Winter Wonders Await
- 5 Days
- 18 Experiences
From skating on a frozen lake to soaring over snow-covered peaks, this winter itinerary blends iconic adventures with cozy moments you’ll never forget. Whether you’re chasing fresh powder, soaking in alpine hot springs, or sharing fondue by the fire, every day in Banff and Lake Louise is a story waiting to be told.
Who's it For?
- Snow Loving Families
- Curious Couples
- Luxury Travellers
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
Begin your week in Banff National Park with a classic winter experience in Lake Louise. Start by lacing up your skates and gliding across the iconic frozen lake, surrounded by towering peaks and crisp alpine air, it’s a moment you’ll never forget.
Afterwards, step into the warmth of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for their afternoon tea. Settle in with steaming tea, delicate pastries, and views that make you slow down and stay a while.
Day 02
Start your day with breakfast at Farm & Fire - where local ingredients meet cozy, mountain-inspired flavours. Then head up Sulphur Mountain aboard the Banff Gondola. At the top, take a peaceful walk along the boardwalk to Sanson Peak, where the 360-degree views will make you feel on top of the world. After, settle in at Sky Bistro for a lunch that tastes as good as the scenery looks.
As the day winds down, soak it all in - literally, at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Surrounded by steam and snow-capped peaks, it’s the perfect way to end a day in the mountains.
Walk
Distance: 0.1km
After your ride up the Gondola, Sky Bistro is located in the top station.
Day 03
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at Tooloulou's, a local favourite. After you’re fueled up, make your way to Sunshine Village for a day of skiing or snowboarding on some of the best slopes in the Canadian Rockies. From powdery runs to breathtaking views, it’s the kind of day that stays with you long after the lifts stop.
Wrap up the adventure with something truly special: a 360° Dome Dining experience at the Fairmont Banff Springs. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, indulge in a meal that feels as elevated as the setting, truly unforgettable.
Shuttle
Distance: 17km
Use the free SkiBig3 ski shuttle from Banff to Sunshine. The shuttles pick up from multiple hotels.
Multiple Travel Options
Distance: 20km
Catch the shuttle back to Banff and then use Roam Transit Route 2 from downtown Banff to the Banff Springs Hotel.
Day 04
Grab a quick breakfast from Whitebark and then set out on a guided snowshoeing tour. Your guide will lead you through snow-covered forests along untouched trails, giving you a chance to truly connect with the magic of the winter.
After your snowy adventure, treat yourself to something warm and indulgent at Bluebird - savour a classic cheese fondue experience, with rich, melted cheese perfect for dipping, all served in a cozy, mountain-inspired setting.
Finish your day with a walk down Banff Avenue, where the charming shops and cozy cafés invite you to browse, unwind, and soak in the town’s festive spirit.
Walk
Distance: 0.5km
Located on Banff Avenue, Whitebark is an easy walk from most hotels.
Shuttle
Distance: 15km
Your tour provider will pick you up from your hotel or a convenient location nearby.
Walk
Distance: 0.5km
Once back in town, Bluebird is a short walk from most hotels.
Day 05
For you last day, double up on adventure with a dogsledding and helicopter experience in the stunning Spray Lakes area. Dash through snowy trails behind a team of eager huskies, then lift off for a bird’s-eye view of the rugged wilderness. It’s a day packed with awe from every angle.
Back in Banff, head to Park Distillery, the first distillery inside a Canadian national park, for a behind-the-scenes tour and gin-making experience. Then stay for dinner, where campfire-inspired dishes and wood-fired rotisserie specialties bring the flavour of the mountains to your table.
Car
Distance: 25km
Rent a car for the day and head to nearby Canmore where you'll meet for your dogsledding tour.
Car
Distance: 2.5km
Drive to the Alpine Helicopter base in Canmore.
Multiple Travel Options
Distance: 27km
Drive back to Banff and return your rental car and then walk to Park Distillery.
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:
Ice Skating on Lake Louise
Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Ride the Banff Gondola
Mountaintop Dining at the Sky Bistro
Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
Ski & Snowboard at Sunshine Village Ski Resort
Guided Snowshoeing Tour
Dog Sledding in Kananaskis
Heli Skiing Adventure
Park Distillery Tour, Tasting and Gin Making
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 and dining
Learn about the best ways to get around
Check the weather forecast