Things to do in Banff and Lake Louise in October

October in Banff and Lake Louise is a special time.

It's autumn in the mountains, which is less of a season and more of a short, golden moment in time as things transition from summer to winter.

Warm days slip into crisp, cool air, and if you're lucky, you might catch the first dusting of snow or even an early winter snowfall.

It’s the perfect time for a spontaneous getaway with family, friends, or that special someone, with so many things to do in Banff and Lake Louise in October.

October brings vibrant festivals and events, blending cultural experiences with outdoor adventure. Plus, with quieter hiking and biking trails, cooler temperatures, and the same stunning views, it’s an ideal time to explore.

Want to know more about the weather and things to do in Banff and Lake Louise in October? Keep reading.

Skip Ahead:

• Things to Know Before Visiting
• Adventure & Sightseeing
• Galleries, Heritage Spaces & Exhibits
• Events & Festivals

Things to Know Before Visiting in October

What's the Weather Like?

Grab a hot latte and put on a toque (a.k.a. a Canadian beanie) because October in Banff National Park brings both mild and chilly days. Temperatures can range from -2°C to -5°C.

You might experience sun, rain, or even early snowfalls, so it's best to prepare for all types of weather. That means layers, layers, layers!

Average temperatures in October:

• Banff Daytime 10°C (50°F)
• Banff Overnight -2°C (28°F)
• Lake Louise Daytime 8°C (46°F)
• Lake Louise Overnight -5°C (23°F)

What to Pack for a Trip?

It wouldn’t be Canada without the chance of encountering all four seasons in a day. October continues to be shoulder season and is when the weather can be the most delightfully unpredictable.

Pack layers and be prepared for warm sunshine, chilled rain, and even snow. As the joke goes, “if you don’t like the weather in Banff, wait five minutes.”

Many locals wear:

• Long underwear or lined pants
• Pants
• Shirt
• Sweater
• Light jacket
• Hats and mitts (often carried just in case)

You may see the odd “crazy Canuck” in shorts and flip-flops, but we don’t recommend that you follow suit.

Pack extra layers if you’re heading up the mountains, including:

• Warm winter coat
• Neck warmer
• Something to cover your ears (the wind can be quite biting)

If you need something when you get to town, visit locally owned Monod Sports or Smartwool on Banff Ave or Wilson Mountain Sport in Lake Louise.

See the Lakes Before they Freeze

Get your last glimpse of the turquoise blue waters of Lake Louise before it ices over for the winter.

With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, it's a peaceful time to soak in the stillness and beauty of this iconic place.

It is also your last chance to see Moraine Lake before the access road is closed to busses and shuttles, usually around Canadian Thanksgiving.

If you're looking to explore beyond these two iconic lakes, check out the 9 stunning alternative lakes to visit before they freeze in early November.

Wildlife Viewing

As the open water recedes and gives way to snow and ice, so do some of Banff’s biggest animals.

The bears begin to hunker down and look for a cozy spot to hibernate. While they may be making their way farther into the mountains, they can still be seen bulking up for winter, so know your bear safety in case of an encounter.

At the same time, elk rutting season is in full swing, when elk become more aggressive as they compete for their mates. These dramatic displays are incredible to witness but important to observe from a safe distance.

For a safe and informative experience join a guided wildlife tour with Discover Banff Tours or Radventures.

Bear and Wildlife Safety:

• Carry bear spray and know how to use it
• Stay on official marked paths and trails
• Travel during daylight hours
• Travel in a group
• Watch for signs of a bear, such as tracks and droppings
• Keep dogs on a leash at all times
• Make noise

By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy the unique wildlife experiences that Banff and Lake Louise offer during this transitional season.

Learn more about bear safety from Parks Canada here.

Go Caving

Instead of going up to a mountain peak, why not go underground with Canmore Cave Tours? After a short, uphill hike to the cave opening, you’ll spelunk your way inside a mountain. If it sounds like it may be chilly, the inside of the cave holds steady at 5°C (41°F) every day of the year. It's an unforgettable adventure that combines geology, history, and a little adrenaline, perfect for those looking to experience the mountains from a whole new perspective.

Fall Colours

The first week of October is typically the last chance to view larches in Banff National Park.

Alpine conifers turn a bright yellow for just a short window, making them a must-see for fall lovers and photographers.

As the season progresses, flora like aspens and shrubs at lower elevations, such as areas surrounding the Bow River, continue to offer these vibrant colours.

To experience these fall colours without a long hike, try some easier walks like Bow River Trail, Lake Minnewanka shoreline, Vermillion Lakes Drive, or Tunnel Mountain Trail. These easily accessible routes offer beautiful views right from the Banff townsite or just a short drive away.

Please note: Fall colour timing varies year to year depending on weather and other factors.

Start the Ski Season Early

Depending on the weather, ski season has started as early as mid-October.

Since the ski resorts are at a higher altitude, they often get snow first and make whatever snow that doesn’t fall from the sky.

If you want to be the first to ski this year, head to Banff and Lake Louise early to catch the first day.

Bonus Fact: Ski hills in Banff National Park are usually the first in Canada to open, too.

Stroll Through a Gallery

Take a step inside on those cooler fall days and enjoy the local art of Banff National Park. Visit the Walter Phillips Gallery at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity or go head to downtown Banff and discover the history of the area and inspired art galleries at the Whyte Museum.

Across the Bow River, visit the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum to see an outstanding collection of First Nations artwork.

You can also take an art walk down Banff Ave and Bear Street to explore the many galleries from local artisans.

Indigenous Voices Exhibit

Date: May 15 - October 13, 2025

Location: Multiple Locations at Cave and Basin National Historic Site, 311 Cave Ave Banff, Alberta, T1L 1K2

Parks Canada presents this collection of Indigenous-led exhibits and projects, featuring artists, Elders, Knowledge Keepers and other esteemed voices from these vibrant Indigenous communities.

Banff Craft Beer Festival

Date: October 23-25, 2025

Location: Cave and Basin National Historic Site, 311 Cave Ave Banff, T1L 1K2

Ages: 18+

The Banff Craft Beer Festival is the only festival that features beers exclusively from Alberta, Canada brewers.

At the event, you and your crew can enjoy local eats and local brews while exploring the historic Cave and Basin.

But hurry, this event is hugely popular with locals and visitors, so get your tickets in advance!

Banff Pride

Date: October 3-13, 2025

Location: Multiple Locations

The vistas in Banff and Lake Louise get a little less colourful as winter approaches, but the town center does not!

Banff Pride 2025 strikes the perfect balance between a small-town pride and big city vibes.

The festivities start with a parade that goes through town. It leaves bright rainbows and signs of love on the windows of Banff Ave.

Parties and drag shows fill the evenings and go into the early hours. You have many options to celebrate. And then again at brunch the following morning.

Check out the calendar of events.

Taste for Adventure

Date: October 23, 2025 - November 6, 2025

Locations: Multiple Locations

If you're a foodie on the hunt for the best places to eat in Banff and Lake Louise, look no further than the Taste for Adventure celebration.

The region's top chefs and restaurants have cooked up exclusive must-try menus for you to try.

Check out the participating restaurants.

Canadian Thanksgiving

Date: October 13, 2025

Location: Multiple Locations

Banff is the perfect place to celebrate an authentic Canadian Thanksgiving.

The snow-topped mountains, changing colours, and larches make for a picturesque backdrop to a day's adventure. Plus, the chilly weather makes cuddling up in front of a fire with a warm drink the ideal ending to the day.

Many of Banff's hotels and restaurants have special deals and meals for the weekend and the big celebration.

Start Planning Your Trip

So, what are you waiting for? October in Banff and Lake Louise is fast approaching and there's so much to do!

Try our drag-and-drop Trip Planner to get your trip all mapped out!