Things to Do in Banff and Lake Louise in February

February is the perfect time to embrace winter in Banff and Lake Louise. Snow-covered mountains, longer daylight hours, and excellent conditions for outdoor adventure make it one of the most exciting months to visit the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Spend your days skiing and snowboarding at Banff's three world-class resorts, exploring snowy trails on a snowshoe tour, relaxing at a mountain spa, or trying unique winter experiences like sleigh rides and ice fishing. Combined with signature winter events and festivals, February offers endless opportunities to experience winter at its best.

What’s in the Guide:

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

Adventures and Outdoor Activities in Banff National Park in February

February brings some of the best winter conditions of the season to Banff and Lake Louise. With deep snow, frozen lakes, and stunning mountain scenery, it's an ideal time to get outside and experience Banff National Park. From action-packed days on the ski hill to relaxing spa experiences, February offers something for every type of winter traveller.

Skiing and Snowboarding

February is one of the best months of the season for skiing and snowboarding in Banff National Park. Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay typically offer excellent snow conditions, a wide variety of terrain, and spectacular views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Beginners can take advantage of learning areas and lessons, while more experienced skiers and snowboarders can explore everything from groomed cruisers to challenging alpine terrain. Private and group lessons are available at all three resorts, making it a great time to build confidence, learn new skills, or take your skiing and riding to the next level.

Guided Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Banff and Lake Louise during the winter months. Guided tours take you through snow-covered forests, along frozen waterways, and to scenic viewpoints while offering insight into local wildlife, winter ecology, and the history of the area.

Whether you're new to snowshoeing or looking for a more challenging outing, it's a rewarding way to explore Banff National Park at a slower pace.

Local Snowshoe Tour Operators:

• Discover Banff Tours
• White Mountain Adventures
• Great Divide Nature Interpretation

Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

A horse-drawn sleigh ride is a classic winter experience in Banff and Lake Louise.

In Banff, Banff Trail Riders offers scenic rides through snow-covered meadows and mountain landscapes.

Brewster Adventures in Lake Louise provides memorable sleigh rides with views of the Victoria Glacier and surrounding peaks.

Wrapped in a warm blanket and listening to the sound of sleigh bells, it's a magical way to experience winter in Banff National Park.

Relax at a Spa

After a day of winter adventure, there's no better way to warm up and recharge than with a spa experience in Banff and Lake Louise. Whether you're looking to soothe tired muscles after skiing, enjoy a relaxing massage, unwind in a steam room, or spend time in a heated pool and hot tub, local spas offer a variety of wellness experiences designed to help you embrace the slower side of winter.

From therapeutic treatments and facials to hydrotherapy circuits and mountain-inspired wellness rituals, a spa day is the perfect complement to a February getaway.

Spas in Banff and Lake Louise:

• Fairmont Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs
• Cedar & Sage Co. Spa
• Meadow Spa & Pools
• Red Earth Spa
• Mountain Whisper Massage & Wellness
• Basin Glacial Waters at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Whether you're booking a full spa day or simply treating yourself to a massage after a day on the slopes, these wellness experiences offer a relaxing way to enjoy winter in Banff and Lake Louise.

Guided Ice Fishing

Ice fishing offers a unique opportunity to experience winter in the Canadian Rocky Mountains from a different perspective. Guided excursions provide everything you need to spend a day on a frozen lake while learning the techniques and traditions of ice fishing. It's a fun experience for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, combining beautiful winter scenery with the excitement of seeing what might be swimming beneath the ice.

Ice Fishing Operators:

• Banff Adventures
• Hawgwild

Events and Festivals in Banff National Park in February

SnowDays Festival

SnowDays is one of Banff and Lake Louise's signature winter celebrations, bringing together snow sculptures, ice carving, outdoor activities, live entertainment, and special experiences throughout the destination. It's a great way to embrace winter while exploring both Banff and Lake Louise.

• Date: January 21 – February 7, 2027
• Location: Multiple locations throughout Banff and Lake Louise

Cave and Basin Winter Carnival

The Cave and Basin Winter Carnival celebrates Banff's rich winter history with family-friendly activities at the birthplace of Canada's national parks. Visitors can try activities inspired by Banff's historic winter carnivals, enjoy outdoor games, learn about the area's heritage, and explore interactive exhibits throughout the site.

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

Flying Canoë Volant

The Flying Canoë Volant festival celebrates French-Canadian, Métis, and First Nations traditions through storytelling, music, art, and illuminated outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy lantern-lit trails, cultural performances, interactive activities, and winter fun while learning about the legends of the flying canoe.

• Date: Dates to be confirmed
• Location: Banff

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

February is the perfect time for a romantic winter getaway in Banff and Lake Louise. After a day spent exploring Banff National Park, settle in for an evening of cozy dining, flickering candlelight, mountain views, and memorable meals. Whether you're celebrating Valentine's Day, a special occasion, or simply enjoying time together, these restaurants offer inviting atmospheres that pair perfectly with a winter escape.

• Sky Bistro combines panoramic mountain views from the summit of Sulphur Mountain with locally inspired cuisine, creating a truly memorable dining experience above Banff.
• Farm & Fire offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere centered around wood-fired cooking, with shareable plates and comforting flavours perfect for a winter evening.
• Lupo Italian Ristorante is known for its intimate setting and Italian-inspired menu featuring handmade pasta, classic dishes, and a cozy atmosphere ideal for couples.
• The Keg Steakhouse + Bar pairs quality steaks and classic cocktails with a comfortable mountain atmosphere, making it a great choice for a relaxed night out.
• Vermillion Room at the Fairmont Banff Springs blends Rocky Mountain ingredients with French-inspired cuisine in an elegant dining room, perfect for a special evening in the heart of Banff National Park.

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 February

February brings classic winter conditions to Banff and Lake Louise, with snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore. While temperatures remain cool, the days are noticeably longer than in December and January, giving you more time to enjoy winter activities and take in the spectacular scenery.

Crisp mountain air, sparkling snow, and sunny winter days are all part of the February experience. With the right winter clothing, you'll be well prepared to enjoy everything that Banff National Park has to offer.

Average Temperatures in February:

• Banff Daytime: -2°C (28°F)
• Banff Overnight: -12°C (10°F)
• Lake Louise Daytime: -3°C (27°F)
• Lake Louise Overnight: -15°C (5°F)

February typically sees excellent snow conditions across the region, making it one of the best times of year to experience winter in Banff and Lake Louise.

What to Pack for Banff National Park in February

February is one of the best months to experience winter in Banff and Lake Louise, with excellent conditions for skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and winter sightseeing. While temperatures remain cool, the key to staying comfortable is dressing in warm layers that you can add or remove throughout the day.

If you're skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing, waterproof outer layers and snow pants will help keep you dry and comfortable. For more relaxed activities like sleigh rides, ice fishing, or outdoor events, extra layers are recommended since you won't be generating as much body heat.

Winter Packing List:

• Insulated winter jacket
• Thermal base layers
• Warm fleece or wool mid-layers
• Snow pants or waterproof winter pants
• Waterproof winter boots
• Warm wool socks
• Toque (winter hat)
• Insulated gloves or mittens
• Scarf or neck warmer
• Swimsuit (for hot pools, hotel pools, and spa visits)
• Ice cleats for walking on snowy or icy surfaces

Don't worry if you forget something. Banff and Lake Louise have a variety of local outfitters where you can purchase or rent winter clothing and gear during your visit.

Start Planning your Trip to Banff and Lake Louise in February

February is one of the best times to experience winter in Banff and Lake Louise. From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing, sleigh rides, spa experiences, and ice fishing, there are endless ways to enjoy the snow-covered Canadian Rocky Mountains. Add in seasonal events like SnowDays and Flying Canoë Volant, and you'll find plenty of reasons to fill your itinerary.

Whether you're planning a romantic winter escape, an outdoor adventure, or a family getaway, February offers unforgettable experiences both on and off the slopes.

Start planning your February adventure today and use the Trip Builder to build your perfrect trip to Banff and Lake Louise.