Wild Winter Itinerary
- 6 Days
- 18 Experiences
This wild winter itinerary is for adventurers who embrace the winter season. Built for curious, confident explorers, this journey celebrates winter as it really is: quiet, powerful, and deeply rewarding. Expect experiences that push you a little, surprise you often, and stay with you long after the trip ends. If winter is when you feel most alive, this itinerary was made for you.
Who's it For?
- Adrenaline Seekers
- Wild Adventurers
- Winter Lovers
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
Kick off your wild winter adventure in the Canadian Rockies with a half- or full-day 4x4 Safari Tour. Venture through rugged terrain to remote corners of the mountains, where you’ll be met with expansive views and a chance at wildlife sightings.
After a full day of exploration, return to Banff and head to Pizzeria Sophia for dinner. Enjoy wood-fired pizza in a welcoming atmosphere before continuing your evening at the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a soothing evening soak. The hot springs offer the perfect place to unwind under the mountain sky.
Multiple Travel Options
Distance: 43km
Shuttles can be arranged to and from your accommodations through the tour operator. Otherwise, you will need to drive.
Multiple Travel Options
Distance: 43km
Pizzeria Sophia is centrally located in downtown Banff, making it easy to walk or take transit from your accommodation.
Day 02
Day 2 begins with a classic winter experience. Bundle up and glide through snowy forests on a dogsledding tour led by an enthusiastic team of sled dogs. After an invigorating ride, warm up at Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse for happy hour and fondue.
As night falls, head out on a guided night hike to experience the stillness of winter landscapes beneath the stars. The local guides will ensure you’re well-equipped for your expedition.
Multiple Travel Options
Distance: 57km
Take Roam Transit’s Route 8x to Lake Louise and walk down to the Great Divide Trailhead, or drive and park directly at the trailhead.
Multiple Travel Options
Distance: 57km
Bluebird is centrally located in downtown Banff, making it easy to walk or take transit from your accommodation.
Day 03
Start the day by heading underground on a guided caving adventure with Canmore Cave Tours. Explore the passages of Grotto Mountain and learn about ancient bones, fossils, and the geological history hidden beneath the Rockies.
Afterwards, shift your perspective to an ariel view on a heli-tour with Alpine Helicopters. Take in sweeping views of alpine lakes, glaciers, and mountain peaks for a truly memorable look at the landscape.
Back in Banff, enjoy dinner at Banff Ave Brewing Co. to round out your day with local flavours in a relaxed setting.
Day 04
Challenge yourself on Day 4 on a guided ice climbing tour. Swing your ice axe into frozen waterfalls under the safe instruction of a local guide and discover the thrill of winter mountaineering surrounded by dramatic scenery.
After your outdoor adventure, spend the afternoon on Banff Ave and Bear Street. Browse local galleries, pick up souvenirs, or shop for gear inspired by your mountain adventures. As evening approaches, head over to Shoku Izakaya for dinner, where Japanese-inspired cuisine offer a cozy end to your day.
Day 05
Day 5 starts off with a winter ride on a fat bike. Designed with wide tires for snow-covered trails, fat biking is an invigorating and fun way to explore the trails.
Afterwards, embark on a culinary adventure and taste your way through Banff. Sample local dishes while learning about the town’s food scene and history, ending the day with a flavourful and memorable experience.
Day 06
You can’t leave Banff National Park without hitting the slopes! On your final day, head up to Mt. Norquay to shred some of the steepest lines in the area. The infamous Big Chair feeds into expert runs that promise a challenge even for experienced skiers and snowboarders.
When your legs start to to feel the burn, pop over to Norquay’s tubing hill and race down the longest tracks in Alberta. At the end of the day, enjoy a well-earned hearty meal at The Fat Ox.
Shuttle
Distance: 7.5km
Mt. Norquay runs a free shuttle to and from downtown Banff to the ski resort.
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:
4x4 Safari in the Canadian Rockies
Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
Dog Sledding in Lake Louise
Guided Night Hike
Explore Underground on a Cave Tour
Heli Adventure over the Canadian Rockies
Guided Ice Climbing Tour
Guided E-Fat Biking Tour
Guided Banff Food Tour
Ski & Snowboard at Mt. Norquay
Tubing at Mt. Norquay
Restaurants & Dining
Good to Know
Maximise your trip enjoyment with a little pre-planning. Here's our pro tips:
Book your airport shuttle in advance
Get a Park Pass
Make a reservation for gear/ activities in advance
Plan to use public transit and shuttles
Check the weather forecast