A Cozy Escape At Storm Mountain Lodge: Cabin Review
Storm Mountain is tucked away amongst the breathtaking scenery of Banff National Park and far away from the crowds of the town. It’s an idyllic retreat for those seeking a cozy getaway away from the bustle of everyday life. Its location is just off the beaten path enough but close to all the major sights and hikes in the park.
The lodge’s historic cabins uniquely blend rustic comfort and natural beauty. A stay here is one for those looking to unplug and recharge in the woods. With cabins in short supply due to park regulations, spots like Storm Mountain are a gem.
The History of Storm Mountain Lodge
The lodge, built in the 1920s, has a rich history of providing refuge and comfort to travelers exploring the majestic Rockies. The cozy cabins have maintained their historical charm with just enough updates to keep guests comfortable.
Each cabin, crafted from logs, exudes a sense of timelessness that makes for the perfect cozy mountain retreat. They are the most rustic of all the cabins in Banff and feel like staying in a backcountry lodge. Despite its easy location off 93S, the lodge isn’t even connected to the power grid!
Rustic Cabins
During our stay in December, Natasha and I were captivated by the serene atmosphere surrounding our cabin. These rustic cabins offer a familiar coziness with wood-burning stoves and simple yet comfortable furnishings. Even the worn wood floors add to the ambiance. The cabins are winterized and feel super cozy with a roaring fire on a cold winter night.
Rooms have a small seating area, bed, table, bathroom with antique tubs, and a comfy queen bed. Due to the lodge’s location, the cabins do not have modern amenities like a tea kettle, TVs, or refrigerators. Without the distractions of modern technology, you can reconnect with nature and each other in an intimate setting.
There is nothing you can’t go without, and a fresh brew of coffee is waiting for you every morning in the main lodge. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect with a good book or puzzle, or recharge your batteries for mountain adventures. We loved our stay in the cabin, and it’s a great option for those after a rustic stay tucked away in the woods.
A Fantastic Dining Experience
One of the highlights of staying at Storm Mountain Lodge is the exceptional food. While most other remote spots in the park require traveling for a meal or self-catering, guests of Storm Mountain are in for a treat with an extraordinary dining experience.
The lodge’s restaurant offers a menu showcasing the best local and seasonal ingredients crafted into hearty and delicious dishes. From the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread to the rich flavors of their gourmet entrees, each meal is a memorable experience.
Guests can order a la carte or take a set five-course menu. We enjoyed the five-course meal and had bison carpaccio and roasted duck legs, which were fantastic! The bar is a classic throwback, with great cocktails and a nice wine list featuring Canadian wines.
With its rustic décor and warm lighting, the lodge’s dining room provides the perfect backdrop for savoring these culinary delights. We loved hanging out there and admiring the many antiques and small pieces of decor hidden throughout. Any guest of Storm Mountain should make a point of eating at their cozy lodge at least once!
*You do not have to be a guest of Storm Mountain to enjoy a dining experience here, however reservations are highly recommended.
What You Can Expect
Visitors to Storm Mountain Lodge can expect a tranquil and rejuvenating experience away from the noise of Banff Avenue but still close enough to drive to the park’s most popular sights, like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
The lodge is surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, towering peaks, and dense forests that offer ample outdoor activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds of Banff and immerse yourself in the natural world.
Those after the resort feel of Banff, with its many restaurants, shops, and bars, may feel isolated. That said, it is only a 20-minute drive from Downtown Banff, which is nice if you’d like to have dinner in the town or shop for a night. Of course, the historic cabins also offer far fewer amenities than a modern hotel room in town, but that’s exactly what most guests seek at Storm Mountain.
The lodge also serves as a gateway to exploring the stunning wilderness of Kootenay National Park. Whether you’re venturing out for a day of adventure or simply enjoying a cup of coffee on your cabin porch, the beauty of the surroundings is ever-present. Our favorite spots near the lodge are Stanley Glacier, Twin Lakes, Marble Canyon, Numa Falls, and Boom Lake.
A stay at Storm Mountain is ideal for visitors who have their own car.
A Perfect Mountain Getaway
Our December visit reminded us of the simple pleasures of being tucked away in nature. Whilst we are fortunate enough to call the Canadian Rockies, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our modern conveniences and town life. Storm Mountain Lodge offers a sanctuary for those wishing to step back in time and experience the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Its rich history, comforting food, and rustic charm make it the perfect place to enjoy a cozy mountain getaway. We took advantage of its great location to have an early morning at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Even if you’re not a skier or snowboarder, there is much more to do in the Canadian Rockies in the winter!
Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies
- Recommended Experiences: There are many things to do in the Rockies, but our top recommendation is the Banff Gondola – a must do experience! If you want to get active, consider snowshoeing on top of the world. Lastly, enjoy nighttime in Banff on this Sunset and Stars Tour!
- Want an all in one tour? Pursuit is running this special Winter Wonder tour on weekends!
- Transport in the winter: If you don’t want to drive to Banff in the winter, we totally get it. To avoid this book with the Banff Airporter.
- Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. For a campervan trip, you can check prices and compare on Outdoorsy.
- We can help you plan your 2025 trip to Western Canada! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by planning we can assist! We’ll personally go over your itinerary, hop on a 1 on 1 phone call, or create a bespoke itinerary just for you! See our services here.
