My most recent winter getaway was Banff National Park. I’ve visited Banff a few times during the summer months, but this is my first time to see the mountains during winter. Banff is open all year-round. It was -17 when I visited it this year. I highly recommend an AWD vehicle with winter tires or all weather tires when visiting the mountains.

If you are going to ask me if it is worth it to visit Banff in winter, my answer is “YES!”. Winter could start as early as the last week of October or November and it ends in April.

Keep in mind that you need a national park pass to visit Banff. You can purchase it online at their website or buy it at the national park gate. This blog post lists the places you can visit in Banff during winter.

WHERE TO GO:

1. Town of Banff

               – I was expecting to see less people on the streets during winter but guess what? The streets almost have the same crowd. When we arrived at our hotel, I was going to pay for a room change so I asked for an upgrade to get the best view out of our window, but they are fully booked that weekend. I suggest making up your mind when booking online. 😊

2. Lake Louise

               – The most popular Lake Louise is frozen during winter, and it is open to the public for free if you want to skate as well. Be ready for a huge crowd when you visit. The earlier you arrive, the better.

3. Lake Minnewanka

               – Also known as “Minnwaki” or “Lake of the Spirits”. The First Nations people respected and feared this lake for its resident spirits. There is a hidden townsite underneath this lake and it is very popular for scuba diving and hiking during the summer months. It is a 5-kilometre scenic route from the town of Banff.

               On the other hand, it is popular for snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing during winter. Parking is limited here so I suggest that you arrive early.

4. Abraham Lake

               – This is an artificial lake that is famous for the methane bubbles during winter. Make sure you have a full tank of gas and go there first as it is around 2.5 hours from the town of Banff. There is no signal at Abraham Lake so make sure that you bring a map or download your directions from the internet if you are unfamiliar of the area.

5. Johnston Canyon

               – The easiest hike in Banff National Park is the lower falls. It would take you approximately 30-45 minutes to reach it during winter. I’ve been here twice during the summer, and I thought that winter is going to be slow for hiking, but the parking lot was full and there are a lot of people hiking that day. We were lucky to find a parking spot. The busiest times are between 10 a.m. onwards.

If you are up for some challenge, take the Ink Pots trail after you visit the lower falls. It might take you longer, which is 4 hours or more back and forth, but the view is worth it.

Always follow the speed limit or drive slowly on the right lane if you are caught in a winter storm/blizzard.

WHERE TO EAT:

I did my research and here are some of my recommendations, in no particular order:

1. Nourish Bistro – The design is beautiful inside this Bistro.

2. Ramen Arashi – We ended up eating here as my husband was craving for some Japanese foods. I love their food, but you have to wait outside as they have a small space inside the mall. Another one to try is Sushi House Banff if you love Japanese foods.

3. The Grizzly House – If you are a fan of fondue and exotic meat, then this is the place to go and eat.

4. Maclab Bistro – I’ve read amazing reviews in this restaurant. How I wish I saw it before our trip! If you are looking for a restaurant with mountain views then this is the place to go.

5. Saffron Indian Bistro – They serve Indian cuisine.

6. Pad Thai – They serve Thai cuisine and everything on the menu looks delicious!

7. Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant – The place looks so cozy and had a great selection of food.

8. Banff Shawarma – Whether you want a snack or a full meal, they have it here.

9. Ticino Swiss-Italian Restaurant – Another restaurant that serves a fondue. I would definitely try it here next time I go to Banff.

10. Last but not the least, Milk Tea Banff serves my favorite Bubble Tea drink. It is located inside the Sundance Mall. They usually close at 7 p.m. during winter.

where to stay:

Moose Hotel and Suites is located at 345 Banff Ave. This is my favorite property.
It is located at the town of Banff so all of the restaurants in town are nearby.

Here are some of the reasons why I love this property:

• They have underground parking
• They have an Italian Restaurant inside the hotel
• The rooms are spacious
• They use sustainable products, and
• They have a sauna and rooftop hot pool with mountain views

Watch the video below to see the view.

My weekend getaway to Banff made my winter special. I learned to enjoy winter ever since I visited this beautiful national park. There are more places to visit in Banff but I only share the places that I’ve visited or recommend. If you want to see Banff during the summer months, click here for a full guide.

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