Visiting Banff in November: ‘Empty’ Park in the Shoulder Season

November is arguably the least exciting month to visit Banff National Park. That’s because the month marks the low point in the shoulder season. However, visiting Banff in November isn’t necessarily a bad idea. It depends on what you want to do. Besides, there are advantages to visiting Banff in November, like the start of the skiing and snowboarding season! In this post, you’ll discover everything you need to know. 

Temperatures get well below zero, lakes start to freeze over, snow is ubiquitous again, and the hordes of tourists have left to leave behind a quiet park that has become much more affordable than in summer. That just about sums up this month.

There’s always a good reason to visit Banff National Park. So, in case you wanna know the ins and outs of the park in the shoulder season, read on to find out!

Is Banff Worth Visiting in November?

As I probably made clear in the introduction to this article, November is not the most attractive month to visit Banff National Park. Many activities are not available anymore or are not available yet. However, there are some early skiing possibilities toward the end of the month! 

Before you click away, I want to stress that the park is also stunning in November. Additionally, the month has advantages that make visiting the Rockies in November appealing. 

In short: all months have their specific pros and cons. I listed them below to give you a balanced perspective on visiting Banff in November.

The Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in November

PROS	CONS
1. Lower prices: November is considered the off-season, so prices for accommodations, tours, and activities are generally lower than during the peak season.	1. Cold temperatures: November in Banff National Park can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
2. Fewer crowds: With fewer visitors in November, popular attractions and trails are less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and serene experience.	2. Snow and ice: The snow and ice can make driving and hiking more difficult, and some trails may be closed due to weather conditions.
3. Scenic winter landscapes: The snow-covered mountains and trees create picturesque scenery.	3. Limited daylight: With shorter days, visitors have less time to enjoy outdoor activities and attractions.
4. Skiing and snowboarding: The ski season usually begins in November, so visitors can hit the slopes and enjoy fresh powder without the crowds.	4. Seasonal road closures: Some roads and attractions may be closed due to seasonal maintenance or weather conditions.
5. Northern Lights viewing: The clear, dark skies of November provide optimal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights.	5. Limited dining options: Some restaurants and cafes may be closed during the off-season.
6. Relaxation: With fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere, November is a great time to relax in the natural beauty of Banff National Park.	6. Limited tour options: Some tours and activities may not be available during the off-season.
7. Photography opportunities: The winter landscapes and wildlife provide unique and stunning photo opportunities.	7. Unpredictable weather: November weather in Banff National Park can be unpredictable, with snow, rain, and even sunny days all possible. You should be prepared for a range of weather conditions.
8. Cozy accommodations: With the colder weather, visitors can enjoy cozy accommodations with fireplaces and hot tubs.	8. Limited transportation options: Public transportation options may be limited during the off-season, making it more difficult to get around.
9. Wildlife viewing: While some animals may begin to prepare for hibernation, other animals are still active and can be seen in their natural habitats.	9. Risk of avalanches: With the beginning of the ski season, there is an increased risk of avalanches in some areas of the park.

Weather in Banff in November

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

Average Temperature in Banff in November

November in Banff has an average high temperature of 0.1°C (32.2˚F). The daily mean temperature is -4.1˚C (24.6˚F). On the other hand, the average low is -8.1˚C (17.4˚F). This means it’s cold all day, so make sure you bring your winter clothing with you. 

Snowfall and Precipitation in Banff in November

November receives significant amounts of snow. The month gets 217 millimeters on average. That’s even more than in December!

Furthermore, November has an average of 11.5 rainfall days. Together these days are worth an average of only 31 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 November

Packing for Banff National Park in November means packing for winter, as temperatures are below zero most of the day. 

Clothing

When visiting Banff in November, pack warm clothing. Bring some sweaters, long pants and a warm jacket. It’s essential that you can dress in layers to keep you warm. Oh, and don’t forget a hat, a scarf and gloves.

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
• 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 November:

• 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 or bike

Driving to Banff in November

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

• 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 November

Even though November counts as shoulder season, there are still some cool activities to engage in. Think hiking, biking and snowshoeing. I listed them for you below. 

Hiking in Banff in November

Despite the snow and cold temperatures making for several popular hiking trail closures, you still have some excellent options for hiking in November. 

Some popular trails include the Johnston Canyon Trail, the Tunnel Mountain Trail, the Fenlands Trail, and the Sulphur Mountain Trail.

Biking in Banff in November

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

Skiing and Snowboarding in Banff in November

Skiing and snowboarding in Banff National Park in November is possible, but it depends on the weather conditions and the opening dates of the ski resorts. 

The ski season in Banff typically begins in mid to late November, with the opening dates varying from year to year. The three main ski resorts in Banff National Park are Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay. 

These resorts offer terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginner to advanced.

Ice Walking and Ice Climbing in Banff in November

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.

Visit the Frozen Falls of Johnston Canyon

Visiting the frozen falls of Johnston Canyon is a unique winter experience in Banff National Park. The canyon offers a great opportunity to see the frozen waterfalls up close. Traverse the canyon via the built-in steel catwalks, and admire enormous ice pillars on your way to the falls.

The hike to the frozen falls is a 5.8 kilometer (3.6 mi) walk that winds through the canyon.

The frozen falls at Johnston Canyon in Banff can be affected by weather conditions, such as snow or ice on the trail. It’s a good idea to check the weather and trail conditions before you go, and to be prepared for changing conditions. 

Catch the Northern Lights in Banff in November

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. 

While the best time to see the Northern Lights in Banff is from December to March, they can be visible any time of the year. Occurrences in November aren’t rare.

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

Visit the Hot Springs in Banff in November

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 November

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

Can You Visit Lake Louise in November?

Yes, you sure can visit Lake Louise in November. It may not be the best time to visit Lake Louise, as the shoulder season is heading into winter and the lake is starting to freeze. During this month you can enjoy winter activities such as hiking and snowshoeing at Lake Louise.

Can You Visit Moraine Lake in November?

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 November. Just be sure to check for any warnings before heading out.

Can You Visit Peyto Lake in November?

Yes, you can visit Peyto Lake in November, but accessing the lake may be more difficult due to winter road closures, depending on weather conditions. However, if the road is open, November 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 November

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 November means a stunning white landscape that delivers an entirely different view of the park than in summer. It’s absolutely stunning!

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

The main downside of booking a helicopter tour in November 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 November

Viewing wildlife in Banff in November is possible, but it may be more difficult than at other times of the year. Some animals, like bears, may begin to prepare for hibernation in November, while others may still be 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.

Visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

If you ask me, you should definitely consider visiting the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary during your stay in Banff. It’s only about an hour’s drive to Cochrane, and it’s a great way to spend a day outside of the park. 

You’ll get to see some amazing wolfdogs up close and learn all about their history and behavior. Plus, the sanctuary is situated on 160 acres of beautiful land, so you’ll get to enjoy some stunning views while you’re there.

Wanna read more about wildlife in the park? Read my guide on wildlife in Banff National Park.

Enjoy Scenic Views in Banff in November

Visiting Banff National Park in November 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, urging you to take pictures!

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 November

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

Hotels and Lodges in Banff in November

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 November

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 November

Car Rental in Banff in November

Without a doubt, the best way to get around Banff in November 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 November

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 November, 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 November

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 November

While the big summer crowds have left in November, the same goes for festivals and events.

Banff Christmas Market

The Banff Christmas Market is held annually in Banff in late November 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 November, 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.

Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival 

The Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival takes place in early November. It celebrates mountain culture through film screenings, book signings, and other events. It’s held at the Banff Centre on Tunnel Mountain and hosts in-person theater events and virtual online screenings.

Banff Craft Beer Festival

The Banff Craft Beer Festival features over 40 Alberta and British Columbia breweries showcasing their craft beers. You can sample all kinds of beers, from traditional lagers and ales to more experimental brews. 

In addition to beer, the festival also features food vendors, live entertainment, and guided cave tours. The festival is held at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, just outside the town of Banff. 

Statutory Holidays in Banff in November

It’s beneficial to be aware of the statutory holidays in November 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 November 2023:

• Remembrance Day (Saturday, 11 November)

Visiting Banff in November 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 November?

In November, the days are still nice and quite long in Banff. The sun sets between 6.16 pm (1 November) and 5.38 pm (30 November), so you’ll still have plenty of daylight time to discover everything the park has to offer.

Can You Go to Banff in November?

Yes, you can go to Banff in November. As November is part of the shoulder season and on the verge of winter it’s not the best month to visit.

However, November is also a much quieter time to visit Banff, so you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the park’s winter scenery with smaller crowds. Also, accommodation is quite a bit cheaper than in summer.

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 November Isn’t for You…

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