An Aussie's First White Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise: A 4-Day Canadian Winter Itinerary
- 4 Days
- 17 Experiences
If you've spent every holiday season in flip-flops and sunshine, it's time to trade the beach for a winter wonderland. Banff and Lake Louise offer the ultimate white Christmas vibes, think twinkling lights, powdery peaks, ice skating on frozen lakes, and sipping on hot chocolate as snowflakes fall.
This recommended itinerary comes from Jess Morman, a local Aussie who experienced her first white Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise. She knows exactly what someone travelling from Australia will want to see, taste, and try. From sleigh rides, festive markets, or your first snowball fight, these are iconic Canadian traditions that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Here's how to make the most of your first white Christmas in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Who's it For?
- Winter Season Seekers
- Snow-Curious First-Timers
- Warm Weather Escapees
When to Go
- November - April
Trip Itinerary
Getting to Banff and Lake Louise
With plenty of transportation options to get you to and from the Banff and Lake Louise area, you can rest easy knowing you'll be able to plan a seamless journey from start to finish.
Learn about getting here.Day 01
Start your morning with a stroll along Banff Avenue for some last-minute Christmas shopping. Pop into the charming Banff Christmas Store for whimsical ornaments and classic Canadian decor to take home. Grab a cozy seat at Wild Flour Bakery (Jess's favourite) for a hot drink and a snack, the perfect pause to soak in the winter wonder outside. In the evening, head to the Banff Christmas Market. Sip on mulled wine, shop local artisan goods, and sing along to cheerful Christmas carols.
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Day 02
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Juniper Bistro, where you can enjoy fresh locally sourced ingredients and mountain views, the perfect place to fuel up for your winter adventures. After breakfast head to Mt. Norquay to experience the thrill of tubing. Afterwards, warm up along the Hot Chocolate Trail, where each cafe offers its own decadent version. As the sun begins to set, experience In Search of Christmas Spirit, a magical outdoor storytelling event. For dinner, indulge in the vibrant flavours at Shoku, a modern Japanese restaurant that Jess loves.
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Day 03
Choose your adventure at one of Banff and Lake Louise's ski resorts based on your preferences and experience level:
- Sunshine Ski Village: variety of terrain and abundant snowfall
- Lake Louise Ski Resort: expansive terrain and diverse runs
- Mt. Norquay: convenient, close to town with night skiing
Enjoy a hot chocolate between ski runs at an on-mountain lodge. After your ski day unwind with après and hot tubbing in the town of Banff.
Day 04
Glide across the iconic Lake Louise ice rink with towering peaks all around (and maybe a snowflake or two on your nose). Step inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and marvel at the grand Christmas Tree in Stephen Hall, a must see. In the afternoon, embark on a horse-drawn sleigh ride along the lakeshore. Enjoy a cocktail at the ice bar, yes, it's a bar made entirely of ice and it's as cool as it sounds. Cap off your white Christmas experience with an unforgettable dog sledding adventure through snowy trails.
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Where to Stay
Here's some accommodation options that work for this trip:
Reservations & Booking
Some of the activities require reservations or bookings upfront. Here is an overview of all providers:
Tubing at Mt. Norquay
Ski & Snowboard at Sunshine Village Ski Resort
Ski & Snowboard at The Lake Louise Ski Resort
Ski & Snowboard at Mt. Norquay
Ice Skating on Lake Louise
Sleigh Ride in Lake Louise
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Ice Bar
Dog Sledding in Lake Louise
Good to Know
Maximise your trip enjoyment with a little pre-planning. Here's our pro tips:
Get a Park Pass
Make a reservation for gear / activities
Learn about the best ways to get around
Check the weather forecast