Banff

Banff is the centre of the Rockies and is the number 1 resort town in winter and summer. The town is neat and pleasant, and its surroundings are unbeatable. Banff is a great relaxation spot after travelling or camping in the backcountry. However, it is a great place for exploring by taking day trips and hikes.

Banff is very small consisting of one main street. The most popular months to visit Banff are July and August.

Alberta on average has more sunshine than any other province in Canada. Summers are warm and the further south you go the hotter it gets. Especially in July and August. The best time to travel is in August and September when the weather is warm and dry. The average annual rainfall is about 450mm, with most of it falling in June and early July. In the mountainous areas of Alberta the summers are pretty short and the evening get very cool.

From early October, the snow storms start and the temperatures can stay at freezing temperatures for weeks. In the south the cold temperatures of winter can be reduced by winds which are called Chinooks. A chinook is a warm and dry, south westerly, winter wind which blows off the Rocky Mountains.