To Do In Banff

A local's guide — sorted by situation, not category.

Things To Do in Banff in Winter

The mountains are dumping. Whether you ski or not, a snow day in Banff is one of the best days you'll have here. Here's how to make the most of it.

Hit the Slopes

4,200 acres across four mountain faces. Powder days here are world-class. Longest season in Canada.
Local Pick
Highest base elevation in Canada. Snow stays dry and deep. Straddles the Continental Divide.
10 minutes from town. Night skiing, tubing park, smaller crowds, steeper terrain.

Don't Ski? No Problem

Snowshoeing — Sundance Canyon
Easy trail, beautiful in fresh snow. Rent snowshoes in town from any gear shop.
Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Frozen waterfalls, ice formations, catwalk trail. Guided tours available or go solo with microspikes.
Ice Skating — Vermilion Lakes
Wild ice with mountain backdrop. Check conditions first. Bring your own skates or rent in town.
Mt Norquay Tubing Park
No skill required, all ages. Massive fun, especially for kids.
Snow falling while you soak in 38°C water. Peak Banff experience. Open year-round.
Local Pick
Cross-Country Skiing
Spray River Loop and Cascade Trail are groomed and beautiful. Rent gear at any outdoor shop in town.
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Warm Up After — Best Après in Banff

Fireside cocktails and campfire cooking. The après spot.
Pub grub, cheap pints, live music nightly from 10pm. Happy hour 1–5:30pm.
Evelyn's Coffee World
Quick coffee, central location. Warm up fast.
Local craft beer, Bear Street. Good food, live music some nights.