- 03 Mountain Ski and Snowboard Resorts with 200 kilometres of trails
- 01st national park in Canada; established in 1885
- 04 million visitors each year
Flanked by the Rockies, the town of Banff and the hamlet of Lake Louise are undoubtedly the jewels in the crown of Canada. Hike through fragrant pines to touch the top of a windswept mountain then watch as eagles glide below you. Stand on the shores of a lake to capture the image of a far off mountain mirrored in the water. Gaze at deer, elk and mountain sheep as they wander through your picnic. Thrill to the sighting of a grizzly as he marches over the ridge. Taste water freshly melted from a glacier. Play hockey on a frozen mountain lake then watch as artists magically carve sculptures from crystal clear blocks of ice. Ski at world renown resorts. Slip into the soothing warm mineral rich water seeping from the same hot springs that initiated the creation of Canada’s first National Park. Combining that natural beauty with luxury hotels, world class cuisine and a lively eclectic entertainment scene creates the perfect year round destination.
Outdoor adventure
- Ski or snowboard in feather-light powder at “The Big 3” mountain ski resorts of Sunshine Village, Lake Lousie Ski Area and Mount Norquay.
- Backcountry ski the high country or hike it on a four or six day hut-to-hut adventure.
- Track elusive wolves through the wilderness on horseback expeditions.
- Be a part of the team on an overnight dog sled excursion.
Nature & Wildlife
- Explore the high country on horseback to a spectacular view of six glaciers.
- Top a sweet view with a sweet treat. Hike up to a scenic view where a chocolate fondue waits.
- Watch for ice climbers as they climb above you as you hike in a canyon frozen in time.
- Soar to new heights by helicopter then hike pristine wilderness.
Accommodation & Relaxation
- Relax and unwind in therapeutic Rocky Mountain mineral hot springs.
- After a strenuous day on the slopes or trails experience the finest spa treatment at a romantic castle in the Rockies.
- Stay in European inspired style on the famous shores of glacier fed Lake Louise.
Weather
- Banff and Lake Louise enjoy warm summers,but it is not uncommon to have cooler temperatures. July and August daytime highs sit at an average of 21°C dipping to 7°C in the night. Banff receives 55 mm of rain during the summer months.
- The fall season is short with the leaves quickly turning colours in September with chances of early snow in October. In November, watch as the snow works its way down the peaks with night time temperatures starting to dip below freezing. With daytime highs hovering around 10°C, it’s best to bring warm clothes.
- Winter is wonderful but cold. December brings frosty air with an average daytime high of -3°C dipping to -14°C at night. Cold spells of -30°C can occur so heavy coats and warm boots are essential. If a Chinook wind blows through expect to see the temperatures rise above 0°C. Banff National Park sees an average of 2 metres of fluffy dry snow to fall over the course of the winter months.
- Springtime is a mix of all seasons so bring some lighter weight clothes as well as some thick sweaters and waterproof coat. The snow stays quite long into the season with spring daytime average high temperatupres of 10°C.
- Discover local weather information. Research local weather patterns at Environment Canada's Canadian Climate Website.
Area: 6641sq km Banff National Park
The town of Banff and hamlet of Lake Louise are the only communities in the park
Total Population: 9500
Official Languages: English & French (English predominant)
- The ski and snowboard season runs province-wide from November until May, with the best snow conditions January through March.
- Golf at the famous Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course from May through October.
- Banff and Lake Louise are more than the great outdoors. Countless cultural and culinary events are offered between the peak winter and summer seasons.
- Wildlife viewing is best from spring until fall.
- Hike, camp, bike, raft and ride in comfort in the Rocky Mountains from June until October, but always be prepared for the cool evenings.
- Plan your vacation to Banff and Lake Louise around a variety of festivals & events.
- Banff and Lake Louise are located in the Rocky Mountains and can be easily accessed by road and/or train from Vancouver using VIA Rail or the Rocky Mountaineer.
- The closest international airport is the Calgary International Airport (YYC) with bus shuttle service available.
- Find general information about getting around Banff and Lake Louise..
- Find general information about getting around Alberta.
- Alberta highway traveller information is available at Alberta Motor Association.
