1. What makes Banff & the Canadian Rockies unique?
The Rockies span across Western Canada and the US. What’s so special about Banff National Park specifically?
The town of Banff is situated inside the national park. This is not the case in the US where towns typically build up on the outskirts of a national park. This has created a special environment where nature is right at your doorstep. Around Banff and Canmore at a 360 degree turn, you’re completely surrounded by mountains.
There’s many preservation rules on development in the area (it’s difficult) and the town even has regulations on how to become to resident. You can’t just decide to buy a vacation home in Banff (nor will you find many rentals). These boundaries have helped keep the area pristine and prevent overdevelopment.
2. Should I go to Alberta, Canada if I've already (or planning to) visited in the summer?
Short answer, YES! These are two different experiences that are worthy of at least two trips. In the winter Alberta is a winter wonderland, offering breathtaking snow landscapes, multiple ski resorts, and a variety of winter activities. With the stunning Rockies as a backdrop, visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as ice skating on frozen lakes, dog sledding, and soaking in hot springs.
Did you know the region can get on average around 330 days of sunshine a year? Most don’t realize that winter weather, though chilly, isn’t the typical cloudy weather all the time. Although you don’t see the typical blue lakes that summer brings, you get better accommodation rates and less crowds in the winter.
3. Do I need to ski to enjoy the Canadian Rockies?
No, you don’t need to ski to appreciate Alberta in winter!
You can fully enjoy an amazing winter trip without ever needing to strap on skis or snowboards. We did not ski during our trip but still packed in activities every morning and evening. Banff is not your typical ski town. Ski resorts like Banff Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort are a short drive within the national park. Winter is great for downtime just relaxing at the outdoor heated pool at Fairmont Banff Springs.
We visited Sunshine Village to enjoy an off-trail snowshoeing excursion and have an amazing sushi lunch at Lake Louise Ski Resort at the base of the mountain. Lake Louise Ski Resort also has a fun snow tubing hill that’s perfect for feeling the exhilarating feeling on going downhill without the hike up. You can’t help but smile when snow tubing.
You’ll definitely spend hours in the charming towns of Banff and Canmore that offer delightful shops, cafes, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
4. What cold weather gear do I need?
Visitors should be prepared for variable conditions and dress accordingly. Snowfall is frequent in the mountains, creating perfect conditions for winter sports. We experienced both snow and sunshine all within the span of a couple hours.
It’s best to dress in layers. Staying warm is essential for comfort in the winter. For the top, under thermals, moisture-wicking tops, fleece or sweaters, and a waterproof jacket. Bottoms will be under thermals and snow pants or fleece-lined hiking pants for warmth. Accessories are equally important! Beanies, gloves/mittens, and wool socks. Shoes to include are hiking shoes and snow shoes. Extras for maximum comfort in higher elevations include neck gaiters and ski googles.
On our guided hikes, the tour operator had ice cleats ready to extra slip protected.
Pro tip: to save space in your luggage, rent snow boots.
5. Is it easy to get to Banff National Park?
Yes, getting to Banff National Park is relatively easy. It is located about 1.5 hours west of Calgary. You’ll fly into YYC, Calgary’s international airport. The most convenient way to reach Banff is by car, but there are also shuttle services and private transportation available. We can help you coordinate the right transportation.
The scenic drive along the Trans-Canada Highway is an added bonus! You’ll pass multiple wildlife bridge crossings on the drive. Banff was the first national park to install these nature passes and its reduced wildlife roadway accidents by over 90%!.
6. Should I spend any time in Calgary?
I’d recommend at least spending a night or two in Calgary at the beginning or end of your trip. While downtown may seem relatively quiet in winter it’s because everyone is using the elevated passageways called +15 that connects the buildings together to get around downtown.
Visit the Sam Center to learn about the greatest outdoor show, an annual rodeo hosted in Calgary, Come back in July to actually attend the multi-day event.
We loved the Calgary food tour. It was easily the most elevated food tour to highly influential restaurants around town. You’ll learn about the local ingredients that create unique dishes to Calgary and Canada.
For the vintage car fan, you MUST visit Heritage Park for their impressive collection of vintage vehicles and gas pumps.
7. What’s the best time to see wildlife?
During the winter season, animals like elk and deer can often be spotted in lower elevations as they search for food. We saw multiple mountain sheep and a herd of elk.
If you’re trying to see the iconic grizzys or black bears, the best time to see them is in spring starting in April as they are leaving their caves and searching for spring blooms to eat.
8. Can I hike in the winter?
Yes, winter hiking is a popular activity in Alberta! Many trails are open, but they might require safety precautions like crampons or snowshoes, depending on the snow conditions.
If you enjoy hiking, I’d recommend trying snow shoeing, caving or cross country-skiing for a new experience. It takes a few strides to get used to the snow shoes but they’re surprisingly light and it’s like walking on a snow cloud. Yes, you still sink in a little into deep snow but that’s part of the fun. This a family-friendly activity!
It’s important to choose designated winter trails, be aware of weather changes, and dress appropriately for the cold. To get the best off the beaten path of untouched snow trails, I highly recommend having a guide! They. will know the best trails for your active level and know how to navigate off-trail safely. Our guide Cindy was the best with White Mountain Adventures.
Love strenuous hikes? Instead of climbing the mountain from the outside, crawl and climb your way through an underground cave system for extra adrenaline.
9. What are the must-do/see places?
Here’s a few of our personal top picks in the Rockies.
- Staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and visiting its ice rink on the lakefront
- Dogsleding!
- Banff National Park’s stunning viewpoints like Johnston Canyon and Banff Gondola
- Canmore for boutique shops and eateries. One of our favorites meals was at Bridgette Bar.
10. What are the benefits of planning my trip with True Blue Waters?
We’re here to save you time and give you first-hand knowledge! Want to know the best places to stay, local roads that are known for the best bear sightings, endless restaurants to try, great local shops?
You’ll be in good hands. Not only did we get a glimpse into the beautiful region, we have the local partners and tour operators that we met during our time in Alberta that live directly in the area and have the best updated information to make your trip safe and unforgettable any time of year.
If winter in Alberta is calling your name, give us a call today to start the planning!
