Visiting Banff in December: The Holidays’ Winter Magic

December is one of the most exciting months to visit Banff National Park. It’s the holiday season! Events and festivities, everything covered in snow and twinkling Christmas lights make for an extraordinary atmosphere. In this article, you’ll read everything you need to know about visiting Banff in this special time of the year.

If you’re pondering what winter month to visit Banff National Park, I’d highly recommend you come in December. The abundant Christmas lights add to winter’s enchanting ambiance. The park’s winter season is in full swing, providing endless skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and it’s Christmas in the Rockies! Need I say more?    

So, if you want to know everything you need to know about visiting Banff in December, read on!

Is Banff Worth Visiting in December?

December is the most beautiful, festive and thrilling winter month. The shoulder season has ended, so you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, et cetera. So, the answer to this question is a resounding yes! 

However, all months have their specific pros and cons. I listed them below to give you a balanced perspective on visiting Banff in December.

The Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in December

PROS	CONS
1. Winter sports: December is a great time to enjoy winter sports in Banff National Park. Visitors can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating, among other activities.	1. Cold weather: December is one of the coldest months in Banff National Park, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Visitors need to dress appropriately and be prepared for cold weather conditions.
2. Festive atmosphere: Banff National Park is known for its festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy Christmas markets, light displays, and other holiday-themed events.	2. Shorter days: In December, the days are shorter in Banff National Park, with less daylight than during the summer months. Visitors need to plan their activities accordingly and be prepared for early sunsets.
3. Fewer crowds: December is a relatively quiet time in Banff National Park, with fewer crowds than during the peak summer season. This means visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty without feeling overcrowded. Though around Christmas it usually is very busy.	3. Limited access: Some roads and trails in Banff National Park may be closed or inaccessible during the winter months due to snow and ice. Visitors need to check road and trail conditions before planning their activities.
4. Northern Lights: December is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Banff National Park. Visitors can take a guided tour to see this natural phenomenon in all its glory.	4. Snowstorms: Banff National Park is known for its heavy snowfall during the winter months, which can lead to snowstorms and road closures. Visitors need to be prepared for potential travel disruptions.
5. Snowfall: December is one of the snowiest months in Banff National Park, which means visitors can enjoy a winter wonderland with plenty of fresh snow.	5. Risk of avalanches: Banff National Park is known for its avalanche risk during the winter months. Visitors need to be aware of the risk and take necessary precautions when participating in winter sports.
6. Cozy accommodations: December is the perfect time to cozy up in a warm and cozy cabin, chalet, or lodge in Banff National Park. Visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty from the comfort of their cozy accommodations.	6. Limited wildlife viewing: Some animals in Banff National Park may hibernate or be less active during the winter months, which means visitors may have limited opportunities for wildlife viewing.
7. Christmas traditions: Visitors can experience traditional Christmas celebrations in Banff National Park, such as caroling, tree lighting ceremonies, and visits from Santa Claus.	7. Crowded during holidays: Banff National Park can be crowded during the holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Visitors need to be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly.
8. Winter festivals: Banff National Park hosts a couple of winter festivals in December such as the Banff Christmas Market and In Searc of Christmas Spirit.	8. Limited visibility: Heavy snowfall and foggy conditions can limit visibility in Banff National Park during the winter months. This can make it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.
9. Photography opportunities: December is a great time for photography in Banff National Park, with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning winter landscapes, wildlife, and the Northern Lights.	9. Risk of travel delays: With unpredictable weather and road conditions, visitors may experience travel delays or cancellations during their trip to Banff National Park.

Weather in Banff in December

Knowing what weather to expect is essential for planning a trip to Banff. In December, it can get pretty cold. It freezes daily, and the daytime temperature hardly gets above zero. So while December technically classifies as fall, it feels like winter. 

Average Temperature in Banff in December

December in Banff has an average high temperature of -5.2°C (22.6˚F). The daily mean temperature is -9.3˚C (15.3˚F). On the other hand, the average low is -13.3˚C (8.1˚F). This means it’s cold all day, so make sure you bring your winter clothing with you. 

Snowfall and Precipitation in Banff in December

December receives significant amounts of snow. The month gets 177 millimeters on average. The average amount of snowfall days is 19.  

Furthermore, December has an average of 10.7 rainfall days. Together these days are worth an average of only 22 millimeters of rain.

Wanna know more about the climate in the park? Check out the post discussing everything about the weather in Banff National Park.

What Is a Chinook Wind?

When visiting Banff in December, you might experience a Chinook wind. This strong, warm, and dry wind can shift the temperature by 20°C (68°F) within a day. 

While it can be a welcome relief from the cold, it can also cause rapid snow and ice melting, leading to flooding and other hazards. So be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions if you’re visiting Banff in December.

Wanna know more about the climate in the Park? Check out the post that discusses everything about weather in Banff National Park.

What to Pack for Banff in December

Packing for Banff in December involves quite a bit more than visiting the park in summer. You need to bring suitable clothing to withstand the sometimes extreme weather. 

Clothing

Packing to visit Banff in December involves a bit more than visiting the park in summer. You need to bring suitable clothing and dress in layers to withstand the sometimes extreme weather. 

At the very least, bring the following items:

• Proper winter jacket
• Warm (ski) pants
• Sweater
• Thermal underwear
• Merino wool socks
• Winter boots
• Gloves
• Hat
• Scarf

Gear

Aside from warm clothing, you’ll also want to pack some gear. Here are some items you should consider bringing:

• Daypack to carry water, snacks, and extra layers
• Snowshoes or crampons for hiking in the snow
• Ski or snowboard equipment if you plan to hit the slopes
• Ice skates if you want to skate on frozen lakes
• Compass
• Goggles or sunglasses to protect against the glare of snow
• A camera to capture the stunning winter scenery
• Physical map (cell phone reception in the park is spotty)

Accessories

Don’t forget to pack some accessories to make your trip to Banff more comfortable. Here are some items worth considering for a trip to Banff in December:

• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Small first aid kit for emergencies
• Sunblock and UV-blocking lip balm to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays
• Moisturizer to keep your skin from drying out in the cold weather
• Safety gear such as a compass, knife, and bear spray if you plan to hike
• Extra battery pack to charge your camera or phone

Driving to Banff in December

Driving to Banff in December can be challenging due to winter weather conditions. Here are some things to keep in mind when driving to Banff in December:

• Winter Tires: It is essential to have winter tires on your vehicle when driving to Banff in February. Winter tires provide better traction and handling in snowy and icy conditions. Ensure your winter tires are in good condition and adequately inflated before hitting the road. If you have a rental car, ask the rental company about it.

• Check Road Conditions: Before embarking on your journey, check the road conditions and weather forecast. Alberta 511 is an excellent resource for the province’s current road conditions and closures. You can also call 511 toll-free for road condition updates or keep up to date through their app.

• Drive Slowly and Carefully: Snow and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. Drive slowly and carefully, and increase your following distance for more stopping time. Avoid sudden movements, such as hard braking or sharp turns, which can cause your vehicle to lose traction and spin out of control.

• Carry Chains: If you are driving in the mountains, carrying chains is essential when encountering heavy snow or icy conditions. Chains can provide extra traction and help you navigate steep inclines and declines. In Banff, driving with chains in the mountains is mandatory in certain areas. They are lawfully required when driving to the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North), Banff-Windermere Highway (Highway 93 South), and most other roadways, except for Highways 1 and 16.

• Fill Up Your Gas Tank: Make sure you have a full gas tank before heading out. Gas stations are scarce in the park, and you don’t want to run out of gas in the middle of nowhere when it’s freezing cold.

• Be Prepared: In addition to winter tires and chains, carrying a winter survival kit in your vehicle in an emergency is a good idea. Your kit should include blankets, warm clothing, food, water, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.

Wanna know more? Check out my post on winter driving in Banff.

Things to Do in Banff in December

With the arrival of December, the winter season has begun. Which means you have many options for wonderful wintertime activities, including riding, hiking, snowshoeing, ice skating, and even ice climbing! You can find them listed below. 

Skiing and Snowboarding in Banff in December

Banff National Park has three world-class ski resorts: Sunshine Village Ski Resort, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay Ski Resort. The ski resorts offer everything from beginner to advanced terrain, so there’s something for everyone.

Want to read more about skiing and snowboarding in the park? Read my Banff Ski Resorts Comparison!

Enjoy Après Ski in Banff in December

After a day on the slopes, head to one of Banff’s many après ski spots to relax and enjoy Banff’s energetic nightlife. Banff has plenty of bars, restaurants, and pubs. Some popular spots include the Banff Ave Brewing Co., Park Distillery, and the Rose and Crown.

Stroll down Banff Avenue in December

Strolling down Banff Avenue is a fun and festive way to experience the holiday season in Banff. Banff Avenue is the main street in the town of Banff and offers a gazillion shops, restaurants, and attractions. In December, the street is decked out in holiday decorations and offers a festive atmosphere.

What’s also cool is that many of the shops and restaurants offer special holiday promotions and events. You can browse the shops for unique holiday gifts, and sample some of the local cuisine.

Ice Skating in Banff in December

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and Banff has several outdoor rinks. A popular rink is the Banff Skating Rink near the Banff train station. The rink is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, and skate rentals are available on-site.

If you’re lucky – in case there’s not too much snow on the ice – you can skate on one of the many lakes in the park, like Two Jack Lake.

Hiking, Snowshoeing, and Cross-Country Skiing in Banff in December

Consider hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing if you’re looking for a more low-key winter activity. Banff National Park has over 1,600 kilometers (994 mi) of trails, with options for all skill levels. 

Some popular trails include the Johnston Canyon Ice Walk, the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike, and the Spray River Loop.

Hike the Tunnel Mountain Trail

 If you’re looking for a fun and accessible hike in Banff in December, you should definitely check out the Tunnel Mountain Trail. This trail is a classic Banff hike that is accessible year-round.

The trail is just 2.15 kilometers (1,234 mi) each way with an elevation gain of 268 meters, (879 ft). You’ll start off in a forest and then make your way up the switchbacks that climb the mountain. 

As you make your way up, you’ll encounter plenty of breaks in the trees to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area. The summit is a great spot to take in the views of Banff and the surrounding mountains like the majestic Rundle Mountain.

In March, there will be a lot of snow on the trail, making it slightly more difficult to reach to the top. But as it’s a reasonably short hike, people of most fitness levels should be able to get there.

Sledding in Banff in December

Sledding is a fun activity for all ages, and Banff has several great sledding hills to choose from. Just take your toboggan, choose a hill that’s steep enough for your desires, and off you go!

Want to know more about sledding in the park? Read my blog post dedicated to this fun winter activity. 

Dog Sledding

For a truly unique experience, try dog sledding in Banff. Discover Banff Tours offers dog sledding adventures at Lake Louise and in Canmore. This is an absolutely extraordinary way to experience the winter landscape.

Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride through Banff

Sleigh rides are a classic winter activity that offer a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of Banff and the holiday season in the Canadian Rockies. In December, many of the sleigh rides in Banff are decked out in holiday decorations.

Sleigh rides are available both in the town of Banff and in Lake Louise. The rides are guided and begin with a visit to the stables to meet the horses and staff.

You’ll then climb aboard the sleigh and be pulled through the snow-covered meadows by a team of horses.

Want to know more about sledding in Banff? Check out Dog Sledding in Banff, the Ultimate Rockies Winter Experience.

Ice Walking and Ice Climbing in Banff in December

Banff offers ice climbing and ice walking tours for the more adventurous type. Ice climbing is a thrilling activity that involves scaling frozen waterfalls and cliffs. 

In contrast, ice walking is a more relaxed activity on frozen lakes. Some popular companies that offer ice climbing and ice walking tours include Yamnuska Mountain Adventures and Banff Tours.

Biking in Banff in December

While December is not the perfect month for cycling in Banff National Park, you still have options. 

One of the most popular routes (if not THE most popular) you can explore is the Legacy Trail, a 27 kilometers (16.77 mi) paved trail between Banff and Canmore. 

The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Because of the volume of snow on the trail, you’d better ride it on a fat bike. 

Several shops in the town of Banff rent fat bikes, allowing you to speed across the icy and snowy roads of the park.  

Wanna read more about this topic? Read my post on biking in Banff.

Catch the Northern Lights in Banff in December

If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during your visit to Banff. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’sEarth’s atmosphere. 

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Banff is from December to March, so you might be lucky!

Want to know about aurora borealis in the park? Read the post about the northern lights in Banff National Park.

Enjoy the Lake Louise Ice Bar

Check out the Lake Louise Ice Bar in December. It’s located at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise and offers a one-of-a-kind experience that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

The bar is built entirely out of ice and snow, and is located on the shores of Lake Louise. It’s a great way to take in one of the most scenic landscapes in the world while sipping on a cocktail.

The Lake Louise Ice Bar opens around the 20th of December.

Visit the Hot Springs in Banff in December

While the world around you is changing in a white wonderland, you can soak in the warm mineral water of the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Just a few minutes from downtown Banff, the pool on Sulphur Mountain offers stunning views of the Rockies. 

The hot springs are open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. Highly recommended! 

Wanna know more about the soothing effect of hot springs? Check out my comprehensive post on hot springs in the Banff area. 

Visit Banff’s Famous Lakes in December

While Banff National Park’s famous lakes are mainly summer attractions, you can still visit most of them in the winter. 

Can You Visit Lake Louise in December?

Yes, you sure can visit Lake Louise in December. The lake is frozen, allowing for ice skating in surreal surroundings. Or play a game of hockey. During this month you can also enjoy winter activities such as hiking and snowshoeing at Lake Louise.

Can You Visit Moraine Lake in December?

Unfortunately, the road to Moraine Lake is closed during the winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanche risk. It usually reopens in late May or early June, depending on weather conditions. 

However, if you are an experienced adventurer with avalanche knowledge and snowshoes or skis, it may be possible to access Moraine Lake in December. Just be sure to check for any warnings before heading out.

Can You Visit Peyto Lake in December?

Yes, you can visit Peyto Lake in December, but accessing the lake may be more difficult due to winter road closures, depending on weather conditions. However, if the road is open, December is a great time to visit Peyto Lake, as the winter scenery is stunning. 

Wanna know more about the lakes in Banff? Read the post on Banff’s 14 most beautiful and accessible lakes.

Do a Helicopter Tour in Banff in December

If you want to see Banff from a different perspective, consider taking a helicopter tour. Helicopter tours offer breathtaking views of the Rockies and are a great way to see Banff’sBanff’s stunning scenery from above. 

Some popular helicopter tour companies include Alpine Helicopters and Rockies Heli Canada.

The main downside of booking a helicopter tour in December is that cancellations due to severe conditions occur much more often than in the summer.

Wanna read more about helicopter tours in the park? Check out the Ultimate Experience: Book a Helicopter Tour in Banff.

Wildlife Viewing in Banff in December

Viewing wildlife in Banff in December is possible, but it may be more difficult than at other times of the year. Bears are hibernating in December, while others may be less active. 

The best time to view wildlife in Banff National Park is early morning or evening when animals are most active. You can also drive along scenic routes like Vermilion Lakes Drive, the Bow Valley Parkway, or the Icefields Parkway to increase your chances of spotting wildlife. 

Enjoy Scenic Views in Banff in December

Visiting Banff National Park in December means seeing its breathtaking landscapes in winter splendor. The ubiquitous snow gives the landscape something magical. The mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests provide a picture-perfect backdrop, making you want to stop for pictures all the time.

Driving around the park will already provide countless vistas, each more stunning than the last. You won’t be disappointed because Banff’s winter scenery is just as pretty as its summer equivalent.

Banff has several scenic drives worth exploring. Want to know more about it? Check my post on Banff’s 7 scenic drives to explore. 

Where to Stay in Banff in December

Banff has many lodging options as a major tourist destination in North America. Check out your possibilities below. 

Hotels and Lodges in Banff in December

Banff has plenty of options if you’re looking for a more traditional hotel or lodge experience. 

The Banff Springs Hotel (photo above) is one of the most iconic hotels in the area, offering a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, several bars and restaurants, and stunning views of the mountains.

The same goes for the Fairmont Château Lake Louise.

The Rimrock Resort Hotel is another popular option with amenities like a spa, indoor pool, and several restaurants. Like the Banff Springs Hotel, the Rimrock is just a few minutes from downtown Banff. 

For a more rustic experience, the Storm Mountain Lodge is a great option. The lodge is located about an hour outside the town of Banff, but it offers a range of cozy cabins and lodges, as well as a restaurant that serves up delicious meals made with all Canadian ingredients.

Hostels and Campgrounds in Banff in December

If you’re traveling on a budget, several hostels and campgrounds in the Banff area offer affordable accommodation options. The Samesun Banff is one of the most popular hostels in the area, offering a range of dorm and private rooms and a communal kitchen and lounge area. 

The Tunnel Mountain Campground is another popular option for budget travelers. The campground has tent and RV campsites and is only a short distance from the heart of Banff. Another option is the Lake Louise Campground. 

All other campgrounds have closed already.

Want to read about your options for camping in the park? Check the post, the Ultimate Overview of Campgrounds in Banff National Park. 

Getting Around Banff in Banff in December

Car Rental in Banff in December

Without a doubt, the best way to get around Banff in December is by renting a car. This will give you the most flexibility in terms of where you can go and when you can go there. 

Banff has several car rental companies, including Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Alamo and Avis. Prices can vary, so I’dI’d suggest you shop around and compare prices before making a reservation.

Public Transportation in Banff in December

If you don’t want to rent a car, several public transportation options are available in Banff. Roam Transit operates year-round and serves Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise. 

In December, several bus routes can take you to popular destinations, such as Banff Gondola, Lake Louise, and Johnston Canyon. 

The schedules and routes may change, so check the Roam Transit website for the latest information.

Taxis in Banff in December

Taxis are a good option if you need to get somewhere quickly and don’t want to wait for public transportation. Banff has two taxi companies, Banff Taxi and Taxi Taxi. 

Prices can vary depending on the distance you need to travel and the time of day, so ask for an estimate before you get in the cab. 

In any case, cabs are expensive in Canada. Just so you know.

Festivals and Events in Banff in December

With the holidays coming up, there are some excellent events to attend in Banff and Lake Louise in December. Here’s a list:

Banff Christmas Market

The Banff Christmas Market is held annually in Banff in late December and early December. It features over 100 artisanal vendors, live music, an outdoor fire lounge, Santa’s House & Reindeer Stables, and Christmas treats & warm drinks.

The market is held at Warner Stables, close to the town of Banff. The market captures European Holiday Markets’ tradition, heritage, and romance with a mountain twist. You can browse various handmade goods, including jewelry, pottery, clothing, and more.

In Search of Christmas Spirit 

In Search of Christmas Spirit is an outdoor Christmas experience in Banff National Park from 22 November through 31 December. It takes place on select nights during the holiday season and is held at the Cascade of Time Garden, just past the Bow River Bridge at the south end of Banff Avenue.

You follow an enchanted trail through the garden, illuminated by sound effects and sculptures. The experience tells the story of the wildlife of Banff through storytelling and larger-than-life puppets created by local Indigenous painter and sculptor Jason Carter and art director Bridget Ryan.

Hot Chocolate Trail

Throughout December, you can explore cafes and restaurants while enjoying hot chocolate creations during the Hot Chocolate Trail in Banff and Lake Louise. Participating establishments offering a limited-time, holiday-themed hot chocolate menu. 

Some hot chocolate flavors include boozy options, while others have a spicy kick. You can pick up a Hot Chocolate Trail map and explore the participating cafes and restaurants.

Christmas at the Castle

Christmas at the Castle is held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in the town of Banff. Expect extravagant decor, exceptional dining experiences, and holiday programming. 

You can enjoy Christmas markets, light displays, and other holiday-themed events throughout the hotel. 

One of the main highlights of Christmas at the Castle is the annual production of A Christmas Carol at the hotel. You can also enjoy various holiday-themed activities, such as gingerbread house decorating, caroling, and holiday crafts.

Summer Attractions Also Open in Banff in December

While Banff is known for its winter activities, plenty of summer attractions remain open in January. Here’s an overview:

1. Banff Gondola

One of the most popular summer attractions that remains open year-round is the Banff Gondola.

The gondola takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also snowshoe or hike to the summit in the winter if you want a more adventurous experience.

2. Cave and Basin National Historic Site

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is a popular attraction in the summer, but it is also open in January. This is where Banff National Park was born, and it is a great place to learn about the park’s history. 

You can explore the cave and basin, take a guided tour, and learn about the geothermal features of the area.

3. Johnston Canyon

If you enjoy hiking, the Johnston Canyon trail is a must-see. The trail takes you through a canyon with frozen waterfalls and ice formations. 

The trail is covered in snow and ice in winter, making it a unique and challenging hike. You can also take a guided canyon tour to learn about all the canyon’s ins and outs. 

Statutory Holidays in Banff in December

It’s beneficial to be aware of the statutory holidays in December because many people flock to the park during these times of the year. As a result, hotel occupancy rates increase, and restaurants are more likely to be fully booked.

The following statutory holidays are celebrated in Banff in December 2023:

• Christmas (Monday, 25 December)

Visiting Banff in December FAQ

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Visit Banff?

Banff is a beautiful destination year-round, so the best time to visit really depends on your interests and what you want to do while you’re there.

If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, then June through Mid-September are a great time to visit. The weather is warm and the days are long, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area’s trails and lakes. 

If you’re interested in skiing and winter sports, then the winter months of December through March are the best time to visit. The snow is at its best during this time, and you’ll have three ski resorts in the area to choose from.

WEATHER IN BANFF, CANADA: AVERAGE TEMPERATURE

When Is the Shoulder Season in Banff?

The shoulder season in Banff is typically in the spring and fall months. During this time, the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more affordable and peaceful vacation.

The months of May and September are particularly good times to visit, as the weather is not too cold or even pleasant and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

What Time Does it Get Dark in Banff in December?

In December, the days are very short in Banff. The sun sets between 4.38 pm (1 December) and 4.44 pm (31 December), so you’ll still have plenty of daylight time to discover everything the park has to offer.

Can You Go to Banff in December?

Yes, you can definitely go to Banff in December! December is the beginning of the winter season in Banff, and it’s a great time to enjoy winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

The town and surrounding areas are also beautifully decorated for the holiday season, making for a unique atmosphere. The average temperature in Banff in December is well below zero degrees Celsius, with plenty of snowfall throughout the month.

So it’s important to pack warm clothing and gear, as well as layers and thermals to stay warm in the cold weather.

December is also a quieter time to visit Banff (except for the Christmas holidays), so you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the park’s winter scenery with smaller crowds. Just keep in mind that some attractions and activities may have limited hours or be closed during the shoulder season, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time.

When Is the Skiing Season in Banff?

The skiing season in Banff typically runs from late November through early May, depending on the weather and snow conditions. The peak season for skiing is usually in January and February, when the snow is at its best and the ski resorts are busiest.

However, there are plenty of opportunities to ski and snowboard throughout the entire season, so you can plan your visit based on your schedule and preferences.

Banff Travel Guide

Where Is Banff National Park, Canada?

Banff National Park is in the southwest of the province of Alberta. It’s home to the towns of Banff and Lake Louise and borders the province of British Columbia in the west of Canada. You can easily access famous places like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake and the stunning Icefields Parkway from these locations.

Banff and Lake Louise are situated in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, close to the boundary with British Columbia, as shown on the map of Banff National Park below.

Is Banff, Canada safe?

Generally speaking, yes. Like most areas, Banff has crime, but it’s still a safe travel place. But Banff has a lot of wildlife, including bears and cougars, so you should always carry bear spray and exercise caution when hiking in the mountains.

How Do I travel to Banff, Canada?

Want to fly to Banff? Calgary International Airport (Code: YYC) is the closest airport. It’s 130 kilometers (81 mi) to the east of Banff.  

Several cities, including Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, and Dallas/Fort Worth, have direct flights into Calgary.

Pick up a rental vehicle at Calgary International Airport, or take a private transport service to your destination. The trip to the park takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. 

Viator has several good options. Click the link to check the options and latest rates.

Banff Car Rental

Want to rent a car during your stay in Banff National Park? Rent one at Calgary International Airport or in the city of Calgary. Yep, there are rental firms in Lake Louise and Banff, but as these are small towns, your rental options can be limited.

Avis is a reputable car rental company, which I’ve used many times. Book now with Avis.

If Visiting Banff in December Isn’t for You…

After reading this you might decide not to go to Banff in December after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about traveling to Banff during other months.