The best things to do in Banff in winter (2026/27)

The best things to do in Banff in winter

Did you know that Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park? It encompasses 6,641 square kilometres of mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, and icefields. Known for its vivid blue lakes, most people think of Banff as a summer destination but it’s actually one of my favourite national parks to visit in winter. There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Banff in winter, from skating on frozen lakes to relaxing in natural hot springs.

I’ve been to Banff for winter twice now and both times were incredible. In this guide, I’m sharing the best Banff winter activities for 2026/27 along with some helpful tips to help you plan your own trip. You’ll also find my tried and tested restaurant recommendations, as well as some suggestions on where to stay.  

Disclaimer: This blog post features some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase. There’s no extra cost to you but it just helps me to keep writing these free guides and itineraries. Thank you for your support! 

Top things to do in Banff in winter snapshot 

Winter season  

October to April  

Temperatures  

Expect average lows of -15°C (5°F) with December, January and February being the coldest months where temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F).   

Best time to go  

End of January or beginning of February 

Best things to do in Banff in winter

If you’re in a rush, here are my top picks:  

  • Johnston Canyon 
  • Lake Louise 
  • Banff Gondola 
  • Two Jack Lake 
  • Snowshoeing (I did this tour
Have more time?  

Consider driving or doing a guided tour up the Icefields Parkway 

Two Jack Lake

The best things to do in Banff in winter 

Banff is one of my favourite winter destinations in North America. It has incredible skiing and snowboarding opportunities but there are so many other amazing things to do in winter in Banff. So if like me you’re not a skier or snowboarder, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Here are the best Banff winter activities to add to your list: 

1. Visit Two Jack Lake

Two Jack Lake

Located just 15 minutes from the town of Banff, Two Jack Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the park. It offers an incredible view of the iconic Mount Rundle and in summer you normally get picture perfect reflections on the glass-like water. In the winter, the lake is a popular ice skating spot.

Two Jack Lake usually begins to freeze over in December and remains frozen until the end of May when it starts to thaw. The best time to go ice skating at Two Jack Lake is just after the lake has frozen solid. By January, the lake is usually covered in a heavy layer of snow making skating quite difficult. It’s still a great place to visit though and you can walk across the lake.

The lake was named after two “Jacks”. Jack Stanley operated a boat concession on Lake Minnewanka and Jack Watters worked at the mines in Bankhead.

How to get to Two Jack Lake in winter 

In summer, there is a Roam Transit bus that goes to Two Jack Lake but it doesn’t run in winter so you’ll need a car to get here. If you hire a car, I recommend choosing a vehicle that has 4-wheel drive and winter tires. Although winter tires aren’t mandatory in the town of Banff, if you want to explore any stops along the Icefields Parkway you must have them.  

Travel tip | I personally use Discover Cars to find the cheapest rates on rental cars. They clearly show what is and isn’t included in the price. If you need any help, their 24/7 customer service is very good.   

2. Find the frozen waterfalls at Johnston Canyon

Banff winter activities - Johnston Canyon

If you visit Banff National Park in winter exploring Johnston Canyon’s frozen waterfalls is a must. The lower and upper falls are beautiful all year round, but they’re especially magical in winter and make you feel like you’ve stepped into Narnia! Seeing frozen waterfalls up close is definitely one of the best things to do in Banff in winter! 

From the car park, you can walk along the trail to the Lower Falls (1.1km/ 0.6 miles) and the Upper Falls (a further 2.5km/ 1.5 miles). The trail leads you through the forest and over catwalks alongside the creeks, up into the canyon.  

While you can explore the canyon on your own, if you’re visiting in winter I recommend joining a tour with an experienced guide. The canyon can be dangerous in the winter due to ice so it’s better to go with a guide who can help you navigate the trail. Tours normally include round-trip transportation so you don’t have to worry about driving to the canyon or getting the bus. They also provide ice cleats, hiking poles and a hot chocolate to warm you up at the end! 

You can book an ice walk tour which will take you to both waterfalls and teach you about the canyon’s history and geology. Tours include round-trip transportation, ice cleats, hiking poles and a hot chocolate to warm up at the end! Here are a couple of tours I recommend: 

How to get to Johnston Canyon in winter 

The canyon is a 45-minute drive from Banff town centre and has ample parking. You can also take Roam Transit Route 9 on Saturdays and Sundays (and statutory holidays), but you’ll need to book tickets in advance

Read next | How to visit Banff in 2026 without a car > 

3. Watch sunrise or sunset at Vermillion Lakes

Sunset at Vermillion Lakes

The Vermillion Lakes are a network of marshlands and vast lakes in the Bow Valley which offer incredible views of Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain. These lakes are about 2.4km (1.5 miles) from the town of Banff and easily accessible on foot or bike.

In summer, Vermillion Lakes is the perfect place for a picnic. There are a number of docks along the trail where you can sit and soak in the sunshine. In winter, the lakes freeze over but you can still (carefully) walk on the docks and get some beautiful photos of the mountains. It’s one of my favourite places in Banff to go for sunrise or sunset and watch the colours of the sky change while the sun’s rays illuminate the peaks.

How to get to Vermillion Lakes in winter 

You can walk from town but in winter I’d suggest you drive. Take the exit off the highway and onto Mt. Norquay Road and then onto Vermilion Lakes road. The lakes are on your left-hand side and there are plenty of pull-off points. 

4. Take the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain

Banff Gondola

Banff Gondola is one of my favourite things to do in Banff in winter. The gondola takes you up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in just 8 minutes. The views as you ascend the mountain are stunning but wait until you get to the top! If you’re looking for the best photo spots in the park, the summit of Sulphur Mountain is arguably one of them.  

In summer, you can hike 5.5km (3.4 miles) to the summit but in winter I recommend taking the gondola as the snow can make it a difficult climb. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the mountain ranges, Bow Valley, and the quaint town of Banff. There are observation decks as well as a boardwalk where you can get some stunning photos, especially at sunset when the sun settles behind the mountains. 

If you visit in the evening from December to March, you’ll get to experience Nightrise. This multimedia experience transforms the summit after dark through interactive lights, projections and sounds. Created by Moment Factory in participation with the Stoney Nakoda Nation, it’s a beautiful installation and one of the most unique things to do in Banff in winter.  

You can buy your tickets for the Banff Gondola in advance for $65 CAD per adult. I book most of my tours through Get Your Guide as you can book in cancel up to 24 hours before your tour date and get a full refund. The weather changes so quickly in the Canadian Rockies so having this flexibility always gives me peace of mind.   

How to get to the Banff gondola in winter 

From Banff Avenue, travel south to the end and turn left after the bridge onto Spray Avenue. Stay right onto Mountain Avenue and follow that to the end where you’ll find the parking lot. You can also take Roam Transit Route 1 all year round if you’re travelling to Banff in winter without a car. 

5. Go skiing In Banff

Skiing
Skiing at Banff Sunshine Village (Photo credit: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/ Banff Sunshine Village Resort)

Skiing is a one of the most popular things to do in Banff in winter. There are actually 3 ski resorts to choose from; Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay. If you’re a keen skier, you can purchase the Ski Big 3 Pass which gives you access to all three resorts. It costs around $450 CAD and also includes complimentary shuttle rides to and from Banff, a pass to the Upper Hot Springs, tubing and other perks. You can rent all of your gear from the Ski Big 3 Adventure Hub which is located on Banff Avenue. They even deliver your gear right to your hotel so you don’t have to carry it back!

Here’s a quick overview of the three resorts:

  • Banff Sunshine: Located on the Continental Divide just 15 minutes from Banff, Sunshine as a number of runs ranging from easy greens to double blacks.
  • Lake Louise: This is a family-friendly resort and is perfect for all levels. You can take some skiing and snowboarding lessons too if you’re just starting out.
  • Mt. Norquay: Although they have a range of runs, this resort is more popular with advanced skiers and snowboarders. They also have a tubing park where you can slide down the slopes. It’s open every day from 10am to 4pm, as well as Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm to 9pm. It’s a one of the most fun things to do in Banff in winter, especially at night!

6. Try tubing at Mt. Norquay’s Tubing Park 

    This leads me nicely onto the next winter activity! If like me you’re not a skier or snowboarder, you can still visit Mt. Norquay and enjoy the winter wonderland. They have a tubing park where you can slide down the slopes. It’s open every day from 10am to 4pm, as well as Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm to 9pm. You can visit for $42 per adult but if you have the Ski Big 3 Pass then it’s included at no additional cost. It’s a one of the most fun things to do in Banff in winter, especially at night! 

    7. Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs

    Banff Upper Hot Springs is one of the most relaxing things to do in Banff in winter

    2026 Update: Banff Upper Hot Springs is still closed for maintenance. It’s expected to reopen in 2026 so keep an eye on the website for more details. 

    Located at the base of Sulphur Mountain, these natural hot springs were first discovered in 1883 by railway workers. It was well known to the Indigenous community who often used the springs which flowed out of a cave lower down the mountain. The railway workers discovered that this hot spring was one of nine sulphurous hot springs (hence why the mountain is now called Sulphur Mountain).

    People began flocking to the hot springs, enjoying both the upper springs and the lower springs which were inside a cave. Today the lower hot springs, also known as the Cave & Basin, are no longer in use but you can still visit this protected historical site and learn more about the history. The Upper Hot Springs are still open to the public and offer amazing views of the Spray River Valley and Mount Rundle.

    The water is heated geothermally and bubbles up to the surface from 3km deep. In winter, the temperature can reach 47°C (116°F) so it’s a great way to soak tired muscles after a day hiking or snowshoeing. Entry is first come, first served and you can’t book in advance.

    2026 prices: 
    • Adults: $19.75 
    • Seniors: $17.25 
    • Youth (3 – 17): 
    • Family: $64.25 

    Travel tip | The springs do get very busy so aim to visit early in the day if you can. Alternatively, skip the springs and enjoy the hot pools in your hotel.  

    How to get to Banff Hot Springs in winter 

    Parking at Banff Upper Hot Springs is limited and fills quickly so the easiest way to get the Banff Upper Hot Springs in winter is to take the bus. Roam Transit Route 1 runs from downtown Banff to the hot springs regularly all year round.  

    8. Go snowshoeing in Banff

    Snowshoeing is one of the most fun things to do in Banff in winter
    Snowshoeing in Banff National Park in winter (Photo credit: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/ Devaan Ingraham)

    As someone who doesn’t ski or snowboard, snowshoeing is probably my favourite winter activity here in Canada. There are several lovely snowshoeing trails in Banff and Lake Louise that you can explore. I recommend sticking to the well-trafficked trails if you don’t have avalanche training as these are easy to follow and aren’t remote. Here are a few of my favourites:

    • Johnson Lake Loop: This 3km loop is popular with beginners. It’s quite an easy trail and the snow is usually packed down due to its popularity and accessibility. Take your snowshoes and crampons as some areas have deeper snow and can be quite icy. 
    • Fairview Lookout: This is a short, uphill hike (100 metres elevation) which takes you to a unique viewpoint looking down over the lake and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. It’s a good little workout in the snow.
    • Tunnel Mountain: Located in the heart of Banff, Tunnel Mountain is one of the smallest mountains in the park but it still has spectacular views. It’s a 4.5km round trip and only has 266m of elevation gain so it’s one of the easier hikes in the park.

    You can hire snowshoes and crampons from local outdoor outfitters in Banff such as Banff Adventures, Wilson Mountain Sports, or Snowtips. Some hotels actually have some for guests so make sure you check with your reception. If you’ve never snowshoed before, I recommend joining a tour like this one. Your guide will help you put on your snowshoes properly, teach you how to walk in them, and navigate the trail for you. They also share lots of insider information and fun facts!

    9. Visit the iconic Lake Louise

    Lake Louise in winter

    A trip to Banff is never complete without visiting Lake Louise! This iconic lake is only a 40-minute drive from Banff so it’s the perfect day trip although some people decide to stay for a night or two.

    With a soaring mountain backdrop, Lake Louise is a winter wonderland from December to April. It’s also home to the impressive Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise which is a destination in itself! Although most people want to visit the lake in summer to see the vivid coloured water, there are so many things to at Lake Louise in winter.

    Ice skating

    One of the best things to do in Banff in winter is to go ice skating on Lake Louise. Every year, the Fairmont sections off part of the lake for the ice skating rink. They resurface it every night to keep it clear of snow which means you can skate on it all winter from mid-December until early April. It’s also free to use – you just have to bring your skates. If you don’t have any, you can rent them at Chateau Ski and Snow Rentals which is located near the hotel lobby on a first-come, first-served basis. Alternatively, you can rent them from Wilson Mountain Sports. If you’re staying overnight in Lake Louise, you can go skating at night as the rink is always lit up. It’s a magical experience to skate under the stars.

    Afternoon tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 

    If you want to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise but can’t quite justify the cost, you can still enjoy the hotel and book afternoon tea. It’s available every day from 12pm until 2.30pm and is served in the Fairview Restaurant. Reservations are recommended as it’s very popular with hotel guests and day visitors.

    Banff Ice Bar 

    For a truly unique experience, visit Lake Louise at the weekend and enjoy mulled wine at the Banff Ice Bar. Built by some ice carvers from Calgary, the Ice Bar is made from over 6,000 pounds of ice! It’s normally open daily from 12pm to 5pm from mid-December until end of February and serves a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (the hot chocolate is amazing).  

    Ice castles and sculptures  

    You may have seen photos of the beautiful ice castles at Lake Louise. Every winter, they host an international Ice Magic festival where professional ice carvers come together from around the world to build ice castles and sculptures. It’s absolutely incredible to watch them create these intricate designs! It took place February 5 – 8, 2026, this year and is likely to be around the same time in 2027. Keep an eye on the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise’s website for more details.  

    How to get to Lake Louise in winter 

    You can drive to Lake Louise. Parking can still be a challenge in winter but it’s not as bad as in the summer months. As of 2026, it now costs $42 per vehicle to park at Lake Louise for the day. Alternatively, take Roam Transit Route 8X from Banff directly to Lake Louise Lakeshore. This bus runs all year round and costs $12.50 for adults and $6.25 for seniors and youth. Children under 12 travel free. 

    10. Go shopping on Banff Avenue

    Banff Avenue in Canada

    If you’ve seen photos of Banff, you’ve probably come across the iconic shot of Banff Avenue with the imposing Cascade Mountain towering at the end of the street. It’s one of my favourite views in Banff, especially in winter when the mountain is dusted in snow.

    Banff Avenue is the main street that runs through the town of Banff. Here you’ll find lovely gift shops and local craft stores, as well as the more touristy stores. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s nice just to walk along the avenue and soak in the atmosphere.

    It does get quite busy along Banff Avenue in the day, so I recommend getting up early one morning and going down for sunrise. The light is very soft and there aren’t many cars or people around so you can get some lovely photos. Don’t forget to walk down Bear Street which is just behind Banff Avenue as there are some nice art galleries and independent stores along this road.

    11. Check out the view at Surprise Corner

    Visiting Surprise Corner is one of the best things to do in Banff in winter

    Surprise Corner is one of the most iconic photography spots in Banff. Located on the eastern side of Bow River, this viewpoint looks out to the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. It’s where most of the famous photos of the “Castle of the Rockies” have been taken. The views from the lookout are incredible with Bow River in the foreground and Sulphur Mountain in the background.  

    How to get to Surprise Corner in winter 

    You can walk from the town but it can be a bit tricky in winter with the snow so I’d suggest driving. There is a small car park just past the viewpoint but don’t be surprised if it is full when you go. This is a very popular spot and there is only room for a dozen or so cars.  

    Some people stop alongside the viewpoint on the road but I would advise against this as it’s just before a bend. If the car park is full, plan to come back a little bit later or alternatively, park in town and walk to the viewpoint.  

    12. Explore the Icefields Parkway

    Banff winter activities - Icefields Parkway

    The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world. The highway stretches 233km from Lake Louise to Jasper, winding through sweeping valleys and rugged mountain ranges. The Icefields Parkway is impressive all year round but if you’re driving this road in winter, you’ll need to be fully prepared.   

    I have a comprehensive guide to driving the Icefields Parkway but here are two must-see stops close to Banff: 

    • Bow Lake: Located only 30 minutes north of Lake Louise, Bow Lake is a great place to visit on a day trip. It’s one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park and is a lovely picnic stop in the summer. You can park close to the Lodge at Bow Lake and walk down to the water where you’ll find a little bridge.
    • Peyto Lake: In the summer, this lake is renowned for its brilliant aqua colour which is created by the meltwater from Wapta Glacier. If you visit in October after the first snow fall, it’s a magical sight as the lake hasn’t frozen so you can still see the vivid blue. The viewpoint is a short walk from the big car park and normally takes about 20 minutes. In winter, I would recommend bringing snow shoes as although the trail is usually packed down, there are some spots where the snow can be very deep.

    Icefield Parkway tours

    If you’re visiting Banff National Park in winter without a car, you can still explore the Icefields Parkway on a tour. There are fewer options than in the summer months but I highly recommend the Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway tour. It’s a full-day sightseeing tour that will take you to Lake Louise, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake before dropping you back at your hotel. It’s a great way to see some of the best sights in Banff National Park without a car. Like Get You Guide, booking through Viator means that you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your tour if your plans change. 

    13. Go Dog Sledding

    Dog sledding is one the most amazing things to do in Banff in winter
    Dog sledding in Banff in winter (Photo credit: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/ Devaan Ingraham)

    Dog sledding is one of the most quintessential things to do in Banff in winter. The tradition dates back to the Inuit people of Northern Canada who use dog sledding as one of their main modes of transport. Today, dog sledding is no longer a way of transporting goods but it has become a popular winter activity among visitors.

    If you fancy going on a dog sledding tour during your time in Banff, there are a number of respectable companies to choose from. Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours and Discover Banff Tours are both based in Canmore and offer dog sledding adventures. You can choose from self-driven or instructor-driven sleds. Another great company is Kingmilk Dog Sled Tours. Most tours offer hot beverages and baked goods after the tour and you can have some cuddles with the dogs!

    14. Admire views of Castle Mountain

    Castle Mountain - What to do in Banff in winter

    Castle Mountain is located along the beautiful Bow Valley Parkway and is quite a sight to behold! Named for its imposing appearance, it’s easy to see why early explorers thought the mountain resembled a medieval castle. A trip to see Castle Mountain is one of the most popular things to do in Banff in winter as the snow creates a very picturesque setting.  

    From Banff, it’s a short drive along Bow Valley Parkway. You’ll pass the parking lot for Johnston Canyon along the way so I’d recommend doing both Banff winter activities on the same day.  

    How to get to Castle Mountain in winter 

    You’ll need to drive here in winter. Turn left on to Banff Windermere Highway and you will approach a bridge. Just before the bridge, there is a turnoff on your right where you can park. From here, it’s just a short walk down to the river. You have to pass through a wildlife gate so please make sure you close it after entering and exiting.  

    15. Take a helicopter ride for a new perspective

    Helicopter tour over Banff National Park
    Helicopter tour over Banff National Park (Photo credit: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/ Darren Roberts)

    If you’re looking for unique, once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Banff in winter, a helicopter ride is top of the list. Helicopter flights over Banff National Park are a special way to view the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. You’ll soar over snow-covered peaks, glaciers and frozen lakes.  

    There are a number of different providers that operate out of Canmore which is a short drive from Banff.  They offer a range of helicopter tours which last anywhere from 25 to 55 minutes.  Depending on what tour you choose, you’ll get to see the Three Sisters, Goat Mountain range, Spray Valley, Marvel Pass and Mount Assiniboine.

    I would recommend this scenic helicopter tour with Rockies Heli Canada. They have great reviews and are slightly cheaper than some of the other companies. You can book through Get Your Guide which means you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour and get a refund. The weather can change quickly in the Canadian Rockies, especially in winter, so having this flexibility always gives me peace of mind.

    16. Visit Moraine Lake (before mid-October)

    Moraine Lake in Banff National Park in October - Things to do in Banff in winter

    Moraine Lake road is closed from October until early June each year due to avalanche risk. Some people snowshoe or cross-country ski in but I wouldn’t risk it unless you are incredibly experienced as this is serious avalanche territory.  

    If you are visiting in early October, you may get lucky and get to see some snow at Moraine Lake before they close the road. When I went in October 2019, there had been some snow the day before and we experienced a winter wonderland at Moraine Lake. Two days later, they closed the road for the season so we couldn’t have timed it better! 

    How to get to Moraine Lake in early winter 

    In 2023, Parks Canada decided to close Moraine Lake Road to personal vehicles, so you are no longer able to drive to the lake. Instead, you’ll have to book a Parks Canada shuttles, use Roam Public Transit, or book a private sunrise shuttle. See my guide on how to get to Moraine Lake in 2026 here for all your options.   

    Other things to do near Banff in winter  

    There is an almost endless list of things to do in Banff in winter but if you have time, here are a few other amazing places to visit: 

    Emerald Lake 

    Located in Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake is only a 20 minute-drive from Lake Louise. Discovered back in 1882 during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, the lake was named after its emerald-coloured water. It’s the largest of 61 lakes in Yoho National Park and is a wonderful place to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard in summer.  

    The lake is situated high up in the mountains so it tends to freeze in November and doesn’t thaw until early June. Once it’s frozen, you can snowshoe or cross-country ski across the lake. Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain, Emerald Lake is a very picturesque spot.  

    If you want to stay overnight, you can book a room at the nearby Emerald Lake Lodge. The rooms are located in cabin style buildings and have their own balconies or patios where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine in the evening.  

    Abraham Lake 

    I still haven’t made it to Abraham Lake but I’m hoping to go on my next winter trip. The lake is about two hours away from Banff so it’s a bit of a drive but it’s definitely worth it. The main reason people visit the lake is to see the iconic ice bubbles. This is one of the best places to see the beautiful frozen methane bubbles that appear underneath the lake’s surface. It varies each year but January is usually the best time to visit. You’ll need to keep an eye on the weather forecast and aim to visit when there has been a period of no snow so the lake is clear.  

    If you don’t have a car, don’t worry there are a couple of tours you can book with either Viator or Get Your Guide that will take you to Abraham Lake: 

    Both tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before your tour date if you need to change your plans.  

    Canmore 

    Canmore is a beautiful mountain town just outside of Banff. It’s not as touristy as Banff and is where a lot of the locals live. During winter, the town has a lovely Christmasy feel with the lights and shops. There are lots of great things to do in winter in Canmore but one of my favourite activities is visiting the Three Sisters. These impressive mountain peaks can be seen throughout Canmore but you can walk down to the river for a better view.  

    Canmore in winter - The Three Sisters

    A map of the best things to do in Banff in winter 

    Here are the locations of the places listed above. You can save the map by clicking on the star next to the title so you can use it to plan your own winter trip to Banff.

    Where to stay in Banff in winter 

    I’ve been to Banff six times now so I’ve stayed in quite a few different places. Here are my personal favourites for a winter trip:  

    Fox Hotel & Suites

    Fox Hotel & Suites is also located on Banff Avenue. It’s a bit further down than Moose Hotel but it’s still close to a lot of the best things to do in Banff in winter. The hot pools are ‘underground’ to mirror the historical Cave & Basin and are a lovely place to warm up after a day exploring in the cold. Check prices >    

    Fairmont Banff Springs

    For the ultimate Banff experience, book a stay at the luxury Fairmont Banff Springs, also known as the castle in the Rockies. It’s located on the other side of Banff near Bow River so it’s a lovely 30-minute walk to get to Banff Avenue. Check prices >

    Hidden Ridge Resort

    Hidden Ridge Resort is tucked away on Tunnel Mountain but it’s only a 5 minute drive from Banff Avenue so you get the best of both worlds. Not only does it have the most beautiful views from the outdoor hot pools, but each condo has a full kitchen and wood burning fireplace. You can even get a s’mores kit from reception and enjoy them from the comfort of your own condo! Check prices >

    Moose Hotel & Suites

    Located on Banff Avenue, Moose Hotel & Suites is just a few minutes’ walk from the shops and restaurants. The rooms have beautiful views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains but it’s the amazing rooftop hot tubs that really won me over! Check prices >  

    Moose Hotel & Suites is a great place to stay in Banff in winter

    Where to eat and drink in Banff in winter 

    With so many fun and active things to do in Banff in winter, you’re definitely going to work up an appetite! Luckily, there’s no shortage of great places to eat in Banff. Here are some of my favourites:

    Restaurants

    • Eddie Burger + Bar
    • Park Distillery
    • Bear Street Tavern
    • Waldhaus Restaurant
    • Pacini

    Brunch spots

    • Melissas’s MisSteak
    • Tooloulous
    • Nourish Bistro

    Coffee shops

    • Good Earth Coffeehouse
    • Evelyn’s Coffee Bar
    • Wild Flour Bakery
    • Little Wild: Coffee by Wild Flour

    Best things to do in Banff in winter: Practical information  

    From October to April each year, Banff National Park becomes a real-life winter wonderland. It’s a wonderful time to visit but it does require more careful planning to ensure you’re prepared for the winter weather and colder conditions. I have a whole blog post about planning a winter trip to Banff which covers everything you need to know, including driving conditions, what to pack, and seasonal closures.  

    Driving in Banff

    Final thoughts on the best things to do in Banff in winter 

    Banff is a fantastic place to visit in winter. From ice skating and skiing, to snowshoeing and soaking in hot springs, there is an almost endless list of things to do in Banff in winter. I hope this guide helps you plan your own winter getaway to Banff National Park. If you need any more information, please leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to help! 

    Where to explore next? 

    I absolutely love Banff and have been lucky enough to visit six times over the past 8 years. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your trip, check out my guides:   

    Love from Steph
    SAVE FOR LATER

    Plan for the Canadian Rockies with these guides

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