10 Things to Do in Banff National Park this Winter

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is a breathtaking destination and one that is only amplified during the winter season. Winter is a magical time of snowy landscapes, cozy activities and adventure-seeking in the outdoors. Whether you are chasing a thrill, seeking some rest and rejuvenation or looking for after-dark activities, I’ve got you covered.

Here is my list of ten things that you can do in Banff this winter -

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Skiing and Snowboarding

Bundle up and enjoy world-class skiing or snowboarding at one of Banff’s incredible resorts. With 3 options all within 40 minutes from the town of Banff, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village and Mount Norquay and have great riding on offer.

The powder snow and stunning landscapes make for an incredible skiing experience. If you only have time for one, head to Sunshine Village or Lake Louise. Otherwise if you can fit all three resorts into your next visit, you absolutely should!

Ice Skating

There’s nothing quite like skating on the picturesque Lake Louise or the outdoor rinks in the town of Banff. The ice rinks surrounded by snowy mountains create a magical experience. The Rockies are also an amazing place to go in search of natural ice! Make sure to always be safe when doing so, I highly recommend having an ice screw to test ice depth yourself if you are skating on natural ice.

To learn more about natural ice skating in Banff check out my full guide here.

Dog Sledding

Experience the thrill of dog sledding through the snow-covered forests as you're guided by beautiful huskies. Several tour operators offer dog sledding adventures for an authentic and exciting experience like no other.

Snowy Owl Dog Sledding in Canmore is a great provider and one worth checking out on your next winter visit!

Snowshoeing/Winter Hikes

Strap on some snowshoes and explore the pristine winter landscapes by heading out on a snowshoe or winter hiking trail. There are various trails suited for different skill levels, such as Johnston Canyon, Tunnel Mountain or Troll Falls. Winter is such a special time to get outdoors and see all the frozen and snow-covered features. There are trails ranging from 20 minutes to full-day experiences depending on your level of comfort in the outdoors. You can even join a guided ice walk if that interests you!

For additional winter hiking suggestions, check out my 7 winter hikes under 7km here.

Relax in Hot Springs

Take a moment for yourself or with a loved one to unwind and relax in some hot springs. Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying the snow-covered mountain views.

The Banff Upper Hot Springs are the closest to town but they often get very crowded and are not my first choice of hot spring, despite their popularity. My favourite alternative is to take the scenic drive out to the Nordic Spa in Kananaskis. The beautiful hot, warm and cold pool cycle is accompanied by relaxing saunas and steam rooms that are totally worth the investment (adult only).

For something more natural, check out Lussier Hot Springs in BC (2 hours from Banff).

Ice Climbing

For an adventurous experience, you should give ice climbing a go! As the waterfalls freeze, ice climbing becomes a popular sport for adventurers in the park. There are options for beginners and experienced climbers, with guides available for safety and guidance. Join a local tour to find the best spots and get all the help and equipment you need - Here’s the perfect Introduction To Ice Climbing for Beginners tour!

Wildlife Spotting

Winter is an excellent time for wildlife viewing. As the snowfalls and tourism slows, the animals reemerge and can be spotted across snowy landscapes. Look for elk, bighorn sheep, deer and other animals along the roads or in their natural habitats.

Join this 2-hour evening wildlife safari, or combine it with the Highlights of Banff on this three-hour expedition.

Snow Tubing

Have a fun-filled day snow tubing at Mount Norquay's Tube Park. Sliding down a hill on an inflatable tube is one of the best activities you can do with your friends and family on your next visit. If you are looking for a thrilling, but low risk experience this is the perfect way to see the slopes without skiing or snowboarding. Bonus: you get great views from the top!

Northern Lights Viewing

In certain areas like Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, if the conditions are right, you might catch a glimpse of the mesmerising Northern Lights. My top tips for trying to see the northern lights are to sign up for Alberta based alerts and keep an eye on the Sunshine Village live cam. I never go out and just wait for them, if you can't see them on the sunshine cam you won't see them in town so check before heading out in the cold!

My favourite spots are Cascade Ponds and Lake Minnewanka.

Festivals and Events

Tis’ the season to check out winter events like the SnowDays festival and the Ice Magic Event at Lake Louise! These events include ice carving, snow sculpting competitions, and other winter-themed activities. Ski-joring is another event you can catch in January with teams of athletes and horses displaying a range of ski stunts, horse riding exhibitions and tricks down the main street of Banff Avenue. The Banff Lake Louise Tourism website is the best place to stay up to date with events and happenings around the National Park.

Remember, it's essential to check weather conditions, dress appropriately for the cold, and, for certain activities, consider guided tours for safety and optimal experiences. Don’t forget to follow up those outdoor winter activities with a mug of hot cocoa or apple cider!

I hope you make the most of the winter season and consider seeing some of the magic Banff has to offer this time of year!

Happy travels :)