As summer 2022 draws to a close and autumn rolls into town, the Rockies Mountains have slowly begun to transform and get ready for the colder months. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Alberta’s most famous mountain range or regularly visit from Calgary or Edmonton, there’s always something new to be found in the wild! At Banff Adventures there’s nothing we love more than welcoming visitors to our beautiful slice of the Canadian outdoors and early fall into winter is a special time of year to visit.

Below, we’ll cover some shoulder season spectaculars to make your next Rocky Mountain road trip extra epic. Read on to learn more!

Shoulder Season? What’s that?

There’s no denying that Banff is a must-visit destination all year round, but most guests to the park tend to hear all about the summer and winter perks over the cooler in-between months. While summer and winter are amazing times to visit Banff and the surrounding region, you’ll also face the reality of visiting with plenty of other people during peak season. That means longer waits on the ski hill or when looking for a spot to eat in the evening, higher hotel costs, and less privacy than you’ll find during the quieter periods of the off-season. Outside of the summer and winter “boom”, visiting Canmore, Banff and the rest of the region can be quite tranquil and easy to do without fighting for your own space to relax. Shoulder season offers jaw-dropping views, affordable pricing, and plenty for the whole family to explore!

Some of the most popular things to do during fall and winter in Banff include:

Horseback Riding

Giddy up! Whether you’re wanting to reconnect with your inner cowboy or simply want a unique way to explore the region, horseback riding is a great way to relax and unwind. As a family-friendly activity that’s full of fun and opportunities to make memories together, our trail rides are conducted by an experienced guide that’s dedicated to keeping you safe while you learn more about the area. Ranging in length from 1-4 hrs (backcountry and extended trips also available), our tours showcase the beauty of the Bow Valley and allow you to easily traverse rugged terrain with the help of your trusty steed.

Gondola

Going up! Want to get the perfect shot of soaring peaks and see the Rockies like never before? The Banff Gondola is here to deliver jaw-dropping views and panoramas for miles! Take a thrilling ride that climbs nearly 7500 ft above Banff and the Bow Valley to the top of Sulphur Mountain where you’ll find a gorgeous and informative centre waiting for you at the end of your journey. Perfect for couples looking to enjoy a romantic date night with a meal at the summit as well as for families, friends and everyone in-between, the gondola is one of our most popular activities and is a frequent feature in Banff Adventure’s packages to help you double your fun and save!

Sightseeing Tours

Looking for a super accessible and family-friendly option for everyone? Sightseeing tours are a fantastic way to make sure you don’t miss any of the “action” in and around Banff. Designed to showcase the beauty of the region, each of our tours treats you to incredible views of famous locations like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Columbia Icefields and landmarks throughout Banff.

Dog Sledding

Looking for an unforgettable experience that’s one of the best ways to make memories in the Rockies? Dogsled tours are by far one of our most popular winter activities and for good reason. Zoom across the snow and see Banff National Park like never before on a 90-minute adventure that gives you plenty of thrills, chills, and a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some very loved working dogs!

Dog sled tours book up extremely early into the season, so if you’re hoping to catch a ride, call us now to reserve your spot this winter!

Tubing

Tubing is a great chance for the whole family to unwind and have some good ol’ Canadian fun. Located just 5 minutes away from Banff centre at the Mt. Norquay tubing park, this thrilling set-up makes it easy to enjoy the snow without having to travel too far and includes 8 lanes that allow for social distancing and safe fun in the great outdoors.

Plan the Perfect Adventure with Banff Adventures

Don’t miss your chance to make your next Rocky Mountain getaway extra epic! We’re proud to offer you access to Banff’s most exciting activities all year round. Whether you’re planning a visit for this fall or winter, our team will help you find the perfect fit for your Rocky Mountain vacation. Contact our team today to learn more.