Skijoring Drama Gallops Into Animal Safety Debate

The dust-and snow-has settled on the latest skijoring event, but the animal welfare row is still in full gallop. While thousands of fans packed the streets to see horses tow skiers over jumps, critics are raising serious concerns over the risks involved. Organisers realise the sport looks wild, but they maintain that professional design keeps the horses safe; meanwhile, the town is still recovering from the logistical nightmare of the crowds.

Nature is providing its own drama, though a much quieter and more permanent one. Western Canada’s glaciers are vanishing rapidly, having just survived their second-worst year for melt on record. Experts warn that these giants are destined to disappear from the peaks, with record ice loss recorded in just twelve months.

For those heading out to witness the retreat, expect to spend some quality time with your brake lights. Essential tree-clearing work is blocking lanes through March on the Icefields Parkway and Maligne Lake Road.

If you'd rather avoid the roads entirely, why not see how the other half lives at Peaks Hotel & Suites? It’s currently Banff’s top-rated stay in town on TripAdvisor, offering the perfect base for those who prefer wandering Banff Avenue to sitting in single-lane traffic.

There is plenty more happening this week. Dive into the event listings below, or check out the detailed events page on our website.

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👉 For a complete up-to-date forecast for the week ahead, visit our Weather Page.

If you don’t want to take on winter driving, this tour is a great way to experience Banff National Park in winter. You’ll spend time at Lake Louise for activities like ice skating or snowshoeing, followed by a stop at Johnston Canyon to see its frozen waterfalls.

There’s a good balance between time with the guide and free time, so you can take each stop at your own pace. Skates can be rented, or you can bring your own, and warm drinks are included along the way. The focus is on enjoying your experience rather than planning the logistics.

Book now and enjoy a full Banff winter day without the hassle.

🐴 Skijoring sparks animal welfare row. Some critics are raising concerns over the safety of horses being pulled through jumps. Organisers realise the risks, but insist courses are professionally designed to keep our four-legged friends in one piece.

🧊 Our glaciers are vanishing rapidly. Western Canada suffered its second-worst ice loss on record last year. Experts realise it is no longer a question of "if," but when these ancient giants finally disappear from the peaks.

☕ Midweek mountain escapes at Mount Engadine. If you can escape the office, the lodge is offering 33% off winter stays between Sunday and Thursday. They have also realised that February calls for romance, with sauna sessions and bubbly for the truly committed. Read the reviews.

🌲 Jasper faces tree-clearing traffic. Officials have realised that removing hazard trees and wildfire fuel requires blocking the roads through March. Expect single-lane alternating traffic and chainsaws on Maligne Lake Road and Icefields Parkway.

🏔️ Parks Canada wants fresh blood. If you fancy getting paid to wear the iconic flat hat and point tourists towards the nearest washroom, apply for a summer job now. A decent programme for those seeking mountain-sized CV points.

🔥 Free s’mores at Lake Louise Inn gazebo. If you’ve survived the slopes, head to the gazebo on Saturdays for bonfire après. From 6-9 PM, enjoy a crackling fire and complimentary snacks without spending a single penny.

🎈 Messy gender reveal at Lake Louise. A few over-excited visitors left a trail of pink confetti and dye on the famous ice. Parks Canada is reminding everyone that trashing the scenery can lead to a $25,000 fine.

Today’s quiz answer appears at the end of the events section below.

When travellers on TripAdvisor rank a hotel as the number one rated place to stay in Banff, it’s usually worth a closer look. In this case, a big part of the appeal is location. Peaks Hotel & Suites is less than a minute from Banff Avenue, so you’re right in the centre of town, with restaurants, cafés, and shops all within easy walking distance.

Check it out for yourself here

🛥️ Lake Minnewanka Cruise - Banff. Sail across Banff’s largest lake, spot wildlife, and uncover the sunken village of Minnewanka Landing with a local guide. Book now

🔥 Banff Horseback Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ Lunch. Ride the trails, then feast fireside with a hearty cowboy-style meal in the mountains. Taste adventure.

🚁 Helicopter Flight & Alpine Hike in the Rockies. Soar above the mountains and view the alpine wilderness near Banff. Take flight.

📅 Today’s Events are listed below. To view future events, visit our website.

BANFF EVENTS | CANMORE EVENTS | JASPER EVENTS | BANFF HAPPY HOURS | CANMORE HAPPY HOURS |

📅 Submit Here (8 days before event date)
Complete starred sections. For a FREE LISTING, check the box on the promotions page.

✅Answer: 1) Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is about a 90-minute drive from Banff; looking for somewhere closer to town? Check out Lake Minnewanka instead.

Yesterday’s Question: Which national park is home to the world’s largest accessible dark sky preserve?

✅Answer: 79% of you correctly chose Jasper National Park.

The best food, tours, and finds across the Park.

🏔️ Banff, Yoho & Lakes Day Trip - See Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, Johnston Canyon & Natural Bridge. 4.9 ⭐ Was $99, now $74 until Mar 3rd. Book now

🎥 Wednesday Date Night Combo, Lux Cinema Banff - Get 2 adult tickets, a large popcorn, and 2 drinks for $39.99 every Wednesday. Get tickets now

🧊 Discounted Abraham Ice Bubbles Tour - Visit Abraham, Peyto and Bow Lakes, with ice walk. Was $143, now $82 until March 21. Reserve here

🏨 Best Western Plus Banff International Lodge - Stay 3 nights and get a $50 gift card. Offer valid until Aug 2, 2026. Redeem now

🥗 The Balkan Locals Special, Banff - Three-course Mediterranean menu for $29.99. Available Sunday - Friday, walk-ins welcome. Book now

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