Skip to main content

7 Winter Adventures To Try in Banff & Lake Louise

term
Jan 20, 2022
A women skates on Lake Louise, Banff National Park, AB

The first dusting of snow brings endless possibilities.

As lakes freeze and snow piles up, an insatiable appetite for adventure emerges from all Canadians. Whether you feel most at home on a frozen lake or shredding the slopes of the backcountry, Banff National Park has something for everyone.

Here’s our list of essential winter experiences you need to try this season.

Snowshoeing

The moment you break through the trees and walk out into a mountain clearing, you’ll understand why snowshoeing has been the best way to travel during Canadian winter for thousands of years.

With over 30 feet (9 metres) of annual snowfall in Banff and Lake Louise, snowshoeing is a great way to see the mountains once the snow accumulates and makes traditional hiking trails too deep to access. The best time to explore Banff National Park by snowshoe typically runs December to April. Independent adventurers can rent snowshoes from several local outfits or join guided excursions from several local tour operators. *See below for complete listing.

Snowshoeing in Banff and Lake LouiseSnowshoeing in Banff and Lake LouiseSnowshoeing in Banff and Lake Louise

Cross-country Skiing

Cross-country skiers of all levels will appreciate the variety of skiable terrain available in Banff National Park. New skiers will enjoy the ease and quality of track-set trails, including an illuminated loop at the Tunnel Mountain campground for night skiing. More experienced skiers will love the adventure of skiing into backcountry lodges, where you can expect a cozy night next to a fireplace. Check out Sundance Lodge or Skoki Lodge.

Winter Cross Country Skiing Great Divide Trail Lake Louise Noel HendricksonWinter Cross Country Skiing Great Divide Trail Lake Louise Noel HendricksonWinter Cross Country Skiing Great Divide Trail Lake Louise Noel Hendrickson

Dog sledding

Dogsledding is an essential experience for those looking to explore the Canadian Rockies in historic fashion. Snuggle under your blanket and race through the forests of Banff and Lake Louise in a truly unique way. But if you’re a dog lover, be prepared: The best part of the whole trip will probably be spending time getting to know your own team of Alaskan Huskies! You can experience dog sledding with Kingmik or Snowy Owl.

Dogsledding through Banff National Park is a classically Canadian activity that is a must do for any travellers to Banff and Lake LouiseDogsledding through Banff National Park is a classically Canadian activity that is a must do for any travellers to Banff and Lake LouiseDogsledding through Banff National Park is a classically Canadian activity that is a must do for any travellers to Banff and Lake Louise

Ice Skating

Lacing up your ice skates on a frozen lake is likely the most iconic Canadian thing ever you will ever do! There are several maintained places to skate, including several rinks in the Banff townsite and the iconic ice at Lake Louise.

A mother and child ice skate on Lake Louise, Banff National Park, ABA mother and child ice skate on Lake Louise, Banff National Park, ABA mother and child ice skate on Lake Louise, Banff National Park, AB

Night Sky Photography

Winter nights send many running for the nearest fireplace, but those in search of crystal-clear skies know that chilly temps bring the best conditions for night photography. Grab a camera and boost your Instagram feed with a few stunning long exposures from around Banff and Lake Louise. Looking for some inspiration? Check out local dark sky wizard Paul Zizka Guiding & Photography.

Sleigh Rides

Enjoy the serenity of a horse-drawn sleigh ride across a winter landscape. Sleigh riding during the day in Lake Louise with Brewster Adventures treats you to stunning views of the frozen lake, the surrounding mountains, and a frozen waterfall. After the sun sets, snuggle under a blanket and enjoy the twinkle of stars above, the warm lights of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and the glitter of snow in the moonlight.

In Banff you can enjoy a glide across picturesque, snow-covered meadows, led by a cowgirl or cowboy and a trusty team of steeds. Book for a family of four or a romantic private trip for two with Banff Trail Riders.

Sleigh Ride with Mt. Rundle in the background, Banff National Park, ABSleigh Ride with Mt. Rundle in the background, Banff National Park, ABSleigh Ride with Mt. Rundle in the background, Banff National Park, AB

Ice Walks

Summer or winter, Johnston Canyon is a special place. Join a guided interpretive tour and explore both the lower and upper frozen waterfalls via suspended catwalks. Keep your eyes peeled and you might just spot some ice climbers taking things to the next level! Try it with Discover Banff Tours, White Mountain Adventures or Banff Adventures.

For a wide selection of winter adventure rentals check out: Wilson’s Mountain Sports and Alpine Social Rentals (Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise) in Lake Louise or Snowtip-Bactrax, Banff Adventures, Ultimate Sports, and Chateau Mountain Sports (Fairmont Banff Springs) in Banff.

 

Banff & Lake Louise Tourism

Banff & Lake Louise Tourism

Real Banff is an inside look at the events and activities around the park, brought to you by Banff & Lake Louise Tourism. Our mission is to have a post on pretty much everything that is available for you to do in Banff, Lake Louise and beyond.