Winter Wonderland Safety: A Tourist's Guide to Staying Safe in Banff
Winter is just around the corner (or, depending on when you’re reading this, might already be here!), and as a Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, Banff National Park is preparing to welcome excited visitors from all over the globe to our beautiful slice of the Canadian wilderness.
Dressing for the Weather is a Must
Weather in the Rockies is notoriously fickle all year round, and winter is no exception. Temperatures can plummet (and rise) quickly as weather systems make their way through, and one of the best ways to make sure you’re prepared no matter what happens is to dress in layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, then add an insulating layer like fleece or down to trap heat, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don't forget thermal socks, gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your extremities. For footwear, you’ll want high-quality boots that provide good traction since the area can often get quite icy, and waterproofing is a must if you plan on leaving the town.
While this may seem like a lot for those coming from warmer areas, trust us, it’s worth the extra space for a good winter coat and accessories in your luggage. Being cold isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous depending on the time of year and how frigid that particular winter is. Should you forget adequate clothing (we’ve all been there!), there are plenty of shops in the town of Banff to help you get equipped!
Plan Your Activities and Check Weather Conditions
Before heading out, plan your activities and check the weather forecast. As we said above, the weather can change rapidly here, and even the best-laid plans should be flexible for everyone’s safety. While most activities in the area, like dog sledding, sleigh rides, and even the Banff Gondola, are prepared to operate in fairly cold conditions (we are Canadian, after all!), safety will always be the foremost concern, and should temperatures and conditions dip below what is considered viable, you’ll want to have a few backup plans to make the most of your stay. From hot cocoa to board games and watching a blizzard from the comfort of a fireplace, there’s still plenty of magic to be found no matter the weather!
Drive Carefully
Winter roads can be tricky to navigate, especially if you’re driving a rental car that you may not be as familiar with. Drive cautiously, always look out for animals (especially after dark), use winter tires for increased traction, and leave extra time to get to and from your destination. It’s important to be aware that many activities take place all throughout Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and even Golden BC/Yoho, each of which has a specific commute time you’ll need to be aware of when booking your excursion (if necessary, you can always inquire if transportation is available). Air on the side of caution and leave lots of time to get where you need to go, bearing in mind that both the weather, as well as our local wildlife, can often add a little extra time to your trip.
You’ll also want to be aware that Parks Canada often implements road closures and restrictions during the winter season, primarily for wildlife protection. Check the official Parks Canada website or visitor centres for up-to-date information on road closures and park regulations. Plan your routes accordingly to avoid any unexpected roadblocks.
Respect Wildlife and Stay on Trails
Banff is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. During the winter months, these majestic creatures are more vulnerable due to reduced food supply and natural coverage, which can make encounters particularly dangerous (this is especially true during the shoulder season between winter and spring). If you come across a wild animal never approach them and leave as much distance between yourself and them as possible. You may observe and take pictures from a safe distance, but it is extremely dangerous and illegal to approach or feed a wild animal. When exploring trails, stay on designated paths to minimize your impact on the environment, and always abide by the motto of “leave no trace” to help keep our park ecosystem safe.
Be Avalanche Aware
Banff's backcountry offers fantastic opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, both of which are some of the most popular activities in the region throughout the winter months. With that being said, always stick to regulated, open paths and avoid areas that have been closed for safekeeping. It is advisable to take an avalanche safety course if you plan on venturing out into the backcountry on your own (only advisable for experienced outdoors people), and it is preferable to travel with an experienced guide to minimize the risks of being caught in dangerous situations in unfamiliar, and often tricky to navigate terrain.
Your Source for Safe and Thrilling Adventures
Now that you know how to stay safe when visiting Banff, it’s time to focus on the fun! Banff Adventures is proud to be your source for adventure all winter long with thrilling activities like sightseeing, snow tubing, ice walks and more! Check out our available winter activities here, and don’t forget to see how to double your fun and save with our winter activity packages here!
Contact us today to learn more!
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