What To Do in Banff in February

Photo Credit: Travel Alberta / Mike Seehagel

The powder months have arrived! The snow is fluffy and deep in the Canadian Rockies once February rolls around and there is no better time to soak in their snow-covered beauty. Banff and Lake Louise are especially stunning this time of year. Plus, it’s the perfect time for snowy activities such as dogsledding, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides! But before we jump into the winter fun, there are a few things you need to know:

The weather in Banff in February

February in Banff is one of the coldest months with an average temperature of 0℃. This is already cold, but it often drops below the average, so it’s important to be prepared. Luckily, because the days are longer, we often get many hours of sunshine to keep us a little warmer.

What to pack for Banff in February

To be prepared for cold temperatures, packing is key. You will want all the winter essentials to stay warm—a scarf, hat, gloves, heavy jacket, snow boots, warm socks, warm layers, and snow pants! Having all of these items will equip you to enjoy the best of Banff in February! For more information about what to pack, you can check out our Banff seasonal packing guide.

1. Glide through the snow on a dogsled tour

Dogsledding is one of the most popular things to do in Banff in February! Imagine gliding along a snowy, winding trail through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains as a team of dogs pulls you—awesome, right?! There are a multitude of options when it comes to dogsledding, from traversing Canmore to Lake Louise, from instructor-driven to self-driven, and from 30 minutes to 4 hours, you can pick your ideal adventure. This makes dogsledding adaptable for families of all ages and makes it a great romantic winter experience!

2. See Johnston Canyon’s frozen falls

Johnston Canyon is one of our most popular hiking trails and is a spectacular destination for visitors of Banff in February. The steel catwalks that are built into the walls allow us to explore the upper falls and the icy gorge that lies below. The lower falls offer a more gentle walk through natural caves and up-close views of the frozen falls. Joining a small-group tour is a great way to get to the best spots and learn the awesome history that’s held in these frozen falls. You can choose between private, daytime, and evening options.

3. Check out local events

There’s always something happening in Banff! In February, the amazing Mountain Madness Relay takes place. It starts with a downhill ski at Mount Norquay and then continues at the Recreation Grounds with running, ice skating, classic cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing segments. Plus, see a different side of Banff in the evenings at the Banff Gondola‘s Nightrise event through interactive lights, projections, and original soundscapes.

Photo Credit: Chris Amat / Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection

4. Snowshoe through fresh powder

Snowshoeing is the best way to play in the snow! By February in Banff, Kootenay National Park has transformed into a winter wonderland and our snowshoe tours are fluffier, deeper, and better than ever. This removed yet engaging experience allows you to truly interact with the silence and natural sounds of winter at Marble Canyon and marvel at its incredible 40-metre gorge of frozen falls. Breathe in the smell of fresh pine as you explore these winding forest paths led by your friendly guide. And as a bonus, you get to sample a truly Canadian treat – maple taffy made in the snow!

5. Take a sleigh ride (perfect for Family Day!)

Never heard of Family Day? Family Day is a Canadian holiday on February 20th, that’s all about being with your family and there is no better way to spend it than with an unforgettable sleigh ride! It’s really hard to beat being pulled through a snowy mountain meadow by a pair of beautiful horses, as their sleigh bells jingle in the crisp air, with the ones that you love by your side. And even if it’s not Family Day, a sleigh ride is a perfect way to see and soak up the jaw-dropping views of mountain peaks such as Mt Rundle surrounding you.

For families visiting Banff, the private family sleigh package seats up to four people and includes two cozy blankets and s’mores to enjoy by the fire after your ride. Or for larger groups, there’s the new private group sleigh package for up to nine people!

6. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style

Looking for the perfect romantic Valentine’s Day date? Take a private sleigh ride for two! This cozy one-horse open sleigh ride includes a delicious beverage, a s’mores kit, and a warm blanket to snuggle under—setting the perfect Valentine’s vibe. This is our most popular option for proposals in Banff for a reason! 

Another popular option for Valentine’s Day is the breathtaking and scenic helicopter flights over the Canadian Rockies. Near Banff, you can take a private helicopter flight for two to Marvel Pass with a 20-minute stopover at 7,200 feet. Talk about dreamy views! If you’re driving to Jasper, you can also stop along the Icefields Parkway for a special winter experience combining a helicopter snowshoe adventure with a guided tour of Abraham Lake’s famous frozen bubbles!

Is your time in Banff starting in January or extending into March? Check out our recommendations for What to Do in Banff in January and What to Do in Banff in March! For more information and exploration of Banff, visit our blog.