Memories that last forever!
Best of Banff
Itinerary Details
Experience the very best of Banff National Park in winter on this action-packed 6-day adventure. From iconic sightseeing and alpine snowshoeing to world-class skiing and classic Canadian dogsledding adventures, this itinerary helps you make the most of every moment in the Canadian Rockies.
You’ll discover world-famous landmarks like Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon, experience classic Canadian winter traditions such as sleigh rides and dog sledding, and enjoy adrenaline-filled adventures! With our expert guides, a mix of high-energy thrills and scenic exploration, this itinerary ensures you see more, do more, and truly maximize your time in Banff. Each day is balanced with guided adventures, bucket-list experiences, and flexible moments to explore at your own pace.
Why we love the Best of Banff itinerary?
All-in-One Winter Adventure: Experience Banff’s top activities, including skiing, snowmobiling, icewalks, dog sledding, and helicopter flights.
Stunning Iconic Scenery: Explore world-famous locations like Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Sunshine Village, and the Icefields Parkway.
Expert-Guided Experiences: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety, seamless logistics, and deeper insight into the Rockies.
Perfect Balance of Adventure & Flexibility: Enjoy a mix of guided tours and free time to explore at your own pace.
Memorable Canadian Rockies Experience: Ideal for travelers seeking breathtaking winter landscapes, thrilling adventures, and bucket-list moments.
Day 1
Kick off your adventure with a winter sightseeing tour of Banff- Discover Banff and it's Wildlife. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, discover the town’s rich history, natural landmarks, and the chance to spot local wildlife as you explore this legendary mountain destination. It's a perfect way to find your bearings when you arrive in Banff!
In the afternoon, ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and take in breathtaking 360° views of the snow-covered Canadian Rockies. It’s the perfect introduction to Banff’s stunning winter scenery.
Top tip: Book your Banff Gondola ticket 30 minutes before sunset to experience the views by day and by night! Also, enjoy the Banff Gondola's Nightrise and immerse yourself in a light show like no other in Banff National Park.
Discover Banff & It's Wildlife
Banff Gondola in Winter
Day 2
On this day, experience the perfect balance of timeless Canadian winter tradition and high-alpine exploration on a day that showcases Banff’s beauty from valley floor to mountain summit.
Start your day by gliding through snow-covered meadows on a horse-drawn sleigh, wrapped in warm blankets and surrounded by iconic mountain views. This relaxing ride offers a peaceful way to experience Banff’s winter landscape, with chances to spot local wildlife and soak in a classic Rocky Mountain ranch charm!
As the temperature warms, join a guided snowshoe adventure at Sunshine Village where you'll take the gondola high into the alpine and step into a pristine winter wilderness. Guided by experts, snowshoe through open powder and enjoying sweeping panoramic views and an unforgettable sense of adventure in the Canadian Rockies. With transpotation from Banff included in this tour and all equipment, this is an experience not to be missed! If you're visiting with children aged 8-11, swap this tour for Snowshoeing to Paint Pots.
Top Tip: Sleigh Rides are included on our Winter Activity Pass which also includes Banff Gondola (Day 1) and your choice of winter rental (Day 4). Do more and save more with our winter packages!
Banff Sleigh Rides
Snowshoeing on Top of the World (at Sunshine Meadows)
Winter Activity Pass
Day 3
Hit the slopes and learn to ski or snowboard! Get ready for an exhilarating mountain day filled with fresh powder and the thrill of skiing or snowboarding in one of the world’s most iconic winter destinations.
Whether you've never ski or snowboarded before or looking to pergect your turns, start your ski-day off right with expert-led ski or snowboard lessons. Our friendly, certified instructors focus on confidence, technique, and safety, setting you up for an enjoyable day on the snow. Lessons are available at Mount Norquay Ski Resort, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village.
Each offers a unique experience, from vast open bowls and scenic cruisers to steeper terrain and classic local runs. With three incredible ski hills to choose from, you can tailor your day to your ability level, interests, and sense of adventure.
If you need ski or snowboard equipment, book in advance with our Ski & Snowboard Rentals to avoid queues at the hill and can hit the slopes first thing!
Ski & Snowboard Lessons
Day 4
Fuel your sense of adventure with an adrenaline-filled day that blends high-speed excitement with relaxed winter exploration.
Start the day with a thrilling half-day snowmobile tour in Golden (1.75hrs drive from Banff), riding deep into pristine alpine terrain. Follow expert guides along scenic mountain trails, through open bowls and powder-filled landscapes, while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. This unforgettable ride delivers pure Canadian Rockies adrenaline and is a standout winter experience.
In the afternoon, slow things down with winter equipment rentals and explore on your own. The drive back to Banff along Highway 1 passes through Yoho National Park and passed Lake Louise. Here are some of our recommendations for stops along the way:
Lace up ice skates for a magical glide across Lake Louise, or use ice cleats to safely wander along the frozen lakeshore
Discover scenic viewpoints and hidden winter gems in Yoho National Park such as Natural Bridge and Emerald Lake
Take a detour up Highway 93 North aka. Icefields Parkway - one of the world's most scenic drives. Bow Lake and Peyto Lake offer perfect opportunity for seeing glaciers and frozen lakes from above!
This flexible afternoon lets you choose your own adventure while soaking in the beauty of the Rockies.
Snowmobile Tours in Golden
Winter Equipment Rentals
Day 5
Experience Banff’s winter magic from serene icy landscapes to laughter-filled thrills on a day that blends natural beauty with pure fun.
Step into a winter wonderland on a guided Johnston Canyon Icewalk, where towering frozen waterfalls, sparkling ice formations, and dramatic canyon walls create one of Banff’s most magical winter experiences. With expert guides leading the way, discover the canyon’s hidden details while safely exploring this icy masterpiece.
Later, turn up the excitement with Snow Tubing at Mount Norquay. Only 10 minutes from Banff, race down Alberta’s largest tubing lanes, feel the rush of speed, and enjoy a playful, high-energy afternoon that’s perfect for all ages. It’s the ultimate fun-filled way to cap off your day in the Rockies.
Icewalk and Tubing package is available for these tours!
Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Snow Tubing at Mt Norquay
Day 6
End your Best of Banff adventure with two truly iconic, once-in-a-lifetime winter experiences that capture the spirit of the Canadian Rockies. Both tours depart from Canmore so why not make a day of it!
Take to the skies on a breathtaking helicopter flight, soaring above snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and vast mountain valleys. Choose between a 25 minute, 35 minute or 45 minute helicopter flight. This unforgettable aerial experience offers a unique perspective of Banff and Canmore’s dramatic winter landscapes.
Finish strong with the legendary Unleash the Musher dog sledding tour. Get hands-on as you help harness the dogs, learn to drive your own sled, and feel the thrill of mushing through pristine winter trails. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, this classic adventure delivers an unforgettable finale to your Best of Banff journey.
Helicopter Flights (Banff & Canmore)
Dogsled Tour - Unleash the Musher
We're here to help
Got questions? We would love to chat with you. Our team of expert staff are ready to help create your dream mountain adventure!
Get in touch on 403-762-4554