While it’s technically part of Banff’s shoulder season, many things make visiting Banff in June worth it. The lakes have thawed, the summer crowds are still a few weeks away, the temperatures are getting comfy, and hotel rates aren’t crazy high just yet. Sure, June also has downsides (lots of rain!), but overall it’s a good month to visit the park.
All front-country campgrounds have opened for the season in June, and lots of summer activities are already available. So basically you’re able to enjoy the park like you would in summer. That’s a good thing if you ask me.
I admit, the rain is the biggest spoiler, but other than that, visiting the park in June is an excellent plan. Wanna know what? Read on to find out!
Is Banff Worth Visiting in June?
For sure it is! June may be regarded as a shoulder month, but it’s definitely a good month to visit the park.
While June has some drawbacks (see the bottom of this piece), most roads are accessible, all lakes have thawed, and you can visit most tourist attractions without the huge crowds they attract in the summer.
Furthermore, lodging, tours and car rental prices are also slightly lower.
However, all months have their specific pros and cons. I listed them below to give you a balanced perspective on visiting Banff in June.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in June
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| 1. Great weather: June is one of the best months to visit the park, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. You can enjoy the outdoors without feeling too hot or too cold. | 1. Wet conditions: June is often the wettest month of the year in Banff National Park, which means that you may encounter rain or even snow. |
| 2. Longer days: In June, the days are long, which means more time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. | 2. Limited access to some trails: Some higher-elevation trails in Banff National Park may still be closed in June due to snow and ice. You may need to stick to lower-elevation trails. |
| 3. wildflowers: June is a great time to see wildflowers in Banff National Park, as many species are in full bloom. You can enjoy the colorful displays of flowers while hiking or sightseeing. | 3. Limited access to some facilities: Some facilities in Banff National Park may have limited hours or be closed in June for maintenance or other reasons ahead of the summer season. |
| 4. Wildlife sightings: June is a great time for wildlife viewing in Banff National Park, as many animals are active and visible. You may have the chance to see bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife. | 4. Limited access to some services: Some services in Banff National Park, such as bike rentals or guided tours, may have limited hours or be closed in June, which can limit your options for activities or sightseeing. |
| 5. Hiking: June is an excellent time to go hiking in Banff National Park, as many trails are open and the weather is ideal. You can explore the park’s beauty on foot and enjoy stunning views. | 5. Unpredictable weather: While June can offer great weather, it can also bring unpredictable weather patterns, such as sudden thunderstorms or hail. |
| 6. Water activities: June is a great time for water activities like kayaking or rafting in Banff National Park, as the water is generally warmer and more inviting. | 6. Limited public transportation options: While Banff National Park does have a public transportation system, some routes and schedules may be limited in June, which can make it more difficult to get around without a car. |
| 7. Fewer crowds: While June is a popular time to visit Banff National Park, it is still less crowded than peak season. You can enjoy the natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. | 7. Higher prices: While June is still considered a shoulder season, prices for accommodations, tours, and activities may be higher than in May or other off-season months. |
| 8. Birdwatching: June is a great time for birdwatching in the Park, with many species of birds migrating through the area or nesting. | 8. Crowds: While June is less crowded than peak season, it is still a popular time to visit Banff National Park. You may encounter crowds at popular attractions or on popular trails. |
| 9. Camping: June is a great time to enjoy the outdoors while camping in Banff National Park. All front-country campgrounds will be open in June, providing you with a lot of camping opportunities. | 9. Mosquitoes: With the warmer temperatures and increased moisture, June can also bring a higher risk of mosquito bites. You may need to bring insect repellent and protective clothing to avoid bites. |
| 10. Lower risk of wildfires: With the cooler temperatures and increased moisture, June can offer a lower risk of wildfires in Banff National Park | 10. Higher risk of bear encounters: With the warmer temperatures, bears may be more active in June, which can increase the risk of bear encounters in the Park. Make sure you can protect yourself and bring bear spray. |
Weather in Banff in June
If you plan a trip to Banff in June, it’s important to know what weather to expect. Any time of year is a great time to visit Banff, although the weather in June isn’t the best. June can have warm and sometimes even hot days, but this month also receives the most rainfall of the year.
Average Temperature in Banff in June
June in Banff has an average high temperature of 18.6°C (65.5˚F), but it can get quite a bit colder. The daily mean temperature is 12.1˚C (53.8˚F). On the other hand, the average low is 5.5˚C (41.9˚F). This means it can be chilly at night and also in the morning. You’d want to wear a sweater and a decent coat for sure!
Snowfall and Precipitation in Banff in June
While in June, temperatures typically stay well above 0˚C, it can still snow. You’re in the Rockies, after all. But not to worry, it doesn’t snow much! The month sees an average snowfall of only 1 centimeter (0.39 in). Furthermore, you can expect 0.7 snowfall days on average in June.
The bad news here is that June is the wettest month of the year, with an average of 22.5 rainfall days. Together these days are worth an average of 116 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 to Pack for Banff in June
Packing for Banff National Park in June means packing for warm and sometimes hot days, depending on when you’ll be visiting during this month.
Clothing
When visiting Banff in June, Pack your summer wardrobe. Shorts, polos, T-shirts, you should pack them all. Count on several warm or even hot days. But as June is the wettest month of the year, it’s smart to also pack a rain jacket or waterproof shell.
However, I recommend taking one or two (fleece) sweaters and long pants. Especially when you visit higher altitude locations like Lake Louise or Peyto Lake, it might still be quite cold. As always, pack accordingly.
Gear
Aside from appropriate clothing, you’ll also want to pack some gear. Here are the items you should consider bringing:
- Daypack to carry water, snacks, and extra layers
- Sunglasses to protect against the glare of snow (when visiting higher altitudes)
- A camera to capture the stunning 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 June:
- Pair of sturdy hiking boots
- Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Small first aid kit for emergencies
- Safety gear such as a compass, knife, and bear spray if you plan to hike
Things to Do in Banff in June
Even though June technically counts as shoulder season, there are quite a few summer activities to engage in already. Think about hiking, biking, canoeing, horseback riding and other fun summertime activities. I listed them for you below.
Hiking in Banff in June
While it’s not yet the perfect time of the year for hiking in Banff, the park has many hiking opportunities in June. However, many trails in June can be very wet due to melted snow, making them slippery and muddy.
The good news is that you have many, many, many trails to choose from. 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 Trail, the Tunnel Mountain Trail, the Fenlands Trail, the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike, and the Spray River Loop.
Hike the Sundance Canyon Trail
The Sundance Canyon trail is just a 2-kilometer (1.24 mi) loop, but you’ll have to hike the 3.3-kilometer (2.05 mi) paved path to get to the canyon. Along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of views the Bow River and surrounding area.
Once you reach the canyon, you’ll need to ascend into it and cross bridges between the canyon walls.
Easy hike, highly rewarding!
Biking in Banff in June
Banff National Park has several paved and unpaved bike trails that you can explore on two wheels. One popular route is the Legacy Trail, a 27 kilometers (16.77 mi) paved trail between Banff and Canmore. This trail is snow-free in June and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Highly recommended!
Ride the Star Wars Mountain Bike Trail
The Star Wars Trail is a great choice for intermediate and advanced mountain bikers looking for a challenge. The trail is a 1.6-kilometer (1 mi) singletrack. Along the way, you’ll encounter some technical features like an extended wooden skinny and TTFs that will test your skills. The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of flowy sections.
This short trail is usually ridden as a loop with Return of the Jedi.
The trailhead is accessible from Tunnel Mountain Drive.
Wanna read more about this topic? Read my post on biking in Banff.
Golfing in Banff in June
In June the Banff Springs Golf Course is a perfect place to hone your golf skills. It’s challenging course make you practice hard and home to some of the most scenic golf courses in the world, offering stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
You can play the 18-hole Stanley Thompson and 9-hole Tunnel Mountain courses in Banff. Both offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In June there are not too many tourists in the park yet, so you should be able to book some tee time without too much hassle. Just know that on warm days it can be busy already.
Wanna read more about golfing in Banff? Read the ultimate guide to Golfing at the Banff Springs Golf Course.
Fishing in Banff in June
Banff National Park has many lakes and rivers stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The fishing season is in full swing in June, and you can cast your line in many bodies of water. Remember to purchase a fishing license and follow the regulations.
Fish at Two Jack Lake
Two Jack Lake is a beautiful spot to fish and it’s not far from the Banff Townsite. It provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The lake is easily accessible from the parking lot, and there are plenty of spots along the shoreline to cast your line.
If you don’t have your own fishing gear, there are several outfitters in the area that offer rentals.
Wanna know more about this subject? Check out my comprehensive guide to fishing in Banff National Park.
Canoeing and Kayaking in Banff in June
Banff National Park has several lakes and rivers you can explore by canoe or kayak. The water may still be cold in June, but the scenery is oh-so-worth it. Some popular spots for paddling include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Bow River.
Check out my post on water activities in Banff National Park to learn more.
Visit the Hot Springs in Banff in June
After a day of outdoor activities, relax in Banff’s famous hot springs. The Banff Upper Hot Springs are just a few minutes from downtown Banff and offer 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 June
While Banff National Park’s famous lakes are mainly summer attractions, you can visit them in June no problem! Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake, just to name a few, are all accessible and thawed at this time of the year.
Can You Visit Lake Louise in June?
Yes, you can definitely visit Lake Louise in June! June is a great time to visit Lake Louise, as the lake has thawed, and the large crowds of tourists are still a few weeks away. You can go on some lovely hikes around the lake and have lunch at the Lake Agnes Tea House, for instance.
While June doesn’t draw as many tourists as July and August, you could still encounter parking issues at Lake Louise. This means you will have to get there early (7 am or even earlier) to secure a parking spot.
Can You Visit Moraine Lake in June?
After a long winter closure the road to Moraine Lake has finally reopened. At the lake, you can climb on the big rock pile at the north end shore, or do some hiking. And of course enjoy the stunning scenery!
PLEASE NOTE: You will need to hop on a shuttle bus to Moraine Lake. Due to limited parking availability and the popularity of the lake, Parks Canada doesn’t allow you to park your vehicle in the Moraine Lake parking lot.
Can You Visit Peyto Lake in June?
Yes, you can visit Peyto Lake in June. By this time, the snow has melted, and the thawed lake shows its famous turquoise color again. Although the people visiting the lake starts to increase in June, it’s typically not as busy as it is in July and August.
Do a Helicopter Tour in Banff in June
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’s stunning scenery from above.
Most snow in the park has melted by now, so the landscapes are mostly green, mixed with the snow white peaks of the Rockies. A truly stunning sight!
Some popular helicopter tour companies include Alpine Helicopters and Rockies Heli Canada.
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 June
Visiting Banff in June offers an excellent opportunity to witness the park’s wildlife. Bears have emerged from their hibernation, and you can also see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and moose if you’re lucky.
Go on a Wildlife Spotting Tour
If you want to increase your chances to spot wildlife in Banff it’s a good idea to book a wildlife spotting tour. The guides on these tours are up to date on the latest wildlife activity. There are several tours to choose from.
Enjoy Scenic Views in Banff in June
Now most snow has melted, the breathtaking landscape of Banff has slowly started to show its summer glory. The mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests provide a picture-perfect backdrop, urging you to keep taking pictures!
Visit the Banff Farmers Market (Wednesdays)
The Banff Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday from May to October in Central Park. Here you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.
Wanna read more about markets you can visit? Read my post on markets in the Bow Valley.
Where to Stay in Banff in June
Banff has many lodging options as a major tourist destination in North America. Check out your possibilities below.
Hotels and Lodges in Banff in June
Banff has plenty of options if you’re looking for a more traditional hotel or lodge experience.
The Banff Springs Hotel 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 June
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. Although this campground is one of the two year-round options, in June, all campgrounds have opened for the season, giving you plenty of options.
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 June
Car Rental in Banff in June
Without a doubt, the best way to get around Banff in June 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’d suggest you shop around and compare prices before making a reservation.
Public Transportation in Banff in June
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 June, several bus routes can take you to popular destinations, such as Banff Gondola, Lake Louise, and Johnston Canyon.
Check the Roam Transit website for the latest information.
Taxis in Banff in June
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 June
Despite June being a relatively quiet month in the park, you can still attend some interesting festivals and events. Here’s a list:
Banff Marathon
The Banff Marathon (18 June) is the biggest event in June by far. In fact, this scenic running event is one of Banff’s biggest events of the year. During one of the most scenic marathons in the world, the athletes pass iconic locations like the Bow River, Cascade Mountain and Vermilion Lakes. The event offers a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K.
Aboriginal Day Celebrations
June 21st is National Aboriginal Day in Canada, and Banff National Park celebrates it with various events and activities. You can participate in traditional drumming and dancing, learn about the heritage, culture and history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, and enjoy the traditional foods.
Banff Summer Arts Festival
The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity in the town of Banff hosts the annual Banff Summer Arts Festival. This arts and culture event presents about 150 activities, including musical performances, visual art exhibitions, mountain movies, and new media presentations through August.
The festival features various programs, including classical and contemporary music, dance, drama, opera, and visual arts. It draws artists, performers, and spectators from all over the world.
Bloom and Brunch Festival
The Bloom & Brunch Festival is an annual event at the Banff Gondola and Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen near the town of Banff. It celebrates the arrival of spring and features a buffet brunch, mimosa bar, waffle station, live music, floral photo opportunities, and more.
The festival that began at the end of April will end the first weekend in June 2023, held on Saturday and Sunday.
Statutory Holidays in Banff in June
There are no statutory holidays in Banff in June.
Visiting Banff in February 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 June?
In June, the days are the longest of the entire year in Banff! The sun sets between 9.48 pm (1 June) and 10.01 pm (30 June), so you’ll have plenty of daylight time to discover everything the park has to offer.
Can You Go to Banff in June?
Yes, you can definitely go to Banff in June! In fact, June is a lovely time to visit Banff and one of the best times to visit. The weather is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings, which is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Early June is considered shoulder season, so the crowds are lower than in July and August, but it can get busier towards the end of the month.
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.
Banff Travel Planning Guide
Do I need a visa for Banff?
Most likely not. Citizens of the US, most European countries, Australia and New Zealand don’t need a visa to enter Canada. Not sure? Click the link to see whether you need a visa or not. The typical length of stay in Canada for people with visa-exempt passports is 90 days.
Do I need travel insurance for Banff?
You bet. Feel confident while traveling with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the top names in travel insurance, for just USD 10 on average per day.
What’s the best way to book my Banff accommodation?
If you plan to book a hotel, hostel or bed & breakfast, Booking.com is your best bet. It has the most hotels listed and often offers the best rates.
Do I need to rent a car in Banf?
Absolutely. While Banff is one of the few national parks in North America with a sizeable public transport network, I strongly advise renting a car if you want to make the most of your visit.
Will my phone work in Banff?
It depends. In the towns of Banff and Lake Louise, you should have good to excellent reception. However, in more remote areas, the signal is spotty. In many places, there will be no signal at all.
What’s the best site to buy Banff flights?
If you’re looking for cheap flights to Banff, I recommend Skyscanner. No surprises with suddenly increased rates (for taxes, seats or luggage) upon checkout. What you see is what you get.
If Visiting Banff in June Isn’t for You…
After reading this you might decide not to go to Banff in June after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about traveling to Banff during other months.
