Winter in Banff National Park
days
starting fromUS $1,550per person
- Choose your own activities and experiences to make the most of your trip.
- Have all the details of your trip organized and arranged for you.
Explore winter in Banff and Lake Louise
Discover a winter paradise in the Canadian Rockies on this adventure getaway. Discover snow-covered Banff and Lake Louise, whilst enjoying your choice of guided iconic winter activities. Everything is pre-arranged with a four-wheel drive SUV rental, the best hotels in Banff and Lake Louise, and unique winter experiences. Choose daily guided activities such as dogsledding, ice climbing, snowmobile or snowshoeing.
Trip Outline
5 Days / 4 Nights
Arrive Calgary → 2 nights Banff → 2 nights Lake Louise → Depart Calgary
Details of each day Start dates PricingAccommodationsWhat's included
What you'll love about this trip
Discover Canada’s National Parks in Winter
Great choice of activities catered to your interests
Amazing photographic opportunities in the Canadian Rockies
Convenience of a SUV rental to set your own pace
Common Questions
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Is this an escorted tour?
Our vacations are not typically 'escorted.' We combine the best of both worlds – the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities, plus the freedom of 'independent' travel. You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary. This allows us to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, and timeframe.
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Can this trip be made shorter or longer?
Absolutely! We personalize all our clients' trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you'd like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don't interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Canadian Insiders who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.
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Can I customize this trip?
Your trip can be as rich as you'd like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can get your FREE personalized trip plan and decide what you'd like to see and do.
If your trip is a special occasion, we'll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you're traveling with a group, we'll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.
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Where am I staying on this trip?
You'll be staying at various local three to five star hotels or lodges along your route, some of which are very iconic properties with great locations, views and history. All our accommodations are carefully selected by our Canadian Insiders. We'll make sure that wherever you stay, you get the best value and comfort based on the seasonal availability.
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How much does my trip cost?
All our trips are personalized to fit our clients' schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. Please request your personalized quote which will provide you with the detailed information you need.
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What is included in the price?
Typically we include and pre-book all your main trip components so you don't have to worry about your connections, places to stay, or activities on your trip. You'll receive your detailed digital travel documents, and our Canadian Insiders remain at your disposal throughout your trip to answer any questions.
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What are the best ways to travel around Canada?
Canada has a network of spectacular roadways, train routes, ferry crossings, and float planes. We can arrange for you to travel by car or to sit back and relax.
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When is the best time to see wildlife?
That depends on the destination and type. As a rule, the main feeding and migration seasons are best for wildlife experiences. Tell us which animals interest you and we'll make your trip coincide with the best viewing season.
This Trip in Pictures
Get to know the creatures that call this winter landscape home.
Discover a winter paradise on your Banff National Park Winter Trip.
Arrive in the charming town of Banff and enter a winter wonderland.
Spend the day exploring magnificent canyons on a unique guided ice walk.
After a day of adventure, unwind with a stroll and browse the shops along Banff Avenue.
Choose a snowmobiling adventure through beautiful snow-covered trails of the Canadian Rockies.
Make the most of your time by upgrading to a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour from the Icefields Parkway.
Ask your Vacation Advisor about adding extra time for skiing or snowboarding in the Canadian Rockies.
Recommended Itinerary
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized trip plan for you that matches your travel style, schedule and budget.
Day 1 – Canadian Vacation Begins – Calgary to the Canadian Rockies
The cool, crisp air in Calgary is invigorating as you start your Canadian winter vacation. Pick up your four-wheel drive SUV and head to the town of Banff, enjoy the changing scenery through the Canadian Rockies. Spend the night in Banff, one of the liveliest mountain towns on your Canadian holiday. Quaint shops give off a warm welcoming glow, and the scent of homemade maple fudge wafts out of sweet shops.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 2 – Your Banff Winter Adventure Begins
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast to start your day off right before you head out for your first winter experience in the Canadian Rockies.
You have 2 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Dog Sledding Tour
Travel to Canmore, about an hour from Banff, where you will meet a team of friendly huskies waiting to whisk you through the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. Harness the dogs and drive the team yourself, or simply enjoy the experience as a passenger. Either way, this is sure to be one of your most memorable Canadian experiences. Includes transportation to Canmore.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 2: Ice Climbing
The best ice climbing in the world is found in the Canadian Rockies surrounding Banff, Canmore and Lake Louise. Waterfall ice climbing is an unbelievably exhilarating sport and you can experience this first hand on a half-day ice waterfall climbing lesson for beginners. Experience this fun and active sport under the guidance and instruction of professionally certified guides. No experience is necessary.
Activity rating: Moderate
Overnight in Banff.
Day 3 – Banff to Lake Louise
After a leisurely breakfast and checking out of your Banff hotel. Travel a short distance along the Bow Valley Highway to Johnston Canyon where you will meet your guide and strap on some ice cleats. Wander along the catwalks built into the canyon walls, enjoy the views into the gorge below on this breathtaking ice walk. Then warm up in the car as you continue to the Lake Louise and the picturesque Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
There is no better way to spend time together than taking in the beauty of sparkling snow on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Enjoy views of the Château Lake Louise and spectacular, natural mountain scenery along the way.
Featured Dinner
Indulge in a three-course meal surrounded by spectacular lake views, at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 4 – Lake Louise Activities
After a delicious hot breakfast to start your day off you will head out for your choice of full day adventure. You have 2 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Full Day Snowmobile Tour
Travel towards Golden, BC for an exciting snowmobile adventure in the mountains. Stunning Rocky Mountain vistas surround you as you climb up the winding trails into a scenic valley, staying just below the tree line. Enjoy a delicious mountainside BBQ lunch with your fellow riders while warming up by the fire before heading back to town.
• Option 2: Full Day Snowshoe Tour
Enjoy a full day snowshoe adventure exploring Lake Louise mountain from top to bottom. Located in Banff National Park, the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola takes you on a 14 minute ride, up to an elevation of 6850 ft where you can take in the magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy these breathtaking views while taking your first steps in snowshoes. Lunch is included.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 5 – Depart Lake Louise
Much too soon, your winter vacation in Canada comes to an end as you make your way back to Calgary in time for your flight home.
Start Dates
Calgary Trip Start Dates
Daily departures from December 13, 2020 to March 26, 2021
Notes:
• Itinerary and price variations may occur for travel over Christmas, New Years and holidays. Give us a call for additional information.
Pricing
Prices of this trip vary by departure date, hotel class and the choice of activities. Request your quote to check availability or to book this trip.
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Accommodations
Accommodations
Below are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.
The Banff Caribou Lodge And Spa
After a full day of skiing, hiking and sightseeing in the mountains it is wonderful to retreat to this quiet mountain lodge and relax in your comfortable room. Soak your muscles in the jetted whirlpool or get a massage at the Red Earth Spa. The hotel is also home to one of the most popular steakhouses in Canada, so treat yourself to a special meal while you watch the sunset over the mountains.
Rimrock Resort
The stunning 4.5 star Rimrock Resort is built into the side of a mountain, offering gorgeous panoramic views over the Bow Valley from the large windows in the main lobby. The hotel is a fantastic example of Rocky Mountain luxury, with an upscale atmosphere and warm, welcoming service.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Just a few minutes from the town centre, Buffalo Mountain Lodge has the feel of a secluded mountain lodge and a luxury hotel at the same time. All rooms feature mountain views, wood burning fireplaces and each morning you’ll receive a complimentary newspaper. Hiking trails are just a half mile away, and there is a hot tub, steam room and fitness centre to enjoy during you stay.
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What's Included
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
