If you plan on visiting Banff in May, you have picked an excellent off-season month. Banff in May isn’t your typical time to visit Banff. The month is far from warm in the Canadian Rockies, and you’ll still be dealing with snow. The ski resorts are still running for the first half of the month. It’s not quite the best time to visit Banff, but it’s getting there!
It’s not summer, and it’s not the white winter wonderland everyone loves either. Out of all 12 months, I would say that May ranks 10 behind all the great summer, fall, and winter months. Only November and April are worse in my mind (just being an honest local!) Don’t worry though; the Rockies are always fantastic, with plenty of things to do.
That being said, Banff in May is tranquil compared to the summer months, and you’ll be able to explore many areas without the hassle of the crowds. You’ll get some sunny days and may feel brave enough for shorts. As long as you’re prepared for varying weather, you’ll have a great time and be able to score some shoulder season deals too!
Things to Know Before Visiting Banff in May
What’s the Weather Like in Banff in May
Things start to get pretty lovely in Banff in May. Temperatures are increasing, and the sun shines over the land. There can still be a dusting of rainfall in May, especially in higher altitudes (which is then snow), but generally, this is what you’d call pleasant weather for the Rockies. The high for the month floats around 15°C.
So is there snow in Banff in May? Absolutely, but it’s mostly melted at a lower elevation. Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise Ski Resort are still open until the second week of May, among the longest-running ski seasons in North America. You might get the very odd powder day too, but in general, expect spring riding conditions (soft slushy snow and not many layers).
The glacier lakes will likely not be thawed yet, so if you’re coming to Banff expecting to see the amazing blue lakes, you should wait another month. It’s not exactly the best time to visit Lake Louise. The access road to the iconic Lake Moraine is not open yet, so you’ll have to return in June to see her in all her glory.
As mentioned, rainfall in May increases to about 50mm – still not that much. At high elevations, this means snow-capped mountains. At lower elevations, you’ll be reaching for a rain jacket.
The wildlife is waking up from winter slumber, so you’ll want bear spray while hiking. A few lower-elevation mountain hikes are doable now, but make sure you’re equipped for cold weather before heading out, just in case.
We hiked Sulphur Mountain last year in early May, and it was still very snowy, and the low-elevation hikes are very muddy from melting snow. Most of early May in Banff is low season/shoulder season, but this changes toward the end of the month. It’s not camping weather yet, though some campsites are open if you want an early start to the season.
Just make sure to bring equipment rated for freezing temperatures at night. In general, you won’t find many crowds, and you may be able to score some off-season rates on the best Banff hotels.
What to Pack for Banff in May
Boots, a hat, gloves, and warm clothing. Especially if you’re visiting in early May. The later it gets in the month, the warmer, but you will still want a fleece jacket and long pants for nighttime. A down jacket is needed in the Rockies during all months.
I wouldn’t plan on wearing shorts much unless you get lucky or run hot, or are a bit of an optimist like me! Though it’s worth packing a pair in your bag, just in case! May is a varying month, but generally, I would say it will be on the chillier side rather than the warmer side – this is the Rockies, after all. If you plan on hiking, waterproof shoes and microspikes are recommended, in case you find yourself on an icy or wet trail.
Can You Visit Lake Louise in May?
Yes, you can visit Lake Louise in May as it’s open all year round. Lake Louise, at the earliest, will be completely thawed by the last week of May. So if you’re wondering if Lake Louise is frozen in May, the answer is probably yes.
However, it really all depends on the year. In 2020, Lake Louise was not thawed until June. If you’re visiting Lake Louise in early May, you can still expect the lake to be frozen and lots of snow in the surroundings. It’s also the ski resorts’ last month of the season, so if you want some excellent spring conditions, head to Lake Louise Ski Resort the first week of May.
Hiking up to the Lake Agnes Teahouse or the Little Beehive won’t be ready until around the last week of May, but you might have to wait until June, depending on the year. The Lake Agnes Teahouse won’t be open until around June 4th, so bring your own tea and biscuits while hiking.
We went the first week of June one year, and it was a glorious hike. Then, the next year, we hiked the second week of June, which turned into a battle against snow and mud. No one can predict what exactly will happen every year.
Can You Visit Moraine Lake in May?
This is one of our most asked questions. The road to Moraine Lake usually opens around the first week of June and closes the Tuesday after the Canadian Thanksgiving Holiday (the second Monday in October). But there are no guarantees with anything in the Rockies – it all depends on the snowfall.
In 2024, Moraine Lake Rd is scheduled to open on June 1st. This is also when the Parks Canada shuttles and tours start running to Moraine Lake. It’s best to stay updated with Parks Canada, or join our Banff Group Facebook page!
If you’re visiting Banff in May and the road to Moraine Lake is not open, the only way to see it is by biking in, which is what we typically do. It’s 12km all uphill, and I promise you it’s not that bad. Plus, the way down is super fun and cruisy! Biking in is the only way we’ve ever seen Moraine Lake in May. You can always rent eBikes at Wilson Mountain Sports in Lake Louise Village to assist you on the way up! Though, officially, you cannot reserve bikes at Wilson Sports until June 1st, but they *might* have bikes ready to go before that. You will have to call and verify with them as it’s on a case-by-case basis. If you need to rent a bike, you can also rent one in Canmore or Banff and drive it to Lake Louise to start your bike ride.
The road is typically not clear of snow until at least mid-May, and the best time to cycle Moraine Lake Rd is the last week of May. This is right after the snow is cleared, but before the road opens to vehicles.
Although she’s never ugly, Moraine Lake likely won’t be as stunning in May as you’ve seen on social media. If you visit Moraine in May, expect there to still be lots of snow on the peaks and the lake to still be mainly frozen. It won’t be its full blue color yet, but it’s a nice visit as it’s relatively quiet with hardly anyone around besides other bikers. It turns into a crazy town come June and stays that way until October.
READ MORE: About Visiting Moraine Lake in May
The Best Things to Do in Banff in May
Bike the Bow Valley Parkway
Since hiking in Banff isn’t in full swing yet, we consider May in Banff the perfect bike month. Most paths are clear of snow now and are fantastic for cyclists and mountain bikers. My favorite road to cycle is the Bow Valley Parkway, followed by the Legacy Trail from Banff to Canmore.
Parks Canada closes a section of the Bow Valley Parkway to vehicles to give cyclists and wildlife the right of way. This year, the vehicle closure lasts for the entire month of May, so it’s the perfect route for a car-free bike ride. The road is paved and crosses many beautiful stop-offs, like the Storm Mountain Lookout, Johnston Canyon, and Moose Meadows. You may even spot a bear (so ride with bear spray!).
You can go for as long as you want and then turn around and head back to your car. Or you can cycle all the way to Lake Louise and back for an epic 100km+ day!
Psst: If you’re visiting during the last weeks of May you can book an e bike and hike tour to Johnston Canyon!
Johnston Canyon
One of the best things to do in Banff in May is take a hike through Johnston Canyon. Almost everyone loves this very popular hike along the Bow Valley Parkway! The walk through Johnston Canyon to the Upper and Lower Falls is gorgeous, and May is a great time to tackle it as it gets incredibly busy come June.
Johnston Canyon is accessible and well-maintained. However, we regularly encounter ice and snow on the trail in early May. We recommend good boots or even microspikes are recommended before May 15th. Come late May, and we start getting into more spring-like conditions. The waterfalls often rush again as the snow melts off the higher elevation areas.
Mountain Bike at the Nordic Center
It’s season-dependent, but the Canmore Nordic Center generally opens sometime in May for mountain biking. The center has some of the best biking trails in Canmore and some awesome flow trails – great greens, blues, and blacks for all bikers. You can rent mountain bikes at Rebound Cycle in Downtown Canmore. Hardcore bikers might find it’s not the best mountain biking in Canada. You’ll need to head to Whistler or Squamish for that, but it’s still an enjoyable few hours in nature!
Enjoy the Sunshine Slush Cup
Sunshine Ski Village actually holds a fun festival to signal the end of the winter. The annual Banff Sunshine Slush Cup takes place on May Long Weekend every year and is where skiers and snowboarders alike celebrate a fantastic winter. It’s recognized as one of the year’s best ski events, and you can expect a lively party with a DJ and tricksters battling it out on the slush.
Read a Book on the Bow River
One of the best things to do in Banff in May is head down to the Bow River, which flows through Banff and Canmore, and enjoy the flowing water with the mountain scenery. I love bringing a book down to the river and think about what a long, beautiful summer we are about to have in the Canadian Rockies.
White Water Raft Down the Bow River
May marks the beginning of the Whitewater rafting season in the Bow Valley. A few operators will safely take you down the Bow River on class 2-3 rapids. You also will have the option to swim, but be forewarned it’s freezing.
Drive the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway is a beautiful drive many enjoy in the summer. Though in May, you’ll likely have it to yourself. The drive between Banff and Jasper is long and full of stunning stops. We enjoy driving it in late May and have many sights like Mistaya Canyon, Athabasca Falls, and the Parker Ridge Trail to ourselves. Bonus that the the Columbia Icefield Center and Jasper Skywalk reopen every May (May 4, 2024 – October 13, 2024 – weather dependent).
May can still be a mixed month in terms of road conditions. The snow is melting, but that doesn’t mean you are scot-free of hazards like black ice, so please drive carefully on the Parkway.
Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk
This is a combination tour that includes a ride to the foot of the Athabasca Glacier on the Ice Explorer Vehicles, and also includes the Jasper Skywalk. So, if both are on your bucket list, this is a great option for you. Spend at least half a day enjoying glaciers, ice, and plenty of views! These tours begin in May, so you’ll be some of the first of the season enjoying this area!
Walk on Athabasca Glacier
Towards the end of the month, IceWalk tours begin for the season, and you can book a guided glacier hike on Athabasca Glacier with IceWalks. This is your chance to get up close to a Glacier and actually walk on it. While most visitors take the Ice Explorer vehicles out on the glacier, this experience is more environmentally friendly, physically active, and will probably give you a better sense of accomplishment!
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Cruises on Lake Minnewanka typically ramp up around mid-May (May 10th in 2024), and this is one of the best ways to experience the huge lake. The hour-long panoramic cruise heads to Devil’s Gap at the end of Lake Minnewanka and back.
It’s a unique natural feature that looks out to the east and the plains of Alberta while enveloped in a mountain amphitheater. You’re guaranteed spectacular mountain vistas while you cruise across the emerald water. Along the way, a guide will share stories about the area and land’s importance to the Stoney Nakoda people.
Banff Wildlife Tour
If you’re interested in seeing wildlife, May is a fantastic time for it. It’s typically the time bears awaken from their winter slumber and come out of hibernation. You can also see plenty of elk, coyote, and maybe even a moose. However, it’s best not to go out exploring and chasing down wildlife on your own. The best way to learn about the wildlife in the area is by booking a small group tour with Radventures that gets you to the best natural attractions with a knowledgeable guide.
Eat The Castle
May can have some mixed weather, so if you see rain in the forecast, it may be worth looking into an indoor activity! The Eat the Castle Tour takes place at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel with a small-group tasting tour. With four locations within the sprawling complex to visit, indulge in “fork and knife” tastings and beverage pairings at the Vermillion Room and 1888 Chop House.
Gain insights into the hotel’s history, art, and architecture from your knowledgeable guide as you explore the national historic site. This personalized experience offers a unique opportunity to discover Banff’s culinary delights while learning about this iconic hotel’s rich heritage.
Check Availability for the Eat the Castle Tour
Hike Sulphur Mountain
Sulphur Mountain is easily one of the most popular hikes in Banff National Park. It’s a beautiful hike up that offers visitors astonishing views over the Bow Valley and Spray Valley. The trail leaves from the Banff Gondola or Hot Springs parking lots and follows a series of switchbacks up Sulphur Mountain until reaching the Gondola Station. Follow the boardwalk along the ridge to the peak and stunning views out across the valley and Banff.
Sulphur Mountain is a classic hike in Banff that is good to go year-round. Expect some snow still in May. There’s a coffee shop, a restaurant, and indoor interactive learning center for kids at the summit!
**In May, animals are emerging from hibernation and seeking the easiest route to food, potentially intersecting with your hiking path. Familiarize yourself with bear safety protocols before embarking on hikes. We recommend carry bear spray all year round. Did you know bears aren't true hibernators and can awaken at any time?
Banff Gondola
If you don’t feel like hiking up Sulphur Mountain, you can still get to the top another way. The Banff Gondola gets you to the top of the mountain in just eight minutes and climbs to 2281 meters (7486 ft) above sea level. You climb 698 meters very quickly!
Once at the top, you’ll have panoramic views of the Bow Valley and down towards the town of Banff. It’s one of my favorite views of Cascade Mountain. There’s a coffee shop up here, as well as Sky Bistro, one of the most scenic restaurants in Banff. Expect it to be pretty chilly up here in May, so you’ll want to make sure you have a jacket!
Hike in Kananaskis Country
The foothills and front ranges of the Canadian Rockies often see better early-season conditions than the mountains in Banff. There are some great early season hikes to enjoy in Kananaskis that are snow-free, or at least relatively snow-free.
The Barrier Lake Lookout is a great May hike, as well as Wasootch Ridge and Porcupine Ridge. If you want some super simple hikes that are family-friendly consider Troll Falls or Grotto Canyon. Keep in mind the later in May, the better for hiking in the Canadian Rockies.
Go for Paddle
While hiking season isn’t in full swing, May is a time when you will see many canoes and kayaks out on the water. Plenty of the lakes around Canmore are usually melted by now, and so are Vermilion Lakes and Two Jack Lake in Banff. May is a great time to rent a canoe or kayak and paddle around. Our favorite place for a leisurely paddle is the Canmore Reservoir, which has fantastic views of Ha Ling Peak and the Little Sister.
Amazing Paddle Boarding Locations in Banff
Enjoy the Banff Breweries
In theory, Banff in May means it’s officially patio season again! Though you’re in the Canadian Rockies, so it’s likely still chilly. Thankfully, many Banff restaurants have heaters to sit under. In May you’ll certainly get some sunny days, and you should take advantage and enjoy a beer at Three Bears or Banff Ave Brewing outside!
See our Favorite Breweries in Banff
Take in the Canadian Rockies from the Sky
Helicopter tours don’t run in Banff, but they do run in Canmore. Alpine Helicopters specializes in helicopter tours. If you thought the mountains were beautiful from the ground, just wait until you see them from a helicopter. There are plenty of different routes; so make sure to check out their site.
Bike the Legacy Trail
The Legacy Trail is a 26.8 km paved pathway that runs from the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff to the Travel Alberta Visitor Information Center in Canmore. Most of the Legacy Trail runs alongside Trans Canada and is a unique multi-use rec pathway that bikers love come mid-April when the snow melts off the path. There are rest stops, picnic areas along the way, and some epic spots to take in the views.
In our opinion, it’s the best way to get from Canmore to Banff, and we ride it a few times per month. Depending on pace, the ride from Canmore to Banff on the Legacy Trail can take anywhere between 1-3 hours one way. We love to ride the Legacy Trail from Canmore to Banff on a nice summer day in May and sometimes connect it with the Lake Minnewanka Loop for an epic day. You can rent bikes at GearUp in Canmore, Snowtips-Bactrax in Banff or get an e-bike rental at Rocky Mountain E Cruise in both Banff and Canmore.
Is May a Good Time to Visit Banff?
I won’t sugarcoat it – there are better times to visit the Canadian Rockies. As mentioned, I personally think May is the third-worst month to visit Banff (but admittingly, that is because I love to snowboard). It’s typically when we think of far-flung island destinations to escape to (think Bora Bora or The Philippines) before we really get into the best time of the year in Banff.
The weather is variable, most hikes that we have on our list are not good to go yet, many glacial lakes are still covered in ice, and the ski season has pretty much come to an end.
That being said, the beauty of the Rockies never disappears and towards the end of May, you will really feel like summer is in close sight. Any day spent in these mountains is a good day indeed, and you certainly won’t have a bad time if you visit in May. You’ll always be surrounded by colossal peaks and pretty landscapes. There are still some great things to get up to in Banff in May, and trust me when I say that you won’t ever leave the Rockies disappointed.
The other good news about visiting Banff in May? The crowds have yet to arrive, and May is truly a locals month. There are often deals at restaurants and hotels to be had, and plenty of attractions open up for the summer around the middle of the month. And have I mentioned that biking during this time is a local favorite?
Pros and Cons of Visiting Banff in May
Pros
- Cheap prices on accommodation and car rentals
- Deals at restaurants to be had
- Few crowds
- Ski Resorts open until the middle of the month.
- Sunny, warm and pleasant days.
- Biking the Bow Valley Parkway car free!
- Summer attractions like the Jasper Skywalk, Lake Minnewanka Cruise, and Athabasca Glacier Experience open in May.
- Beautiful snow-capped peaks.
Cons
- Unpredictable and changeable weather.
- It’s still cold – pack a jacket.
- Lakes still mostly frozen
- Moraine Lake Road is still closed.
- Access to Tak Falls in Yoho still closed.
- Less hiking opportunities.
- Summer attractions don’t open until the middle of the month.
Visiting Banff Travel Tips
Download AllTrails
If you plan to do any hiking (including the hikes mentioned on this list), download AllTrails first. Alltrails gives you the latest review of a hike, as well as all the logistical information you may need. If you pay for AllTrails Pro, you’ll also be able to download offline trail maps to your phone. We use AllTrails for every hike. It’s not the end all be all of hiking information, but it’s a great resource to use in conjunction with hiking guidebooks and websites.
Consider Renting a Car
Being in North America, your options for transport are limited and many Roam Transit summer routes are not yet running in May. Most visitors to Banff will rent a car in Calgary, which is the easiest way to get around. Renting a car in Banff ensures you can get to where you want to go on your own schedule. Depending on your travel season, car rentals in Calgary can be quite affordable. In May, you should be able to find shoulder season rates.
Other Transport Options
You may not feel comfortable driving in Canada, and that’s okay! There are other options to get to and from Banff and around the town. However, they are limited, so keep that in mind. The Banff Airporter is a good option to get from YYC to Banff. Once in Banff, there is the Roam Bus System to get around town.
Where to Stay in Banff in May
For a small mountain town, Banff has a plethora of accommodation options. Some of our favorites are
The Banff Springs Hotel is the most luxurious place to stay in Banff. Definitely a splurge, but worthwhile if you are celebrating a special occasion.
Johnston Canyon Bungalows are cute cabins at the base of Johnston Canyon! These are a fantastic getaway for a few nights that will have you away from the noise of Downtown Banff.
The Rimrock is a super great pet friendly option in Banff. It’s close to Sulphur Mountain and the Banff Hot Springs.
Stay in Canmore!
You can always stay in the nearby town of Canmore! One of our favorite hotels in Canmore is The Malcolm on Policemen’s Creek!
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The Banff Blog Facebook Group is your headquarters for Canadian Rockies travel advice and information, including hike and off-season travel information. You can also meet new adventure buddies.
Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies
- Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
- Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
- Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car: The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy.
- Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
- Hop On, Hop Off: This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!
Amazing! This article is really helpful and well written. Thanks Natasha.
Cheers,
Kunjal
You’re most welcome!
Super helpful!! I had been planning on going the last week of May (which is the only week I can go) but it sounds like I won’t see the Lake Louise of pictures. Also we’d been hoping to camp and hike but we’re not experienced so it sounds from your post like it wouldn’t be a great idea. Thank you!
There is a good chance it could be ice and snow-free. I’d say 50/50, but it all depends on the season and the weather. At the very least the ice should be breaking up. You can certainly still find plenty of low elevation hikes like Johnston Canyon or the Ink Pots. Also, if you go into the front range/Kananaskis area the mountains receive less snowfall and dry out earlier.
Thanks for the helpful information! Are the Covid restrictions hindering many of the hiking trails? I read that some of the Icefields parkway is closed to traffic, making it hard to get to the trails…
Thank you for your advice!
Peyto Lake is currently closed for construction, but you shouldn’t have issues driving elsewhere on the parkway.
This article, and your entire blog in general, has been super helpful! I am planning to go mid/late May and was hoping to do some elevation hikes, is there any way to know which ones I can attempt and which ones will be closed when I go? Thanks!
It’s still winter on high elevation hikes in May, but in general many of the easier and moderate hikes are wonderful in May. A few of our favorites can be found here: https://thebanffblog.com/canmore-hikes/
This blog was very helpful. We will be driving from Arizona to Soldotna, Alaska and will be passing through Banff May 7th. We will be towing a 27ft camping trailer. Would you think we need chains or snow tires at that time? We had planned to camp at the Lake Louise campground for 1-2 nights on our way to Dawson Creek Mile 0 of the Alcan Highway. Any advice appreciated. Thanks!
Hey Laurie, happy it could be of help. I’d say you don’t need tire chains, as it would be a very unusual storm to affect the roads in May. However, keep an eye on the weather if, for some reason, you need them to buy them stop in Canmore or Calgary before you drive through the mountains.
I am planning on visiting the rockies in the 1st and 2nd week of the may as these are the only weeks I can manage to go. Can you suggest good activities for the whole family during these times?
For more ideas check out this list! https://thebanffblog.com/best-things-to-do-in-banff/
Once upon a time, back in the late 1980’s, I was in Banff in either late May or early June and the caribou migration was taking place around that time. There were whole groups of them, just hanging around in town. Is that still happening? I know the caribou herds have been declining.
Unfortunately none in Banff anymore, but there are some in Jasper. https://www.alberta.ca/caribou-range-maps.aspx
Hi! Great blog! We are planning our trip the third week in May. I know, not the best month🥲. I was wondering about the town‘s attractions -other than the breweries 🤣- I’d like to visit the urban environments as well. Any recommendations? Thanks!
Hi Kristabel,
You can find all our recommended things to do in Banff here: https://thebanffblog.com/best-things-to-do-in-banff/
Hi! Thank you for the blog, its super helpful! We’re planning our trip for the last week of May this year. Other than Two Jack & Vermillion Lake, are there any other lakes that would have been thawed by then? Thank you in advance!
It’s hard to know this far out. I would keep an eye on the Fairmont Lake Louise live webcam as it will give you a good indicator.
Exactly what I was looking for! Thanks a ton 🙂
We’ll be in Jasper, Banff, and Canmore the last week of May. Your blog posts have been INCREDIBLY helpful! Thank you! Thank you! Disappointed we won’t make it out to Moraine Lake but still feeling like there will be more than enough to fill our 7 days!
There be plenty of things to around the end of May. You’ll leave wanting to see more!