Castle Junction near the Bow Valley Parkway and sometimes they can be seen at Vermillion Lakes . Set up your camera and take a few pictures or simply gaze up at the sky and watch this magical phenomenon.

2. Catch a beautiful Banff sunrise

Sunrises are magical but catching a winter sunrise in Banff National Park is quite the experience. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover or just someone who loves to take in the simple pleasures in life, a sunrise here in Banff will not disappoint. Why not grab a mug of hot chocolate (Evelyn’s Coffee Bar ), located on Banff Ave, do delicious drinks early in the morning) and watch with awe as the sky lights up. With mountain peaks in every direction, it’s not hard to find a good location but Two Jack Lake  and Vermillion Lakes  are certainly two favorites.

3. Ice skate on Lake Louise

Lake Louise  is one of the most iconic lakes in all of Canada so why not rent a pair of ice skates and do a few laps whilst it’s frozen. Each January the Banff SnowDays Festival  takes place, and a huge ice sculptured castle is built on the lake making Ice Skating an even more unique experience. Afterwards, view the lake via horse and carriage or admire the views from inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise .

4. Take a snowy, scenic wildlife drive to Lake Louise from Johnston Canyon

One of my favorite drives in the Banff/Lake Louise area is the Bow Valley Parkway (1A). This scenic drive transforms into a winter wonderland during the snowy months. Snow covered pines, mountains and meadows make it the perfect opportunity to do some wildlife spotting and if you’re lucky enough you may see some elk, moose or even some wolves! Note that proper winter or seasonal tires are usually necessary to drive throughout Banff National Park in winter.

Twenty minutes down the road you will reach the parking lot for Johnston Canyon  - a well-defined trail that takes you through a canyon with lots of frozen waterfalls. Take your time, watch your footing and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty (also look out for the ice climber’s at the upper falls!) Don’t forget to check the Parks Canada  website for Wildlife etiquette and trail conditions.

5. Explore Downtown Banff

Downtown Banff  is an exciting place and much quieter in winter than during the summer months. From shops to restaurants, coffee hangs to bars, art exhibitions to museums and trails along the river there is something that appeals to everyone.

If you’re looking for a good place to eat why not dine at the Park Distillery  – the restaurant serves campfire-inspired meals and house-made spirits (The Cheese & Whisky fondue is a treat) or head over to the Banff Ave. Brewing Co.  for a locally brewed beer.

6. Soak in Banff’s Upper Hot Springs

What better way to end a day than to relax and unwind in natural hot springs . Depending on the weather you can watch a sunset over the mountains, feel the snowflakes hit your skin or lie in the shallow area and watch the night sky. What a perfect way to reflect on your day in Banff National Park and plan your activities for your next visit. Make a day of it with the Banff Upper Hot Springs Day Trip Guide.

7. Take the Gondola for a bird’s eye view of Banff

One of my favorite views from way up high is the bird’s eye view of Banff that Sulphur Mountain provides. What’s even better is the view can be easily attained by riding the Banff Gondola  in 8 minutes. If you’re feeling energetic and the trail is in good condition you can also hike up to the top of the mountain and catch a one way Gondola ride down. Enjoy the scenery from the observation deck along with two dining options and an interpretive center including a multisensory cinematic experience – how cool is that?

My name is Faye and I arrived in Banff from the UK back in October 2013. I have fallen completely in love with Banff, the Canadian Rockies & everything they have to offer. When I’m not working, you will find me out hiking summits, back country camping, long distance running & volunteering for the park. I love connecting with nature, being in the outdoors and capturing my adventures through photographs. Please jump on board & follow my journey on Instagram @fayealiceab