Skiing and snowboarding
Containing 3 world-class ski resorts, Banff National Park is one of the top winter sports destinations on the planet. With so much space and mountain variety, there’s excellent provision for all levels, with miles of beginners’ runs and endless backcountry for extreme heli-skiing.
The largest of the resorts, Lake Louise Ski Area has everything for a family ski break. There’s a well-resourced ski school, which will teach the basics to kids as young as 3. Meanwhile, young snowboarders looking for adrenaline highs will be in their element at the terrain park.
1 Whitehorn Road, Lake Louise AB T0L 1E0.
Indoor entertainment
If things get a little chilly out on the slopes, but the kids are still raring to go, make the most of Banff’s indoor entertainment. There’s a range of activities on offer in the leisure centers, including bowling alleys and the latest movies.
Lux Cinema
Grab some popcorn, pop on your 3D glasses, and be swept away on a blockbuster adventure at Banff’s movie mecca. With the latest Hollywood releases and Banff Film Festival specials, it makes a great retreat for the afternoon.
229 Bear Street, Banff AB T1L 1H8.
Animal adventures
Whether you come in winter or summer, the whole family can experience thrilling animal adventures, learning some of the skills the early pioneers used in these mountains and building an affinity with the animals, from packs of huskies to trusty horses. Howling Dog Tours
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of speeding through the snow with a pack of wild huskies. With sleds designed to fit 2 adults and 2 children, and guides on hand to help, it’s an exhilarating way for your clan to take in the stunning Rockies.
712 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore ABT1W 2H4.
When the mountains burst into the colors of summer, it’s the perfect time to hit the backcountry trails on horseback. You can experience the pioneer way of life with traditional cookouts, and enjoy the epic surroundings of lush forests and jagged peaks. Children aged 6 and up can be accommodated.
132 Banff Avenue, Banff AB T1L 1C1.
Family dining
Banff offers the best in mountain dining, with warming fondues and satisfying steaks to fortify you after activity-filled days. There’s international cuisine too, with everything from Asian to Italian fare. Plenty of the restaurants in Banff are family friendly, offering children’s menus and special deals.
With relaxed buffets, themed evening meals, and a famous Sunday Brunch, the Chinook Family Restaurant takes the stress out of family dining. There are dedicated children’s menus, and best of all, under-5s eat free at specialty buffet nights and at the Sunday brunch.
222 Lynx Street, Banff AB T1L 1K5.
Timberwolf Pizza & Café
After a day on the ski slopes, Timberwolf Pizza & Café will satisfy the most ravenous of appetites. Kids will love the novelty of building their own pasta or pasta dishes, and a wide choice of toppings makes it ideal for picky eaters.
210 Village Road, Lake Louise AB T0L 1E0.
