What to see and do in Banff in October:
Looking for the best things to see and do in Banff in October?
With cooling temperatures comes the changing of the seasons and the colours of the leaves. October is the best month to see the fall colours in Banff National Park, with snow-capped mountains as the perfect backdrop.
1. See Banff’s fall colours
As fall sets in, it’s the perfect time to see the leaves change colour in Banff. The morning Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour takes you to some of the most scenic viewpoints in Banff – and we might even see some wildlife along the way!
2. Visit Lake Louise before it freezes
Want to see Lake Louise before it freezes for the winter? The water usually begins to ice over in November, so October is the perfect time to visit this famous lake. Take a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway and then enjoy an hour of free time to wander the famous shoreline on the Discover Lake Louise Tour (please note that Moraine Lake closes in early October).
3. Take a Halloween ghost tour
With Halloween approaching, discover Banff’s ghostly past on a guided evening stroll through the paranormal with stories of haunted landmarks, unsolved mysteries and terrifying encounters at hotels.
The best Banff activities in October
Ghost Walks
Horseback Ride - Spray River 1 Hr
Banff Sightseeing Gondola
Horseback Ride - Bow River 1 Hr
Discover Banff & Its Wildlife
Columbia Icefields Parkway Tour
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
4. Take a fall horseback ride
Take a one-hour horseback ride along the Bow River (or a one-hour ride crossing through the Spray River in early October) as you look out to the fall colours along the Bow River and snow-capped mountains. Banff trail rides run daily until mid October and are perfect for beginners, and you might even see some elk during their rutting season.
5. Visit the Athabasca Glacier
Travel one of the world’s most scenic highways, the Icefields Parkway, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to walk on a glacier. See the snow-capped mountains and fall colours as you travel to the Columbia Icefield Centre, located about halfway between Banff and Jasper, and take an oversized bus right onto the glacier. As the cooler weather sets in, this full-day sightseeing tour is one of few that continues into mid October.
6. Celebrate fall at the Banff Gondola
There’s always something happening at the Banff Gondola! In early October there’s a special celebration of sunrise at the summit, and during weekends ride the Banff Gondola to enjoy the Harvest Festival with family fun activities, live entertainment and seasonal treats. Step outside and take in the breathtaking views of six stunning mountain ranges with fall colours that sweep the Bow Valley.
