Spend three amazing winter days in Banff and Lake Louise. Go dog sledding, ride a gondola, ski an amazing mountain or three (or learn how) and eat great food.
This itinerary is great for travellers who want to soak up as much winter adventure as possible in three unforgettable days.
At a glance
- 3 day itinerary
- 331 km (206 mi) total distance
- 4 hrs 27 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in Calgary
Banff Gondola
Your enclosed gondola cabin will bring you up, up, up toward snow-capped peaks. At the summit, hold onto your toque! It can get windy, but the sparkling views are spectacular. Warm up in the interpretive centre and see a film about the Rockies, then try the locally inspired menu at Sky Bistro.
Winter Walk to Bow Falls
This serene walk starts in town and follows an easy path along the Bow River. (Grab a coffee or hot chocolate for the journey.) If the river hasn’t yet frozen, follow the sound of rushing water. The frosty mist and ice formations around the falls are captivating.
Banff Trail Riders Sleigh Ride
Snuggle into a cozy blanket and let your team of horses pull your sleigh through a Banff alpine meadow. Towering evergreens and fresh snow make a serene backdrop for this quintessential mountain experience. Back at the stables, enjoy a steaming mug of apple cider by the fire.
Dinner at Farm & Fire
Tuck into a wood-fired meal made with locally raised ingredients tonight. Farm & Fire grills up creative pizzas and exceptional steak. Plus, they have lots of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Request a table near one of their fireplaces to amp up the coziness.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Hit the local shops along Banff Ave if you’re looking for a special souvenir.
Ski Option 1: Tube or Learn to Ski at Mount Norquay
Ski, snowboard or hop onto a snow tube at Mount Norquay. The tubing lanes will whip you down the hill and provide plenty of adrenaline—no skiing experience required. And if you do want to learn to ski, Norquay has a reputation for friendly instructors and forgiving beginner runs.
Ski Option 2: Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort
Gorgeous views, top-notch snow and terrain across three mountains make Sunshine Village a local favourite. Goat’s Eye Mountain delivers steep and deep runs, plus more playful terrain. Lookout Mountain comes by its name honestly (those views!). And Mountain Standish has loads of fun, quick runs.
Ski Option 3: Lake Louise Ski Resort
“Majestic” will feel like an understatement when you get to stunning Lake Louise Ski Resort. It’s the biggest of the Banff area parks, with more than 160 runs spread across three sides of the mountain. Plus, the terrain park has plenty of progressive lines whether you’re new to freestyle or a seasoned pro.
Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Your ice cleats will bite satisfyingly into the frosty path through frozen Johnston Canyon. See towering frozen waterfalls, explore a natural cave, and often you can see ice climbers scaling the falls. Your certified guide will tell stories of the area and share wildlife-spotting tips.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Soaking in these steaming springs in the crisp winter air is an absolute must-do in Banff. This has been a hot spot for centuries. Indigenous people considered the springs to be sacred, and early Banff tourism operators promoted the rejuvenating properties of the mineral-rich waters.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Dinner
Dine in style tonight. At the elegant Vermillion Room, indulge in locally sourced fine cuisine. For a more casual atmosphere, try the Waldhaus Restaurant, offering alpine-inspired dishes. Or settle into the cozy pub fare at The Rundle Bar to mingle with locals and enjoy craft cocktails.
Guided Snowshoeing at Fairmont Château Lake Louise
Strap on your snowshoes and step into a forest with your guide. This tour starts with a primer on crunching across the powder in your specialized footwear. Then, you’ll learn to identify animal tracks and discover how creatures adapt to Alberta’s chilliest season.
Lunch at Fairmont Château Lake Louise
Grab lunch at the iconic Lakeview Lounge, where you get that stunning lake views without need for a toque. (Try the AAA Alberta beef dip or the bison ravioli.) Or head to the Fairview Bar for cocktails and elevated bar snacks in a beautiful art deco room.
Kingmik Sled Dog Tours
Feel the exhilaration as a team of powerful sled dogs pulls you through stunning Rocky Mountain terrain. This tour combines (possibly) the world’s most exuberant pups with beautiful views and learning the fascinating history of dog sledding from your experienced musher.
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