23 MAGICAL THINGS TO DO IN BANFF IN WINTER

There are endless ways of soaking in the magic of winter in Banff, so let’s go ahead and dive in.              

How cold is Banff in Winter?

Winter in Banff definitely brings all the snowglobe vibes. You’ll find buckets of freshly fallen snow and chilly temps.

Temperatures here in wintertime can get down to -34 degrees Celsius (-29.2 degrees Fahrenheit) or colder.

But there’s so much to love about this snowy season in Banff. With proper attire, all the most amazing winter activities are at your fingertips here. 

While November is the snowiest month of the year in Banff, January wins the award for the coldest month. But, with loads of snow and gorgeous mountain views comes all the very best Banff winter activities. 

Things to do in Banff in Winter

1. Ice Skating

Skating along the frozen lakes and ponds of the Rockies, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is certainly one of the very best things to do in a Banff winter.

It doesn’t get much more classic winter fun (or more Canadian) than ice skating outdoors in the mountains.

So, bring a pair from home, or just rent a pair in town and find a spot to lace them up. Skating is as Canadian as poutine, so you’ll find beautifully maintained outdoor rinks here. 

⛸️ The most in-demand spot for outdoor skating in Banff is on the frozen ice of Lake Louise.

The Fairmont Banff performs upkeep for two beautiful outdoor rinks on the lake. Other excellent options include skating on Vermillion Lakes, Lake Minnewanka, and Two Jack Lake.

As always, be absolutely sure the ice is thick and safe enough for skating before you head out. 

Another awesome rink for outdoor skating is located at Fairmont Banff Springs, as well as a rink on the Bow River maintained by the city.

Johnson Lake is another excellent choice for winter skating. No matter where you decide to lace up, skating in the Canadian Rockies in winter is pure magic. 

2. Dog Sledding

For a super dreamy, classic winter experience, consider dogsledding. This is another family-friendly, fun-for-all-ages experience sure to give you memories of a lifetime. 

With a chance to experience this traditional activity, you’ll feel the rush of racing through the mountain wilderness, pulled by an experienced team of sled dogs. This incredible winter experience is definitely a crowd-pleaser.

For some of the very best Banff dog sled tours, check out Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours, Banff Adventures, or Kingmik Dog Sled Tours. 

🐺 Pro Tip: Dogsledding is definitely an in-demand activity during Banff winters, so be sure to book your adventure early. 

3. Fat Biking

Ever thought you might try winter biking? With the rise in popularity of so-called fat biking, you can now cycle around this mountainous stretch, even in the dead of winter. 

Fat bikes are equipped with huge oversized tires, allowing for superb traction in wintery conditions. This fun new option for getting around might just change your perspective on exploring your way through winter. 

The Banff area has different options for trying out fat biking, including heading out on a guided tour or simply renting bikes and exploring on your own. 

Wondering where to strike out on your winter bike?

🏔️ Check out some top spots, such as Spray East Trail, Tunnel Mountain Bench Loop, Sundance Trail, or Lake Minnewanka Trail. 

4. Nordic (Cross Country) Skiing

If you’re looking to enjoy one of the best cardio workouts around against one of Earth’s most spectacular backdrops, check out Nordic skiing.

This traditional method of transport will get your heart rate up, while you enjoy all the beauty of the great outdoors in Banff National Park. 

With some utterly drop-dead gorgeous cross-country trails to choose from, Banff is the perfect place to get your ski on.

No need to own your own gear. Ski rentals can be found across the area for a nominal fee. 

For some beginner trails to start on, check out Lake Louise, Spray Mountain Trails, Tunnel Mountain Trails, and Cascade Valley. 

5. Helicopter Tours

Looking to take your Banff adventures to new heights? Consider a winter helicopter tour of Banff National Park. 

You’ll feel the thrill of gazing upon some of Canada’s most awe-inspiring mountains from a bird’s eye view.

While soaking in some of North America’s tallest mountains, tour operators share the history of the area. It’s a marvelous way to experience Banff from above. 

For some of the best helicopter tours, check out Discover Banff Tours, Banff Adventures, or White Mountain Adventures. 

✅ Check rates and prices for a Helicopter Tour over the Canadian Rockies here!

6. Northern Lights Viewing

Think Banff doesn’t have anything special in the store outside after dark?

Think again! Banff and the surrounding area, including Jasper National Park, are some of the best places in North America for peeping the Aurora Borealis. 

Jasper National Park, just a two-hour drive along the epic Icefields Parkway, is now designated a Dark Sky Preserve.

In other words, Jasper takes care to reduce and/or eliminate any light pollution possible. These efforts serve to maintain the area as a great place for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing. 

For your best chance at catching a glimpse of the Aurora, choose one of the hotspot viewing sites, including Vermilion Lakes, Peyto Lake, or Castle Junction.

An evening snowshoe tour at Banff Sunshine Village is another great way to witness the sky light up green. But the very best spot close to Banff town for Northern Lights viewing is Lake Minnewanka. 

⛄ Pro Tip: Dress in your warmest layers, and head outdoors after midnight for the best chance of seeing the skies light up. 

7. Sledding

For families, kids, or just the playful kiddo inside you, consider taking your family sledding down the hills of Banff. You’d be surprised at the childhood wonder this old-time winter activity will awaken in you!

Some of the very best sledding hills around the town of Banff include Spray Meadows Hill, behind the Banff Springs Hotel, close to Bow Falls. Another great spot is located off Lake Minnewanka Road, near Cascade Ponds.

This low-key, classic winter activity is just what you need in your Rocky Mountain holiday. Be sure to top it off with a festive hot cocoa downtown. 

8. Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

Imagine yourself cozied up to friends or family, nestled inside a horse-drawn sleigh, gliding across snowy vistas. There’s hardly an activity that says classic winter moment than taking a ride in a horse-drawn sleigh. 

Options for this activity are many, including joining a group sleigh ride, booking a romantic sleigh ride for two, or even a private family sleigh ride for your group.

Most tours include a sweet treat beside the bonfire after your cozy ride. Banff in winter just doesn’t get any better than this!  

9. Icewalks

If you’d like to hit the trails in wintertime, heading outdoors for an ice walk is an excellent way to soak in the most gorgeous Rocky Mountain views in wintertime.

Enjoy the same hiking trails you’d walk in summertime in Banff, but with a twist. A beautiful waterfall hike transforms from a surging waterfall into a sparkling frozen waterfall. 

Johnston Canyon hiking trail is the most popular ice walk in the Banff area, though several other ice walks nearby deserve a look. Grotto Canyon is another spectacular spot for an icy hike. 

10. Skijoring 

Have you ever seen someone skiing behind a horse? No? Well, welcome to the exciting spectator sport of skijoring. Each winter, Skijor Canada brings this awesome sport to the Banff area. 

Visit Banff in the wintertime and enjoy the thrill of watching Alberta cowboys perform alongside trick skiers. If it sounds exciting, you’ll certainly enjoy this unique sport.  

11. Alpine (Downhill) Skiing

Think you can find better downhill skiing in North America than you can find in Banff? Guess again! With three world-class ski resorts, all inside the Banff and Jasper National Park areas, this is pretty much the pinnacle. 

The “Big 3” as they’re known, are comprised of Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay ski areas.

From brand-new beginner terrain to the backcountry skiing of your snowy dreams, every level of downhill skiing is available to you here. Equipment is all available to rent, so no need to lug your gear unless you choose to. 

⛷️Pro Tip: If you’re new to skiing, never worry. Ski lessons are available here, from children’s lessons up through adults of all ages. 

12. Snowshoeing 

Strap on those snowshoes and head out into the pristine winter wilderness of Banff. Another great family-friendly winter pastime, snowshoeing, affords all the gorgeous mountain scenery at a more leisurely pace.

Not to mention, snowshoeing is a great budget-friendly option for exploring the outdoors. 

Snowshoes are easy to rent in several different spots around Banff, including Banff Adventures, White Mountain Adventures, and Ultimate Sports. Snowshoe rentals come in all sizes, including kid’s sizes, so bring along your whole crew! 

Begin with an easy but beautifully scenic snowshoe trail, such as Tunnel Mountain, Peyto Lake, or Johnston Canyon. Or, if you’d prefer not to go it on your own, sign up for a guided snowshoe tour with one of many experienced guides. 

13. Ice Fishing

Like to try your hand at catching some fish in wintertime?

Ice fishing is another great option for enjoying awesome mountain vistas while exploring outdoors in the crisp mountain air. Ice fishing tours are the best way to drop a line in the Banff wintertime. 

Dress for the chilly winter air, as you’ll mostly be stationary, unlike winter hiking or snowshoeing. Still, it’s worth braving the winter cold for your chance to catch a beautiful Banff Lake Trout. 

14. Hot-tubbing

One of the coziest ways to decompress after a day on the slopes or a day out hitting the icy trails is to head to the hot tub at your accommodations. And Banff surely has some Grade A hot tubs at their hotels for just this reason. 

For a rooftop soak, book a stay at the beautiful Deer Lodge near Lake Louise, Mount Royal Hotel on Banff Avenue, or Moose Hotel and Suites near downtown. 

For adventurous spirits, head to Canalta Lodge and dunk yourself in their icy cold glacial plunge tub before relaxing in the hot tub.

No matter where you choose to take a dip, it’s sure to ease your sore muscles and sleepy mind after a day of adventuring. 

15. Snow Tubing

For another fun way to whiz down the mountainside, consider snow tubing.

Located just a handful of minutes from the town of Banff, you’ll find the Mt Norquay tubing hill. With 8 lanes of fast-paced fun, you’ll find the largest snow tubing hill in the entire province of Alberta.

Tubing is a fun-filled, family-friendly, snowy day activity for all. Generally accessible to kids ages 4 and up or 42” tall and above, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This fun and affordable winter activity is a great way to spend an afternoon for your whole crew. 

16. Banff Upper Hot Springs and Radium Hot Springs

Dream of relaxing in hot springs, surrounded by epic Rocky Mountain views? Head to Banff in winter.

Considered one of the top things to enjoy while experiencing winter in Banff, a soak in the hot springs is a beautiful way to relax amongst the Rockies. 

Banff Upper Hot Springs and Radium Hot Springs are the two most popular springs in the area. The Upper Hot Springs has several advantages, especially in the location department.

You’ll find the springs conveniently located right by the Banff Gondola, very close to downtown Banff.  From Upper Hot Springs, you’ll enjoy the most spectacular, jaw-dropping views of the snowy peaks surrounding you while you soak in the warm springs. 

Also located here, you’ll find a coffee shop with meal options, tasty drinks, and, most importantly, ice cream. But be sure to soak earlier in the day, as the cafe doesn’t stay open late. 

Radium Hot Springs is another excellent choice, though it requires driving much further into the National Park from town.

Radium is an excellent choice for those preferring a more natural, less commercial hot springs experience. You honestly can’t go wrong with either choice. 

17. Banff Gondola

Looking to see the area from a different perspective? Book seats to ride up Sulphur Mountain on the always wonderful Banff Gondola.

Atop the mountain, you’ll find a lovely indoor interpretive center detailing the geology and natural history of Banff National Park. You’ll also find a coffee shop, cafe, and fine dining restaurant (Sky Bistro). 

Head to the rooftop observation deck for some of the most beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. For more exploring, take a stroll on the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk.

Be sure to dress in your warmest layers for the mountaintop as the wind picks up at higher elevations. 

✅ You can get your gondola tickets ahead of time by clicking here!

18. Winter Hiking

Think all the really great hiking in Banff is gone before the frost hits? Not true! Banff National Park has glorious winter hiking, and the mountain views are just as beautiful as in summertime.

In fact, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective on the panoramic views, with fresh-fallen snowcapped mountains in all directions. 

You’ll find pristine hiking through this winter wonderland across the Banff and Jasper National Park areas. Some of the best, easy, family-friendly hikes include Fenland Trail, Lake Louise Lakeshore, Marsh Loop, and the otherworldly Tunnel Mountain Hoodoos Trail.

For a bit more challenge, strike out on the incredibly popular Johnston Canyon Trail or head over to Mirror Lake or Tunnel Mountain.

For a longer, more strenuous hike with rich rewards, hike up Sulphur Mountain from the Banff Gondola base. You’ll admire 360-degree views of the mountains atop the mountain. 

When heading out on the trails in the coldest months, be sure to dress for the weather and terrain.

You’ll need zero cotton base layers (top and bottom), wool socks are best, mid-layer, and a down jacket on top. Ice cleats are a must on the trails in winter, in addition to high-quality mittens and hats.

Be sure to always tell someone where and when you’re heading out, and bring along snacks and water. Even in wintertime, it’s important to stay hydrated. 

🧤Pro Tip: Handwarmers are always a good idea to keep those fingers toasty warm. Trust me on this one!

19. Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk

For some of the very best views of Banff and the surrounding six mountain ranges, take a walk along the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk.

After heading up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola, strike out on the boardwalk. The boardwalk is approximately 376 steps along a short, 1 km trail. The boardwalk leads to the spectacular views atop Sanson Peak. 

With steps and no ramp, the boardwalk is unfortunately not handicap accessible. For any in your group who may need accessible spots, take the elevator to the rooftop of the interpretive center.

There, you can enjoy the spectacular views from the rooftop observation deck. The Banff Gondola itself is accessible and can bring both those in need of accessibility, along with a wheelchair, if necessary, to the top. 

⭐ Pro Tip: Sunsets are spectacular atop Sulphur Mountain, so consider heading here to see the sky light up in its rose-colored beauty. 

20. Wolfdog Sanctuary 

Head to the Wolfdog Sanctuary to visit the resident wolfdogs and learn more about these beautiful animals. This family-friendly place offers an educational experience during the wintertime.

Though there is no petting the wolfdogs, you’ll have the chance to photograph them from outside their living enclosures. Enjoy a self-guided tour around the sanctuary as you read interesting facts about wolves and wolfdogs. 

🐺 Pro Tip: ROAM public transportation does not travel here, so you’ll have to make your own way to the sanctuary. 

21. Abraham Lake Methane Bubbles

There’s a very special spot in Banff when the weather turns cold, and lakes freeze over. Abraham Lake is famed for its beautiful methane bubbles that form inside the frozen ice. 

How do these methane bubbles form on the frozen lake? They’re naturally occurring and are created as organic matter falls to the bottom and mixes with bacteria below. 

The ice bubbles on Abraham Lake are incredibly beautiful and are unique to this lake. If you don’t want to miss this amazing natural phenomenon, head to this beautiful frozen lake between mid-January and early February.

Abraham Lake is located just off Highway 11/David Thompson Highway. 

22. Snowmobiling

Want to see the mountains from a fast-paced ride along the trails? Snowmobiling is a thrilling way to get around Banff in winter.

For the best snowmobiling in Banff, book a tour through a respected tour company, and they’ll guide you to the most beautiful spots for riding. 

23. Heli-Skiing

What happens when you combine helicopter rides with high-altitude downhill skiing? Well, you get heli-skiing!

For experienced skiers and snowboarders seeking virgin snow to power through, check out winter heli-skiing in Banff.

After taking a helicopter ride up the mountainside, you’ll be dropped off, free to carve your own path down the mountain.

Though heli-skiing packages are definitely not for budget travelers, they’re an excellent option for the truly adventurous. If high-adrenaline thrills are on your winter wish list, heli-skiing is sure to promise a memorable rush. 

Things to do in Banff in November

Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival

The cornerstone event for the Banff Centre, this awesome film and book festival, has been going strong since 1976. Join filmmakers and authors from all over as you hear stories by the campfire, excellent films, and more. 

❄️ Pro Tip: Score a deal on your tickets with Banff Centre’s Early Bird Special when you purchase 4 or more tickets in advance.

Banff Craft Beer Festival

Join fellow craft beer lovers in enjoying delicious food and beer from over 40 different local Alberta vendors. With live entertainment, tasty samples, and a beautiful backdrop, you really can’t ask for anything more.

For the taste of a lifetime, bring your favorite craft beer lover to Banff for this excellent festival! 

🍻 Pro Tip: Free shuttles will run from downtown Banff to and from the event, located at the Cave and Basin Historic Site. 

Banff Christmas Market

This festive winter market begins in mid-November and extends into early December. Ever dreamed of strolling through a European-style Christmas market nestled amongst the mountains? In Banff, your dream can come true. 

This festive market features over 100 local artisans, live music, outdoor bonfires, tasty food and drinks, and more. This family-friendly event attracts guests from across the globe each year.

Shop for a one-of-a-kind keepsake souvenir or holiday gift for friends and family. Warm your hands aside the fire, sip a holiday cocoa, and enjoy amazing eats around Banff town. 

🎄 Pro Tip: Tickets to this beloved annual Christmas Market go on sale September 1st, so be sure to purchase them early!

Hot Chocolate Trail

If you crave this cozy, classic winter treat, Banff’s Hot Chocolate Trail is the cherry on top of your winter fun. Banff and Lake Louise’s Hot Chocolate Trail guides you to 20 different restaurants and eateries, each offering a limited-time, special holiday-themed hot cocoa.

Take the tour, and vote for your favorite cup!

In Search of Christmas Spirit

Looking for an adorable, family-friendly event walking you through the cozy streets of the town of Banff? In Search of Christmas Spirit is a lovely, all-ages festive event. 

As you stroll through the lovely Cascade of Time Garden, enjoy as the animals of Banff National Park tell a sweet Christmas story. Using illuminated sculptures and sound effects, you’ll learn about the park from the animals’ perspective.

Created by acclaimed local indigenous artists, In Search of Christmas Spirit is a delightful addition to Banff’s best winter events. Wear good winter hiking boots or even your ice cleats to this event, as the path may be icy. 

🎁 Pro Tip: Kiddos ages 2 and under do not require a ticket. But, leave Fido at home; pets are allowed at this outdoor event. 

Things to in Banff in December

Banff Christmas Market

This cozy, beautiful European-style Christmas Market extends from November into December. Stroll the festive streets of Banff town while soaking in the Christmas whimsy in this lovely market. 

Hot Chocolate Trail

Enjoy this sumptuous hot chocolate tour around Banff into December. With over 20 different festive holiday cocoas to choose from, each at a different restaurant. Keep toasty warm this holiday season by sipping your way through Banff with a hot cup of cocoa. 

In Search of Christmas Spirit

This sweet, fun-for-all-ages holiday stroll continues into December, and you won’t want to miss it! Created by local indigenous peoples, this story tells the tale of Banff from the animals’ perspective. Dress for icy trails, and grab a hot cocoa on your way!

Banff Whiskey Experience

If whiskey tasting is your winter dream, Banff delivers. During the first weekend in December, the self-proclaimed “Most Beautiful Whiskey Festival on Earth” returns to Banff. 

Featuring whiskey from over 70 of the very best distilleries in the world, over 15 whiskey masterclasses, and 2-panel discussions, this exclusive event is sure to excite you. 

Things to do in Banff in January

SnowDays Festival

This classic winter event brings travelers from all over to Banff each year. SnowDays brings the thrill of skijoring on Banff Avenue, snow sculptures, live entertainment, music, delicious eats, and more. The festival is always held in January and runs 12 days long, from mid to late January. 

SnowDays Play Zone

A special play area just for families and kiddos, the SnowDays Play Zone is part of the SnowDays Festival. Here, kiddos can unleash all their wiggles with biking, climbing, sliding, and more.

The Play Zone offers a chance to try curling, fat biking, sledding, and more! Your kids won’t want to miss this. 

Snow Sculptures

During the SnowDays Festival in January, you’ll find gorgeous snow sculptures throughout Banff town.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the wonderful eateries in town, or make a stop on the Chocolate Trail and bring hot cocoa along. Stroll Bear Street and enjoy each intricate sculpture. You’ll be amazed at the artistry of each piece. 

Ice Magic Festival

To see some mind-blowing ice sculptures amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Rockies, head to the Ice Magic Festival on the shores of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in January.

This festive annual event stretches over 12 days and includes a world-class ice sculpture competition. This festival has been running for 25 years at Lake Louise. 

Not only will you get to vote for your favorite, but you’ll experience actually watching the best ice artists from around the globe as they cut, freeze, and create their giant sculptures. This is truly a unique winter event to behold!

Skijoring

Skijor Canada brings this thrilling spectator sport to Banff in January, and you won’t want to miss it! Watch as trick skiers ride behind Alberta’s finest cowboys and cowgirls on horseback. 

Bear Street Live Entertainment

During the SnowDays Festival, you’ll enjoy live music, performances, circus acts, and more right in downtown Banff.

Entertainment runs every evening during the festival from 4 pm to 8 pm. Music on Bear Street is definitely family-friendly, so go ahead and bring the kids along. 

Things to do in Banff in February

Banff Gondola’s Nightrise 

Ever experienced an after-dark multimedia event on the top of a mountain? Well, you’re in luck, then. One of Banff’s newest events, Nightrise, is an experience you won’t forget.

Ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain after dusk and enjoy four different immersive digital art experiences. You’re sure to enjoy this unique, new event. 

Mountain Madness Relay Race

Looking for an unforgettable winter race, either to train and compete or just to enjoy from the sidelines? Check out this fun-filled winter competition. 

Open to all ages and ability levels, the Mountain Madness Relay Race makes for a wintery moment you won’t soon forget.

Beginning with a downhill ski portion along the slopes of Mount Norquay, the race then continues with portions of running, ice skating, Nordic (cross-country) skiing, and snowshoeing.

With silly competitions, including the wackiest team name and best costumes, this race is sure to be fun for the whole family.