At Skican, we want to be sure that you get the most out of your winter vacation — with or without your skis! That is why we’ve put together this list of six must-do activities to try without your ski boots in Banff and Lake Louise.
Leave a comment below if you see a must-do activity that you think should’ve made the list!
Ice Skating on Lake Louise
Credit: Jake Dyson
First on our list, try swapping your ski boots for a pair of ice skates and heading down to the frozen shores of Lake Louise. Every winter, the lake transforms into a natural skating rink with spectacular views of the mountains and the glacier behind.
The rink is maintained by the staff of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, who also provide a heated shelter where skaters can take a break to warm themselves before venturing back out on the ice. Visitors can join pick-up games of hockey, or enjoy a leisurely skate while taking in the beautiful scenery.
We highly recommend planning your visit at the same time as the Ice Magic Festival, which typically takes place in January each year. For several weeks during the festival, the lake will feature fantastic ice carvings, created by talented artists from around the world. You can even catch the event live to see the carvers in action!
Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
If you’re feeling sore after a few days on the slopes, a visit to the Banff Upper Hot Springs is the perfect way to soothe your tired and achy muscles.
Banff Upper Hot Springs is the best-known destination for people looking to enjoy this unique phenomenon. Discovered in 1883 by rail workers, the Banff Upper Hot Springs are the highest operating hot spring in Canada, located on the slopes of Sulphur Mountain.
Banff’s natural hot springs are fed by geothermally-heated water from deep underground. They contain a mix of healthy minerals to help rejuvenate your body and improve your general well-being.
Experience Dog Sledding in Banff National Park
Want to experience an authentic dog sled ride in stunning natural scenery? Kingmik Dogsled Tours offers the only dog sledding tours in Banff National Park. They operate a team of over 90 expertly-trained Alaskan Huskies, who are born and raised in the Kingmik kennels.
Your experience begins with meeting your team of dogs and getting to know them by name. Once you’re introduced, you’ll get a chance to help hook them up to the sleigh with the help of an experienced guide and take your turn mushing when you’re out on the trail!
Kingmik offers tours ranging from a half-hour to a full day in length and hot food and drinks are provided, depending on the length of the tour. This is a must-do activity for any visitor to the Banff and Lake Louise area — especially for dog lovers.
Cross-Country Skiing to Moraine Lake
If you want to experience the peaceful tranquillity of the wilderness around Banff and see some spectacular sights at the same time, then cross-country skiing is the way to go! Not only does cross-country skiing offer a great way to get away from the bustle of the resorts, but it also provides a fantastic workout for visitors of all ages.
There are many spectacular trails to visit in the Banff and Lake Louise area, but we recommend that you check out the tracked trail on Moraine Lake Road. While the full trip to Moraine Lake is better suited for more experienced cross-country skiers, any visitor can enjoy the first section of the trail. The groomed trek ends at a viewpoint of Consolation Valley and the Ten Peaks.
Relax and Indulge at the Willow Stream Spa
The Willow Stream Spa is an incredible experience that is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a little luxury on their ski trip. Located at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the spa draws on the ambience of the mountains to create a unique atmosphere — reminiscent of the natural hot springs that travellers would have visited hundreds of years ago.
The spa has received numerous accolades and has been named one of the top spas in Canada at the Canadian Spa & Wellness Awards. It offers a wide range of spa packages to choose from — just remember to book your visit in advance!
Sample Locally-Made & Award-Winning Drinks
Credit: Anna Robi - Park Distillery
There is no better way to end your day on the slopes than with a delicious beverage on a patio — bonus points if you have a great view of the mountains!
Local hotspot, Park Distillery, is well-known for its locally-made gin, vodka, and whiskey, all of which are produced with Banff’s natural glacial waters, delivering a distinctive flavour that you’ll be sure to remember.
The distillery will hand-mill, hand-mash, and hand-distil its spirits in small batches. Their spirits have won numerous awards, including multiple Gold awards from the International Sip Awards in 2017. Stop by and try one of their signature cocktails and enjoy a delicious dinner at their highly-rated restaurant.
Want to try all of these activities on your trip to Banff and Lake Louise this season? Start a quote for your trip today.
