Are you wondering if visiting Banff in November is a good idea?
Many people will tell you that the best time to visit Banff is from June to August for the summer activities, warmer days, and scenic, colorful mountain backdrops and lakes, and December to March for the ski season.
But the shoulder season has something great to offer, and so does the month of November. In November, you’ll get to experience most seasons during your stay with a lot less crowds!
❤️ We love visiting Banff in the shoulder season (we usually leave the area in July and August… it’s too crowded for us) and November is a time we love. We can experience almost all season in a single getaway. And we get most places (most) all to ourselves.
In this article, I’ll tell you:
- WHY you should consider a visit to Banff in November and
- what are the highlights of the month?
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Why You Should Consider Visiting Banff in November
1. You can still hike
Banff is open year-round, and November is an excellent month to enjoy some fall-winter hiking. It’s very rare that trails in Banff close during this month.
Most bears have already fattened up enough for hibernation that it is infrequent to encounter them (although, always carry your bear spray), and there is not enough snow in the mountains to fear avalanches in certain terrains.
You can hike up and down Sulphur Mountain, enjoy a coffee or treat at the cafe at the summit, and take in Banff’s wintery views. You can also enjoy a ride up or down the Banff Gondola.
From November 18, 2023 to March 30, 2024, the Banff Gondola, in partnership with the Stoney Nakoda Nation, features “Nightrise”. This interactive experience lights up Sulphur Mountain with art structures, multimedia effects, video projections, and music.
Tunnel Mountain is another of Banff’s favorites and a great hiking option in November. It’s a short and sweet trail that offers excellent town views.
2. You can go skiing
One of Banff’s most famous ski resorts is Sunshine Village, and as of mid-October 2023, they have snow! The resort will tentatively open its doors on November 9, 2023, welcoming all eager skiers and snowboarders looking to start their snow season. What’s better than riding down the hills by mid-November while other resorts are still closed?
Likewise, Mt. Norquay, not far from the town, has a tentative opening date of November 3.
Finally, while still a drive away from the Town, Lake Louise Ski Resort will also tentatively open on November 10, 2023, providing another fantastic option to people visiting Banff.
3. You can get in the holiday spirit
There’s probably nothing more Christmas-like than Banff with snow-capped mountains. Start feeling the Holiday spirit by visiting the town and walking down Banff Avenue with all the hotels, stores, and restaurants.
Enjoy a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate (or beer!) while breathing in that fresh-snow smell.
In November, anyone can attend several festivals and markets in Banff. Some of them are entirely free, while others involve small fees. Some of the events happening in Banff are:
- Banff Craft Beer Festival,
- Banff Christmas Market,
- Skiing with Santa at SkiBig3 resorts,
- Banff Hot Chocolate Trail
Plus, you don’t want to miss walking around the Fairmont Banff Spring hotel. It’s so beautiful during the holidays (starting in November). They really go all-in with the Christmas decorations and it’s wonderful to see.
4. You’ll beat the crowds
November is one of the quietest times in the Canadian Rockies, which gives you the most room to roam.
Many people come to Banff during the summer months to enjoy the bright-looking turquoise lakes and all the beautiful attractions and scenery Banff offers.
In winter, Banff gets tons of national and international visitors searching for the adrenaline rush that skiing or snowboarding down the mountains gives them. So, November – the in-between – is an ideal option to visit the area with fewer people.
5. You’ll find better deals on accommodations & flights
Because November is quieter, airlines and hotels try to encourage economic growth by offering deals you would otherwise never get during the high season.
What’s better than visiting the town and National Park and saving some money? That way you can stay in a nicer hotel for the same price as if you were staying in a basic hotel in July or August. We love the Canalta Lodge in downtown Banff in the wintertime (including November). But there are many other good options in Banff for hotels.
One Reason Not To Visit Banff in November
❌ The main reason for not visiting Banff in November (or during the wintertime) is that the access to Moraine Lake is closed. It’s not possible to visit the beautiful Moraine Lake from mid-October to early June unless you want to cross-country ski the 12 km road to the lake.
What to Do in Banff in November
Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
Warm up from the chilly November air by dipping in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. These natural thermal waters offer a relaxing experience, and the contrast of the warm water against the cool air is invigorating. Plus, the mountain views from the springs are simply breathtaking.
Ride on the Banff Gondola
Ride on the Banff Gondola up to Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. November’s clear skies make it an ideal time to capture some stunning photographs. Don’t forget to visit the observation deck!
💡 Wondering if the Banff Gondola is worth it? Read our review here.
Stroll Along Banff Avenue
Banff Avenue, the town’s main street, is adorned with twinkling lights in November. Wander through quaint shops, enjoy a warm drink at a local café, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Go Wildlife Watching
November is a great time to spot wildlife in Banff. Watch for elk, deer, and even the occasional bear preparing for hibernation. Remember to keep a safe distance and use binoculars for a closer look.
Try Snowshoeing
As the first snows of the season blanket Banff, it’s the perfect time to try snowshoeing. Traverse the serene landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the snow-covered trails.
Visit the Whyte Museum
Learn about the history and culture of the Canadian Rockies at the Whyte Museum. Their exhibits showcase the art, heritage, and environmental research of the region, making it a perfect indoor activity for a November day.
Attend the Banff Craft Beer Festival
If you’re a fan of craft beers, don’t miss the Banff Craft Beer Festival held in late November. Sample a variety of brews, enjoy live music, and mingle with locals and visitors alike.
F.A.Q Banff in November
What is the weather like in Banff in November?
November can be a mix of cold weather with either rain or snow. You can expect to feel colder, with temperatures averaging 1 °C and -9 °C. It’s not as cold as February or March, but it’s cold after just finishing the summer and fall season.
What to wear in Banff in November
It’s said that there’s no bad weather, just bad clothes! Therefore, bring layers, winter jackets/coats, mittens, boots, and beanies to protect you from the cold. Don’t forget sunscreen (yes, even in winter!) and some lip balm!
Can you ski in Banff in November
Chances are that you can! The SkiBig3 resorts are open by mid-November, weather permitting. This year, the tentative dates are:
- Banff Sunshine Village – November 9th, 2023
- Mt. Norquay – November 3rd, 2023
- Lake Louise Ski Resort – November 10th, 2023
Can you hike in Banff in November
You most definitely can! There are several options in the Town, and a drive away from the Town, such as:
- Sulphur Mountain,
- Tunnel Mountain,
- Bow Falls Trail,
- Bow River Trail,
- Fendland Trail,
- Cascade Ponds,
- Johnson Lake Trail,
- Johnston Canyon.
Does it snow in Banff in November
This will vary every year, but chances are that yes, it will snow, and there will be snow. So, come prepared with winter clothes to enjoy the beautiful Town of Banff.
Meet Maria: Originally from Mexico City, Maria relocated to Montreal, Quebec in 2011. She is fluent in Spanish, English, and French. In 2018, she fell in love with the Canadian Rockies and has since resided in Cochrane, Alberta. Despite the harsh winter weather, she has fully embraced the great outdoors and enjoys hiking on easy and challenging trails. One of her goals is to summit Mount Temple and acquire rock climbing skills.