W I N T ER A DV EN T U R E GU I DE

THE CA NA DI A N ROCK IES

w w w. B a n f f L a ke L o u i s e . c o m

TA BLE OF CONTENTS
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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S & I N T R O D U C T I O N

Introduction Banff & Lake Louise Skiing & Snowboarding Heli-Skiing, Back Country Skiing Cross Country Skiing in Lake Louise Snowshoeing Ice Walking, Ice Climbing Dog Sledding

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Sleigh Rides Ice Skating, Hockey Game Sightseeing Attractions Heritage Snowmobiling, Ice Fishing Lodging, Dining & Shopping Travel Tips

To vacationers seeking the most authentic mountain experience, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage destination that delivers a healthy combination of unspoiled and protected wilderness, wildlife, modern amenities and opportunities for active exploration and adventure. In winter, the Canadian Rockies become a giant playground with a backyard full of fresh snow and impressive peaks, whether youre out enjoying them on skis or sightseeing from below. Established in 1885, Banff National Park was the first national park in Canada and the third in the world. Renowned around the globe, this park encompasses 6,641 square kilometres of mountains, forests, and lakes to explore. Its world-class restaurants, hotels and spas offer plenty of chances to warm up and relax after a day experiencing the great outdoors.

Watch our winter

destination video.

T OW N OF B A N F F
Nestled high in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a town that makes you feel at home and exhilarated with wonder all at the same time. The Town of Banff is truly unique. There is no other place in the world where you can find a vibrant community of artists, athletes, young families, long-term residents, outdoor enthusiasts, business owners, restaurateurs, hoteliers and students nestled in a national park. With modern amenities and more than enough accommodations, restaurants and activities to choose from, Banff is a premier destination for authentic hospitality, mountain culture, relaxation and amusement.

L A K E LOU ISE
The hamlet of Lake Louise, located just minutes from the lake itself, has been developed over the last century to serve the needs of people visiting this astonishingly accessible and picturesque area of Banff National Park. For vacationers seeking the purest of alpine experiences, Lake Louise is a protected mountain destination that is located in close proximity to world-class hotels, postcard perfect lodges, dining options and a variety of winter activities.

TOW N O F B A N F F & L A K E L O U I S E

S K I I N G & S N OW B OA R DI N G
Impressive mountains and heaps of dry powder snow await downhill skiers and snowboarders in Banff National Park. Three ski areas are located within a close drive from the Town of Banff and give you unspoiled views as you carve the hills. With a total of 7,700 acres of developed terrain suitable for beginners and experts alike, the ski season here stretches from November to May. info@skibig3.com | www.skibig3.com SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

Sunshine Village |

www.skibanff.com

Sunshine Village boasts uncrowded slopes, abundant snowfall and panoramic views. Located just 15 minutes from the Town of Banff, this resort ski area offers over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains and an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet. In addition to the Rogers Terrain Park, Sunshine Villages 107 runs are 20% beginner, 55% intermediate and 25% expert. Located 2,100 meters above sea level, the Sunshine Mountain Lodge is Banff s only ski-in ski-out hotel.

Lake Louise |

www.skilouise.com

Spectacular scenery awaits you at the Lake Louise Ski Area. With 4,200 skiable acres, Lake Louise is one of the largest ski areas in North America. The unique layout allows families and groups of varying abilities to ski together. Beginners and intermediate skiers have access to an abundance of gentle slopes and long runs. Experts can explore endless chutes, glades, gullies and remote bowls in some of the Rockies most challenging terrain.

Mt. Norquay |

www.banffnorquay.com

Established in 1926, Mt. Norquay is widely considered to be Banff s best family ski resort. Located only 10 minutes from the Town of Banff, skiers and snowboarders will find terrain for all levels, including groomed runs and a terrain park. This ski area, including Banff s Backyard Terrain Park, has the only night skiing in Banff National Park.

Tubing at Mt. Norquay |

www.banffnorquay.com/tubing

Whether youve never touched skis or a snowboard or just want to try something different, snow tubing is a great way down the hill. This snow tube park, the only one of its kind in the Banff area, has a snow tube rope tow and large sliding lanes to go down along with your group of friends or your family. The tube park also features a small sliding area made specifically for kids.

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

H E L I- S K I I N G
Located in close proximity to Banff National Park, heli-skiing operations allow you to experience the truly untracked terrain of alpine regions of the Canadian Rockies without the lift lines. Take a helicopter out for a day of skiing or spend a week on the slopes from the comfort of a backcountry lodge. No doubt, the Rockies offer the best heli-skiing in the world the sport was invented here!

B AC KC O U N T R Y SK IING
At over 6,000 square kilometres, Banff National Park is a giant playground just beckoning you to experience its more remote, backcountry regions. With the use of touring skis, which allow you to ski both up and downhill, you can venture away from the crowds into pristine alpine areas where you earn your turns. A professional mountain guide is there to lead you to the best slopes and touring terrain, whether youre a beginner, intermediate or advanced skier.

CMH Heli-skiing

Yamnuska Mountain Adventures

www.yamnuska.com info@yamnuska.com

www.cmhski.com info@cmhinc.com

www.rkheliski.com info@heliski.com

R K Heli Ski

H E L I - S K I I N G & B A C K C O U N T RY S K I I N G

C RO S S C O U N T R Y S K I I N G I N L A K E L O U I S E
If youre looking for a leisurely ski or more of a rigorous workout, cross-country skiing is a great way to explore the intimate corners of the Canadian Rockies. Each year, the high elevations of Lake Louise make it an early contender for winters gift of fresh snow. Access is made easy with an extensive network of trails that are groomed and track-set for world-class skiing, whether you head out on your own or with a professional guide. Some trails begin right outside the doorstep of The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Banff Nordic

www.banffnordic.com info@banffnordic.com

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise White Mountain Adventures

www.whitemountainadventures.com info@whitemountainadventures.com

www.fairmont.com/CLL/ cll.mountainadventureconcierge@fairmont.com

C R O S S C O U N T RY S K I I N G I N L A K E L O U I S E

S N OW S HOE I N G
Strap on some snowshoes and venture into the wilderness to discover a peaceful winter wonderland. Snowshoes allow you to walk through the deep, fluffy snow and truly experience the winter landscape. Trained naturalists will accompany you to provide instruction on snowshoeing and to share their knowledge about the flora and fauna. If youre eager to experience more distant mountainous regions, heli-snowshoeing options are also available.

SNOWSHOEING

Discover Banff Tours

www.banfftours.com info@banfftours.com

Great Divide Nature Interpretation

www.greatdivide.ca info@greatdivide.ca

www.icefieldheli.com frontdesk@icefieldheli.com

Icefield Heli

Kananaskis Heli
www.kheli.com info@kheli.com

www.skilouise.com info@skilouise.com

www.natureinfocus.ca info@natureinfocus.ca

www.whitemountainadventures.com info@whitemountainadventures.com

www.fairmont.com/CLL/

cll.mountainadventureconcierge@fairmont.com

SNOWSHOEING

Lake Louise Ski Area

Nature In Focus

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Mountain Heritage Guide Winter Activities

White Mountain Adventures

IC E WA L K I N G
A canyon full of rushing water in summer, Johnston Canyon freezes in winter to form sparkling walls of ice. Formed by ancient glaciers, this is a spectacular geological landmark that is well worth the visit. Join a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of what formed the canyons and to hear stories the rocks and icy formations tell us about the past. For safe walking, you will be provided with ice cleats that grip the ice underfoot.

IC E C L I M B I N G
This winter equivalent to rock climbing is an exhilarating and aesthetic sport. Using crampons and ice tools, you can scale a waterfall with the safety of a rope and under the watchful eye of a professional guide. Get up-close-and-personal with impressive ice formations and take on the challenge of pushing your limits in the vertical world. All climbing equipment is provided.

Discover Banff Tours

I C E WA L K I N G & I C E C L I M B I N G www.banfftours.com info@banfftours.com

Yamnuska Mountain Adventures

www.yamnuska.com info@yamnuska.com

Icefield Heli

www.icefieldheli.com frontdesk@icefieldheli.com

White Mountain Adventures

www.whitemountainadventures.com info@whitemountainadventures.com

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D O G S L E D DI N G
Sit under a blanket on a traditional dogsled and let a team of huskies lead you on a picturesque journey through mountain valleys. This is a once-in-a-lifetime and truly Canadian activity you wont want to miss. Enjoy the excitement of mushing the sled yourself and guiding a team of dogs down the trail. Several dogsledding companies are available in the area and offer a variety of excursions, including half-hour, halfday and full day tours.

Howling Dog Tours

www.howlingdogtours.com info@howlingdogtours.com

Kananaskis Heli
www.kheli.com info@kheli.com

Kingmik Dog Sled Tours

www.kingmikdogsledtours.com info@kingmikdogsledtours.com

Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours

www.snowyowltours.com leaddog@snowyowltours.com

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DOG SLEDDING

S L E IG H R I DE S
Nothing could be more special than sipping on a cup of hot cocoa as you ride through snow-filled trails on a horse-drawn sleigh. Hop onboard, snuggle under a blanket and enjoy the scenery as horses clip-clop their way among snow-topped evergreen trees. Available in both the Town of Banff and Lake Louise areas, sleigh rides add an authentic Western experience to your holiday.

Brewster Adventures

www.brewsteradventures.com horses@brewsteradventures.com

Holiday on Horseback
www.horseback.com warner@horseback.com

SLEIGH RIDES

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HO C K E Y G A M E
Banff is just an hour and a half drive from Calgary, where you can join the crowds for a National Hockey League (NHL) game at the famed Scotiabank Saddledome arena. Cheer on the Calgary Flames and get ready for the fastpaced action of Canadas favourite sport. Unsure of the rules? Rest easy; the tour includes expert commentary from your on-board guide.

Banff Adventures Unlimited Pro Hockey Tours

www.banffadventures.com/hockey_w.html info@banffadventures.com

www.prohockeytours.com propuck@telus.net

IC E S K AT I N G
The sparkling, glacier-fed waters of Banff National Park freeze over in winter, providing you with some of the most scenic skating rinks in the world. Enjoy the ice at The Fairmont Banff Springs, where you can lace up your skates under a shelter and warm up next to a crackling fire. You can also skate or play a game of pond hockey on the world-famous lake at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

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I C E S K AT I N G & H O C K E Y G A M E S

S IG H T S E E I N G
You dont have to be a skier or outdoor enthusiast to enjoy Banff National Park in winter. Cool, crisp air, bright blue skies and mountains glimmering under a fresh coat of snow make sightseeing in Banff a great wintertime activity. There are a variety of scenic drives that provide you with superb photo opportunities and a chance to see frozen lakes and waterfalls amidst towering peaks all from the comfort and warmth of a vehicle. The TransCanada Highway, running from Banff to Lake Louise, is full of scenic roadside stops. Youll wind your way past the frozen waters of the Bow River and striking peaks. Go a little bit further up the Icefields Parkway, rated one of the worlds great scenic highways by National Geographic, which offers impressive views of expansive mountain wilderness and ancient glaciers. You can also take a drive around the historic Town of Banff, up the Mt. Norquay Road, out to the stunning shores of Lake Minnewanka or up Tunnel Mountain for views of the illustrious Fairmont Banff Springs from Surprise Corner. For an unparalleled, birds-eye view of the Canadian Rockies, helicopter tours are available for sightseeing and begin in the mountain areas neighbouring Banff National Park. Tours last from 20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how long youd like to stay up in the air!

Icefield Heli

www.icefieldheli.com frontdesk@icefieldheli.com

Kananaskis Heli
www.kheli.com info@kheli.com

Alpine Helicopters

canmore@alpinehelicopters.com www.alpinehelicopter.com/tourism

SIGHTSEEING

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AT T R AC T IO N S
Gondola
See more mountains in a moment than most see in a lifetime! Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a birds eye view of six mountain ranges. Banff Gondola is located just five minutes from the Town of Banff, on the shoulder of Sulphur Mountain. The 360 view from the upper gondola terminal, view-decks and Summit Ridge Interpretive Boardwalk offer the very best vantage point in the area. www.explorerockies.com/banff-gondola | attractions@brewster.ca

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Open year-round, the Banff Upper Hot Springs are especially great for relaxing in winter. All the amenities of a modern facility are featured in this splendid, historic spa and bathhouse against a backdrop of Banff s spectacular alpine scenery. Banff s premier attraction features an outdoor source-fed pool, childrens area, gift shop, indoor and outdoor cafeteria, spacious change rooms and day spa. www.hotsprings.ca | hot.springs@pc.gc.ca

Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola

AT T R A C T I O N S The Lake Louise Ski Area now has more to offer those who are looking for more than skiing and snowboarding adventures. Enjoy a relaxing sightseeing ride to the top of the world on the Grizzly Gondola. Experience the breathtaking scenery and the incredible views of soaring, ice-encrusted peaks including Mount Temple and Mount Victoria. Come and see Lake Louise from a new perspective! www.skilouise.com | info@skilouise.com 15

H E R I TAG E
Museums
Banff offers you many authentic opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture of the past and present. Learn about First Nations at the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum, Banff s natural history at the Banff Park Museum and the earliest pioneers at the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.

Banff Park Museum National Historic Site

www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ab/banff/index.aspx banff.vrc@pc.gc.ca

Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum & Gift Shop

www.buffalonationsmuseum.ca buffalonations@telus.net

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ab/caveandbasin/index.aspx banff.vrc@pc.gc.ca

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

www.whyte.org info@whyte.org

H E R I TA G E

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S N OW M OB I L I N G
Banff National Park is the gateway to many other mountain adventures, including snowmobiling. This adventure awaits you outside of the park itself but nearby, amidst beautiful, snow-clad peaks. With half-day and full-day guided tour options available, each guest is equipped with a helmet, warm clothes and their very own snowmobile to explore the vast mountain terrain.

IC E F I S H I N G
Ice fishing, offered December through April, is located on the beautiful Spray Lakes in Kananaskis Country, just outside Banff National Park. Relax in heated huts on the ice while you fish for trout and white fish. Your guides will even cook your catch on-site for a shoreline lunch! All fishing gear, equipment and warm winter clothes will be provided.

Awesome All Season Adventures

www.banffatvtours.com awesome@telusplanet.net

Banff Fishing Unlimited

www.banff-fishing.com/ice.html info@banff-fishing.com

Toby Creek Adventures

www.tobycreekadventures.com info@tobycreekadventures.com

Wet N Wild Adventures

www.wetnwild.bc.ca info@wetnwild.bc.ca

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SNOWMOBILING & ICE FISHING

L O D GI N G , DI N I N G & S HOPPI N G
Lodging
Banff National Park prides itself not only in its scenery but also in the variety and quality of available accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to mountain lodges. Hoteliers consider it a privilege to offer you customized service, dining options onsite or in nearby venues, advice on activities and access to spa and wellness facilities. fine cheeses and wines. If youre in the mood for sushi, Thai, Mexican, Swiss fondue or kicking your heels at a local dance club, youve got more than enough choices to try. Various hotels and restaurants offer menus that cater to the needs of international travellers, including Asian dishes.

Shopping Dining
This destination has attracted some of the very best in Canadian and internationally inspired foods, also known as Canadian Rocky Mountain Cuisine. Many restaurants help you sample the regional fare, bringing in organic and sustainably sourced Alberta beef and bison, If youre looking to shop, both Banff and Lake Louise have vendors to help you gear up for your next adventure, buy a perfect souvenir from a boutique shop or a piece of art from a firstclass gallery. With the assortment of shopping experiences in these mountain towns, youre sure to find something special to remind you of your trip to the Canadian Rockies.

LODGING, DINING & SHOPPING

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T R AV E L T I P S
Quick Facts
Currency: Time Zone: Electricity: Sales Tax: Mountain Standard Time (UTC - 7 hours). Canadian Dollars. Currency exchanges are available in the Town of Banff.

Measurements:

110 volts. Plugs are two flat parallel prongs or two flat and one round prong. 5 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST). There is no provincial sales tax in Alberta.

Metric.

Weather, Clothing & Seasonal Temperatures

The weather in The Canadian Rockies is unpredictable, but as long as you carry a variety of layers, youll be well prepared! The sun at these alpine altitudes is strong, so bring some sunglasses and a hat for yearround protection from UV exposure. The winter air in Banff tends to be cold and dry (with average highs of 2C/36F), but it is warmer than similar mountainous areas because of Chinook winds. While the peaks and ski hills in the area receive a large amount of snow, the Town of Banff receives a moderate amount. To stay cozy and dry, youll need warm clothing, a heavy jacket, hat, mitts and waterproof footwear.

To Edmonton To Kamloops
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JASPER

Canada

93
Iceelds Parkway

To Red Deer Drumheller and Badlands

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O
LAKE LOUISE To Vancouver
1
Vermilion Lakes Lake Bow Valley Minnewanka Parkway Loop

93 Mountain

Tunnel

CANMORE

To Radium Hot Springs

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T R AV E L T I P S

BANFF

To Calgary

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BanffLakeLouise.com