Banff is located about an 1.5 hrs from Calgary airport. It's an easy drive with gorgeous views that sets you up pretty well with what to expect as the Canadian Rockies are in a category of their own. Coming to Banff for 2 weeks to be ski bums allowed us to explore in and around the town. Below are my recommendations for what to do in Banff, Alberta in the winter.
Ski
Pretty obvious first choice, but if you’re a skier or boarder the mountains are incredible with views that are beyond. Lake Louise Ski Resort is 45 min from Banff Village, while Sunshine Village is in Banff. Either mountain is a solid choice.
Ride the Banff Gondola to see the town from above. There is a restaurant, Sky Bistro, at the top to enjoy lunch or dinner or just the views alone. We went for dinner and the views are incredible. The restaurant was what I expected food-wise but they can pour a pretty great cocktail.
Banff Village
Walk around Banff Village and take in the shops, restaurants and views. I know I mention the views a lot, but everywhere you go, they are magnificent. The town of Banff has plenty to offer. Great to walk around during the day or after a day on the mountains. There is an abundance of restaurants to feed the need of anything you are in the mood for.
Johnston Canyon Ice Falls Trail Hike
Johnston Canyon, located in Banff National Park, is an easy hiking trail that leads to lower and upper waterfalls – don’t let the season fool you – the waterfalls are just as beautiful in the winter. The canyon was created by water erosion and is a natural attraction. You can easily do this hike by yourself, we chose to go through a tour. Our tour guide was amazing and it was nice to hear about the history of the canyon. They even pointed out fossils you can see embedded in the limestone. A must see!
Explore Canmore
Canmore is a town you will pass on your way to Banff if your are driving in from Calgary. It’s full of shops, restaurants and hikes! We drove down there to check it out and ended up walking around the frozen Quarry Lake, had lunch at Blake Brewery + Distillery and walked around town.
Taste some local beers
If you’re a beer connoisseur or just like a nice cold one after a day on the mountain, Banff has some breweries to hit the spot. We stopped at 3 Bears Brewery and Banff Ave Brewery. Both also have a full bar and food if others don’t enjoy beer as much. The food was great at both and good vibes all around. Even if you’re not into beer, both great spots for a drink and/or food.
Heading to Lake Louise? Check out this post to help plan your trip!