A Bear on Edge, Pups in Training & Music by Candlelight

Here’s What’s Happening In The Rockies This Week!

This week’s stories capture the spirit of mountain life across Banff, Canmore, and Jasper. Our new November Guide shines a spotlight on one of the Rockies’ most underrated months, with fresh snow, quiet trails, and festive markets just around the corner. Music lovers have reason to celebrate, too, as the Candlelight Concerts return to the Banff Springs Hotel, pairing spine-tingling classics with the warm glow of hundreds of candles.

Hikers, however, are being urged to steer clear of Arnica and Twin Lakes after an injured grizzly was spotted – tired, cranky, and not in the mood for visitors. On a brighter note, Snowy Owl Tours has welcomed its next generation of sled dog pups, already full of energy and charm.

And in Canmore, locals said goodbye to Craig’s Waystation, a landmark that stood for decades before being demolished.
From glowing concerts to fresh adventures and heartfelt farewells, there’s plenty happening across the Bow Valley and beyond. Scroll down to catch all the highlights.

• Banff in October: Read This Before You Visit!

• Banff in November: What You Need To Know!

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🌤️ Weather Watch – Weekly Outlook (Tue 6 pm)

Read Our Complete Guide To What You Can Expect From Banff’s Weather. Whenever You Plan To Visit

🏞️ Your Questions Answered!

1. Are there any food and drink festivals in Banff? Yes, there are two taking place soon. Taste for Adventure and the Banff Craft Beer Festival.

2. Where can I buy a park pass? There are plenty of options. We explain here.

3. Should I visit Banff in December if I don’t ski? Yes, there’s still plenty to enjoy. Read our December Guide.

4. Can I park in Banff? Yes, click to find out how.

5. Will I have cell service on hikes and road trips? No! Download AllTrails and Google Maps FOR OFFLINE USE before you arrive.

🏔️ News in Brief - Headlines this Week

🎻 Candlelight Concerts Return to Banff Springs!
After selling out previous performances, the Candlelight concerts are back at the iconic Banff Springs Hotel! ✨ Enjoy spine-tingling Halloween Classics or a stunning Tribute to Coldplay - all performed by string quartet under the warm glow of candlelight in one of Banff's most magical venues.

A perfect night out for music lovers, date nights, or visitors looking for something unforgettable. (Guaranteed NO KISS CAMS bring whoever you want!)

🏚️ Craig’s Waystation Demolished in Canmore. On September 26, the town bid farewell to a true landmark as Craig’s Waystation came down. An era ended, but the memories live on. View the final chapter

📘 Banff in November Guide Released. Fresh snow, quiet trails, early ski turns, and festive markets - November is Banff’s most underrated month. Get insider tips on weather, packing, and events. Explore the guide

🥾 Banff hikers warned: bear’s not in the mood. A grizzly with a jaw injury has been spotted in the vicinity of Arnica and Twin Lakes. Think of him as tired, grouchy, and not up for visitors. Check the warning.

🐶 Puppy Power at Snowy Owl Tours. The next generation of sled dogs is already tugging at the harness, brimming with energy and charm. From playful pups to future pros, it’s all happening. They are seriously cute. Meet the pack

🏔️ The Malcolm Hotel: Luxury in Canmore, Without the Banff Price Tag. The Malcolm pairs upscale design with mountain views and a more relaxed pace. It’s a quieter setting with more room to stretch out, and your budget goes further here. If you're after luxury without the crowds or the markup, you can check it out here.

🔥 Jasper recovery continues after wildfires. Parks Canada says that 2026 will offer a similar level of trails and campgrounds as this summer, with the Valley of the Five Lakes set to reopen and additional upgrades planned. Read the update.

🏷️ Don’t Miss These Deals

🍕 Half-Price Happy Hour at Bridgette Bar, Canmore. One of our favourites: Bridgette Bar's daily matinée happy hour runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., offering 50% off all beverages and pizzas - a great excuse to take a mid-afternoon break in style.

⛷️ Ski & Stay at the Iconic Fairmont Banff Springs. Book to save 30% on winter stays at the Castle in the Rockies. Pair world-class skiing with the comfort of a historic mountain hotel. Tempted? See what guests are saying.

🚌 Don't miss 37% off the Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Shuttle.
Enjoy 1.5 hours at both lakes, with stress-free shuttle access. Wander the shores, take in the peaks, & capture two of the Rockies' most iconic views. Book by Oct 12 to save 37%.

📷 $25 Off Flytographer Sessions in Banff and Canmore. Skip the awkward selfies and book a photographer instead. Flytographer has five local photographers ready to capture your trip, and sessions are $25 off at checkout when you use our link.

🐻 Bear Closure at Mount Shark Trails. Grizzlies aren’t shy this week – multiple close encounters have shut down the Watridge Lake Trail. If you’re heading out, think strength in numbers (4+) and don’t forget bear spray. Brave the details

🏠 Canmore’s vacancy tax faces pushback. Alberta’s government is targeting the town’s first-of-its-kind vacancy tax, aimed at second homeowners. Locals say housing pressures remain dire. Will the levy survive? Get the details

🏳️‍🌈 Banff Pride is bigger than ever. From drag ski races to lakeside cruises, Banff Pride has evolved into a 10-day October festival, complemented by year-round activities for everyone. Celebrate with Pride.

⭐ Readers’ Choice: Top Links from Last Issue

1. 🌟 Banff's Best-Loved Hotel, According to... Everyone

2. ❄️ Ice Bubbles & Icefields - Abraham Lake Winter Adventure

3. 🍽️ Taste for Adventure returns to Banff

🎸Events, Activities & Live Music

📅 Our events calendar is now fully live.
It's your go-to source for local music, festivals, and everything happening around town. BANFF EVENTS | CANMORE EVENTS

🍺 Happy Hours & Food Specials

Our Happy Hours listings have moved. To view a complete list of this week's happy hours, visit our Happy Hour pages.  Banff Happy Hours | Canmore Happy Hours

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