Winter Tours in the Canadian Rockies
That Escape the Ordinary
The Rockies reveal a different kind of magic in winter. Most people never see it.
Explore our award-winning winter tours
Frozen canyons, snow-draped peaks, and trails that feel like they're yours alone.
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FAQs about our Winter Tours
What are the essential winter experiences in Banff National Park?
Banff becomes a breathtaking winter paradise offering far more than just slopes. Highlights include gliding across the ice at frozen Lake Louise, joining guided treks through Johnston Canyon to marvel at iced-over waterfalls, unwinding in the natural Banff Upper Hot Springs, ascending the Banff Gondola for sweeping vistas of six mountain ranges, strapping on snowshoes for peaceful trail adventures, and cruising the Bow Valley Parkway to spot wildlife in the snow.
Is skiing the main winter activity in Banff?
Not at all—while Banff is home to top-tier ski resorts like Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay (collectively SkiBig3), guided tours of Lake Louise and Banff National Park deliver unforgettable exploration. Glide across the frozen surface of iconic Lake Louise on a scenic ice-skating tour or the frozen ice bubbles of Abraham lake, trek Johnston Canyon’s frozen icefalls, or join a guided adventure onto the Columbia Icefield. These curated experiences let you uncover the serene, snow-draped beauty of Banff and Lake Louise without ever stepping onto the slopes.
Is it possible to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in winter?
In winter, Lake Louise is the star attraction and fully accessible—you can skate across its solid ice (rent skates right there or bring your own) and snowshoe over the frozen lake for breathtaking close-ups of Victoria Glacier. Moraine Lake, however, is completely off-limits: its road closes in October due to avalanche hazards and remains shut to all vehicles until late spring. That said, guided winter tours can still get you into nearby high-country areas or along the Icefields Parkway for similar alpine magic.
How do I prepare for winter weather and safety in Banff?
Winter temperatures in Banff can range from -5°C to -40°C (23°F to -40°F), so dress in layers with moisture-wicking base wear, insulated outer shells, mittens, and warm headgear. Always review Parks Canada updates for avalanche forecasts, trail status, and lake ice thickness—natural ice varies and can be risky.