Travel like an Influencer: Jess Dales’ Christmas in Banff

You know those postcard-worthy trips to the Canadian Rockies on your favourite influencers’ feeds? There’s no Instagram vs reality here in Banff and Lake Louise – everything you see on their channels can be part of your very own trip.

Photographer and avid adventurer Jess Dales visited us for a snowy getaway and shared her Banff winter itinerary so you can make it your own.

Whether or not you’re a @jesswandering follower, her trip to Banff and Lake Louise is a perfect winter adventure blueprint. Read on and then pack your bags for five truly magical days of Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise.

Day 1: Christmas Spirit Found

As you arrive in Banff in the winter, you’ll find the place is pretty much glowing. From the late afternoon alpenglow colours on the mountains to the twinkling lights leading the way down Banff Avenue, this is a scene straight out of a winter fairytale.

Lean into it – after you check in to the alpine chic Moose Hotel where Jess stayed, bundle up for In Search of Christmas Spirit.

This is an experience that’s hard to put into words – picture a snowy trail through Banff’s iconic Cascade of Time Garden, with intricate sculptures and an interactive story that includes some of the wildlife in Banff National Park.

When you’ve completed the enchanting journey through the wintery garden, move on to Brazen where a new cast of local legends takes the spotlight.

This restaurant and bar celebrates Banff's storied past in the best way possible – with bold, unforgettable flavors and perfectly crafted drinks. Settle into the plush booth, savour a cocktail and ease into your holiday escape.

Day 2: On the Holiday Trail

When it comes to things to do in Banff during Christmas, the Hot Chocolate Trail and the Banff Christmas Market are two that you can’t miss.

If “Christmas in a bottle” could actually be captured in a scent, Banff’s annual holiday market would be the place to gather it. Evergreen trees, mulled wine and holiday baking would win over any grumpy Grinch.

Wandering through the stalls of handmade goods and artisanal creations is cozy, festive, and impossible not to love. And there are so many great photo ops to seek out – Jess was partial to Santa's sleigh, and that’s just the beginning!

As for the Hot Chocolate Trail, this is just what you think it is – but somehow even better. Explore the snowy streets and hop between cozy cafés and lively bars, each offering its own spin on the ultimate winter treat. Think rich, velvety hot chocolate topped with wild creations that turn every sip into a surprise.

Midway through your Banff winter itinerary day, stop in at Shoku Izakaya for a steaming bowl of traditional Japanese ramen—a hearty, soul-warming lunch that’s a perfect pairing for the season. And later on you can let the afternoon melt away as you soak in the warmth the rooftop hot tub at the Moose Hotel, watching the sun dip behind the snow-covered mountains.

Day 3: Towering Peaks and a Christmas Castle

A day out in the mountains simply has to be part of any Banff winter itinerary. Fuel up with breakfast at Pacini before heading out on a private tour of the Icefields Parkway.

Jess calls it “one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the world,” and once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why.

With local experts Radventures leading the way, you’ll experience the Rockies in all their icy glory. As you go beyond Banff and Lake Louise to the Icefields Parkway the mountains grow taller and taller, and somehow more beautiful.

The rugged peaks and vast frozen lakes are equal parts intimidating and awe-inspiring – a stunning reminder of nature's raw power and beauty.

Come evening, you’ll get to experience one of the signature highlights of Christmas in Banff at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. The iconic “Castle in the Rockies” becomes a holiday wonderland this time of year, with twinkling decorations around every stone staircase and historic arched hall.

Indulge in dinner and festive drinks at the Thirsty Reindeer (just as fun as it sounds), then cap off the night gathered around the outdoor bonfire.

Take part in a quintessential Canadian tradition: roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. As Jess discovered, eating a s’more is delightful, messy and a little bit magical.

Day 4: From Canyon to Summit

Waking up in a snow globe makes it feel like it’s Christmas Day in Banff throughout the whole holiday season. Venture deep into this winter wonderland with an icewalk at Johnston Canyon with Discover Banff Tours.
Mother Nature works her magic here, turning the canyon into a breathtaking world of blue ice. Just like Jess, you can strap on ice crampons and wander the suspended walkways, with the snowy river below and countless frozen waterfalls along the canyon walls making you feel like you’ve stepped into another realm.

After a hearty outdoor adventure, stick with the Jess Wandering Banff trip itinerary and stop for a cozy lunch at Three Bears Brewery & Restaurant, one of her favorite spots in town for Pizza.

In the late afternoon, take the Banff Gondola up to Sulphur Mountain for an unforgettable experience under the stars. High up at the summit of Sulphur Mountain, Nightrise brings the spirit of the mountains to life with artful light exhibits telling the stories of the Stoney Nakoda Nation.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at Sky Bistro, where you can take in panoramic views of the twinkling town below and the glowing mountain peaks stretching out as far as you can see.

Day 5: Snowshoes, Tall Trees and Cabin Life

Start your last big day with breakfast in front of the big stone fireplace at Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse. Watch the snowflakes drift down outside and get ready to head right into them on a guided snowshoe tour.

Romping around in deep, soft snowdrifts was one of Jess’ highlights while visiting Banff in winter. Sunshine Village is a powder paradise where you can take a gondola and chairlift all the way up to the high alpine, strap on snowshoes and explore the pristine wilderness.

You can’t help but feel like a kid again as you follow your guide through passages between snow-laden evergreens trees. This is a picture-perfect destination for capturing photos and videos of your winter adventure, so make the most of it!

Warm up with stories and hot chocolate from your White Mountain Adventures guide deep in the forest before letting loose on the downhill trek, sending the snow (and the giggles) flying in every direction.

Then it’s on to your last, and arguably coziest, winter destination. Banff really steps up the cabin game for the holidays, which you can experience for yourself at Baker Creek.

Nestled in the woods, these cabins are a cozy retreat straight out of a holiday dream – or a Hallmark movie, as Jess put it. Picture sparkling lights shining on the snow, your own private fireplace in a rustic log cabin, and the peace and quiet of the snowy forest all around. It’s Christmas in Banff at its very best.

Watch Jess.wandering's reel on Instagram