Banff FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Banff.

When is the best time to visit Banff?

Because of its altitude, Banff is cooler in summer (July-August), averaging 16°C, and very cold in winter – usually below zero November to March, when the ski resorts are very busy. May to September is the most comfortable time to visit and while May/June are the wettest months, there’s less rain here than elsewhere in Alberta. Summer is driest and sunniest, and autumn (September-October) is crisp and colourful.

What is the time difference between the UK and Banff?

Banff is in Mountain Time (UTC/GMT -7 hours) and observes Daylight Saving Time (UTC/GMT -6 hours) March-November.

What places combine well with Banff?

Banff is easily accessible from Calgary (a 90-minute drive), commonly combined with Lake Louise and Canmore (both about half an hour away), and through the Icefields Parkway to Jasper. It’s also easily combined with the town of Golden and Kootenay National Park on the British Columbia side of the Rockies.

What are the main cultural events in Banff?

January – SnowDays Festival
May – Banff Yoga Festival
June – Banff Marathon
November – Banff Craft Beer Festival and Taste of Adventure
December – Banff Christmas Market