Snowshoeing, ice walks, sleigh rides and frozen canyons. What runs between November and April, how long each day takes, and which of them suit a first winter visit.
This winter day trip reveals the frozen magic of the Icefields Parkway. Visit Abraham Lake (Dec 1–Mar 31) for its stunning trapped ice bubbles or Sunwapta Falls (Oct 14–Nov 30 & Apr 1–May 31) for icy cascades. Marvel at Peyto Lake’s wolf-shaped white expanse and serene Bow Lake framed by snow-covered peaks.
Heli Snowshoeing Adventure in the Canadian Rockies offers stunning birds-eye views of snowy mountains, frozen lakes, and glaciers from a helicopter ride (20 or 30 minutes). Land at a high alpine meadow with 2+ meters of snow or at the Cline River/Waterfalls Creek confluence. Snowshoe 1 hour to a frozen waterfall, warm up with hot chocolate and Irish cream halfway.
This beginner-friendly ice climbing program safely introduces the sport with a focus on basics. Ideal for friends or families (kids 14+). Meet 8/9 AM in Banff, Lake Louise, or Field BC area (location may adjust based on conditions), finish ~3/4 PM. Small group (min 4 required).
Banff’s winter meadows glow under a blanket of snow on this cozy sleigh ride. Meet at the stables for check-in, then snuggle under wool blankets as horses pull you through scenic valleys. Listen to your guide’s stories while spotting elk and deer. The tinkling sleigh bells and mountain views create pure magic.
Snowshoe through Banff National Park’s powdery wilderness on this guided group adventure. Explore miles of pristine trails with a professional guide, enjoying fun, challenge, and learning in stunning winter scenery. Expect beautiful sunny days with sparkling snow and mountain panoramas or snowy whiteout conditions for a real mountain experience
Banff’s winter magic shines on this guided snowshoe tour to Kootenay National Park’s Paint Pots. Pickup from Banff in a modern minibus, scenic drive along Highway 93 South. At the trailhead, get fitted with snowshoes and a beginner intro. Hike the easy 3 km flat forest trail over a frozen Vermilion River bridge to colorful mineral deposits once used by First Nations for rock painting. Learn fur trade history and Indigenous stories.
This jam-packed winter day maximizes Banff’s magic with ice skating on frozen Lake Louise, snowshoeing hidden trails, and Johnston Canyon’s icicle waterfalls. Your guide tailors the itinerary daily to avoid crowds and hit under-the-radar spots in surreal alpine landscapes. Small group for personalized attention, hassle-free hotel pickup from Banff locations.
Pickup from Banff in a modern minibus along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon trailhead. Your guide fits ice cleats over winter boots and shares winter hiking tips. Moderate 2.7 km hike (135 m elevation) on steel catwalks through the canyon for views of ice and river below. Stop at Lower Falls (optional cave walk), then Upper Falls for ice pillars, climbers, and a hot chocolate break.
Every tour above is operated by a licensed local company and booked on the operator's own listing, where live dates and prices are shown. Banff National Park Tours lists the ones that hold their ratings across a full season.
