Easy Ways to Enjoy the Rockies All Winter Long

Explore Banff winter activities beyond skiing with snowshoeing ice skating rentals and iconic experiences. Plan an easy winter itinerary with Banff Adventures.
Winter in Banff offers tons of ways to explore and experience one of Canada’s most beloved national parks. Known for our famous ski hills like Sunshine Village, Mt Norquay and Lake Louise, there’s so much more to do here when you’re not hitting the slopes. Whether you’re travelling with family, visiting as a couple, or planning a low-key winter getaway, Banff’s winter activities make it easy to spend time outside and soak up the mountain scenery.
With convenient rentals, guided experiences, and thoughtfully planned packages, Banff Adventures helps visitors build a winter itinerary that feels fun, balanced, and easy to enjoy. Learn more below!
Get Outside with Winter Rentals
Winter rentals are one of the easiest ways to explore Banff. They give you the freedom to head out on your own, try something new, and enjoy the snow without committing to a full day of structured activity. For those who love flexibility and spontaneity, rentals are the perfect fit.
Popular rental options include:
- Snowshoes for exploring snowy trails
- Ice skates for skating on local rinks
- Ice cleats for added grip during winter walks
Rentals are ideal for families, first-time winter visitors, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors without technical skills or experience.
Snowshoeing: A Relaxed Way to Explore
Snowshoeing is one of Banff’s most accessible winter activities, and an iconic Canadian pastime. Fell the crunch of the snow under your feet while you move at your own pace and take in the beautiful natural features that define the area like frozen creeks and waterfalls, snow kissed evergreens, and sweeping mountain views around every bend.
Snowshoeing is a great choice for:
- Families with older kids
- Couples looking for a peaceful winter outing
- Visitors who enjoy sightseeing and photography
Guided snowshoe tours add an extra layer of insight, sharing stories about the area’s natural environment and history while keeping the experience approachable and relaxed for everyone.
Ice Skating with a Mountain View
Ice skating is another favourite winter activity in Banff! With crisp air and and jaw-dropping views nearby, it’s an easy way to enjoy the season and take in the scenery.
Skating works well as:
- A short activity between sightseeing stops
- An afternoon outing with kids
- A fun way to spend time outdoors without a long time commitment
It’s easy to pair skating with other winter experiences (more on that and our packages in a moment!), making it a flexible option for busy vacation days.
Mix in Iconic Banff Experiences
Winter activities feel even more special when paired with Banff’s most iconic attractions. Banff is home to many bucket list worthy activities that make it easy to extend your fun and make memories you’ll remember forever.
Popular additional activities include:
- Riding the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the Bow Valley
- Dog sledding, a classic Canadian winter experience
- Snow tubing for high-energy family fun
- Scenic sightseeing tours through Banff and Lake Louise
This mix of activities keeps days interesting and helps ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Winter Packages Make Planning Simple
Banff Adventures offers winter packages that bundle favourite activities together into easy-to-book options. Many packages include a mix of rentals, sightseeing experiences, and guest favourites like tubing or gondola rides so you can maximize your fun without breaking the bank.
Packages are a helpful option for:
- First-time visitors
- Families planning multi-day trips
- Travellers who want variety without overplanning
Enjoy Winter at Your Own Pace
With the right mix of rentals, guided experiences, and classic Banff attractions, winter in the Rockies becomes something you’ll fall in love with. Banff Adventures is here to be your all access pass to wonder, all season long. Contact us today to learn more.