Things to do in Banff and Lake Louise in March

March brings the best of winter in Banff and Lake Louise. Snow conditions remain excellent at the ski resorts, while longer days provide even more time to explore Banff National Park. From skiing and snowboarding to scenic sightseeing tours, dog sledding, ice walks, and skating, March offers a variety of ways to experience the beauty of Banff National Park before winter gives way to spring.

Here’s what you can expect to see, do, and experience in Banff and Lake Louise in March.

What’s in the Guide:

• Adventures and outdoor activities that you can experience.
• Events and festivals in Banff in March.
• Places to eat and drink during the winter.
• What is the weather like in Banff in March.
• What to pack for your trip to Banff and Lake Louise in March.

Adventures and Outdoor Activities in Banff National Park in March

March is an exciting time to visit Banff and Lake Louise. Winter conditions remain strong, the days are noticeably longer, and visitors can enjoy a mix of iconic winter activities and sightseeing experiences. Whether you're hitting the slopes, skating on a frozen lake, or discovering the highlights of Banff National Park on a guided tour, March offers plenty of opportunities to get outside and experience Banff National Park in winter.

Skiing and Snowboarding

March is a great time to hit the slopes in Banff National Park, with winter conditions still going strong and longer days providing more time to enjoy the mountains. Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay offer a variety of terrain for all ability levels, from beginner learning areas to challenging alpine runs. If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, all three resorts offer lessons with certified instructors to help build confidence and skills.

One of the best parts? It's easy to experience all three mountains during your visit thanks to the free SkiBig3 shuttle service, which provides transportation from Banff to Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay. This makes it simple to leave the car behind and spend each day exploring a different ski resort while enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Guided Sightseeing Tours

March is a wonderful time to explore the highlights of Banff National Park with a guided sightseeing tour.

Knowledgeable local guides provide fascinating insight into the area's landscapes, culture, and wildlife while taking the stress out of planning and navigating. It's a great way to see some of Banff's most famous sights and learn more about the Canadian Rocky Mountains during your visit.

Local Sightseeing Tour Operators:

• Discover Banff Tours
• Radventures
• Open Top Touring
• Mountain Park Transportation

Outdoor Ice Skating

Skating on Lake Louise is a true bucket list experience. Lake Louise remains the area's only monitored and maintained lake skating surface, offering a spectacular setting beneath the Victoria Glacier. In the town of Banff, visitors can choose from three outdoor skating rinks, the Fenlands outdoor rink, the recreation grounds and the Banff Rotary Park Rink, all offering beautiful mountain views and a classic Canadian winter atmosphere.

Skate rentals are available in both Banff and Lake Louise, making it easy to add this memorable winter activity to your itinerary. Whether you're gliding across the iconic ice at Lake Louise or enjoying an afternoon skate in downtown Banff, it's a wonderful way to experience the beauty of winter in Banff National Park.

Guided Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a uniquely Canadian winter adventure and a memorable way to experience the snowy landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Operators such as Kingmik Dog Sled Tours and Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours offer guided experiences through alpine forests and mountain scenery, pulled by enthusiastic teams of sled dogs. It's a fun activity for visitors of all ages and a chance to learn about the history and traditions of dog sledding in the region.

Guided Ice Walks

A guided ice walk is one of the most memorable ways to experience winter in Banff National Park. Local operators take you through dramatic canyons, past frozen waterfalls, and alongside towering ice-covered canyon walls.

Knowledgeable local guides share stories about the area's geology and history while helping you safely navigate winter terrain. All necessary equipment, including ice cleats, is provided, so you can focus on discovering some of Banff's most spectacular winter scenery.

Local Ice Walk Tour Operators:

• Discover Banff Tours
• White Mountain Adventures
• Radventures

Events and Festivals in Banff National Park in March

Cave and Basin Winter Carnival

The Cave and Basin Winter Carnival celebrates Banff's rich winter heritage at the birthplace of Canada's national parks. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities, interactive exhibits, outdoor games, and experiences inspired by Banff's historic winter carnivals.

• Date: To be confirmed
• Location: Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Places to Eat and Drink in Banff and Lake Louise in March

After a day of skiing, sightseeing, or exploring Banff National Park, March is a great time to experience Banff's vibrant nightlife scene. From lively pubs and late-night venues to restaurants featuring live music, these spots offer the perfect place to unwind, enjoy great food and drinks, and keep the evening going after the sun goes down.

• Rose & Crown is a Banff institution known for its lively atmosphere, regular live music, pub fare, and late-night entertainment. It's a popular gathering place for both visitors and locals looking to enjoy an evening out.
• The Dusty Boot offers a casual country western atmosphere with live music, cold drinks, and comfort food. It's a welcoming spot to relax after a day of adventure and enjoy Banff's nightlife.
• Melissa's MisSteak is known for its extensive menu, live music, and late-night dining. Whether you're looking for a relaxed dinner or a place to enjoy local entertainment it's a longtime favourite among visitors and locals alike.
• High Rollers pairs bowling, pizza, craft beer, and regular live music events for a unique night out in downtown Banff. It's a great choice for visitors looking for something a little different.
• St. James's Gate Irish Pub brings traditional Irish pub charm to the Canadian Rocky Mountians, with live music, hearty food, a wide selection of drinks, and a lively atmosphere that often continues well into the evening.

Whether you're looking to catch live music, enjoy a local craft beer, or simply soak up Banff's energetic nightlife, these venues offer plenty of ways to end the day on a high note.

Looking for even more places to eat? Explore more dining options in Banff and Lake Louise.

What is the Weather Like in Banff National Park in March

March brings longer days, plenty of sunshine, and excellent conditions for enjoying the outdoors in Banff and Lake Louise. Winter is still very much present in Banff National Park, with snow covering the mountains and ski season in full swing.

It's a great month for skiers, snowboarders, and winter adventurers looking to make the most of the season. You can spend the morning on the slopes, head out for a sightseeing tour in the afternoon, and still have daylight left to explore Banff's shops, restaurants, and attractions. March often delivers a mix of snowy days and beautiful bluebird conditions, creating spectacular mountain views throughout the region.

Average Temperatures in March:

• Banff Daytime: 2°C (36°F)
• Banff Overnight: -9°C (16°F)
• Lake Louise Daytime: 1°C (34°F)
• Lake Louise Overnight: -12°C (10°F)

What to Pack for Banff National Park in March

March brings the best of winter in Banff and Lake Louise. You might start your morning on a ski hill surrounded by fresh snow and finish the afternoon exploring town under sunny skies. Packing layers will help you stay comfortable no matter what your itinerary looks like.

A warm base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer are still essential, especially if you're planning to ski, snowboard, go ice skating, or join an ice walk. However, with milder daytime temperatures and longer daylight hours, you may find yourself shedding a layer or two during afternoon sightseeing or walks around town. Waterproof footwear is recommended, as trails, sidewalks, and parking areas can be snowy, icy, or slushy depending on conditions.

Winter Packing List:

• Insulated winter jacket
• Thermal base layers
• Warm fleece or wool sweater
• Waterproof and windproof outer layer
• Snow pants
• Waterproof winter boots with good traction
• Warm wool socks
• Toque (winter hat)
• Insulated gloves or mittens
• Scarf or neck warmer

By packing a mix of warm winter gear and versatile layers, you'll be ready to enjoy everything from skiing and sightseeing tours to evenings out in Banff and Lake Louise.

Plan Your March Visit to Banff and Lake Louise

March is a wonderful time to experience Banff and Lake Louise, combining the excitement of winter adventures with longer days and the first signs of spring. From skiing and snowboarding at Banff's three resorts to sightseeing tours, dog sledding, ice skating, and guided ice walks, there are countless ways to make the most of the season in Banff National Park.

Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, memorable mountain experiences, or lively evenings filled with great food and live music, March offers something for every type of traveller.

Start planning your March getaway today and use the Trip Builder to discover activities, accommodations, dining, and events throughout Banff and Lake Louise.