Luxury Deals, Golden Trails, and a Moose on the Loose

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

Golden season is right around the corner! The larches are about to light up the Rockies, turning hikes and drives into one of the most magical sights of the year. If Banff has a “can’t-miss moment,” this is it.

On the luxury side, the Fairmont Banff Springs is offering autumn deals that bring big savings on two-night stays, spa retreats, and member perks. Perfect if you’ve been waiting for an excuse to enjoy a little grandeur. Out on the trails, though, it’s not all serene views - an aggressive moose has shut down part of Upper Kananaskis Lake Trail. Safety comes first, so hikers are urged to steer clear. Keep reading for the full lineup of events, festivals, and updates happening this week.

• Banff in September: What You Need To Know!

• Banff in October: Read before you visit!

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🌤️ Weather Watch – Weekly Outlook (Wed 6 pm)

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

🏞️ Your Questions Answered!

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

2. Can I use my drone in Banff National Park? No, Banff National Park is a strict no-drone zone. You can find out more about this and other park rules here.

3. Is the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Worth the cost? You need to decide for yourself. Reading our guide will help.

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

5. How do I get to Lake Louise? Check our complete guide here.

🏷️ Don’t Miss These Deals

🚌 28% Off Banff Lakes Tour Until October 10 - Rated 5 Stars
A small-group tour covering Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Lake Minnewanka, and more is now 28% off. Choose the easy way to explore Banff’s top lakes without the hassle.

📷 $50 Off Professional Photo Shoots in Banff & Canmore - SEPT ONLY
Flytographer is offering $50 off photo sessions through September with five local photographers available. A practical option for polished holiday photos.

🌄 25% Off Morning Tour to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise – Ends Oct 1
Another excellent lakes deal: enjoy 2 hours each at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise on a relaxed morning tour. Book soon for a stress-free visit to two of Banff’s most iconic spots.

🍸 Twice-Daily Happy Hour at Banff Park Lodge's Terrace Lounge
The Terrace Lounge at Banff Park Lodge offers Happy Hour from 4–5 p.m. and again from 9 p.m. to close. Enjoy 50% off select appetizers plus drink deals such as $5 beer & $8 cocktails.

🏨 20% Off 3-Night Stays at Elk + Avenue Hotel
Planning a longer visit? Elk + Avenue Hotel is offering 20% off when you book three nights or more. Check it out for a stay right in the heart of downtown Banff.

🏔️ Banff in Brief - Headlines this Week

🍂 Larch season is almost here in Banff.
Golden needles will soon light up the Rockies as larch season peaks between late September and early October. From Moraine Lake hikes to scenic drives, here’s how to make the most of it. Read more

🏰 Fall into luxury at Banff Springs Hotel.
The "Castle in the Rockies" is making autumn escapes more tempting with a suite of special offers. Guests can save 15% on two-night stays, with extra perks for Accor members, while Alberta residents enjoy 30% off year-round. Other packages include "This is Canada" with breakfast and up to 25% off for more extended stays, Bed & Breakfast with daily dining included, and a Spa Wellness Retreat featuring treatments and parking. For those who want extra pampering, the Fairmont Gold package offers private check-in, concierge service, and exclusive lounge access. See offers

🦌 Aggressive moose closes part of Kananaskis trail.
A section of Upper Kananaskis Lake Trail is closed after reports of an aggressive moose between Upper Lake Day Use and Point Campground. Hikers are urged to avoid the area until further notice. Full story

🦌 Banff Park rules every visitor should know.
From leaving food unattended to flying drones or picking mushrooms, Banff National Park has strict rules to keep wildlife and visitors safe. Fines can reach $25,000, so it pays to be prepared. Read more

♨️ Don’t forget: Banff Upper Hot Springs closed
A quick heads-up - Banff Upper Hot Springs is shut for maintenance and upgrades until December 2025. Plan ahead and check alternatives if you’re heading to the park. More info

🐻 Bear activity shuts Rockwall Trail meadow.
Multiple bears feeding near the Peter Lougheed Discovery Centre Meadow have forced a closure. Officials stress that visitors should respect the shutdown for safety until the bears have moved on. Read more

🏞️ Want to Wake Up to Moraine Lake?
Skip the early shuttles and parking stress - Moraine Lake Lodge is the only accommodation right on the lake. Guests enjoy exclusive sunrise access, lakeside views, and the rare chance to soak in the stillness before the crowds arrive. If Moraine Lake's been on your bucket list, this is the way to do it.

📸 Jasper’s new sign draws selfie crowds.
A colourful Jasper sign has been installed outside the Visitor Centre, quickly becoming a hit with tourists. The letters light up for holidays and events, making it a fresh downtown landmark. See details

❄️ La Niña hints at snowy Banff winter
Forecasters suggest a weaker La Niña could bring colder, snowier conditions to Banff, Lake Louise, and Kananaskis this season. Skiers are watching closely, with comparisons to past high-snowfall years. Read more

🔥 BC Wildfire monitors out-of-control blaze near Golden
The BC Wildfire Service is closely monitoring a 247-hectare wildfire in steep, inaccessible terrain 19 km north of Golden. Believed to be lightning-caused, crews will act if it nears trigger points. Read more

🥕 Banff Farmers’ Market season ending soon
It’s Farmers’ Market Day in Banff’s Central Park, with only two more Wednesdays left this season. Fresh food, local crafts, and mountain views make it a must-visit while it lasts. More info

⭐ Readers’ Choice: Top Links from Last Issue

1. 🏕️ Mount Engadine Lodge - Where the Locals Stay

2. 🚡 Which gondola should I go on? We discuss your options here

3. 🚠 Soar to the Summit - Banff Gondola Admission

🎸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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