Things to Do in Banff and Lake Louise in August
- Jul 30, 2024|
- Adventure, Food & Drink, Nature & Wildlife, Culture & Art, Family Travel
Taking in a long August sunset from the peak of a mountain is an unparalleled experience. The only obstructions to your views are other mountaintops, and the only sounds you’ll hear are gasps of awe from your fellow spectators.
So, if you’re looking to add a little more wonder to your life, the Canadian Rocky Mountains in the peak of summer is where you want to be.
Here’s what you can expect to see, do, and experience in Banff and Lake Louise in August.
The Weather
August is the middle of our summer season and often holds some of the warmest days. It’s also one of the driest months in the mountains, though we have been known to see snow every month of the year.
Not to worry! It usually only falls on the peaks, which deliver those iconic mountainscapes.
If you're heading out for the evening, or even afternoon, take a jacket! Once the sun goes down, you'll start to feel the cool mountain air.
Banff Daytime 22°C (71.6°F)
Banff Overnight 6°C (42.8°F)
Lake Louise Daytime 21°C (69.8°F)
Lake Louise Overnight 4°C (39.2°F)
What to Pack
Alpine vacations call for a different packing list than something tropical, even during the summer.
Bring your usual summer clothing, like shorts, t-shirts, sandals, sneakers, and hats, but also add in some warmer layers. Although the days are long, the nights can get cool, so you’ll want a sweater, pants, and a light jacket.
Your swimsuit is a little less necessary unless you plan on visiting the spa, hot springs, hotel pool, or hot tub, as our lakes remain cold through all seasons.
If you’re out exploring the mountains, bring sunscreen, bug spray, a backpack for water and snacks, and sturdy footwear. Athleisure or hiking clothes are a great option. Most trails, even the more accessible ones, require running shoes or hiking boots; heels and loafers should stay back at the hotel.
Most locals wear mountain-casual clothing, even at night, but you can certainly get dressed up for a nice dinner and drinks out on the town.
What to See and Do
Golfing
Use this opportunity to practice your swing at the world-renowned Fairmont Banff Springs and Stanley Thompson Golf Courses. Expert or not, you’ll need to warm up and adjust to the views—otherwise, you’ll miss half your shots staring at the scenery!
Fly & Reel Fishing
What’s more relaxing than a day on the water? How about not having to lift a finger until you’re ready to cast your line? Book a fly or reel fishing trip with an expert for a half-, full-, or multi-day excursion that includes your equipment, permits, transportation, and meals.
If you choose a self-guided option, permits are required and available through Parks Canada in Banff and Lake Louise. You’re also required to abide by seasonal fishing restrictions and catch quotas.
Rock Climbing
The Canadian Rockies are a magnet for climbing enthusiasts and amateurs alike. Try your hand and book a tour with Alpine Air Adventures or Yamnuska Mountain Adventures. A certified guide will take you to beginner-friendly areas and provide instruction and your equipment.
If you’re a confident sport or trad climber, we still recommend consulting local guides to learn about the region’s rock formations. You can also find more information through Parks Canada and local guide books.
Horseback Riding
Is there any better way to experience the Wild West than by horseback? Grab the reins and head out for a short introductory ride, a day trip with a cowboy cookout, or a multi-day backcountry tour.
White Water Rafting & Float Trips
You don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy the water, but if you are, there are Class II and IV+ rapids you can conquer! Take a full- or half-day trip led by experienced guides who take your safety just as seriously as your fun.
For something a little slower pace, take a leisurely float trip without any rapids. Your guide will share local knowledge about history, geography, and the surrounding flora and fauna. Strap your camera on tight to not miss any photo opportunities!
Arts & Culture
Banff and Lake Louise may feel like small towns, but they pack a punch when it comes to cultural experiences. Visit one of our many galleries and museums on a self-guided art walk; join an Indigenous Medicine Walk; take a food tour at Banff’s Castle, the Fairmont Banff Springs; or psych yourself up for a Ghost Walk.
A leisurely walk down Banff Ave and Bear St can be just as rewarding. You’ll find bakeries, restaurants, ice cream shops, souvenir and clothing stores, and more!
Grab a Snack with the Scenery
You don’t have to break a sweat to enjoy the mountains. Take your pick of patios with stunning views and delicious food and drinks, like Banff Centre’s MacLab Bistro on Tunnel Mountain, Park Distillery in downtown Banff, or Juniper Bistro at the base of Mt Norquay. Looking for a more rustic experience? Cascade Ponds, on the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, offer a series of benches and campfire pits for your perfect picnic.
Take a Cruise on Lake Minnewanka
Just a quick ROAM bus ride outside the town of Banff is the magic Lake Minnewanka.
Mount Inglismaldie provides a stunning backdrop to the shimmering teal of one of the most famous lakes in Banff.
Lake Minnewanka Cruises offer a few options for tours out on the lake, including a 90-minute sightseeing tour, as well as their famous Beer Voyage tour.
The beer voyage includes tastings of local craft breweries as well as all the information on the regular tour.
If boats aren't your thing, you can enjoy the lakeshore from one of the many picnic tables scattered around!
Events in Banff and Lake Louise in August
Explore the Art in Nature Trail
Until the end of September, walk the Bow Valley Trail in the Banff townsite and explore 50 art pieces created by Bow Valley artists. Start at the Nancy Pauw Bridge in Central Park and walk towards Bow Falls, before looping back on the other side of the river by crossing at the pedestrian bridge and heading back to Central Park.
Banff Mountain Market
If you’re in Banff on a Wednesday, you won’t want to miss the weekly Banff Mountain Market at Central Park, full of local produce, treats, and crafts from noon to 6 p.m.
Cave and Basin: Indigenous Voices
The Cave and Basin National Historic Site are once again hosting Indigenous artists with ties to Banff and the greater Bow Valley Region.
Following the success of the 2022 and 2023 mural boxes, we invite you to engage with this collection of exhibits and projects that are led by indigenous artists from the Îyârhe Nakoda (Chiniki, Goodstoney and Bearspaw), Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Tsuut’ina, Ktunaxa, Secwépemc and Métis.
To find more events in August, check out all of our event listings here.
Don’t forget to buy your Park Pass
Everyone visiting Banff or Lake Louise needs to purchase a National Park Pass. Buy yours online and save time and hassle when arriving at the Park entrance.