Featured Winter Blogs
The Ultimate Guide to Resort Skiing and Snowboarding in Banff National Park for Beginners
Your ultimate guide to resort skiing and snowboarding in Banff National Park for beginners
Whether your idea of being immersed in the Canadian Rockies is strolling through snow-covered streets, cozying up by a fire with a decadent hot chocolate, skiing or snowboarding freshly groomed runs, or ice skating over a frozen lake - there's enchanted winter experiences for everyone in Banff and Lake Louise.
Getting to Banff and Lake Louise is easy. Fly to Calgary International Airport and then enjoy a scenic drive or shuttle bus to Banff National Park.
Flying to Calgary International Airport (YYC) is an accessible and easy option when travelling to Banff and Lake Louise. Get on the plane, then after a glass of wine, a film or two, and a little nap, you will find yourself flying overhead the snow-covered peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
It takes around 90 minutes to drive from the Calgary International Airport to Banff depending on traffic. If you're heading to Lake Louise add another 40-45 minutes. It’s a very scenic and straightforward trip. You could rent a car from the Calgary airport or city centre or take one of the shuttle buses or scheduled coach services. Find out more about getting here.
You’ll find the perfect winter base accommodation in Banff National Park. With fairy-tale castles, boutique hotels, hostels, remote backcountry lodges, charming B&Bs or mountain chalets: there’s something for all preferences and budgets.
If you’re wanting a winter escape, to be surrounded by nature and snow, check out our list of cozy cabins in Banff National Park. You’ll have the option of remote, often hike-in backcountry lodges, or easier accessible frontcountry lodges and cabins. Plan the ultimate cozy cabin getaway with out blog.
Look at the Fairmont Banff Springs if you like luxury and the idea of staying in a fairy-tale castle. You may even catch a glimpse of the famous Bow Falls outside your hotel window.
For perhaps the most spectacular setting ever (think: right beside a frozen lake surrounded by mountains and glaciers), try the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. With ice skating, winter hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and outdoor campfires under the stars, you may never want to leave.
If you’re after ultimate views, surrounded by trees whilst being nestled in the mountains, then stay at the Rimrock Resort. Not only has it got the views, but you’ll be staying in luxurious rooms with elegant service.
For a full list of places to stay in Banff and Lake Louise, visit our accommodation page.
There are so many options for food and drinks in the town of Banff and the hamlet of Lake Louise. Choose between distilled spirits and microbrews, delicious breakfast and brunch spots, pizza or picnics for lunch, and Western-style steak or vegan meals for dinner.
Après is a way of life in Banff and Lake Louise. Whether you want a cold beer brewed with glacial water, a hot chocolate by a log fire, or cocktails, you will find what you are looking for guaranteed.
If you’re hitting the ski fields, there are some mouth-watering bites to get your lips around
For ideas on cozy restaurants with mouth-watering food, or take-out to enjoy by the fire in your room, check out or dining page.
Are you looking forward to the beauty of Banff National Park in winter? All those snow-capped mountains, trees topped with snow and frozen lakes. Winter in Banff is spectacular, but you’ll need to be prepared with temperatures ranging from –5°C to –40°C. So, we’ve put together a list for you of what to wear.
Layers are essential for all activities in Banff National Park through most seasons, but particularly winter.
If you’ve forgotten your gear, not a problem! There are various stores in town where you can buy or rent some gear.
Featured Winter Blogs
Your ultimate guide to resort skiing and snowboarding in Banff National Park for beginners
Featured Winter Blogs
Make memories in Banff National Park.
Featured Winter Blogs
Take on this classic Canadian activity and get started ice skating in Banff National Park.