Skiing Is Only Half the Story: Winter Adventures in Banff & Lake Louise
Heading into the town of Banff – it’s all part of the adventure ©Travel Alberta/MIke Seehagel @mikeseehagel
The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the most celebrated skiing in North America. With the vast terrain of Lake Louise ski resort, the high-alpine runs of Banff’s Sunshine Village and the friendly slopes of Mount Norquay, there’s something for everyone from first-timers to seasoned powder hunters.
But while skiing may be what first brings visitors to the Rockies, it’s the unforgettable winter adventures that make holidays here extraordinary.
As Frontier Ski, Canada & US specialist Michael Williamson-Giles says, “If time allows, we always recommend adding a few extra days to discover the landscapes, wildlife, and unique activities that make the Canadian Rockies so special.”
Ski & More
Imagine spending the morning carving through fresh snow beneath towering mountain peaks, then exploring a frozen canyon, gliding across a frozen lake or soaking up panoramic views from a mountain summit.
Watch our latest video for a snapshot of your Rockies ski holiday, followed by ten of our favourite winter experiences to enjoy alongside your time on the slopes.
Johnston Canyon Ice Walk
A group of friends pose for a picture in front of a frozen waterfall at Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park ©Travel Alberta/Anthony Redpath
One of Banff National Park’s most iconic winter experiences, the Johnston Canyon Ice Walk takes visitors deep into a frozen world of waterfalls, ice formations and snow-covered cliffs.
Following a network of elevated walkways through the canyon, you’ll discover frozen cascades and spectacular ice formations that seem almost otherworldly. Guided tours offer intriguing insights into the area’s geology and wildlife, making the experience much more than a simple stroll through the snow.
Dog Sledding Through the Rockies
A couple and guide on a dog sledding tour in Lake Louise, Banff National Park ©Banff & Lake Louise Tourism (BLLT)/Paul Zizka @paulzizkaphoto
Dog sledding offers a unique way to experience the Rockies in winter, combining breathtaking scenery with a genuine sense of adventure.
Whether you’re driving your own sled or sitting back and enjoying the ride, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.
See Alberta’s Famous Ice Bubbles
A woman wild skating on Abraham Lake ©Travel Alberta/John Price @johnpricephotography
Every winter, Abraham Lake becomes famous for its frozen methane bubbles. Trapped beneath the ice, the bubbles create one of Canada’s most remarkable natural phenomena.
For a truly unforgettable perspective, take to the skies on an Ice Bubbles Helicopter Tour. Flying above frozen lakes, mountain peaks, and vast wilderness is a spectacular reminder of just how immense and beautiful the Canadian Rockies really are.
When conditions are right, Abraham Lake also offers some of the most spectacular wild skating in Canada. Skating across the lake with thousands of frozen bubbles trapped below the surface is a unique experience.
Please note: as ice thickness and conditions can vary throughout the winter, it’s important to join a local guided excursion rather than venturing onto the lake independently.
Ride the Banff Gondola
Couple enjoying the view from a lookout point after taking the Banff Gondola ©Travel Alberta/Youn Park @sounds_like_yawn
The Banff Gondola offers is without a doubt one of the best ways to experience the grandeur of the Rockies.
As you ascend Sulphur Mountain, sweeping views over Banff, the Bow Valley, and six mountain ranges stretching into the distance await you. At the summit, visitors can stroll along the boardwalk to the historic Cosmic Ray Station, explore interactive exhibits and enjoy a meal with a view at one of the mountain-top restaurants.
Meet the Wolfdogs
Get up close to the remarkable wolfdogs at Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, a unique wildlife experience near Banff ©Rachelle Winsor @thedirtpath
Situated near Cochrane, and around a 45 minute drive from Banff, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is well worth the journey if you’re an animal lover.
Home to rescued wolfdogs, the sanctuary gives visitors the opportunity to learn about these remarkable animals, their behaviour and the conservation challenges they face.
Guided experiences provide the chance to see the wolfdogs up close while supporting an organisation dedicated to their continuing welfare.
Fat Biking on Snow-Covered Trails
Fat biking on the trail near Banff ©John Gibson Photographics @gibbymtbphoto
Fat biking has become one of the Rockies’ most popular winter activities, thanks to specially designed bikes with oversized tyres that glide across the snow.
It’s a fun and surprisingly accessible way to explore winter trails while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery.
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides
Couple on a sleigh ride through a snowy ©Lake Louise Travel_Alberta___C_lestine_Aerden__celestineae
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, horse-drawn sleigh rides are a wonderfully nostalgic way to enjoy the winter landscape.
Wrapped in warm blankets and surrounded by snow-covered forests and mountain views, it’s easy to see why this activity remains a favourite with visitors to Banff and Lake Louise.
Explore the Rockies on Snowshoes
Snowshoeing at Banff Sunshine ©Banff & Lake Louise Tourism (BLLT)/Paul Zizka @paulzizkaphoto
Long before ski resorts existed, snowshoes were one of the primary ways to travel through the Canadian wilderness during winter.
Today, snowshoeing offers a peaceful way to discover quieter corners of Banff National Park. Following forest trails and open meadows, you’ll enjoy a slower pace and the chance to appreciate the beauty of the Rockies away from the ski lifts.
Ice Climbing for the Adventurous
Posing for pictures while ice climbing in Johnston Canyon ©Travel Alberta/Anthony Redpath
For those looking to try something completely different, ice climbing offers a unique way to experience the Canadian Rockies.
With experienced guides leading the way, visitors can ascend frozen waterfalls and shimmering ice formations surrounded by snow-covered peaks. It’s an exhilarating experience that combines adventure, achievement and unforgettable mountain scenery.
Wildlife Encounters in Winter
Close up of a bighorn sheep looking directly at camera ©Mike Seehagel @mikeseehagel
Winter may blanket the Rockies in snow, but there’s still plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife. Elk are frequently seen wandering through Banff townsite, while bighorn sheep, deer and coyotes are often spied along roads and trails throughout the national park.
Keep your eyes peeled and you may even catch a glimpse of a moose in the quieter areas surrounding Banff and Lake Louise.
Joining a guided wildlife tour can increase your chances of spotting some of the area’s most fascinating residents while learning more about the ecosystems that make the region so special.
Your Tailor-made Ski & More Holiday
Our 10-night Ski & More itinerary combines world-class skiing in Lake Louise, Sunshine Village and Mount Norquay with a carefully selected range of winter experiences that showcase the very best of the Canadian Rockies.
It’s designed for travellers who want to experience everything a Canadian winter has to offer, because in Banff and Lake Louise, skiing may be what brings you here, but it’s only half the story.
Transform your Canadian Rockies ski holiday into a true winter adventure and talk to our tailor-made ski specialists. Call us on 020 8776 8709 or email ski@frontier-travel.co.uk and start planning your Banff Lake Louise adventure today. ATOL PROTECTED No 5405 ABTA W3207.
