Banff Weather

The Rocky Mountains are known for their variable weather patterns due to the high elevation and topography, but whatever the season, there is always something exciting to do here.

Spring and summer

Spring is the quietest time to visit Banff, as the peak seasons are during summer and winter. The air is crisp and the weather is very pleasant during spring. It is also the best time to view the wildlife, which includes grizzly bears. Visitors can also enjoy skiing in spring and daylight hours that stretch to about 23:00.

When the spring rains give way to the warmer weather of summer, it heralds the beginning of the peak tourist season. If you do not enjoy crowds, this is not the time to visit Banff. The warm weather allows tourist to enjoy many outdoor activities, but the weather only becomes warm in mid-summer.

Autumn and winter

Typical autumn weather in Banff consists of cool days filled with fresh air, but the weather in the Rockies can always be a little unpredictable. There can be light snow falls towards the end of autumn as the temperatures begin to dip towards winter.

Winters in Banff can be very cold and snowy, but with lots of sunny days and warm chinooks blowing. The snow quality at Mount Norquay is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, but the valley floors usually have a minimal coverage at this time. The weather can drop to lows of -10C or even lower, with highs of about 0C. This is perfect weather for snow sport enthusiasts, who will have a fantastic time enjoying the snow-based activities available at Banff.

Average Temperature (°C)

20 15 10 5 0

Jan -10.9

Feb -7.6

Mar -3.5

Apr 2.6

May 7.5

Jun 11.2

Jul 14.4

Aug 13.3

Sep 8.8

Oct 4.0

Nov -3.9

Dec -8.6

Rainfall (mm)

70 52 35 18 0

Jan 31.5

Feb 23.8

Mar 24.3

Apr 31.2

May 51.9

Jun 65.7

Jul 45.8

Aug 51.9

Sep 39.6

Oct 31.5

Nov 32.0

Dec 33.7