Planning a trip to Banff in May? In this episode, Celine dives into what it’s really like to visit Banff in May. May is a shoulder season month full of potential, unpredictability, and surprisingly great experiences (if you know what to expect).

While it’s not quite summer, the snow is melting, trails are drying out, wildlife is active, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. For travellers more into sightseeing than alpine hikes, it can be one of the best times to visit.

In this episode:

• What’s open, what’s still closed, and what starts to thaw in May
• The best things to do in Banff in May, from biking and gondolas to waterfalls and scenic drives
• What to include in your Banff itinerary in May
• Honest advice on packing, weather, and managing expectations
• A listener Q&A on which park passes are required for Banff and Kananaskis

Whether you’re planning a spring getaway or wondering if May is too early, this episode will help you decide if Banff in May is right for your style of travel and how to make the most of it if it is.

Guide to Banff in May

Other Resources Mentioned in this episode:

• Cycling Bow Valley Parkway
• Cycling Legacy Trail
• Banff Red Chairs
• Banff Town Walks & Hikes
• Canmore Walking Trails
• Scenic Drives Around Banff

Hiking Trails:

• Tunnel Mountain
• Johnston Canyon
• Johnson Lake
• Grassi Lakes

Don’t forget to check out the free guides and planning tools on travelbanffcanada.com and banfftravelplanning.com.

Facebook Community: Travel to Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore & Kananaskis

Banff Itineraries

Banff Travel Guide

Instagram: @travelbanffcanada

Send in your questions here!

In this episode, Celine shares everything you need to know about one of Banff’s most iconic (and debated) experiences—catching sunrise at Moraine Lake. You’ll get an honest look at what sunrise is really like, how to decide if it’s worth the early wake-up call, and exactly how to plan for it now that personal vehicles are no longer allowed at Moraine Lake.

Drawing from years of experience living in the Rockies and helping travelers plan their dream visits, Celine shares insider tips on the best way to get there for sunrise, what to pack for those chilly early mornings, and how to set realistic expectations (because not every sunrise is picture-perfect—and that’s okay!). You’ll also hear a listener Q&A on the best hikes around Banff National Park.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• What to expect at Moraine Lake at sunrise (the good and the reality)
• Whether sunrise is right for your travel style and schedule
• Bonus tips to make your sunrise experience smoother and more memorable

Mentioned in this podcast:

Moraine Lake at Sunrise

Guide to Getting to Moraine Lake

Hikes mentioned in this podcast:

• Lake Agnes Teahouse
• Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse
• Big Beehive
• Little Beehive
• Tunnel Mountain
• Johnston Canyon

Don’t forget to check out the free guides and planning tools on travelbanffcanada.com and banfftravelplanning.com.

Facebook Community: Travel to Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore & Kananaskis

Banff Itineraries

Banff Travel Guide

Instagram: @travelbanffcanada

In this episode, Celine tackles one of the biggest questions travelers have when planning a Banff trip:

When is the best time to visit?

Spoiler: it depends on what you want from your trip—but by the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to pick the best season for you.

Drawing on years of experience exploring Banff year-round, Celine shares an honest month-by-month breakdown of what you can expect; from frozen lakes in spring, to turquoise waters in summer, golden larches in fall, and snow-covered peaks in winter. You’ll also hear personal insights on what makes each season special, local tips to avoid common mistakes, and real talk about what you’ll love (and what might surprise you) depending on when you visit.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The pros and cons of visiting Banff in each season
• The best months for hiking, sightseeing, and avoiding crowds
• When the lakes thaw, when wildflowers bloom, and when ski season is at its best

Whether you're planning your first trip or returning for another adventure, this episode will help you match your visit to the Banff experience you’re dreaming of.

Safe Skating in Banff

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Webcam

Banff in September

Banff in October

Don’t forget to check out the free guides and planning tools on travelbanffcanada.com and banfftravelplanning.com.

Facebook Community: Travel to Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore & Kananaskis

Banff Itineraries

Banff Travel Guide

Instagram: @travelbanffcanada