In October, larch season is ending in Banff National Park, temperatures drop, and the month usually marks the first significant snowfall after the summer. However, visiting Banff in October’s shoulder season is still very much worth it. In this comprehensive post, I’ll explain why.
At the beginning of October, temperatures are typically still quite comfortable. With the big summer crowds gone, you don’t have to stand in line anywhere. In short: you’ll feel more like you have the park to yourself.
If that sounds appealing, I invite you to read on and discover what else October has in store for you!
Is Banff Worth Visiting in October?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes, because this month allows you to discover two beautiful sides of nature. As the Rockies’ summer appearance has made place for the stunning fall colors, you’ll get a diverse palette of nature’s beauty. Temperatures are decreasing but still high enough to enjoy most summer activities. However, a lot of snow can fall in the second half of the month.
All months have their specific pros and cons. I listed them below to give you a balanced perspective. It will give you the answer to the questions: What is Banff like in October, and Is October a good time to visit Banff?
The Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in October
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| 1. Fewer crowds: October is considered the shoulder season in Banff National Park, which means fewer crowds and less traffic on the roads. This makes it easier to enjoy the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the park without feeling crowded or rushed. | 1. Colder weather: While some people may enjoy the cooler weather in October, others may find the weather in Banff in October too cold for outdoor activities. |
| 2. Lower prices: Many hotels and attractions in Banff offer lower prices in October, making it a more affordable time to visit the park. | 2. Shorter days: In October, the days start to get shorter, which means less daylight for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
| 3. Fall foliage: October means fall foliage in Banff. The golden larch trees are particularly beautiful at the beginning of the month. | 3. Weather unpredictability: While the weather in Banff is generally mild in October, it can be unpredictable. Pack for a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow. |
| 4. Wildlife sightings: As the temperatures start to drop, many animals in Banff National Park become more active and visible. You may have a better chance of spotting elk, moose, and other wildlife in October. | 4. Limited activities: In October, the shoulder season, some of the activities and attractions in Banff National Park may be closed or have limited hours. |
| 5. Cooler weather: October is a great time to visit Banff if you prefer cooler weather. The air is crisp, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without feeling too hot or sweaty. | 5. Limited dining options: Some restaurants and cafes in Banff may be closed or have limited hours in October, which can make it more challenging to find dining options. |
| 6. Hiking: October is a great time to go hiking in Banff. The trails are less crowded, and the cooler temperatures make it easier to hike for longer periods of time. | 6. Snow and ice: Banff can experience snow and ice in October, especially the second half of the month, which can make driving and hiking more difficult. |
| 7. Photography: The fall foliage and changing colors of the trees make October a great time for photography in Banff National Park. | 7. Limited transportation: While Banff has a good transportation system, some buses and shuttles may have limited schedules in October. |
| 8. Fishing: October is a great time for fishing in Banff National Park. The cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to spend time on the water, and the fish are more active. | 8. Limited access to some areas: Some areas of Banff National Park may be closed or have limited access in October due to weather conditions or seasonal closures. |
Banff Weather in October
Knowing what weather to expect is essential for planning a trip to Banff. In October, temperatures really cool down, resulting in crisp air. While October can still have some warm days, at night, temperatures get below zero again.
Average Temperature in Banff in October
October in Banff has an average high temperature of 10.0°C (50.0˚F). The daily mean temperature is 4.3˚C (39.7˚F). On the other hand, the average low is -1.3˚C (29.7˚F). This means it can be chilly at night and also in the morning. You’ll want to wear a sweater for sure!
Snowfall and Precipitation in Banff in October
Does it snow in Banff in October, you may wonder. Yes, October is the first month after the summer that receives significant amounts of snow again. The month gets 179 millimeters on average. That’s almost three times as much as the average for September!
Furthermore, October has an average of 11.7 rainfall days. Together these days are worth an average of only 34 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 October
Packing for Banff National Park in October means packing for colder days, especially in the second half of the month. You should bring a jacket as temperatures late at night and early in the morning will likely get below zero.
Clothing
Knowing what to wear in Banff in October is slightly less obvious than in most other months. In any case, pack warmer clothing. If you’re lucky, you may encounter a few days where a t-shirt or polo will suffice, but make sure you can dress in layers. Bring sweaters, long pants and a jacket. Even bring a hat and gloves. After all, you’re in the Rockies, and it will start to snow again this month.
The evenings and (early) mornings will be cold, especially at higher altitude locations like Lake Louise or Peyto Lake.
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
- 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 October:
- 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
Things to Do in Banff in October
Even though October counts as shoulder season, there are still quite a few summer activities to engage in. So what to do in Banff in October? Think hiking, biking, canoeing, horseback riding, golfing, swimming, climbing, diving, fishing, et cetera, et cetera. I listed them for you below.
Enjoy Larch Season in Banff in October
This time of year, the foliage has changed color, allowing for colorful vistas and enhancing Banff National Park’s already breathtaking splendor. So have your camera ready!
Larch season lasts only until the first week of October. So make sure you catch this particular highlight of the year.
Hiking in Banff in October
October is the last month of the year that offers many hiking opportunities. During the first week of this month, you can enjoy the end of the larch season with the park shrouded in fall colors, enhancing your hiking trips.
The best part of October for hiking is the first half of the month, as it won’t have snowed much yet.
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 to Arnica Lake to See Yellow Larches
If you want to see yellow larches in October, check out the Arnica Lake Trail, a 9.3 kilometer (5.8 mi) hike. The trail starts at the Vista Lake Day Use Area along Highway 93 South and winds through the forest before reaching Arnica Lake.
Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. The trail can be challenging in some sections, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, so it’s important to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Note that hiking to Arnica Lake in October 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.
Biking in Banff in October
October is still a good month for biking in Banff National Park. Especially the first half of the month when it won’t have snowed much yet. The park has many paved and unpaved bike trails that you can explore on two wheels.
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. Highly recommended!
Explore the Town of Banff by Bike
A fun and active way to explore the Banff Townsite in October is hitting the town’s bike trails. Exploring the town by bike is a great way to take in the fall colors and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
Some of the most popular bike trails in the town of Banff include the Bow River Loop, which offers a scenic ride along the Bow River and through the townsite.
You can also check out the easy, 12-kilometer (7.46 mi) Spray River Loop. From the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, it goes west along the Spray River, crosses a bridge across the river, and returns along the eastern side of the riverbank.
Just remember to dress warmly and bring plenty of water and snacks, as it can get cold in October.
Note that biking in Banff in October can be affected by weather conditions, such as snow or ice on the trails. So it’s a good idea to check the weather and trail conditions before you go.
Wanna read more about this topic? Read my post on biking in Banff.
Ride the Banff Gondola
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to experience Banff in October, you should definitely check out the Banff Gondola. The Banff Gondola is a scenic cable car ride that takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain, and offers a great way to see the fall colours from above. Just remember to bring warm clothing.
Once you reach the top of Sulphur Mountain, you can explore the boardwalk to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson’s Peak and learn about Canada’s first national park. You can also enjoy a meal at the Sky Bistro, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you’re in for some excercise, you can hike back down Sulphur Mountain through a series of switchback trails.
It’s important to note that the Banff Gondola can be busy in October, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
Catch the Northern Lights in Banff in October
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 October aren’t rare.
Wanna know about aurora borealis in the park? Read the post about the northern lights in Banff National Park.
Fishing in Banff in October
The fishing crowds of the summer have long gone by now, but you can still cast your line in many bodies of water. Banff National Park has many lakes and rivers stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
Especially the first half of the month makes for some excellent fishing as the weather can still be quite pleasant, and you won’twon’t be bothered by snow yet.
Remember to purchase a fishing license and follow the regulations.
Wanna know more about this subject? Check out my comprehensive guide to fishing in Banff National Park.
Canoeing and Kayaking in Banff in October
Banff National Park has several lakes and rivers you can explore by canoe or kayak. The water will be (even) colder in October, and you’ll want to wear a life jacket as you’re at risk of hypothermia when you fall in the water.
Some of the most popular spots for paddling include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Bow River. Each has rental options.
Check out my post on water activities in Banff National Park to learn more.
Golfing in Banff in October
October is a great time to go golfing in Banff, as the weather is still warm enough, with low rainfall. At the same time, the big summer crowds have left, and green fees are at their lowest.
That’s good news for you, as Banff is 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.
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 October
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 October
With the shoulder season in full swing, the huge summer crowds at Banff National Park’s famous lakes are gone by October. Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake, just to name a few, are all accessible and still unfrozen.
Can You Visit Lake Louise in October?
October is a good time to visit Lake Louise. The park has slowed down at this time of the year, so you’ll have the lake more or less to yourself.
The parking problems of the summer are gone, so you should be able to park at the lake.
Although there may be snow on the ground (depending on when you visit Lake Louise in October), you can still do some lovely hikes and have lunch at the Lake Agnes Tea House, for example, if you hike there before Thanksgiving. It is closed after that.
Can You Visit Moraine Lake in October?
You sure can, but you gotta hurry. Around mid-October, Parks Canada closes the road due to heavy snow and avalanche danger. However, there’s no set date, as it depends on the weather (amount of snowfall), so check the Parks Canada website if you’re planning to visit the lake in the middle of the month.
You can climb on the big rock pile at the north end of the shore or take a hike around the lake. 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 October?
Yes, you can visit Peyto Lake in October (photo). The big crowds have gone, and you can enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the lake and its surroundings more or less in private. Be prepared for snow, though.
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 October
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.
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 October
Visiting Banff in October offers an excellent opportunity to witness the park’s wildlife. You can see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, moose, and, of course, bears.
Banff’s wildlife is still active and visible during this time of year. Although bears will start their hibernation around the end of the month.
One of the best ways to view wildlife in Banff National Park is by taking a guided tour. They will take you to areas of the park where wildlife is commonly spotted.
You can also view wildlife by driving along the park’s scenic roads early in the morning or late in the evening when animals are most active.
The Bow Valley Parkway, Vermilion Lakes Drive, and the Icefields Parkway are popular spots for wildlife viewing. A unique option to see wildlife is by taking a guided canoe or kayak tour.
Wanna make sure to see wildlife during your stay in Banff? Book a wildlife tour! Read my post on the 8 best wildlife tours in Banff National Park to find out which suits you best.
Enjoy Scenic Views in Banff in October
Visiting Banff National Park in October means you’ll see its breathtaking landscapes in full glory, this time in stunning fall colors. 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, especially with the added beauty of the fall colors.
Drive to the Mount Norquay Lookout
The Mount Norquay Lookout is a stunning destination to take in the views of the surrounding mountains, the Bow Valley and the town of Banff in fall colors.
The drive up to the lookout is a winding mountain road. Once you reach the lookout, you can park your car and take a short walk to the viewpoint. It offers panoramic views of the town of Banff and the surrounding mountains.
Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of the Bow Valley and the surrounding forests. It’s a great way to experience the area’s beauty while enjoying a scenic drive through the mountains.
Driving to the Mount Norquay Lookout in October can be affected by weather conditions, such as snow or ice on the road. Check the weather and road conditions before you go, and be prepared for changing conditions.
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 October
Banff has many lodging options as a major tourist destination in North America. Check out your possibilities below.
Hotels and Lodges in Banff in October
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 (photo below).
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 October
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.
Most other campgrounds have closed already. A few are still open but will close in the first week of October.
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 October
Car Rental in Banff in October
Without a doubt, the best way to get around Banff in October 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 October
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 October, 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 October
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 October
While the big summer crowds have left in October, the same goes for festivals and events. The only thing left is the Banff Farmers Market. But you gotta be quick to attend the last one of the season.
Banff Farmers Market (Wednesdays)
The Banff Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday from May to the first Wednesday of 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.
Banff Pride
The Banff Pride takes place from 6 until 15 October and celebrates diversity, love, and kindness in a fun-filled, colorful week. Events include a parade, parties, Beers for Queers, Banff Pride OUTdoors! Full Moon Hike and other activities.
Statutory Holidays in Banff in October
It’s beneficial to be aware of the statutory holidays in October 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 October 2023:
- Thanksgiving (Monday, 9 October)
Visiting Banff in October 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 October?
In October, the days are still nice and quite long in Banff. The sun sets between 7.20 pm (1 October) and 6.17 pm (31 October), so you’ll still have plenty of daylight time to discover everything the park has to offer.
Can You Go to Banff in October?
Yes, you can definitely go to Banff in October! October is considered a shoulder season in Banff, which means that the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower than during peak season.
The fall colors are at their peak, making it a beautiful time to explore the park. Because the weather isn’t yet very cold, October is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Just be sure to pack warm clothing and gear, as the weather can be quite cool and unpredictable. It’s also important to note 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.
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 October Isn’t for You…
After reading this you might decide not to go to Banff in October after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about traveling to Banff during other months.