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20 Things to do in Banff in May | A locals secret guide

a man riding a bicycle on a trail in the snow

Is Banff really worth visiting in May?

Yes! May in Banff offers a quieter atmosphere, off-season rates on hotels, and ample opportunities to explore without the crowds.

Check out Radventures locals guide to the shoulder season in Banff where we share with you our top 20 things to do in Banff in May. Let’s get to it!

1 – Drive The Icefields Parkway

It’s obvious why The Icefields Parkway is named the most scenic drive in Canada. Stretching 232 kilometers (144 miles) from Banff National Park to Jasper National Park, the Icefields Parkway offers some of the most incredible scenery Canada has to offer. Be sure to take your time on this once in a lifetime drive and stop to enjoy stops such as Peyto Lake and Mistaya Canyon along the way.

A view of the road on the icefield parkway with mountains in hte background

The Icefields Parkway

There is zero cell service along the Icefields Parkway and weather can be unpredictable in May. We recommend ensuring your vehicle has winter tires and that you have provisions in your car in case of an emergency.

If you’re not keen on driving this road yourself, at Radventures, we offer an awesome day tour that departs from Banff Town and takes you to all of our favorite spots along the Icefields parkway before returning back to Banff town.

Book your Icefields Parkway Adventure here!

2 – Discover Johnston Canyon

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for a bucket-list hike like no other! The Johnston Canyon trail takes you deep down into the canyon on a suspended walkway past flowing turquoise waterfalls and limestone cliffs.

a family observing a waterfall at johnston canyon

Johnston Canyon – Jay R. McDonald – Roam Creative.ca

The hike is a family-friendly 2.3km round trip with only 105m of elevation gain making it accessible to most fitness levels and doable in less than 2 hours (fitness level and selfie taking dependant)

Don’t forget to pack your camera!

Radventures guided tour will take you to Johnston Canyon AND Lake Louise in the same day with a local expert guide. We finish the day with a surprise local secret stop. We can’t give away too much, but expect increased chances of wildlife sightings and stunning landscapes that most visitors miss!

Click here to see Johnston Canyon AND Lake Louise in one tour.

OR click here to for a half day tour to Johnston Canyon.

3 – Spend an afternoon in The Town Of Banff shopping on Banff Avenue

Banff avenue shops

Banff Avenue

Need a quick break from hiking and biking? Hit Banff Avenue and browse through the many gift shops, boutiques selling local crafts, local artist galleries, outdoor clothing and equipment outfitters, and an abundance of amazing local coffee shops.

4 – Banff Gondola

Have you ever dined at a restaurant perched on the summit of a mountain at 7,486ft above sea level?! No? Well now is your once-in-a-lifetime chance!

a view of Banff Gondola climbing a snow covered mountain

Banff Gondola climbing Sulphur Mountain

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