May is shoulder season in Banff National Park. The ski and snowboarding period is about to end as the snow begins to melt. At the same time, it’s still way too cold for some popular summer season activities. In other words, it’s not the best time to visit the park. On the flip side: lodging prices are much lower than in winter or summer, and the winter crowds have vanished.
If you’re deterred after the introduction to this article, let me tell you this: no matter when you plan to travel to Banff, you can be sure that the park’s scenery will be breathtaking.
Everyone has different motivations for visiting Banff, and May might well be the ideal month for you.
Keep reading to find out!
Is Banff Worth Visiting in May?
Regarding the eternal beauty of the park, I’d say yes! You can’t go wrong with that. For the rest, May is very much an in-between month. Winter has gone, yet temperatures are too low to enjoy spring like you would in many other parts of the planet.
Luckily, several famous summer attractions, such as the Banff Gondola, the Banff Hot Springs and the Cave and Basin, are also open in May. Additionally, you can travel to Lake Louise. Though be aware that it’s still completely frozen over.
However, all months have their specific pros and cons. I listed them below to give you a balanced perspective on visiting Banff in May.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in May
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| 1. Pleasant weather: May is generally a pleasant time to visit Banff National Park, with increasing temperatures and sunshine. While there may still be some rainfall, the overall weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. | 1. Unpredictable weather: While May can offer pleasant weather, it can also bring unpredictable weather patterns, such as sudden snowstorms or rain showers. |
| 2. Lower rates: May is considered a shoulder season in Banff National Park, which means that rates for accommodations, tours, and activities may be lower than during peak season. | 2. Limited public transportation options: While Banff National Park does have a quite extensive public transportation system, some routes and schedules may be limited in May, which can make it more difficult to get around without a car. |
| 3. Fewer crowds: With fewer visitors than during peak season, May can offer a more peaceful and less crowded experience in Banff National Park. You can enjoy the natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. | 3. 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 May, which can limit your options for activities or sightseeing. |
| 4. More wildlife sightings: May is a great time for wildlife viewing in Banff National Park, as many animals have come out of hibernation and are more active. You may have the chance to see bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife. | 4. Limited access to some amenities: Some amenities in Banff National Park, such as public restrooms or visitor centers, may have limited hours or be closed in May. |
| 5. Longer days: In May, the days are getting longer, which means more time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. | 5. Limited access to some trails: Some higher-elevation trails in Banff National Park may still be closed in May due to snow and ice, which can limit your hiking options. You may need to stick to lower-elevation trails. |
| 6. Spring skiing: May can offer great spring skiing conditions in Banff National Park, with softer snow and milder weather. You can enjoy skiing or snowboarding without the crowds and high prices of peak season. | 6. Risk of mudslides: With the melting snow and rainfall, there is a risk of mudslides in some areas of Banff National Park in May, which can impact road and trail access. |
| 7. Wildflowers: May is a great time to see wildflowers in Banff National Park, as many species begin to bloom. You can enjoy the colorful displays of flowers while hiking or sightseeing. | 7. Limited access to campgrounds: Most campgrounds in Banff National Park are still closed in May due to snow and ice. |
| 8. Voluminous waterfalls: With the melting snow and rainfall, May can be a great time to see waterfalls in Banff National Park. The heavily rushing water can provide some dramatic scenery. | 8. Higher risk of avalanches: While May can offer great spring skiing conditions, it can also bring a higher risk of avalanches in the park. |
Weather in Banff in May
If you plan a trip to Banff in May, it’s important to know what weather to expect. Any time of year is a great time to visit Banff, although the weather in May isn’t the best. You may have a pleasant sunny day, but May also sees quite a bit of rainfall.
Average Temperature in Banff in May
May in Banff has an average high temperature of 14.7°C (59.5˚F), but it can get quite a bit colder. The daily mean temperature is 8.3˚C (46.9˚F). The average Low is also above zero degrees Celcius (1.9˚C or 35.4˚F), so temperatures are moving in the right direction.
On the other hand, you can’t exactly call it warm yet, so bring some sweaters and a decent coat. But sure, you could be lucky to catch some good, pleasant days in May.
Snowfall and Precipitation in Banff in May
Temperatures generally staying above zero in May are reflected in the amount of snowfall. The month sees an average of only 11.5 centimeters (4.53 in), which is much less than during the winter months or even April, which receives the most snow annually. In May, you can expect 6.8 snowfall days on average.
Additionally, May is the second-most rainy month (after June), with an average of 19.8 rainfall days. Together they are worth an average of 90 millimeters of rain.
What Is a Chinook Wind?
When visiting Banff in May, you might experience a Chinook wind. This strong, warm, and dry wind can shift the temperature by about 10°C (50°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. In May, there’s still a lot of snow on the ground, especially in higher-elevation areas. So be prepared for sudden temperature and weather changes if you visit Banff in May.
Wanna know more about the climate in the Park? Check out the post discussing everything about Banff National Park’s weather.
What to Pack for Banff in May
Packing for Banff in May involves a bit more than visiting the park in summer. While there may be some lovely sunny days, temperatures can still be relatively low.
Especially when you visit higher altitude locations like Lake Louise or Peyto Lake, it might be surprisingly cold. Pack accordingly.
Clothing
When visiting Banff in May, you’ll likely experience some rather chilly days. So make sure you bring a couple of (fleece) sweaters and decent long pants. You could also bring some short pants as you might be treated to one or two warmer days if you’re lucky but don’t count on it.
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
- Goggles or sunglasses to protect against the glare of snow
- 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 May:
- 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
- Safety gear such as a compass, knife, and bear spray if you plan to hike
Driving to Banff in May
May shouldn’t be as tricky for travel to Banff as it is in the winter. Although you may occasionally encounter some snow, but the roads should be clear and easy to drive.
Things to Do in Banff in May
Even though it’s spring, visiting Banff in May still means snow-covered mountains and the last snowboarding and skiing season convulsions around the beginning of the month.
Despite the rising temperatures, conditions are still not ideal for hiking, biking and other fun summertime activities. Still, May has some excellent activities for you in store, making your visit worthwhile. I listed them for you below.
Skiing and Snowboarding in Banff in May
If you’re coming to Banff to go skiing or snowboarding in May, you can only do so during the first half of the month. We’re talking about the very tail end of the season here.
Even so, Banff is one of the few ski areas in North America where it’s still possible to ski or snowboard in May. So take your chance while you still can!
While the ski area at Norquay Mountain has already closed, plenty of skiers are still descending the slopes at Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.
Enjoy Après Ski in Banff in May
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.
Hiking in Banff in Banff in May
While it’s not the perfect time of the year, you can go hiking in Banff in May. However, many trails may still be covered in snow, making them slippery.
This is especially true if you want to hike in higher-elevation areas. 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, the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike, and the Spray River Loop.
Hike to the Summit of Sulphur Mountain
This popular trail offers stunning views of Banff National Park and the surrounding mountains. Plus, the weather in May is usually quite mild, making it a perfect time to hit the trail and explore the area.
The views from the top of Sulphur Mountain are definitely worth the effort. So why not lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail this May?
Just know that there may still be a lot of snow on the trail.
Golfing in Banff in May
In May the Banff Springs Golf Course opens for the season. It’s 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 May there are relatively few tourists in the park, so you should be able to book some tee time without too much hassle.
Wanna read more about golfing in Banff? Read the ultimate guide to Golfing at the Banff Springs Golf Course.
Visit the Hot Springs in Banff in May
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 May
While Banff National Park’s famous lakes are mainly summer attractions, you can visit most of them in the spring shoulder season. Just know that the lakes are still frozen, so you won’t be able to see their famous turquoise color with your own eyes yet, unfortunately.
Can You Visit Lake Louise in May?
Yes, you can definitely visit Lake Louise in May. Though it’s not the best month of the year to do so. While the lake is still frozen ice skating is not possible anymore. The same goes for other winter activities like snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
Can You Visit Moraine Lake in May?
Unfortunately, the road to Moraine Lake is still closed in May due to heavy snowfall and avalanche risk. The road, which is at an even higher altitude than Lake Louise, 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 during the winter. Just be sure to check for any warnings before heading out.
Can You Visit Peyto Lake in May?
Yes, you can visit Peyto Lake in May. The road to the lake should be open, and most snow at lower altitudes will have melted, making May a great time to visit Peyto Lake. The only disadvantage is that the lake is still frozen.
Go Horseback Riding in Banff in May
Horseback riding in Banff National Park in May is an amazing way to explore the scenery of the Canadian Rockies. With the snow melting and the weather warming up, it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes.
You can take a guided ride along the Bow River and through wooded trails, just like early settlers and fur traders did centuries ago. Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience – many tours offer introductory lessons and cater to riders of all levels.
Wanna know more about riding a horse in Banff? Read my post on horseback riding in Banff National Park.
Take an Open Top Tour in Banff in May
Taking an open top tour in Banff National Park in May is a unique way to experience the Canadian Rockies. These vintage tours with a modern twist offer a historic-style sightseeing adventure in an open-top vehicle.
You can hop on the Legendary Banff Tour, which offers breathtaking views and informative commentary.
Do a Helicopter Tour in Banff in May
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.
A helicopter trip in May means a stunning mix of snow and green forests. It’s absolutely stunning!
Some popular helicopter tour companies include Alpine Helicopters and Rockies Heli Canada.
The main downside of arranging a helicopter tour in May is that cancellations due to severe conditions occur a bit 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 May
Visiting Banff in May offers a unique opportunity to witness the park’s wildlife. You can see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and moose. And bears should already be emerging from their hibernation, so you might be able to spot one or two.
Since May is the shoulder season in Banff, there aren’t too many tourists, which increases your chance of seeing wildlife.
Enjoy Scenic Views in Banff in May
The partially snow-covered landscape of Banff in May offers breathtaking scenic views. The mountains, lakes, rivers, and forests provide a serene and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for stunning photographs!
And with the winter crowds gone, you’ll feel like you have these views all to yourself.
Drive the Icefields Parkway
Driving the Icefields Parkway in May is a fantastic experience that you won’t want to miss! This scenic route is one of the most beautiful drives in the world, and no, I’m not exaggerating.
With mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and many glaciers, including the famous Athabasca Glacier, there’s so much to see and do along the way.
One thing to keep in mind is that the road conditions can be a bit unpredictable in May. While the weather is usually quite mild, there may still be some snow and ice on the road, especially at higher elevations.
But don’t let that scare you off. Just take it easy and you’ll be fine. You’ll be rewarded with one stunning view after the other. And if you’re lucky you might see some wildlife along the way!
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 May
Banff has many lodging options as a major tourist destination in North America. Check out your possibilities below.
Ski Resorts in Banff in May
If you plan to hit the slopes in Banff during the first half of May, you may consider staying at one of the area’s ski resorts.
Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort offer on-site accommodations, making getting from your room to the lifts easy.
At Lake Louise, you can stay at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise, located close to the ski hills. This luxurious resort hotel offers extensive amenities, including a spa and several dining options.
Banff Sunshine has the Sunshine Mountain Lodge at the base of the ski hill, offering the only ski-in/ski-out access in Banff National Park. The lodge also has several dining options and a range of other amenities, including a sauna and an outdoor hot tub.
Hotels and Lodges in Banff in May
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 May
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 May, other campgrounds have opened for the season, giving you more 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 May
Car Rental in Banff in May
Without a doubt, the best way to get around Banff in May 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 May
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 May, 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 May
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 May
Despite May being a relatively quiet month in the park, you can still attend some interesting festivals and events. Here’s a list:
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 from May 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.
Mother’s Day Brunch at the Rimrock
Mother’s Day Brunch at the Rimrock (14 May) is a popular annual event in Banff National Park that offers a unique way to celebrate mothers and grandmothers. The brunch features a sumptuous buffet-style meal at the beautiful Rimrock Resort Hotel. You can enjoy fresh salads, baked goods, hot dishes, and desserts made with locally-sourced ingredients.
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. In 2023, it takes place from 29 April to 4 June 2023, on Saturdays and Sundays.
Inuit Stories With Atta!
Inuit Stories With Atta! (11 May) is an event at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity in the town of Banff. The event features Inuit multi-media artist, speaker, and former national cross-country ski champion, Angus Nuligak Cockney, also known as the Icewalker.
Angus shares his stories, experiences, and insights into Inuit culture, history, and traditions. The event is part of the Banff Centre’s Indigenous Arts program to promote and celebrate Indigenous arts and culture in Canada.
Statutory Holidays in Banff in May
It’s beneficial to be aware of the statutory holidays in May 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 May 2023:
- Victoria Day (Monday, 22 May)
Visiting Banff in May 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 May?
In May, the days are nice and long in Banff. The sun sets between 9.06 pm (1 May) and 9.47 pm (31 May), so you’ll have plenty of daylight time to discover everything the park has to offer.
Can You Go to Banff in May?
Yes. May is considered shoulder season in Banff, which means that the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower than during peak season. While there may still be snow on the ground in May, the weather starts to warm up and the days start to get longer.
Still, make sure you can dress warmly as temperatures are still a bit on the cold side.
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 May Isn’t for You…
After reading this you might decide not to go to Banff in May after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about traveling to Banff during other months.