😱 Gondola Closing, Parkway Locked, and the Lodge Locals Don’t Want You to Know About

Hey Banff! Here's what's happening this week 👋

It's the final countdown for the Sunshine Gondola, with the lift closing for the season on September 21. If you want those sweeping mountain views without the winter crowds, this is your last chance until the snow flies.

Meanwhile, the Bow Valley Parkway's seasonal closure continues to spark debate. While some see it as a win for cyclists and e-bikers, others argue it cuts off visitors from one of Banff's most scenic drives. Whichever side you're on, it's shaping the way people explore the park.

And if you're searching for a quieter getaway, Mount Engadine Lodge in Kananaskis is worth a look. With options ranging from lodge rooms to glamping tents and yurts, it's where locals head when they want peace, great food, and a true mountain experience.

Plus, we've just added a new deals and discounts section to help you save on your trip. From food and drink offers to activity specials, it's worth checking out before you make plans.

Scroll down for all the week's events, live music, savings, and more Banff updates.

• Banff in September: What You Need To Know!

• Banff in October: Read before you visit!

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🌤️ Weather Watch – Weekly Outlook (Mon 6 pm)

Read Our Complete Guide To What You Can Expect From Banff’s Weather, whenever You Plan To Visit!

🏞️ Your Questions Answered!

1. Which gondola should I go on? It depends. We discuss your options here.

2. What park passes will I need? Probably a National Park Pass and possibly a Kanansakis Park pass. We explain here.

3. Is Moraine Lake still open? Yes, you have until 13th October. Find out how you can visit.

4. Is Johnston Canyon worth visiting? Yes, but timing makes all the difference. Find out how to get the most from your visit.

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

🏔️ Banff in Brief - Headlines this Week

🚴 Banff road closure sparks fiery debate.
Critics say Parks Canada is “stealing” access from 95% of visitors by closing a scenic stretch to vehicles, forcing detours and hurting local businesses. Supporters call it bike-friendly progress. Read more. To take advantage of the closure, book an EBike tour.

⛺ Parks Canada makes booking easier than ever
Now you can reserve campsites and add a Discovery Pass in one go with Parks Canada’s updated online reservation system. Plan, book, and get adventure-ready in minutes. Start planning

🏕️ Mount Engadine Lodge - Where the Locals Stay
If you’re after a peaceful escape with a bit of character, Mount Engadine Lodge is one to know about. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Kananaskis, this all-inclusive lodge is where locals go when they want to unplug without giving up great food, cozy comfort, and stunning views. You can stay in a traditional lodge room, a private cabin, a glamping tent, or even a yurt - each offering a different way to experience the quiet beauty of the mountains. If you are looking for a peaceful stay, you should check it out.

🚡 Last call: Sunshine Gondola closes Sept 21
It’s closing weekend at Banff Sunshine. Take your final scenic ride before the lift pauses for the fall. Trails and viewpoints shine in September light. Don’t miss it. Learn More.

🐺 Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary lands major funding.
Big news for Wolfdog fans! The sanctuary has just secured over $600,000 in grants to build a new day-use area, pathways, and an interactive learning centre. They’re also seeking donated wolf/canine items. Read More. You can book a tour here.

🏷️ Don’t Miss These Deals

🌄 Moraine Lake Sunrise & Lake Louise - 20% Off Until 1 Oct
With Moraine Lake access closing soon for the season, take the chance to see sunrise at Moraine and visit Lake Louise.

🍺 Park Distillery - Cocktail Happy Hour
Park Distillery offers a daily happy hour from 15:00-17:00 with 50% off cocktails, $9 wines, $6.99 pints, and food specials. Guests can also book a distillery tour to see how the spirits are made.

🏨 The Malcolm Hotel, Canmore - Complimentary Breakfast
Get more luxury for less cost in neighbouring Canmore. Stays include premium amenities and a complimentary breakfast (limited time).

🏞️ Explore Moraine Lake, Banff, Lake Louise & Minnewanka - 28% Off Until 10 Oct
Save nearly a third on this full-day small group tour that visits four Banff highlights, including Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Minnewanka.

🥾 Banff Hiking with AllTrails - 30% Off Plus For A Limited Time
No cell service, no problem. Use AllTrails Plus to download maps and use offline GPS to stay on track throughout Banff National Park.

🌌 Jasper’s Dark Sky magic shines bright.
Jasper National Park is one of the world’s largest accessible Dark Sky Preserves, making it a stargazer’s dream. With minimal light pollution, the night sky here is nothing short of breathtaking. Read More

🚠 New chairlifts at Castle Mountain and Lake Louise
Fresh terrain is opening up for the 2025–26 season! Castle adds the Stagecoach Express while Lake Louise debuts Richardson’s Ridge. Expect more runs, better snow, and fewer bottlenecks. Read more

🍂 Safety first in Banff this fall
Weather flips fast in the mountains! Parks Canada reminds visitors to check trail reports, bulletins, and forecasts before setting off. A little planning makes adventures safer and stress-free. See details

⛷️ SkiBig3 unveils Extreme Pass makeover
From youth to seniors, SkiBig3’s revamped season passes now include flexible family add-ons and discounted buddy tickets. Big savings for big adventures across Banff’s iconic slopes. Check it out

🏔️ Banff debates future of tourism and housing
Banff’s community plan faces pushback over visitor caps, housing shortages, and potential changes to the Parks Act. With record traffic and rising pressure, big choices lie ahead. Full story

⭐ Readers’ Choice: Top Links from Last Issue

1. 🏞️ Want to Wake Up to Moraine Lake?

2. 🛶 Kootenay Canyon Tour Offers Quieter Alternative - Now 50% Off.

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

🎸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. CHECK IT OUT HERE 

🍺 Happy Hours & Food Specials

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

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