From pronunciation to packing tips, we have the answers you’re looking for.
One of the perks of living and working in the Canadian Rockies is sharing spectacular places with guests from around the world. And when it comes to questions, we’ve (almost) heard it all.
Here are some top tips for your visit to Banff or Jasper, gathered with help from our local experts.
What will the weather be like?
For a seemingly simple question, this tends to be a tough one to answer! Here in the Canadian Rockies, weather is often unpredictable — sunny days can be followed by snowstorms and vice versa. Believe us, we’ve seen it happen many times before.
Average highs in summer are around 22°C (72°F), while winter drops down to an average low of -15°C (5°F). Spring and fall averages sit in between at around 10°C (50°F), though swings in either direction are common.
What clothes should I bring?
Our advice is to be prepared for any weather. Shorts and T-shirts will be fine for hot summer days, but always bring warm layers and a raincoat for cooler nights and wet weather. If you’re planning on hiking, you’ll need some decent hiking shoes (boots or sneakers), a backpack and active wear.
In the winter, layers are your best friend. Don’t forget to bring gloves or mittens and a warm hat or toque (AKA a beanie), plus cozy socks and warm pants if you have them.
Where is the Columbia Icefield?
One of the biggest misconceptions that tourists have when they visit the Canadian Rockies is how far away the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is from Banff. The Columbia Icefield is located along the Icefield Parkway (Hwy 93) between Banff and Jasper. It is a minimum of 2.5 hours away from Banff. You definitely don't want to feel rushed as you drive up one of the most scenic roads in the world. Give yourself plenty of time to stop, take photos and soak up the beauty. Remember to book your Columbia Icefield Adventure or Ice Odyssey in advance to secure your spot, too!
The Icefield is a stunningly beautiful place and a truly unique experience — you really don’t want to miss it. So, make sure you factor travel time into your plans for the day.
Is it cold on the glacier?
It’s a good idea to take a jacket with you when visiting the Columbia Icefield and venturing to the Athabasca Glacier, as the temperature is a lot lower than ground level (about 6 to 12°C cooler) due to the cooling effect of the ice and the elevation.
In case the Columbia Icefield’s name didn’t give it away, you should also know that it will be icy on the glacier. A glacier is basically a huge mass of ice, formed by the accumulation and compaction of layers of snow over many years. The Columbia Icefield is the largest ice field in the Rocky Mountains — so bring some flat, sturdy shoes because things may get slippery!
We also recommend bringing some sunglasses, as the light reflection on the ice and snow make the area very bright. And don’t forget to bring an empty water bottle! When conditions are right, you’ll be able to take some glacier water home with you.
How do you pronounce ‘Banff’ and ‘Maligne’?
Our team members thoroughly enjoy all the different pronunciations of Banff we hear every day. For those who have never visited Banff before, it’s a funny-looking word, but it’s pronounced exactly how it is written (B-AH-NF). It’s not "Banuff," "Binaff," "Banafé" and especially not "Bumff." Maligne is pronounced MAH-LEEN (not "Maliganny" or "Magilny").
What should I do if I see a bear?
One of the most important things to know about the Canadian Rockies is that it is home to a wide array of wildlife including birds, small critters like squirrels and marmots, and large mammals like elk, moose and bears. If you see a bear, do not approach it. Bears are wild animals — not cuddly teddies! Please don’t try to get a selfie with it — save those for something far less dangerous. If you come across a bear, back away slowly and calmly, while talking gently so the bear isn’t alarmed or provoked. It is recommended that you hike in groups of three, make noise and carry bear spray if hiking in bear territory. (Want to learn more? Here’s our full breakdown on bears in Banff.)
Similarly, don’t get too close to an elk. You may see them around town, but that doesn’t mean that they’re tame. Keep your distance and resist the urge to give them an unsolicited pat or pet — a good rule of thumb for most Rockies locals you’ll come across, wild or otherwise.
Can I Feed The Wildlife?
Do not feed the wildlife! As much as you think a squirrel might enjoy a Dorito, you’re actually harming the wildlife more by feeding them. There’s a saying that “a fed bear is a dead bear," meaning that when animals learn to associate humans with food, bad things happen. For smaller animals like rodents, it also means that they lose the skill to forage and store food as they begin to rely on humans. The maximum fine for feeding wildlife is $25,000 — it's definitely not worth it.
Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page or drop by a Pursuit Adventure Centre in Banff or Jasper.
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