Hi everyone! Here's Whatβs Happening This Week!
The biggest story this week is the grizzly encounter near Cochrane, where a hunter was transported to Calgary after a serious mauling. Wildlife officials are still sorting out what happened, but itβs a sharp reminder of how quickly conditions can shift outdoors, even late in the season.
Meanwhile, Canmore has some big development news. The Everwild Nordic Spa project has now confirmed its opening timeline for November 2025, promising saunas, mineral pools, outdoor relaxation areas, and mountain-view thermal circuits. Itβs expected to be a major draw for visitors and locals looking for a slower-paced experience.
Weβre also heading into the final run of Nightrise at the Banff Gondola. This unique nighttime experience will close for good after this winter, so this is the last chance to see it.
Finally, a snowfall warning is in place across parts of the park. Expect wet, heavy snow and slower travel.
Keep reading to dive into events, music, food specials, and things to do around town.
Banff in November: What You Need To Know!
Banff in December: What to Expect in the Heart of Winter!
ποΈ Quiz
Which lake is the closest to the town of Banff?
Yesterdayβs Question
Which ski resort is not located within Banff National Park?
β Answer: D) Marmot Basin (Itβs located in Jasper National Park.) - 68% Correct
Marmot Basin sits in Jasper National Park. Discover the ski resorts in both parks.
π€οΈ Weather - Fri 6 PM

Banff
π For the detailed outlook and a yearβs weather guide, visit our Weather Page.
πΊοΈ Tour Highlights:
π¨οΈ Iconic Winter Photo Stops β’ ποΈ Lake Minnewanka Storytelling β’ π‘ Gondola to Sulphur Mountain β’ π Nightrise Multimedia Experience β’ π½οΈ Buffet Dinner
Book today - discover the beauty of Banff in winter.

ποΈ Your Questions
Is Johnston Canyon open in the winter? Yes, and it may be the best time to visit. Find out how to get there and what to do.
Where can I buy a park pass? There are plenty of options. We explain here.
Can anyone visit the Fairmont Banff Springs? You don't need to be a guest - visitors can explore the hotel, dine, or enjoy a drink with mountain views.
ποΈ Fresh from the Rockies
π°News
π» Hunter airlifted after grizzly attack near Cochrane. Two men were hunting when one was mauled on Thursday afternoon and flown to Foothills Medical Centre. Officials believe the bear was shot by his partner, with DNA testing underway to confirm details. See the latest update.
π Last call for Nightrise at Sulphur Mountain. The immersive nighttime summit experience wraps for good after this winter season. Expect glowing colours, quiet viewpoints, and a deep mid-winter atmosphere. Runs Nov 22-Mar 29. Plan your night.
π§ Everwild Nordic Spa is opening in Canmore in 2025. Set to open Nov 20, 2025, Everwild will feature hot-cold thermal circuits, saunas, mineral pools, outdoor lounges and mountain views, plus a new boutique hotel with direct spa access. Day passes will be available. See the early details.
βοΈ Ice Magic returns to Lake Louise in 2026. The iconic ice castle and world-class sculptors are back Feb 5-8, 2026. Entry is free but ticketed, with shuttle access required. Hotel guests and local residents get first access. See how to get tickets.
βοΈ Snowfall warning issued for Banff National Park. Environment Canada expects 10-15 cm of wet, heavy snow around Banff, Lake Louise and Highway 93 North, with travel likely to be slow and visibility reduced. Temperatures near zero. Check the forecast.
π Winter tires are now mandatory on the Icefields Parkway. From Nov 1 to Apr 1, Highway 93N requires winter tires. There are no services or cell signal along the 230km stretch, so fuel up, pack warm layers, and check 511 before you go. See the safety tips.
π» MLA challenges province over grizzly bear response program. Banff-Kananaskis MLA Sarah Elmeligi says killing grizzlies isnβt reducing conflicts and argues funding should go to BearSmart education instead. The minister insists the responder program is effective and cost-neutral. See the key exchange.
β°οΈ Fortress Mountain pitches an all-season resort plan. A major redevelopment proposal includes new lifts, expanded terrain, a hotel, spa, brewery, retail village and year-round operations. Supporters call it overdue; critics warn of wildlife and water impacts. See whatβs being discussed.
πFood & Drink
π Taste for Adventure at Pizzeria Sophia. Sophia is offering a $49 three-course dinner as part of Banff's Taste for Adventure festival - cosy lighting, seasonal plates, and very limited nightly seating. Book your TFA table.
π½οΈ Locals November returns at Crazyweed. A $49 three-course menu plus 30% off drinks, 20% off the Γ la carte menu, and 25% off all wine. Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays after 5 PM. Book a table
π» Banff Ave Brewing Co. - Late Night Happy Hour on the Ave. From 21:00 daily, enjoy $4 Shafts, $5 highballs, and $10 Ninjas in a lively, multi-level brewpub serving house-made beers. See what's pouring tonight.
ποΈ Plan Your Trip
ποΈ Wake Up to Lake Louise Views for Less: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has a few ways to make a stay here more tempting this season. Alberta, BC, and SK residents save almost one-third, while winter guests can book three nights or more for a discounted stay with breakfast included. There's even a Stay, Play & Ski offer with a resort credit. Check out guest reviews to see what past visitors thought.
π§ Maximize your day in the mountains. If you're short on time, this guided tour is ideal. Experience Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, and Johnston Canyon all on one trip. Book by Nov 15th to save almost $30 per person.
βοΈ Stress-free airport transfers to Banff. If you're flying in, this shuttle offers a smooth, reliable, and comfortable transfer service directly from the airport to Banff. Reserve by Nov 19th for a discounted rate.
πReminders
π« Bow Glacier Falls Trail Remains Partially Closed - in effect until further notice.
π§ Highway 40 (Highwood Pass) Seasonal Closure - from Dec 1 to June 20.
π’ Parks Canada Discovery Passes - extended by 3 months.
β Most Popular Last Issue
π A Christmas Carol returns to Banff Springs. Back for its eighth season, this festive crowd-pleaser runs Dec 5-28 inside the Fairmont Banff Springs. Plan your night.
βοΈ Abraham Ice Bubble & Rockies Tour. Explore Abraham Lake's frozen bubbles, Peyto Lake, and Sunwapta Falls. Now $69 (was $119). Book now to save.
π O Canada! Summer tourism hits all-time highs. Canadaβs tourism industry just had its biggest summer ever. See what fueled the record rush.
Tour Highlights:
π΄ Private 2-Seater Horse-Drawn Sleigh β’ ποΈ Views of Mount Rundle & Mount Norquay β’ π¦ Chance to Spot Local Wildlife β’ πͺ΅ S'mores by the Fire β’ π§£ Cozy Blanket
Book now to glide through Banff's snowy meadows!

πΈEvents, Activities & Live Music
π Todayβs Events are listed below. To view future events, visit our website.
Saturday, November 1
13:15 |
Wild Life Distillery Tour |
Wild Life Distillery | Canmore
13:45 |
Park Distillery Tour |
Park Distillery | Banff
15:00 |
Live Music Afternoon |
Three Bears | Banff
15:00 |
Musical: Into the Woods |
Carter-Ryan Gallery & Theatre | Canmore
15:30 |
Park Distillery Tour |
Park Distillery | Banff
17:00 |
Jasper Skytram Star Sessions |
Jasper Skytram | Jasper
18:00 |
Halloween Cave Night |
Rat's Nest Cave | Canmore
18:30 |
Rockies Salsa Social |
Canmore Recreation Centre | Canmore
19:00 |
Winter Exhibition Opening |
| Banff
19:00 |
Banff Ghost Walks |
Good Earth Coffeehouse (Meet) | Banff
19:00 |
Grant Kannigan: Live |
Rose & Crown Restaurant & Pub | Canmore
19:30 |
Wild Happy Hour Party |
The Banff Centre | Banff
19:30 |
Musical: Into the Woods |
Carter-Ryan Gallery & Theatre | Canmore
20:00 |
Live Music Night |
St. James Gate | Banff
22:00 |
DJ Raven on the Decks |
High Rollers | Banff
22:00 |
Jesse Roads |
Rose & Crown | Banff
22:00 |
Late Night DJ |
Rose & Crown Restaurant & Pub | Canmore
π Got An Event To Share?
π
Submit Here (8 days before event date)
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π Thatβs All For Now π¬
Another week of mountain magic awaits!
We're so glad you're here for the ride.
Keep exploring and sharing, and we'll see you in the next issue with another full lineup of Banff happenings.
Jill & Kevin | Editor | Whatβs On Banff

π¬ Want to get in touch? For feedback, local stories, or questions, reply to this email.
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