8 Winter Activities In Banff That Are So Fun You'll Forget About The Cold

Brit Burr • January 11, 2022

The winter months in Banff National Park may be freezing, but they sure are beautiful. From snow-topped mountains to frozen lakes, bluebird skies to jaw-dropping sunrises, this place really comes to life in the winter. 


Because it’s so chilly, you may not want to set out without a plan and let the day unfold as you would in the summer, so we’ve got you covered. While you’re planning out your day or weekend in Banff, take a look at this list of winter activities to give you some inspiration.

Dog Sledding 


What’s more Canadian than hopping on the back of a sled pulled by a handful of speedy pups? There are a few dog sled operators in the area that are excited to bring visitors and locals on an unforgettable day of invigorating activity. You can either bundle up inside the sled or try your hand at mushing on the back. You’ll learn everything you need to know and get to meet a bunch of adorable dogs while you’re at it. 


Wild skating 


There are tons of gorgeous lakes in the area that freeze over in the winter and give you a chance to go “wild ice skating.” Grab a hot chocolate, a pair of skates, and bundle up. Be sure to research conditions and safety protocols before heading out. When in doubt, talk to a local to find out the best spots for skating. Some great options are Vermillion Lake, Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, and Johnson Lake.


Snowshoeing


If you love exploring outside but you’re not much of a skier, rent some snowshoes to explore the walking trails around Banff and the surrounding area. If you’re not familiar with the area, there are a ton of tour operators that would love to take you out on an adventure. Snowshoeing is the perfect way to enjoy the landscape in a casual, approachable setting.

SkiBig3


This area is home to three amazing ski hills that each offer their own unique experience. If you love skiing or snowboarding or you’re looking to take some lessons on the slopes, head to Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, or Mt Norquay to experience the best of the best in Rocky Mountain resort skiing. You might as well enjoy a beer in the lodge at the end of the day while you’re there, too. 


Tubing at Norquay 


If you want to check out one of the resorts but you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, you can try snow tubing at Norquay. The tubing hill is like your childhood tobogganing experience but even more exhilarating. A whole new way to experience the slopes and a ton of fun, this is a total must-try when you’re in the area.

Sunrise at Vermilion Lakes


While it may be a bummer that there are fewer hours of daylight in the winter, it does come with one perk: not having to get up at the crack of dawn to see the sunrise. Sunrises are truly something else during the winter in the Rockies, and there are endless amazing places to view the morning sky. But, if you’re looking for the perfect place, Vermilion Lakes never disappoints. Bring a blanket and watch the sky light up from the dock. 


Cross-Country Skiing


Nordic sports are a part of the Bow Valley’s culture and cross-country skiing is way more fun than it looks. There are tons of places to rent gear in Banff and Canmore and you can either visit Canmore’s Nordic Center and take advantage of the expertly maintained routes or venture out into the trails in Banff and Lake Louise. You can also find tours and lessons in the area if you’re unfamiliar with the sport or the area. 


Eat & Drink Your Way Through Banff


Another way to forget about the cold is to cozy up in one of Banff’s many amazing bars and restaurants. There are so many incredible food and beverage options, you might as well take yourself on a little food and beverage tour of the town. If you want to go for the full experience, consider booking a food tour with one of our local providers.

Coziest Cafe's in Banff: A Local's Guide

By Brewsters Mountain lodge • March 13, 2025
Winter in the Rocky Mountains is magic, and at times... very, very cold! For those seeking haven on extra chilly days, an inviting space and a mug of your favourite drink is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to keeping warm. As true locals, we know the perfect spots to warm up your freezing fingertips. Here’s our insider’s guide to the coziest cafés in town. Evelyn’s Coffee Bar A staple in Banff’s coffee scene, Evelyn’s Coffee Bar is open until 6pm. Known for its warm ambiance, exceptional coffee, and comfy couches, Evelyn’s also offers a variety of pastries and light bites that make it perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon break. Its central location makes it a convenient stop during your Banff adventures. Mountain Folk Coffee Co. If you’re up with the sparrows, Mountain Folk Coffee Co. is the place to go. Open from 6:30am, this bright and uplifting space is known for crafting drinks that are nourishing, ethical and delicious. With an indulgent selection of specialty flavours on offer, like the maple gingerbread latte, golden milk latte or peppermint cacao, the hardest part of your day will be deciding what to order! Wild Flour Bakery For those who love the smell of freshly baked goods (I mean, who doesn’t), follow your nose to Wild Flour. This artisan bakery and café serve up incredible coffee alongside an array of handcrafted goodies. While it can get busy here, if you can score a window seat, this is the best spot to sit and watch the snow fall over our bustling Bear Street. Banff National Perk For our business travelers, or anyone needing a moment of focus, Banff National Perk is a quiet, no-fuss spot to perch with your laptop and tap out some work. Located just a two minute walk away from our Lodge, it’s easy to duck in for a productive session, with their relaxed atmosphere and free Wi-Fi. Good Earth Coffeehouse With a welcoming interior and plenty of seating, Good Earth Coffeehouse is ideal for catching up with friends or simply unwinding with a book. Their menu features a large range of premium sourced coffees and teas, as well as hearty breakfast and lunch options. It’s a fantastic spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. Brewster Mountain Lodge Opt for the coziest option of all and wander right back to bed, with a mountain view all to yourself! We’ve partnered with Evelyn’s to ensure you have the best home brews to enjoy in your room. If you're a tea connoisseur, check out Banff Tea Co, accessible via our lobby for a cuppa to go. You can also head to our lovely complimentary breakfast nook from 6:30-10:30am everyday. Book a stay at Brewster Mountain Lodge and experience Banff like a true local—one cozy coffee at a time.
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