I have always had Banff high on my list of places to visit because of the beautiful photos of its turquoise lakes against the rocky mountains that seemed to invite me every time I see them. I have planned to go so many times but the timing was always not right. But in the back of my head, I know that I will finally go one day when an opportunity comes.
If you know me, you know how I struggle with cold weather, so I usually travel to warm places. But I badly wanted to go to Banff that when Banff & Lake Louise Tourism invited me to experience winter there, I immediately said YES. Let’s just say Banff is one of the few places that I’d willingly freeze for.
So back in January, my best friend, Jules, and I went to Banff to see what it has to offer during winter. We were not disappointed because the snow-covered mountains, fun winter activities, warm comfort food and cozy hotel rooms and lobbies made our trip amazing!
Here are some fun winter activities that you can do in Banff. You don’t have to be a pro skier or skater to enjoy, there’s a whole bunch of activities for all ages.
SNOWDAYS
SnowDays is a vibrant winter festival in the heart of the Canadian Rockies where the essence of mountain culture comes to life. For the coming year 2020, the festivities will run from January 15th to 26th. Enjoy the magic of winter like a kid and check out Bear Street for some snow carvings. For adults, there’s a Tribute to Craft Spirits Festival happening that brings together the best craft distilleries from Alberta and British Columbia.
SKIING/SNOWBOARDING
One of the most popular winter activities in Banff is skiing the three big resorts – Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Mt Norquay. They said these mountains have some of the best skiing views. I couldn’t agree more. Although freezing, I enjoyed the view from the highest point in Banff Sunshine.
ICE MAGIC FESTIVAL
Every year, the alpine town of Lake Louise come alive during the Ice Magic ice carving exhibition at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. For 2020, it will be held on January 15th to 17th. It was very impressive to see ice sculptures that were carved meticulously.
SNOWSHOEING
We went for a night time snowshoeing at Lake Louise Ski Resort and saw a lot of animal tracks, the sky was full of stars as well. My favorite part was when we went inside a small ice cave. It was super cool although it’s really small and therefore not for anyone with claustrophobia.
Lake Louise Ski Resort
TUBING AT MT NORQUAY
Tubing was so fun and it’s for all ages. Just be ready to get a little wet as all the snow can get into your face. It’s also very affordable as you get charged for the time you ski with your hourly passes.
HOT SPRINGS/HEATED POOLS
Relax and rejuvenate by soaking in the steamy hot springs or heated pools and immersing yourself in beautiful mountain views after a tiring day of exploring.
Don’t forget to bring your swimsuits even though you’re going on a snow trip!
SKATE OR WALK AROUND LAKE LOUISE
The vibrant blue lakes that attracts people during summer months freeze over in winter, becoming the perfect natural skating rinks. Or if you aren’t a good skater (like me), you can just walk around the lake. I think it’s still cool to be able to do it.
EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Put on some cleats and hit the gorgeous trails in Banff. Walk on frozen lakes. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can try a guided ice climb on the frozen waterfalls.
Lake Minnewanka; Wearing teddy coat from Shein.
As you can see, Banff is not just famous as a summer destination. It is equally beautiful during winter. With an array of activities that you can do, no wonder a lot of tourists go to Banff no matter what the season is.
xo,
Cherrie
**************************************************************************************
IF YOU FIND THIS POST HELPFUL, PLEASE DON’T FORGET TO PIN IT HERE 🙂
