Curator’s statement
Banff National Park stands apart for the way it blends dramatic natural beauty with effortless access to world-class skiing and thoughtful hospitality. The scenery is unforgettable, but it’s the feeling of being fully immersed in the Canadian Rockies that stays with you. Every snowy day feels intentional, unhurried, and deeply memorable.
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Things to do in Banff
Wide-open runs, quiet moments, and mountains that steal the show
1. Ski across Banff’s three iconic resorts
Whether it's approachable slopes, wide-open alpine terrain, or breathtaking scenery, Banff offers three distinct ski experiences in one destination.
2. Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
There’s nothing quite like slipping into steaming mineral water while snow falls and the Rockies loom overhead.
3. Walk across a frozen Lake Louise
In winter, Lake Louise becomes a snowy dreamscape, perfect for walking, ice skating, or simply soaking in the silence and scenery.
4. Explore Downtown Banff
Banff Avenue comes alive in winter with cozy cafés, local shops, festive lights, and mountain views at every turn.
5. Hike the frozen waterfalls at Johnston Canyon
Winter turns this popular trail into a fairytale of frozen waterfalls, icy cliffs, and snow-dusted catwalks that are accessible even for casual hikers.
6. Photograph the ice bubbles at Abraham Lake
Famous for its frozen methane bubbles trapped beneath crystal-clear ice, Abraham Lake offers one of the most unique winter photo opportunities in the Canadian Rockies.
7. Take a scenic helicopter tour over the Rockies
A winter helicopter flight reveals glaciers, peaks, and untouched backcountry terrain that’s impossible to fully appreciate from the ground.
8. Snowshoe through Banff National Park
Snowshoeing offers a peaceful way to explore frozen forests and quiet trails far from the ski crowds.
9. Take a winter drive along the Icefields Parkway
Often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world, this snow-lined highway delivers nonstop glaciers, peaks, and photo stops.
10. Ride the Banff Gondola
A gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain reveals sweeping winter views and a cozy mountaintop experience above the valley.
Places to eat & drink in Banff
Exploring the streets of downtown Banff before dinner at The Fat Ox.
1. Block Kitchen + Bar
A modern favorite for elevated comfort food, craft cocktails, and a lively après-ski atmosphere right on Banff Avenue.
2. The Maple Leaf
A classic Banff staple serving refined Canadian cuisine with wild game, seafood, and an excellent wine list.
3. The Fat Ox
A refined Italian-inspired restaurant known for handmade pastas, seasonal ingredients, craft cocktails, and an atmosphere that’s perfect for a date night or special dinner after a day in the snow.
4. Hello Sunshine
A fun, high-energy Japanese-inspired restaurant offering sushi, ramen, and cocktails in a vibrant setting.
5. The Grizzly House
An iconic Banff experience known for fondue, wild game, and a cozy, old-school mountain atmosphere that feels especially right on snowy nights.
Need to know
Banff is unique in that it offers three distinct ski resorts, each with its own terrain, vibe, and ideal type of skier. Before choosing where to spend your time on the mountain, it helps to understand how Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise differ.
Mt. Norquay
Best for: Beginners, families, quick ski days, and travelers staying in Banff town
Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
Why: Smaller, approachable terrain with a relaxed, local feel and easy access from downtown Banff
Banff Sunshine Village
Best for: Intermediate to advanced skiers, powder seekers, longer ski days
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
Why: High elevation, reliable snowfall, and expansive alpine bowls make this the go-to for big-mountain skiing
Lake Louise Ski Resort
Best for: Mixed-skill groups, scenic skiers, first-time Banff visitors
Skill level: Beginner to advanced
Why: Wide-ranging terrain paired with iconic views over Lake Louise offers something for everyone
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Banff page.