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Image attribution:Devaan Ingraham

Trip Ideas

Winter Relaxation & Adventure

Duration
6 Days
Num of Experiences
18 Experiences

Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or simply out to have fun with friends, this 6-day itinerary in Banff National Park has got you covered. It's a perfect blend of thrilling experiences and serene relaxation.

Over the next six days, you'll glide across Lake Louise, mush with huskies, explore cross-country skiing, take on fat biking, ride the Banff Gondola, and even test your mettle with ice climbing. But there's also time to stroll through Banff's charming streets, soak in natural hot springs, and savour delicious local cuisine.

For the best experience we recommend booking accommodation for 2 nights in Lake Louise and 4 nights in Banff.

Who's it For?

  • Adventure Seekers
  • Après Lovers
  • Friends & Couples

When to Go

  • November - April

Trip Itinerary

Getting to Banff and Lake Louise

With plenty of transportation options to get you to and from the Banff and Lake Louise area, you can rest easy knowing you'll be able to plan a seamless journey from start to finish.

Learn about getting here.

Day 01

Welcome to Banff National Park, the perfect place for a winter holiday full of action, adventure and relaxation. Start by arriving at your accommodation in the heart of Lake Louise Village, where you'll kick-off your winter adventure. Once you’ve checked in, head up to iconic Lake Louise and strap on your skates for for a few laps on the world's most scenic skating rink. When you've worked up an appetite, round off your day with a cozy meal.

A couple skating on Lake Louise in the winter in Banff National ParkA couple skating on Lake Louise in the winter in Banff National Park

Ice Skating on Lake Louise


Duration
< 1hr
Difficulty
Easy
Operating Dates
Dec - Mar
See details about Ice Skating on Lake Louise

Day 02

Get your fill of adventure as you head out for an unforgettable dog sledding experience. Warm up with lunch at Alpine Social in the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and then if you can handle more time in the cold, get your heart rate up with an afternoon of cross-country skiing on the Pipestone Loop.

People enjoying a dog sled ride on a snowy trail in Lake Louise with Kingmik Dog Sled ToursPeople enjoying a dog sled ride on a snowy trail in Lake Louise with Kingmik Dog Sled Tours

Dog Sledding in Lake Louise


Duration
1-3 hrs
Difficulty
Easy
Operating Dates
Dec - Apr
See details about Dog Sledding in Lake Louise

Day 03

Head from Lake Louise to Banff for the next round of your trip. Take this as a relaxing day after going hard yesterday. Make your way into your accommodation in Banff and relax by exploring the town’s streets, picking up the perfect souvenir, grabbing a hearty meal and relaxing in an outdoor hot spring.

Shopping Banff AvenueShopping Banff Avenue

Shopping Banff Avenue


Duration
1-3 hrs
Operating Dates
Year Round
See details about Shopping Banff Avenue

Day 04

Start your day early with a guided fat biking adventure. Head out and explore Banff’s snowy trails while getting your pump on.Then, skip the workout but gain the views by soaring high above Banff with the Banff Gondola. Relax as you watch the sunset over the townsite from Sulphur Mountain and enjoy a sky high dining experience at Sky Bistro.

Guided E-fat Biking TourGuided E-fat Biking Tour

Guided E-fat Biking Tour


Duration
1-3 hrs
Difficulty
Moderate
Operating Dates
Nov - Apr
See details about Guided E-fat Biking Tour

Day 05

Start your day with your biggest adventure yet and experience ice climbing, a quintessential Canadian Rockies winter experience. Banff’s experienced guides will provide all the knowledge and gear you need for this hearty, full-day adventure. Refuel and warm up with fondue at Bluebird Restaurant and if you’ve still got movement in your legs, try a beautiful evening ice walk in Johnston Canyon, where you will see frozen waterfalls under a night’s sky.

Person ice climbing a frozen waterfall in Banff National ParkPerson ice climbing a frozen waterfall in Banff National Park

Guided Ice Climbing Tour


Duration
3-6 hrs
Difficulty
Moderate
Operating Dates
Nov - Apr
See details about Guided Ice Climbing Tour

Day 06

Take this last full day to relax and really enjoy yourself in this snowy winter wonderland. Go for a walk in a snowy forest, relax in a spa and take in your fill at one of Banff’s cozy cafes. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, try the Eat the Castle tour at Banff’s castle. This day is about recharging before heading back home.

Whitebark Cafe

See details about Whitebark Cafe

Where to Stay

Here's some accommodation options that work for this trip:

Mountaineer Lodge

Hotels & Inns
Location
Lake Louise Area
See details about Mountaineer Lodge

Reservations & Booking

Some of the activities require reservations or bookings upfront. Here is an overview of all providers:

Good to Know

Maximise your trip enjoyment with a little pre-planning. Here's our pro tips: