What To Do In Banff In August

Photo Credit: Sarah Hatton

Looking for the best things to see and do in Banff in August?

Summer is in full swing and it’s one of the warmest and busiest times of year in the Canadian Rockies. The warm weather allows you to experience Banff in so many ways– from a car, a horse, a boat, or your own two feet. If you’re making plans for your time in Banff in August, just remember, the options are limitless but the availability isn’t, so make sure to book ahead! From the must-sees like the Icefields Parkway and Jasper National Park, you won’t want to miss these sights. 

If you are wanting to know the best sites, you are probably also wondering about the weather and what to pack to best enjoy them. We are here to help!

August weather in Banff is the best weather in Banff!

In August, Banff blooms and booms as the best weather in Banff comes around. The average temperature is a wonderful 20℃- 25℃. You will find the sun shining most days and snow-free hiking trails that call your name.

What you should wear in Banff in August

August is peak shorts season in Banff! T-shirts, tanks, and shorts should definitely make your packing list. Even though you will spend most of your time in summer attire, it’s smart to bring at least one good jacket and pair of pants for when the sun goes down. If you plan to hike, you will also want to make sure you have a good pair of hiking shoes!  

Now that we’ve covered the basics, we can move on to some of the best things to do in Banff in August!

1. Travel along the Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway is constantly rated among the world’s most scenic drives– this glacier-capped road has some of the most stunning viewpoints, glacial lakes, and icefields you’ll find in the Rocky Mountains. You can make the drive yourself, but we recommend taking a tour so that all you have to focus on is the beautiful sites you’ll see. Our Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour takes you along this famous highway with built-in stops that allow you to really take in the beauty of Banff in August. On top of seeing the sites, these scenic points will include interpretation, history, and knowledge from an experienced guide. If you decide to self-drive, we recommend the GyPSy Guide Icefield Parkway App!

Interested in learning more about the Columbia Icefields?

2. Explore the beauty of Jasper National Park

Located four hours from Banff, Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and is filled with dramatic, untamed wilderness. One of the Park’s great treasures is Maligne Valley–where beautiful bodies of water and views of mountain peaks are jaw-dropping. Our Maligne Valley Sightseeing Tour includes hiking and a boat ride for both active and passive experiences of this area of the beautiful Jasper National Park. The wildlife is another notable thing that Jasper has to offer. You will most likely run into creatures and critters wherever you go, but if you want a more in-depth look and a higher probability of seeing wildlife, the Discover Jasper & Its Wildlife Tour might be for you!    

Another AWESOME bonus to visiting Jasper National Park is that the road from Banff to Jasper is the previously mentioned, Icefields Parkway! So, on your way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Jasper, you can start with the amazing sites on the Parkway.

Want to learn more about activities in Jasper National Park?

3. Soak in the patio views

August is the perfect time to check out Banff’s most scenic patios to enjoy a meal or a beverage along with mountain views after a day of hiking or sightseeing. While there are lots of patios right in downtown Banff, some of our favourites are The Juniper Bistro, Waldhaus Pub, and Maclab Bistro on the outskirts of town.

4. Hit the rapids on a Rocky Mountain rafting tour

Rafting is one of the best things to do in Banff in August– so after the highway, take to the waterways – whitewater rafting on the Kananaskis River and Horseshoe Canyon are both just 45 minutes from Banff and Calgary. The Kananaskis River is dam controlled and perfect for families as you explore gentler rapids without sacrificing the scenery or you can embrace your inner daredevil and try the optional cliff jump on the Horseshoe Canyon rafting trip. Keen for a wilder ride? Travel to Golden where the Kicking Horse River is raging and offering those world-class rapids it’s famous for.

Want to learn more about rafting tours?

5. Take a scenic family-friendly rafting float

If you are looking for a more relaxed August water activity for the family, you can take a one-hour scenic float tour along the Bow River nearby Canmore. This family-friendly activity is the perfect way to enjoy the Rocky Mountain scenery from the water, without even needing to paddle!

Looking for a family water adventure?

6. Ride a horse or wagon to a steak cookout

We know that you want to make the most of your precious vacation time, and agreeing on what to eat for dinner isn’t always the easiest part of your holiday.  So, why not combine both on a cowboy cookout?! This is a wonderful way to make a great memory, see Banff in a unique way, and have a planned meal (that you don’t have to make!). You can choose from a horseback ride or wagon ride that’s perfect for younger children, and a lunch or dinner departure.

Is your time in Banff extending into September? Check out our recommendations for What to Do in Banff in September! 

Learn More about the Cowboy Cookouts and rides!

Have More Questions About Traveling to Banff in August? We have Answers.