EXACTLY When You Should Visit Banff National Park (Canada) Pros & Cons of Each Season + tips

[@kayleepoitras491]

I live in Banff and still watched ! Also if you want cheaper accomodation and dont mind a 15-20 min drive into Banff, i recommend staying in Canmore !

[@kimp7160]

That's what we're doing as that is what we did on our last trip 7 years ago. However, I wasn't aware of the park pass requirements for Canmore now. Part of it's past attraction was having a "home base" where you didn't need a pass for every day of your visit. My understanding is you don't need it for town but the surrounding parks you do. It's very recent so most of the travel blogs don't mention it. I'm not even sure how I stumbled across the information as I'm from out of province and don't get their news all the time.

[@debrabalawajder2617]

So in addition to a park pass for Banff, you need another one for Canmore? We plan to go on 2024.

[@kayleepoitras491]

@@debrabalawajder2617 canmore is outside the park .. Youd only need a park pass to come into banff and then theres parking fees in banff (i recommend parking at the train station as its free cause Banff is very walkable)

[@phillyfan70]

Agree with this. We stayed in Canmore in 2019 and enjoyed the small town. Our Airbnb included a park pass so we just drove into Banff and our other destinations daily.

[@teamsaifu]

I want accomodations?

[@blinginspired2725]

Who ever tells me theres a place more gorgeous than Banff has not been to Banff. BC, The Rockies, Banff. All breathtaking.

[@vickycalta2282]

I've been in Banff and yes there are several places more gorgeous than Banff

[@Sabby899-qp1dw]

Alaska and canada are the kings of mountains . I am going there next may.

[@blinginspired2725]

@@vickycalta2282 I'd like to know where?

[@vickycalta2282]

@@Sabby899-qp1dw no they are not 😂😂😂 get out of the bubble

[@vickycalta2282]

@@blinginspired2725 switzerland, patagonia … not even comparable to Canada

[@joeypyron3218]

My wife and I went in January 2023 for our honeymoon. This is easily the most beautiful place I've ever been. I wanted to never come home. Yes, it was cold but I like the cold. We walked across Lake Louise to the frozen waterfall on the far side. We hiked the trails around the Fairmont at Banff Springs. I hope to return someday.

[@justinyang3799]

As a chinese immigrant, after coming here for 10 years,my childhood friend finally decided to pay me a visit this coming February! Would you mind sharing some tips touring around banff?

[@DerekFletcher1]

My wife and I both stay here every year for our anniversary. Fairmont Banff Springs is definitely the way to go in the off season. The gold floor is other worldly.

[@kimp7160]

We're coming up in early November because that's when my husband's work has a shutdown week. I've only ever been to Banff in the off-season. Twice in the fall (late October & early November) and once in early Spring (May long weekend). Our fall visits were always very warm. Even in November we only wore sweaters other than at Lake Louise. The off-season can be very lovely and I find the cool air very invigorating and wild. I have yet to see the area covered in snow so we'll see what the weather is like this time around. We've already packed our winter gear.

[@anjk101]

How was your stay in May? I’m planning to be there last week of May for 4 days, but it doesn’t sound so promising atm

[@ianpatrick23]

This was really helpful to plan our family vacation.

[@CBS21-21]

We love September for hiking, seeing wildlife, the lakes colors.

[@markcummings3146]

I've never visited Canada but this VLOG really encourages me to do do so😀 Thanks so much Aly.

[@alysmalls]

Glad you liked it Mark!

[@fraserhenderson7839]

One should visit Banff (and National parks in general) at exactly ANY time of year. Your best time is when you want to go.

[@alysmalls]

I made a one-page cheat sheet that you can download that has all the info you need (transportation, hotels, tours, activities): drive.google.com/file/d/1PW2qxBrZMlnFq4Bokg-Ehd3c6cjZz9hi/view?usp=sharing

[@alysmalls]

My next video covers insider travel tips for Banff: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jF7RlnuemcuNb8U

[@ricladouceur6202]

It's great anytime!

[@brucecrozier3974]

I went last year in October - great time to go with less visitors and cheaper prices. Absolutely stunning place to visit along with Jasper.

[@alysmalls]

Totally agree!

[@infiniteshufflex]

It is snowy in October?

[@kayleepoitras491]

@@infiniteshufflex it can be ! Doesnt always snow in October but theres always a possibility

[@CapysGardenShop]

@@infiniteshufflex 10/1991 was a crazy blizzard in SE,SD….so one doesn’t have to go far. But this “climate change” has mixed things up. 😅

[@mohammadfarooqi6255]

November is when snow starts as winter begins and goes until early April

[@trailblazing_adventures]

I wad there in Banff yesterday. I was around Montana hiking so I figure I'm close by, ilk take a drive up. It was cold and raining all day yesterday. But wowwww it is so beautiful out there. I can imagine on a clear day how beautiful it would look.

[@goldiegreensill3800]

Absolutely love this place! Miss I 😓 I Was fortunate to live there for 6 yrs! Hope you were able to find some hidden gems! Keep sharing your vids..

[@alysmalls]

It's got to be one of the most magical places to live in the entire world I think :)

[@alysmalls]

Check out my other video about visiting the Canadian Rockies off the beaten path...this spot is like Banff but quieter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipyraHd4hr6igbs

[@edualdoribasdasilva-corret2827]

A beautiful place! I'm enjoying!

[@JatinderKalia-l1m]

Hi, I am planning to visit in July. Video is very much informative and I like it. Thanks for the information

[@paulhuval]

Did a great video on Banff here. I have been there a couple of times but want to go back to bring my wife too. 👍

[@jcam783]

Thank you for all the great tips ! Funny story , I actually did not know this was a real place until one day I was watching an episode of F-Troop called Ze Burglar of Banff ! I got curious , Googled it and found it 😀 Now after watching your video I definitely would love to go visit .

[@canadaauroraborealis3958]

Maybe Hollywood's F-Troop show will feature Sun Valley Idaho USA, and confirm that is a real place. Of Course, there was a famous movie of the 1940's called "Sun Valley Serenade" featuring the Glenn Miller Orchestra which DID put Sun Valley in the minds of a lot of people.

[@kenhuynh275]

First time this Summer and it place you can only dream off. Such an amazing park.

[@yaocheng2080]

Nice video!We are going to banff at the beginning of OCT.Its quite helpful.

[@SuperLADM]

how was it?

[@mirrorhan4056]

Banff of winter so beautiful

[@ronaldcoleman9370]

Love this video and all season breakdown!!! I wish you would come out to America and do some all season videos on our National Parks, like Glacier, Yosemite, and Yellowstone National Parks!!! Or, other KZbinrs see you video and get inspired to make their travel videos like you do!!! Thank You Aly!!!!

[@alysmalls]

Thanks Ronald :) Yellowstone is hopefully soon!

[@janczekaj2077]

Thank You for all the great information!

[@mothmagic1]

Such a beautiful place, I'd love the chance to get back there again.

[@dannycorsaro546]

Horseback riding for a few days and nights in the Rockies is nice!

[@alysmalls]

I would love to do that one day

[@jonnieadventure]

Thanks for the video and tips!

[@alankirkby465]

I'm English, I live in England, UK I once visited Banff, long time ago ( Sept, 1978 ) I recall Banff, didn't somehow appear " Commercial " seen in this video ( just saying ) Personally I enjoyed myself in Banff. Later I caught a Bus to Jasper. Anyway, Peace to all !!

[@jeffhou7090]

Super helpful, lots of good info.

[@jeremybowles9330]

Hey there! Thanks for the valuable information! I am curious though, my wife really wants to kayak onto lake Louise! Is this possible end of March/April? Or is it better to wait until mid May-June? She would really like to see those famous ice crystals.. people have posted about or is this a rare phenom?

[@susanmartin5226]

Your video is very helpful! M family and I are going to Calgary mid of September and we are planning to visit Banff. 👍🏻

[@alysmalls]

Have fun!

[@Gingerwalker.]

How was it in mid Sept? Crowded? Was there snow on the mountain tops?

[@susanmartin5226]

@@Gingerwalker.there was not a lot of snow. But it was still beautiful!

[@wolfgangbing2497]

I visited Banff National Park in different times of the year. This year I will try it in Mid May. Greetings from Germany!

[@alysmalls]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@shafinmahmud1204]

How was it? We are planning to go for 4 days from May 30th to June 3rd

[@wolfgangbing2497]

@@shafinmahmud1204 Wonderful, a good time to travel the Rockies. Not so crowded. In 2023 it was very hot. Have a good and safel travel! All the best. Have fun. Next year I travel again in the wonderful Rockies!

[@girishms3740]

Yeabsolutely a wonderful post. Keep rocking!

[@Sheldon66]

Banff used to be a great place 10-20 years ago. Way too crowded and expensive now....basically a tourist trap. On the flip side great scenery, great skiing, great trekking. Save your shopping $$ though as all the shops are jokingly expensive.

[@azamsyed2876]

Thanks, very informative video will be planning for sep'2023 last week. Reason oct'2023 1 & 2 week likely to be snowy.

[@shahzadhabib6929]

Thanks for detailed information on Benff

[@Hyeonseo_333]

Your video was helpful! I'm going to Lake Louise in March. Can I still ice skate in early March?

[@paavan24026]

Thank you very much Aly for informative video, Appreciate it! I am planning my 1st solo trip towards end of September and hoping I will get lucky to catch fall colors ( and 1st snowfall if luck favors more 😀) I wasn’t sure about exact time when larch will be at their peak, as you mentioned here I think I will be visiting around correct time. Please let me know if you have any recommendations to check out any place for fall. Thanks again for sharing with us. Have a blessed day ahead.

[@pak7523]

Hi planning banff mid may 2023 what's the weather like ..I find bit cheaper deal for may

[@Whatashek]

Thanks for the tips, planning on visiting mid-late may, is it cold still?

[@ohangkana1809]

Stunning views! Was water in Moraine lake less turquoise than july? Wgat about the level of water between july vs September?

[@itsmebella2129]

Very informative! Thank you:) My family and I will be visiting Banff in September.

[@alysmalls]

Enjoy!!

[@Ianman258]

How was it?? I'm planning on going in September as well this year and I would love to know how your experience was with the scenery, crowds, and color of the lakes : 0

[@Jeorgy92]

I cant decide between this or going to Alaska.

[@edgeofinsanity]

I go every year the last week of October, it’s usually a little chilly but with a heavy sweater it’s usually alright! Although this year it looks like it’s going to be a lot colder. It’s also far cheaper and during the week there’s almost no one around.

[@Vanessa-gu6cg]

Hey! im going the last weekend of October. Can you tell me if I should pack fall hiking wear or winter hiking wear? and what type of coat is needed? seems like it could be winter or fall at this...is there likely to be snow by this time of the year? thanks!

[@edgeofinsanity]

@@Vanessa-gu6cg last year it was pretty warm in the day, just like sweater weather. After the sunset I wore a heavy sweater and toque and was fine. However one day I think it was the 30th was very cold had a heavy sweater and winter jacket on. There wasn’t any snow on the ground but once we got a little ways up some mountain hikes there was snow and lots of ice. If you have the room I’d pack for all types of weather just incase! The weather network always changes but it’s predicted to have a high of -2 and low of -15 the last week of October this year so it might be pretty chilly. I think it’s supposed to snow a decent amount this year too.

[@asyed1995]

Love to stay there. .

[@mariafernandazavalareynoso1210]

Thank you Aly! Do you have some recommendations of spots to camp that are not expensive?

[@laddijangu]

Coming up in October 10

[@lovecooking7030]

Want to go here End of March

[@nikkitangtiphongkul1297]

So hiking trail like big beehive loop trail still open in October? I love Fall season.

[@JTHunney]

Hi Aly, great video! I understand you like end of Nov to late Jan for a winter visit. Have you ever visited in March? If yes, would appreciate your suggestions and advice. TIA!

[@PastaRiiCe123]

So my birthday is annoyingly towards the end of October (24th) and was planning on visiting for 10 days or so from the 16th. Will the trees still have that beautiful golden yellow/orange colour around then? I know you said early to mid October but as I'm going more towards the second half of the month will this still be a good time to visit? I'm mainly going for hiking and sightseeing

[@yoonztravels]

What would you say about traveling to Alberta in late May?

[@laczadesign]

Hi! Do you think end of May probably will be good for use for travel to Jasper National park?

[@alysmalls]

end of May is a nice time

[@laczadesign]

@@alysmalls Thank you! :)

[@jeroendekker1053]

thanks for the nice video i really like it. my wife and I are going on June 7 for 2 weeks with a camper through the Canadian rocky's, I hope we will see some real wild animals. This will be our first time to visit Canada and we are really looking forward to it and are already nervous. can you give us some advice on what kind of clothes we should bring? Thanks again for the nice video with clear explanation. greetings from the Netherlands.

[@alysmalls]

Hi Jeroen, lots of light layers! Definitely long pants, light long sleeves and sweaters that you can layer up and take off as you need. I would still pack a couple of warmer weather outfits though (shorts/t-shirts). Enjoy!!

[@ashhish123]

Can you please tell if it is easy to travel within national parks and beyond using public transport in late May season? Or how are the roads for a new driver and if it not much of a hassle with slopes

[@alysmalls]

You will need a car. Late May, the roads are great

[@jakemarch-jones2789]

Hi all... We are looking at visiting Canada and wondering what the weather will be like in Banff around late October

[@formerjadedlass]

Hello! Binge-watching you because I am going to Canada on December on a work trip. Can you advise what footwear did you bring? Did you bring snow boots/ hiking boots specific to snow or just your standard water proof trek shoes?

[@alysmalls]

you would be fine with either or, just something warm and waterproof

[@callumgify]

Thoughts on spending Christmas in Banff 20th-28th is it worth it?? :)

[@ShadowRap-y5l]

Is May frozen?

[@jackhudders]

Looking to go to Banff at the start of April. Is there anything that anyone can recommend as good to do at that time of year. I live in BC so not bothered to ski as we have that at Whistler, more interested in hikes/frozen lake skating or anything similar to that.

[@abhishekshah8651]

Hi I was planning to go in Mid May would be a good time or would it be wet and cold. If you could guide.

[@DerisedEgami]

Does the park pass cover parking, or just getting in the park? - Great video!

[@alysmalls]

Just getting into the park!

[@maddy_rocco]

Thanks for this video lots of useful info! What are the ski resorts called near Banff? When do they usually open from and close? Thanks

[@alysmalls]

Sunshine Village and Lake Louise are the big ones. They usually open mid-November until end of April

[@maddy_rocco]

@@alysmalls thanks!

[@cassieely9150]

I’m planning to visit Banff solo on Mother’s day. Is May a good month? What accommodation and activity will you recommend for a 50+ year old 😊. Thank you.

[@sophrosyne5900]

I lived in Banff for 6 months June - Dec and May is still freezing ( it's not like other areas of Canada ) and Lake Louise is still frozen ... so .. if you are going for a more winter kind of trip there may still be snow ( and def cold temps )

[@cassieely9150]

@@sophrosyne5900 thank you!

[@sophrosyne5900]

@@cassieely9150 You're welcome:) and based on experience through the week trips ( Sunday - Wed ) are much cheaper . Once May 24 comes prices sky rocket being particularly high July and August . Enjoy your trip !

[@cassieely9150]

@@sophrosyne5900 I booked from 5/12-16. I’m excited and at the same time i need this trip so bad after a recent heartbreak.

[@sophrosyne5900]

@@cassieely9150 You'll have an amazing time . Take care of yourself 🌎💚

[@AsenathWaiteDerby]

The amount of snow in June is enough for the trails to stay closed or be dangerous??

[@LeslieBernstein-t5u]

Planning a trip to Banff and Jasper. Thinking of going the last few days of September and first few days of October as from looking at hotel accommodations, I suspect it will be less crowded and may be a little less expensive compared to the middle of the month. However, I am concerned about the weather. We are fine with dry and cold, but wet and cold would not be much fun. Wondering about your thoughts on day hiking during that shoulder between September and October.

[@nghiaho535]

Hi Aly. Thanks for the video and the tips to visit Banff. My Banff and Jasper National Parks trips will be this August (2022) around the 20th. Should there still be crowded or it taper off? I heard you recommend to buy the park ticket in advance to avoid a long line to enter the park. Are there two separate tickets for both national parks or one for all? By the way, we are from California and it will be our first time to visit Banff and Jasper National Parks. Thanks.

[@alysmalls]

Hi Nghia, it's only one pass for all the national parks! And by end of August it should definitely be a little less busy, but during the week not so bad. Have the best time!

[@lindamowry5855]

Is September still too crowded?

[@barruzza]

Traveling to Banff on October 20th. Will we still be able to see Lake Louise and Moraine Lake? Can we drive into Banff or will we need to take a shuttle?

[@alysmalls]

I believe the shuttles to moraine lake are done for the season, you could bike in (could be snowy) and you can drive & park at Lake Louise, just get there early and you can drive into Banff yes

[@AmaLeigh_]

What is it like in April?

[@ShaileeJ]

How about may week 1 ?

[@aries_tottle5551]

Please help! I’m going late May early June. Staying 4 days. Really unsure which type of clothes to take. What clothes should I take? What’s the weather like around that time

[@shafinmahmud1204]

We are also going for 4 days from May 30th to June 3rd, please do let me know if you find any useful info

[@alysmalls]

If possible, check the weather forecast 2 days before you arrive and then pack lol. Last year we went early June and it was 28C, but I have also been there end of May and it was 15C. But regardless, bring layers!

[@silverflight5777]

October us the worst time to visit banff due to bears on their final weeks until hibernation

[@oinkpiggin]

Is US cell services like Verizon still working there ? Thx

[@catherinebeckyclaire]

What might the weather be like in mid to late May?

[@andrewbond41]

I would love to know as well , planning my first solo trip Jun 1st...

[@Asif94333]

Same here. Planning to visit in Last week of May

[@shafinmahmud1204]

How was it? We are planning to go for 4 days from May 30th to June 3rd

[@TroubleshootLIfe]

Thank you for the video. We are planing to go in early March for some tail end winter wonderland. We won’t be driving so we will be using a service from Calvary to Banff. Do you have any recommendations for bus or travel to and from band from Calgary?

[@chapmanmerchant]

the prices are harsh expect 400 cad if not higher

[@dupreemottley7320]

Thanks for your informative video. Much appreciated. I am going to Banff later this month. What time does Banff town open in the morning? I want to avoid the crowds. I am staying at Mount Royal fortunately. What is the earliest time in the morning to visit Lake Louise/Moraine and avoid the crowds?

[@alysmalls]

Most of the coffee shops open at 7 or 8am, and the boutique shops/souvenir stores are usually 9 or 10am. You could leave for Moraine Lake at 4:30 am to get there for sunrise and same with Lake Louise. Enjoy!

[@grahamjones7070]

What is the train system like between these towns for those who don't wanna do any driving?

[@antoniotula262]

It looks like the Flixbus is the easiest way to go. It's a 2hour ride from downtown Calgary (11ave) to Banff (Mount Royal Hotel parking lot). It's around $10. There are also shuttles from the Calgary Airport ($79 or $159 round trip). I literally just Googled this so it's current info. No regular train/ subway type system.

[@nadine6463]

Hello! Planning to spend the Xmas holidays with my kids - coming from Ottawa. Need your help please. Book a ticket to which airport and any recommendations about the hotel ?? Thanks a lot!

[@alysmalls]

Fly in to Calgary airport. I like the Elk & Avenue Hotel or the Fox Hotel - the fox might be best with kids - they have a cool hot tub

[@naynamangalore]

Are dogs of all sizes allowed everywhere in Banff and Jasper year round? Please advise 🙏🏼

[@brentpetryk4917]

all dogs all good all the time :)

[@UmeshchandraPatelShivay]

Nice Place

[@hemalisathiya7481]

What about Spring? is it worth going in April or May? Thank you in advance

[@alysmalls]

May is beautiful. April is nice, but will be hit or miss and likely mucky in lots of spots. Depends what kind of trip you're after.

[@mitzvah613]

I just got back from Banff on April 12th. My wife and I went for 5 days and it was really amazing. 3 days the temperature was above 10c. On the 4th day it rained and 5th it snowed. The rain and snow didn't ruin the trip at all for us.

[@AliMahamden]

Wao nice ❤

[@shrutidutta3347]

Great video! Im headed to Banff for the first time in September. Would it be fair to say it shouldnt be too cold?

[@alysmalls]

I love visiting in September! I'm not sure what your definition of cold is, but September will be crisp but pleasant. It won't be frigid. I hope you enjoy it Shruti!

[@jorgeeugeniovargasmurguia5268]

who is the weather at the end of april?

[@avashayes9248]

How about early August? Is it still very expensive and busy?

[@alysmalls]

yes

[@stellarsjay1773]

Peak summer season.

[@sundus4u]

how about late May?

[@alysmalls]

Perfect time to visit!

[@swaroopa3090]

Is Banff good place to visit during mid feb? Planning to travel with 2 yr old

[@starxrandom]

Would the end of September be really cold in Banff National Park? 🥺 and can we still hike most of the trails?

[@alysmalls]

end of September is usually nice! bring/wear layers, as it could be snowing or it could be sunny and warm-ish

[@starxrandom]

@@alysmalls thank you so much!! :)

[@eduardocortes9118]

Ah mannn, im planning a trip on December and wanted to see moraine lake 😭😭

[@alysmalls]

Technically someone could snowshoe or cross country ski in, but it's 14km one way passing several avalanche areas. I just don't feel comfortable recommending it. Anyone who attempts it should have avalanche training and be very skilled

[@マグロのかまじる]

how about August?

[@alysmalls]

Nice, but expensive and busy

[@Hsarus]

I'm going there during the last week of May and 1st week of June and most places were sold out so I'm expecting it will be crowded.

[@shafinmahmud1204]

How was it? We are planning to go for 4 days from May 30th to June 3rd

[@Colin32269]

My wife is leaving for Banff tomorrow

[@BeeRich33]

You won't make it up to Moraine Lake in the winter. The road is closed. 6:38 You caught me on that.

[@alysmalls]

Yeah, I mentioned that in the video

[@storis511]

Is may ok to visit?, coming through the area at this time

[@alysmalls]

May is perfect

[@WilliamNicholson-d7o]

Banff in Alberta

[@shibluliya4090]

Hey Aly I'm from Bangladesh me and my hubby we want to visit Canada for winter holidays. Christmas and new year .... will Banff a good idea to go for... our tour is kind of honeymoon 😊😊 Appreciate a lot if u reply...

[@alysmalls]

Christmas season in Banff is magical! Everything is decorated and you feel like you're in a real life snowglobe. Highly recommend!

[@ken_eszu]

♥️