Winter in Banff: A Snowy Dream Come True
There’s something truly enchanting about Banff in the winter. Picture frozen waterfalls, iconic lakes turned skating rinks, untouched powder perfect for snowshoeing, and cozy mountain vibes around every corner.
This season, we’re offering fully customizable private winter tours. Let our warm and experienced local guides lead the way—sharing incredible stories about Banff National Park’s past while handling all the winter driving and logistics so you don’t have to. Whether you’ve got a must-see list or want us to show you some of our secret favourite spots, we’ll build an itinerary just for you.
Think of it as your stress-free, fully guided winter getaway—no planning, no worries, just beautiful scenery and unforgettable memories. This is the easiest (and most magical) way to enjoy winter in the Canadian Rockies—you’ve earned it!
Why Choose Us? At Tanan Shuttles and Tours, we believe incredible experiences shouldn’t cost a fortune. Our tours blend fun, learning, adventure, and value—so you get the most out of your visit without the stress or sticker shock. We’ve listed a few sample tours below to spark your imagination, but we love building custom adventures. Got an idea or dream winter moment in mind? Let’s make it happen. Just reach out and we’ll get the snowball rolling!
Banff Discovery Highlights Tour
Duration: 4 hours
Price: $550 for up to 14 people
(includes guide, transportation, and bottled water)
Departure Times: 9:00 AM or 2:00 PM daily
Meeting Point: Banff Train Station Parking Lot
Perfect for those short on time but big on adventure!
Join us for a half-day journey through Banff’s most iconic and scenic landmarks, designed for explorers who want to see as much as possible in just a few hours.
Whether you prefer to stay cozy in our comfortable high-roof van or hop out for a light stroll and photos, this tour offers the flexibility to match your vibe. Your local guide will share fascinating stories about Banff’s rich Indigenous, colonial, and natural history—all while navigating wildlife corridors and jaw-dropping lookouts.
Experience the Best of Banff
From turquoise lakes to rugged cliffs and mountain vistas, this tour gives you a true taste of Banff National Park’s magic—with time left in your day for more!
Experience the Best of Banff
From turquoise lakes to rugged cliffs and mountain vistas, this tour gives you a true taste of Banff National Park’s magic—with time left in your day for more!
What’s Included:
- Professional local guide
- Transportation in a modern high-roof van
- Bottled water
- Option to explore or stay in vehicle at each stop
What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Camera or smartphone
- Your sense of wonder 🏔️
Frozen Canyon Explorer
Tour Details
- Duration: 6 Hours (Half-Day Adventure)
- Price: CAD999
- Operating Months: December to March
- Group Size: Max 14 guests
- Difficulty: Moderate (Ice cleats or snowshoes provided)
Includes:
- ✔️ Guided winter hike to Johnston Canyon & Marble Canyon
- ✔️ Ice cleats or snowshoes
- ✔️ Hot chocolate & snacks
- ✔️ Scenic drive along Bow Valley Parkway
- ✔️ Pickup & drop-off from Banff hotels
Tour Overview
Feel the thrill of winter beneath your boots as we explore two iconic frozen canyons
in the heart of the Canadian Rockies! This is for those who crave a little more adventure
and a lot more wow.
We begin with a drive along the legendary Bow Valley Parkway, keeping an eye out
for elk, bighorn sheep, or maybe even a wolf in the distance. At
Johnston Canyon, your guide will gear you up with ice cleats or snowshoes before
leading you through towering canyon walls and frozen waterfalls. Brave the tunnel at
Lower Falls or hike further up to see the dramatic Upper Falls encased in ice.
After a break with hot drinks and light snacks, we cross into British Columbia to explore
Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park, a natural wonder shaped
by time and rushing glacial waters. Cross multiple footbridges and look straight down into
the icy blue depths.
Tour Overview
Feel the thrill of winter beneath your boots as we explore two iconic frozen canyons in the heart of the Canadian Rockies! This is for those who crave a little more adventure and a lot more wow.
We begin with a drive along the legendary Bow Valley Parkway, keeping an eye out for elk, bighorn sheep, or maybe even a wolf in the distance. At Johnston Canyon, your guide will gear you up with ice cleats or snowshoes before leading you through towering canyon walls and frozen waterfalls. Brave the tunnel at Lower Falls or hike further up to see the dramatic Upper Falls encased in ice.
After a break with hot drinks and light snacks, we cross into British Columbia to explore Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park, a natural wonder shaped by time and rushing glacial waters. Cross multiple footbridges and look straight down into the icy blue depths.
Sample Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Hotel pickup from Banff |
| 8:30 AM | Scenic drive along Bow Valley Parkway |
| 9:00 AM | Arrive at Johnston Canyon |
| 9:15 AM | Guided hike to Lower Falls (optional: Upper Falls) |
| 11:00 AM | Hot drinks & snack break |
| 11:30 AM | Depart for Marble Canyon |
| 12:00 PM | Arrive at Marble Canyon, guided loop walk |
| 1:00 PM | Return to Banff |
| 2:00 PM | Hotel drop-off |
Good to Know: Snowshoes are used if trail conditions require it; otherwise, ice cleats are provided. Minimum age: 12 years Don’t forget to dress warmly in layers — temperatures can be extreme!
Frozen Gems: Banff’s Winter Lakes Tour
Duration: 8 Hours
Price: $189 CAD per person (includes guide, shuttle transport, ice cleats, snacks, and hot chocolate)
🏔️ Overview:
This full-day experience is perfect for lake lovers, mountain seekers, and snow-dusted memory makers. The Frozen Gems tour takes you deep into the heart of Banff National Park’s winter wonderland — where iconic lakes freeze into glassy stages framed by glaciers and dramatic peaks.
Enjoy the perfect balance of scenic drive time, photo-worthy stops, and optional short winter hikes — all led by a passionate, local guide. Cozy up with hot drinks between outdoor adventures and get to know the wild stories behind these icy giants.
🗺️ Itinerary:
-
9:00 AM – Pick-Up in Banff
Your guide greets you at your hotel with hot drinks and a warm smile. We begin the journey westward toward Lake Louise.
-
10:00 AM – Lake Louise Exploration
Explore the majestic Lake Louise frozen in time. Options: snowshoe across the lake, grab a skate rental (extra cost), or take magical winter photos under Victoria Glacier. Warm up with a hot chocolate break.
-
11:30 AM – Scenic Drive to Peyto Lake via Icefields Parkway
Enjoy one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Your guide shares fascinating tales of wildlife, glaciers, and explorers along the way.
-
12:30 PM – Peyto Lake Viewpoint Hike
With ice cleats provided, take a short but rewarding 15-minute walk to the wolf-shaped Peyto Lake overlook. It’s a must-see in winter — icy blue hues and complete serenity.
-
1:30 PM – Snowy Picnic & Snack Stop
Enjoy a light snack and warm drink with mountain views. (Optional: Pack a lunch or request one ahead of time.)
-
2:00 PM – Bonus Lakeside Stop (Weather Dependent)
Your guide will choose a bonus spot based on time and road conditions — it could be Bow Lake, Waterfowl Lakes, or a secret pullout for those dreamy winter shots.
-
3:30 PM – Begin Return to Banff
Kick back and relax with music or stories from your guide. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife crossing the snow-draped forest.
-
5:00 PM – Drop-Off at Your Banff Hotel
You’ll return with memories, photos, and maybe some snow in your boots — but that’s all part of the fun.
✅ What's Included:
- Professional local guide
- Comfortable heated shuttle
- Ice cleats
- Hot drinks & snacks
- Park pass and entry fees
❌ What to Bring:
- Warm winter gear (layers, gloves, boots)
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera
- Packed lunch (optional, or request at booking for $15)
Duration: 8 Hours
Price: $189 CAD per person (includes guide, shuttle transport, ice cleats, snacks, and hot chocolate)
🏔️ Overview:
This full-day experience is perfect for lake lovers, mountain seekers, and snow-dusted memory makers. The Frozen Gems tour takes you deep into the heart of Banff National Park’s winter wonderland — where iconic lakes freeze into glassy stages framed by glaciers and dramatic peaks.
Enjoy the perfect balance of scenic drive time, photo-worthy stops, and optional short winter hikes — all led by a passionate, local guide. Cozy up with hot drinks between outdoor adventures and get to know the wild stories behind these icy giants.
🗺️ Itinerary:
-
9:00 AM – Pick-Up in Banff
Your guide greets you at your hotel with hot drinks and a warm smile. We begin the journey westward toward Lake Louise. -
10:00 AM – Lake Louise Exploration
Explore the majestic Lake Louise frozen in time. Options: snowshoe across the lake, grab a skate rental (extra cost), or take magical winter photos under Victoria Glacier. Warm up with a hot chocolate break. -
11:30 AM – Scenic Drive to Peyto Lake via Icefields Parkway
Enjoy one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Your guide shares fascinating tales of wildlife, glaciers, and explorers along the way. -
12:30 PM – Peyto Lake Viewpoint Hike
With ice cleats provided, take a short but rewarding 15-minute walk to the wolf-shaped Peyto Lake overlook. It’s a must-see in winter — icy blue hues and complete serenity. -
1:30 PM – Snowy Picnic & Snack Stop
Enjoy a light snack and warm drink with mountain views. (Optional: Pack a lunch or request one ahead of time.) -
2:00 PM – Bonus Lakeside Stop (Weather Dependent)
Your guide will choose a bonus spot based on time and road conditions — it could be Bow Lake, Waterfowl Lakes, or a secret pullout for those dreamy winter shots. -
3:30 PM – Begin Return to Banff
Kick back and relax with music or stories from your guide. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife crossing the snow-draped forest. -
5:00 PM – Drop-Off at Your Banff Hotel
You’ll return with memories, photos, and maybe some snow in your boots — but that’s all part of the fun.
✅ What's Included:
- Professional local guide
- Comfortable heated shuttle
- Ice cleats
- Hot drinks & snacks
- Park pass and entry fees
❌ What to Bring:
- Warm winter gear (layers, gloves, boots)
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera
- Packed lunch (optional, or request at booking for $15)
Alpine Explorer Tour
Duration: 8 hours
Price: CAD999
The ultimate Banff mountain day adventure!
Itinerary:
-
9:00 AM – Meet & Depart from Banff
Start your day with a scenic drive to the iconic Lake Louise. Your guide will share local stories and point out wildlife along the way.
-
9:45 AM – Explore Lake Louise
Spend time wandering the lakeshore or choose a gentle hike to the Fairview Lookout for breathtaking views. Depending on the season, try ice skating on the frozen lake or enjoy a warm beverage while taking in the scenery.
-
11:30 AM – Bow Valley Parkway Drive
We’ll take the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, a quieter route that follows the Bow River and offers beautiful photo stops at hidden viewpoints, perfect for capturing those postcard moments.
-
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch (included) at a peaceful spot along the parkway surrounded by nature.
-
1:30 PM – Johnston Canyon Hike
Grab your ice cleats and explore Johnston Canyon’s frozen waterfalls and dramatic ice formations. You can choose to do the shorter 2.3 km hike to the Lower Falls or extend to the Upper Falls for a 5.5 km round trip.
-
4:00 PM – Alternative Marble Canyon Visit
For those wanting a less strenuous option, Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park offers a 1.4 km trail winding through a stunning limestone gorge ending at a waterfall.
-
5:00 PM – Return to Banff
Relax on the drive back, soaking in the alpine views and reflecting on an unforgettable day.
Duration: 8 hours
Price: CAD999
The ultimate Banff mountain day adventure!
Itinerary:
-
9:00 AM – Meet & Depart from Banff
Start your day with a scenic drive to the iconic Lake Louise. Your guide will share local stories and point out wildlife along the way. -
9:45 AM – Explore Lake Louise
Spend time wandering the lakeshore or choose a gentle hike to the Fairview Lookout for breathtaking views. Depending on the season, try ice skating on the frozen lake or enjoy a warm beverage while taking in the scenery. -
11:30 AM – Bow Valley Parkway Drive
We’ll take the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, a quieter route that follows the Bow River and offers beautiful photo stops at hidden viewpoints, perfect for capturing those postcard moments. -
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch (included) at a peaceful spot along the parkway surrounded by nature. -
1:30 PM – Johnston Canyon Hike
Grab your ice cleats and explore Johnston Canyon’s frozen waterfalls and dramatic ice formations. You can choose to do the shorter 2.3 km hike to the Lower Falls or extend to the Upper Falls for a 5.5 km round trip. -
4:00 PM – Alternative Marble Canyon Visit
For those wanting a less strenuous option, Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park offers a 1.4 km trail winding through a stunning limestone gorge ending at a waterfall. -
5:00 PM – Return to Banff
Relax on the drive back, soaking in the alpine views and reflecting on an unforgettable day.
Things You Need to Know
Itinerary Changes: Winter weather can be unpredictable, and road or trail conditions might change on the day of your tour. Your safety is our top priority — if any routes close or conditions worsen, we will adjust the itinerary and add alternative stops to keep your adventure fun and safe!
Food & Beverage: Enjoy homemade snacks and warm beverages throughout the day. We will schedule a lunch break so you can either bring your own meal, grab a bite at a cozy local cafe, or dine in a charming mountain restaurant.
Activities: We provide ice cleats and trekking poles to keep you steady on icy terrain. If you want to try snowshoeing or ice skating, equipment rentals are available. If ice skating is not possible due to unsafe ice conditions, all skate rental fees will be refunded.
Inclusions:
Door-to-door transport in a comfortable van with panoramic windows for uninterrupted views
Hot drinks and homemade snacks throughout the day
Ice cleats and trekking poles for safety and comfort
All national park entrance fees included
Knowledgeable local guide sharing stories, history, and tips all day
Personalized service: your guide will stay in touch from booking to tour day, ready to answer your questions
Itinerary Schedule:
| Time | Activity | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Pickup from your accommodation | Door-to-door service | Fresh coffee and snack on board |
| 9:00 AM | Arrival and short hike | Scenic viewpoint trail | Ice cleats & poles provided |
| 10:30 AM | Ice skating / Snowshoeing option | Frozen lake or nearby trail | Rentals available |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch break | Local café or restaurant | Or packed lunch option |
| 1:30 PM | Winter wildlife spotting & photo stops | National park scenic areas | Guided nature insights |
| 3:00 PM | Visit to a local hot springs or winter activity | Banff Upper Hot Springs or snow tubing at Mt. Norquay | Optional add-ons available |
| 5:00 PM | Return transport | Back to accommodation | Warm drinks to close the day |
Price & Duration:
Full Day Tour (8:00 AM – 5:30 PM): $950 CAD per group, up to 12 guests (plus applicable taxes)
Half Day Tour (Morning 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM or Afternoon 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM): $600 CAD per group, up to 12 guests (plus applicable taxes)
Optional Add-ons:
Snowshoe or ice skate rental: $25 CAD per person
Private photographer for your adventure: starting at $200 CAD
Hot springs entry ticket: $15 CAD per person
Dog sledding or sleigh rides (book in advance): Prices vary
If you’re looking for a cozy, scenic winter day with a mix of gentle adventure, beautiful landscapes, and warm local hospitality, this tour is perfect for you!
Would you like me to help you customize this further for a specific location or group size?
Other options: There’s lots to do in winter! Here are some ideas:
- Banff Upper Hot Springs
- Banff Gondola
- Snow tubing at Mt. Norquay
- Snowshoeing to Paint Pots
- Dog sledding
- Emerald Lake
- Sleigh Rides
- Yamnuska Wolf Sanctuary
STILL NOT SURE IF YOU CAN FIT A TOUR INTO YOUR VISIT?
Or maybe none of our options are the perfect fit? We’ve still got you covered! Our Private Adventures are fully customizable and can be booked for as little or as much time as you need. Want to see a few sights in the morning and spend the afternoon at the ski hill? We can do that! Want us to take care of your whole trip, including airport transport? We can do that too! We even offer discounts on our multi-day adventures. We are the perfect option for anyone who is unsure about driving in the unpredictable Canadian winter conditions, or who just wants to sit back and enjoy the sites while we do the heavy lifting. Reach out to us via our Request to Book page and we will work with you to ensure you fulfill your to-do list!