Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff, Alberta, is a captivating blend of pristine wilderness and charming alpine town. Its rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes and vibrant wildlife set the stage for year-round adventure. Visitors can explore world-class ski resorts and tranquil hiking trails and indulge in a thriving culinary scene. Banff is a haven for those seeking both natural beauty and refined experiences.
What to do
Skiing and snowboarding are why Banff is so popular in the winter, of course. When taking a break from the slopes, there are many other fun activities to try.
Wildlife Tracking: Parks Canada states that Banff National Park is home to over 311 species of birds, 844 species of plants, and 5 species of rare or scientifically important invertebrates, including the endangered Banff Springs snail. There are 19 fish species and 53 species of mammals, including grizzly bears, wolves, cougars, and even wolverines! Join a wildlife tracking tour to learn about the local fauna and their winter habits. Trained guides can help you identify animal tracks and teach about the park’s diverse wildlife.
Skating: While Lake Louise and the town of Banff have popular skating rinks, consider exploring some of the smaller and less crowded natural skating spots like Johnson Lake or Two Jack Lake.
Winter Photography: Capture the winter wonderland with your camera. Banff offers countless picturesque scenes, and you can join a photography tour to improve your skills and discover the best spots.
Sleigh Rides: Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. This is a cozy and romantic way to enjoy the winter scenery, especially in the Lake Louise area.
Stargazing: Winter nights in Banff are clear and perfect for stargazing. Join a guided astronomy tour to learn about the night sky and spot constellations, and celestial objects.
What to eat
Bison Burger: Alberta is famous for its bison, and you must try one of these lean, flavourful burgers.
Wild Game: Embrace the region’s culinary heritage by sampling dishes featuring wild game such as elk, deer, or game birds.
Wild Mushroom Dishes: The province’s forests are rich in wild mushrooms, and you’ll find many dishes featuring these flavourful fungi.
Where to stay
While many visitors stay in the heart of Banff town or in the nearby resort areas, there are some hidden gems off the beaten path where you can enjoy a quieter and more secluded experience.
Lake Louise: Lake Louise tends to be less crowded than downtown Banff. Several charming lodges and cabins around the area offer a serene mountain experience. Consider staying at the Lake Louise Inn or Moraine Lake Lodge for a quieter atmosphere.
Emerald Lake: Located in Yoho National Park, just across the border from Banff National Park, Emerald Lake offers a tranquil and secluded setting. The Emerald Lake Lodge provides cozy accommodations with stunning lake views.
Kootenay National Park: This less-visited national park is adjacent to Banff and offers opportunities for more remote stays. Look into accommodations like Storm Mountain Lodge or the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge on the shores of Bow Lake for a peaceful experience.
Yurts and Backcountry Cabins: If you’re up for a unique adventure, consider staying in a backcountry yurt or cabin. These accommodations are often off the beaten path and provide a truly immersive wilderness experience. Check out places like Sundance Lodges in Kananaskis Country for yurt rentals.
Remote Cabins: For the ultimate off-the-beatenpath experience, you can rent remote cabins in the surrounding areas. Companies like Mount Engadine Lodge (it’s pet-friendly!) offer cozy cabins in a peaceful mountain setting.
