The Best Winter Activities in Banff
The Best Winter Activities in Banff: Your 2026–27 Guide
Winter looks good on Banff. Snow settles on the mountains, forest trails grow quiet, and days outside end with something warm in hand.
The best winter activities in Banff include skiing at its three mountain resorts, skating at Lake Louise, snowshoeing, sightseeing aboard the Banff Gondola and stargazing beneath the Canadian Rockies. There’s plenty for non-skiers, too—and every reason to leave time for a heated outdoor swim.
Planning a winter 2026–27 getaway? Make Fairmont Banff Springs your mountain address and explore these 12 ways to enjoy the season.
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Before You Arrive
As Canada’s first national park – Banff has been inviting guests to visit since 1885. Just 120km west of Calgary and surrounded by four other picturesque national parks (Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho & Waterton-Glacier), Banff sees an average of 4 million visitors every year! For more information on the park in general, click here.
12 Must-do Activities in Banff in winter
Grab a pen and paper because this is one long checklist!
Ski and Snowboard in Banff National Park
Banff National Park is home to three ski resorts: Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay. Together, they form SkiBig3, giving visitors three distinct mountain experiences to build a ski holiday around. Check each resort’s snow report, opening dates and available terrain before visiting.
1. Banff Sunshine Village
Make a day of it at Banff Sunshine Village. Pack your goggles, gather your favourite ski companions and trade your everyday routine for mountain air and turns in the snow. Whether you’re finding your confidence or planning a full day on the slopes, leave room in the itinerary to enjoy the scenery. A mere 15-minute drive from the Town of Banff – Sunshine Village is truly a skiers paradise. With 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, Sunshine famous for its long ski season.
Visit Their Website: Here
2. Lake Louise Ski Resort
Add Lake Louise Ski Resort to your winter plans for another perspective on skiing in the Canadian Rockies. Pair a day on the mountain with a separate visit to Lake Louise itself, giving both the slopes and the famous lakeshore the time they deserve. Home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Lake Louise Ski Resort, also sports an incredible 4,200 acres of skiable terrain. Heaven.
Visit Their Website: Here
3. Mt. Norquay
Round out your Banff ski trip at Mt. Norquay. For a mixed group of skiers and non-skiers, its tubing park also offers another way to enjoy a day in the snow. Check activity schedules and book the experiences that suit your group. This local favourite is just 5 minutes outside of the Town of Banff and is famous for its night skiing – the only ski hill to offer it in the Canadian Rockies.
Visit Their Website: Here
Skate, Swim and Set Your Own Pace
Banff National Park has no shortage of lakes to skate on – we’ve listed a few you have to check out!
4. Go Ice Skating at Lake Louise
For a classic Canadian winter moment, lace up your skates at Lake Louise. Mountains frame the lake, turning even a tentative first glide into something memorable. Plan your visit around the maintained skating area’s opening and current conditions; lake skating is weather dependent. Providing an outrageous backdrop (mountains in every direction), skating on Lake Louise is a must while experiencing winter in Banff.
5. Skate at Fairmont Banff Springs
You don’t have to venture far from your room for a little winter magic. Seasonal outdoor skating at Fairmont Banff Springs brings mountain scenery and Castle views together in one outing. Ask the Resort Activities team about rink conditions, equipment and the latest winter schedule.
PS – looking for a way to warm up after the skate? Our Sugar Shack is open seasonally with warm & delicious to-go options with a Canadian Twist!
6. Swim Outdoors, Even in Winter
Swimsuit season lasts all year at the Castle. Fairmont Banff Springs features heated indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, plus a hot tub for a slower finish to an active day.
Make time for a swim after skiing, or give an entire afternoon over to doing very little. Snow in the scenery, warmth in the water. This is winter at a different pace.
Explore Banff’s Winter Trails
Winter doesn’t have to mean only skating and skiing; there are plenty of other activities available should you wish to take another path.
7. Go Snowshoeing in Banff National Park
Snowshoeing invites you to slow down and notice the details: snow resting on evergreen branches, tracks beside the trail and the quiet between footsteps.
Choose a designated winter route suited to your experience and the day’s conditions. Check Parks Canada’s trail reports and avalanche information before setting out, and avoid walking on groomed cross-country ski tracks. For help choosing an outing, ask the Fairmont Banff Springs Resort Activities team about current options.
8. Discover Johnston Canyon in Winter
When open, Johnston Canyon offers a striking winter walk past ice formations and frozen waterfalls. Warm boots and appropriate traction are essential for the icy route, while a guided outing can help visitors feel more comfortable exploring in winter.
Planning note for 2026: Parks Canada currently lists a closure of Johnston Canyon Trail and Day Use Area from October 13 to December 11, 2026, for construction work. Check the latest notice before planning your visit.
Find a New View of the Rockies
9. Ride the Banff Gondola
For mountain views without a ski lesson, ride the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain. Take in the landscape from above and make time to enjoy the summit experience.
It’s an easy addition to a sightseeing itinerary and a lovely way to give non-skiers their own mountain moment. Check operating hours and weather conditions when planning your visit.
10. Take a Winter Drive Along the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway connects Lake Louise and Jasper through a landscape of mountains, glaciers and lakes. In winter, the scenery takes on a quieter, more dramatic character.
This outing requires preparation. Check road conditions and closures, follow Parks Canada’s winter driving guidance and plan your route around daylight and available services. Let the conditions determine the day’s adventure.
Make Time for Play and a Little Wonder
These experiences are something the whole family can enjoy!
11. Tubing
Some winter afternoons call for very little technique and plenty of laughter. Mt. Norquay’s tube park offers a playful addition to your Banff itinerary, whether you’re travelling with family or friends.
Dress for the snow and check the current age, height and ticket requirements before booking.
12. Go Stargazing in Banff
Some of Banff’s best views appear after sunset. On a clear winter evening, step away from bright lights and look up at stars framed by mountain silhouettes. Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake offer open views of the night sky, subject to winter access and conditions. Dress warmly, bring a headlamp and enjoy the view from shore.
There’s also a chance to see the northern lights in Banff when aurora activity and clear, dark skies align. Sightings are never guaranteed, so make the stars your main attraction and consider an appearance by the aurora an extraordinary bonus.
Pro Tip: Our Resort Activities team offers guided stargazing experiences for guests. See your Guest Experience Guide for times and reservations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter in Banff
What can you do in Banff in winter without skiing?
Non-skiers can enjoy skating, snowshoeing, tubing, stargazing and sightseeing aboard the Banff Gondola. At Fairmont Banff Springs, heated pools and seasonal resort activities offer more ways to fill (or happily leave space in) your itinerary.
Are all winter activities available throughout the season?
No. Ski terrain, outdoor skating, snowshoeing and tubing depend on snow, weather and operating schedules. Check availability for your travel dates, particularly early and late in the winter season.
Can you see the northern lights in Banff?
Yes, northern lights sightings are possible in Banff, but they are unpredictable. Aurora activity, cloud cover and surrounding light all affect visibility. Plan an evening of stargazing and treat the northern lights as a possibility rather than a promise.
What should you pack for winter activities in Banff?
Bring warm layers, an insulated outer layer, winter boots, gloves and a toque. Add traction devices for icy walks and any equipment required for your chosen activity. Staying at Fairmont Banff Springs? Pack your swimsuit, too.
Make the Castle Your Winter Address
A day on the mountain. A swim beneath the winter sky. An evening with nowhere else you need to be.
Make Fairmont Banff Springs your home for a winter escape in Banff National Park, with mountain adventures and time to unwind all part of the stay.