Winter in Banff and Lake Louise

Nestled in stunning Banff National Park you'll find two vibrant mountain communities - Banff town and Lake Louise village.

Banff Town

Flanked on all sides by towering mountains, the townsite is alive with adventure and opportunities to experience wonder. The vibrant streets of downtown are lined with top-class restaurants, bars and shops, as well as a number of incredible art galleries and museums. The Banff townsite is small, easy to get around by walking and has a convenient public transit system.

Lake Louise Village

Located a 45 minute journey from Banff, the village of Lake Louise is smaller and quieter than Banff. You’ll find a variety of restaurant and accommodation options, a grocery store, bakery, deli, sporting goods store and visitor information centre. Tucked right in the heart of nature, the Lake Louise area has long been a mecca for adventure and features incredible skiing just outside the village.

Getting to Banff and Lake Louise is easy. Fly to Calgary International Airport and then enjoy a scenic drive or shuttle bus to Banff National Park.

Direct Flights

Flying to Calgary International Airport (YYC) is an accessible and easy option when travelling to Banff and Lake Louise. Get on the plane, then after a glass of wine, a film or two, and a little nap, you will find yourself flying over the snow-covered peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Getting From the Airport

It's a super scenic 90 minute journey from the Calgary International Airport to Banff, depending on road and weather conditions. If you're heading to Lake Louise add another 45 minutes. Regular shuttle buses or scheduled coach services are available from the airport to Banff and Lake Louise. Find out more about getting here.

You’ll find the perfect winter base accommodation in Banff National Park. With fairy-tale castles, boutique hotels, hostels, remote backcountry lodges, charming B&Bs or mountain chalets: there’s something for all preferences and budgets.

Cozy Cabins

If you’re wanting a winter escape, to be surrounded by nature and snow, check out our list of cozy cabins in Banff National Park. You’ll have the option of remote, often hike-in backcountry lodges, or easier accessible frontcountry lodges and cabins. Plan the ultimate cozy cabin getaway with out blog.

Luxury Hotels

Look at the Fairmont Banff Springs if you like luxury and the idea of staying in a fairy-tale castle. You may even catch a glimpse of the famous Bow Falls outside your hotel window.

For perhaps the most spectacular setting ever (think: right beside a frozen lake surrounded by mountains and glaciers), try the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. With ice skating, winter hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and outdoor campfires under the stars, you may never want to leave.

If you’re after ultimate views, surrounded by trees whilst being nestled in the mountains, then stay at the Rimrock Resort. Not only has it got the views, but you’ll be staying in luxurious rooms with elegant service.

For a full list of places to stay in Banff and Lake Louise, visit our accommodation page. 

There are so many options for food and drinks in the town of Banff and the hamlet of Lake Louise. Choose between distilled spirits and microbrews, delicious breakfast and brunch spots, pizza or picnics for lunch, and Western-style steak or vegan meals for dinner.

Après is a way of life in Banff and Lake Louise. Whether you want a cold beer brewed with glacial water, a hot chocolate by a log fire, or cocktails, you will find what you are looking for guaranteed.

If you’re hitting the ski fields, there are some mouth-watering bites to get your lips around 

For ideas on cozy restaurants with mouth-watering food, or take-out to enjoy by the fire in your room, check out or dining page.

Are you looking forward to the beauty of Banff National Park in winter? All those snow-capped mountains, trees topped with snow and frozen lakes. Winter in Banff is spectacular, but you’ll need to be prepared with temperatures ranging from –5°C to –40°C. So, we’ve put together a list for you of what to wear.

Layers are essential for all activities in Banff National Park through most seasons, but particularly winter.

Base layer

• Pack thermal longjohns and thermal long-sleeved shirts. Make sure your whole body is covered by a base layer of either wool or another synthetic material

Second layer

• Shirt on top of your thermals. Flannels work amazing!
• Waterproof pants (ski pants or snow pants) if you’re going to be in the snow or ice. Otherwise, if you’re after a casual look, jeans or other pants (fleece-lined leggings are amazing) can be worn on top of thermals.

Mid-layer

• Fleece jacket or a wool sweater for your upper body.

Outer Layer

• Jacket or coat. Insulated warm jackets are perfect. Waterproof or resistant is great for when you are out exploring or skiing.

Feet

• Winter or snow boots, try to ensure they’re waterproof to avoid issues with snow.
• Warm socks, either wool or synthetic (not cotton).

Other winter needs

• Hand warmers are heavenly at times
• Beanie or Toque, the type with lining and no holes.
• Mittens or gloves, but remember mittens trap the warm air between your fingers making them warmer. Get ones with lining.
• Scarf or neck warmer
• Sunglasses are a must in winter! Snow can be bright on the eyes.
• Microspikes to avoid those slips

If you’ve forgotten your gear, not a problem! There are various stores in town where you can buy or rent some gear.