There is so much to ski and do in Banff National Park. Whether you’re looking to give those ski legs a break or want to have an exciting day adventure to try something new, there are so many non-ski winter activities to try in Banff and Lake Louise. Depending on the length of your stay you may want to break up your days on the slopes or mix things up with an evening activity.
Here are nine non-ski winter activities waiting to be discovered in Banff National Park. Plan ahead and book your experience before arrival, and be sure to check out your lift ticket perks for insider deals on some of these adventures.
1. Ride the snowy trails on a fatbike
Winter fatbiking is the ultimate way to explore the snowy trails of Banff National Park in winter. Similar to mountain biking but at a slower pace, the wide tires make it easy to stay balanced on the snow. Fat biking is a great way to enjoy the snowy trails through the winter season. If you’re unsure where to go or looking up your skills and thrills, book a fatbiking tour and enjoy this epic winter experience.
2. Go tubing at Mt. Norquay
Take a ride down Alberta’s longest tube lanes at Mt. Norquay’s tube park. Race down the tube lanes and slide to the bottom on this spinny and snowy adventure. Suitable for all ages from 4 years and up and at least 42 inches tall. If you’re looking for a truly magical experience, join the night session and slide under the stars.
3. Dog sled through a winter wonderland
Be transported through a true winter wonderland with a dog sled tour. Sit down and enjoy the ride through the beautiful Banff National Park and take in the jaw-dropping views. You can meet your friendly, happy, and hard-working dogs and even give them a few treats too!
4. Ice skate on a frozen lake
Ice skating on a frozen lake, you can’t get more Canadian than that! One of the most iconic lakes in the world, Lake Louise is the perfect spot to get your skates on and twirl on the frozen waters. Pick up rentals from Chateau Ski and Snow, then head onto the ice and take in the crisp mountain air with views of Victoria Glacier. If you’re looking for an evening activity, the rink is illuminated every evening so you dance underneath the stars.
5. Rest and recover in the hot springs
After a tough few days on the mountain, fully relax as you soothe in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. The water is heated geothermally, allowing you to enjoy the warm and mineral-rich waters, giving your body the well-earned rest it deserves.
6. Wander on snowshoes
To go on a winter walk near Banff and Lake Louise snowshoes are a must to avoid sinking into knee-deep (or deeper) snow! Snowshoeing can be experienced at both Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Take in the panoramic winter views of the Canadian Rockies and areas of the resorts not often seen by skiers and snowboarders. Book your snowshoe adventure online with SkiBig3, or call our SkiBig3 Reservations Team at 1-844-754-244 to learn more.
7. Try an alternative ski activity, cross-country style
A slightly alternative skiing experience, cross-country skiing is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery of Banff National Park. Uncover the vast network of classic and skate skiing trails and test your skiing skills in a whole new way. Whether you’re looking to try it for the first time or looking for trails with ultimate views, cross-country skiing will leave you with unforgettable memories.
8. Ice walk through a frozen canyon
Take on a walk with a frozen spectacular. Ice walks in Banff National Park are a unique way to experience winter in Banff and Lake Louise. Wander through canyon walls as you pass water that has been frozen in time. Book an ice walk tour to see them for yourself, or check it out at night for an even more surreal experience.
9. Enjoy a magical winter sleigh ride
What’s more magical than a horse-drawn carriage gliding over sparkling snow? Step onto a sleigh ride and travel through the Bow River Valley as you take in views of Sulphur Mountain and areas of Banff you may not have seen before. Whether you’re going with someone special or looking to snuggle up with the whole family, a sleigh ride is the answer to your fairytale dreams.
Ski, stay and play in Banff National Park
Whether you’re looking for an evening activity, or having a rest day from skiing there are so many non-ski winter activities in Banff and Lake Louise to experience. Ready to plan your ultimate ski vacation? Our in-destination Reservation Specialists can help you create the perfect balance of ski days and off-day activities.
Want some more non-ski activities to round out your ski vacation? Check out our top experiences, adventures and attractions. To book your next ski vacation with SkiBig3, check out our featured ski and stay vacation packages or call us at 1-844-754-2443.
