Looking for the best things to see and do in Banff in September?
September is a month to remember in the Canadian Rockies – continuing warm summer weather with crisp morning air creates a perfect (and slightly less crowded) environment for exploring as the leaves and weather starts to change.
1. Guided Hikes
As fall sets in, it’s the perfect weather for hiking. Our Lake Louise and Banff guided hikes explore the best accessible hikes in the area, showing guests the wild and rugged environments of Banff and Kootenay National Parks. Each of the hikes offers something different but seeing the larch trees change to a bright golden yellow around mid to late September on the Larch Valley hike is truly a special experience and one of our favourites at this time of year.
2. ATV Tours
Another option for seeing the larch trees is on an ATV tour! While ATVs aren’t permitted in Banff National Park, there are fully guided ATV tours located just two hours from Banff on the edge of the Canadian Rockies. Our pick? Take the full-day ATV tour for free transport from Banff and lunch at an alpine cabin.
3. See a Show at Banff Centre
After a day of exploring, enjoy an outdoor concert or event at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. This world-class venue is a hidden gem in Banff and offers programming for the whole family. Discover Banff Tours is offering $5 off select shows this summer on shows using promo code DBT, such as alternative country singer-songwriter Leeroy Stagger in an intimate club setting.
4. Elk rutting season
Every fall, the rut happens during breeding season as mature bulls gather cows and their calves into harems. During this time of year it’s common to see the elk bulls fighting over the cows, and also to hear their unique ‘bugle’ noise (sounds like a high pitched roar). Our daily Evening Wildlife Safari is a great tour to spot elk during this important time of year.
5. Visit Moraine Lake
While many lakes in the Canadian Rockies are accessible year round, the access road to Moraine Lake closes in early October this year. September is the perfect time to visit this famous lake! Parking is extremely limited and so if you’re not planning on driving in at the crack of dawn, you can see this iconic lake on the afternoon Discover Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Tour.
6. See a Grizzly Bear
As the fall weather begins to cool, it’s a great time to see Boo the grizzly bear as he prepares for hibernation. The full-day Discover Grizzly Bears Tour takes you to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden to meet Boo, and includes a sightseeing Gondola ride up to Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, for lunch at Canada’s highest restaurant.
