Bear Drama Returns - Parking Trouble Too?

Hi everyone! Here's What’s Happening This Week!

It’s been a lively week across the valley, with news starting right at the top of the food chain. The Boss and Split Lip have both been seen again as they bulk up for the season ahead. Anytime these two make an appearance, it grabs attention, and this year they’re closer than usual, prompting more than a little curiosity.

Meanwhile, parking is back in the rumour mill. A possible rate bump is on the table to help fund Roam Transit, and it’s giving everyone one more thing to chat about around town.

And as temperatures settle into winter mode, the Christmas spirit is gearing up at the Banff Train Station. The Christmas Market is about to return with its familiar mix of local vendors, festive treats, and holiday atmosphere that many people look forward to each year.

Plenty more is happening across town, so browse through the full list of events and updates below.

• Banff in November: What You Need To Know!

• Banff in December: What to Expect in the Heart of Winter!

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🏕️ Quiz

Yesterday’s Question

What is the annual Parks Canada pass called?

✅ Answer: A) Discovery Pass - 66% Correct

A Discovery Pass gives access to Banff and other national parks. Find out about all the passes you’ll need.

🌤️ Today’s Weather

Banff: A mix of sun and cloud with a 60% chance of flurries, high 2 °C and low -3 °C.
Canmore: A mix of sun and cloud with a 60% chance of flurries, high 2 °C and low -3 °C.
Jasper: Periods of rain, high 2 °C and low -5 °C.

👉 For a complete forecast for the week ahead, visit our Weather Page.

🏞️ Your Questions

What makes the Three Sisters Viewpoint Trail special?
Few walks pack so much beauty into such a short distance. This easy path follows a rocky creek bed to a peaceful pond where Canmore’s iconic Three Sisters rise in perfect reflection. It’s family-friendly, accessible, and a must-see for anyone visiting the Bow Valley.

👉 Get the full details and photo tips in our complete trail guide!

🏔️ Fresh from the Rockies

🐻 Rival grizzlies, The Boss and Split Lip, spotted near Banff before winter sleep.

Banff's two most famous heavyweight grizzlies are on the move again, creating a stir as they roam the valleys in the final push before hibernation. The Boss, known for his massive size and long reign as Banff's dominant male, has been seen travelling his usual territory, while Split Lip - equally notorious and recognized by his distinctive facial injury - has also been spotted near highway corridors.

Their rare overlap has wildlife watchers buzzing, as these two bears have a long history of tense encounters and territorial dominance. Parks officials say both bears are focused on packing in calories before heading to their dens, but their presence near busy areas is a reminder for visitors to stay alert.

Give wildlife plenty of space, secure attractants, and follow all area warnings to keep everyone safe. Learn more about their latest movements in this grizzly update.

🎄 Banff Christmas Market returns with Rocky Mountain charm.

From Nov 20 to Dec 14, the Banff Train Station transforms into a festive village filled with twinkling lights, artisanal stalls, and European-style holiday magic. Browse for unique gifts inspired by mountain culture, savour seasonal treats, and enjoy live entertainment that sets the perfect winter mood.

With shopping, music, and cosy holiday vibes, it's an annual favourite for kicking off the season. See all dates, times, and highlights in the full guide.

🚍 Banff considers raising parking rates to boost Roam transit funding. A report suggests increasing visitor parking from $7 to $9 an hour, generating $2.2M to help fully fund Roam and ease the 2026 tax hike. See what's on the table in the full council report.

Find out how to park for free.

🏔️ Luxurious Canmore sanctuary takes top Readers' Choice award. The Malcolm Hotel has been crowned Gold in the 2025/26 Calgary Readers' Choice Awards, celebrating its mountain views, warm service, and sustainability commitment. Take a closer look at the hotel's award-winning charm in the full feature.

🛍️ Holiday market coming to Canmore Brewing. On Dec 14 from 3-8 pm, local artisans take over the brewery so you can sip a beer while tackling your gift list. Keep an eye out for vendor updates.

❄️ Three-course winter feast at The Maple Leaf for $39. After a big Banff adventure, tuck into hearty steakhouse favourites and toast the night with 30-50% off select wines. See the full offer and menu details in The Maple Leaf winter feast info.

🚶 Sundance Loop reopens tomorrow in Banff. Closed since Sept 9 for construction, the Sundance Canyon Loop is officially open again on Nov 15, restoring access for hikers just in time for the weekend. See the full details.

🎨 New winter exhibitions open at The Whyte Museum. Celebrate the season with "Elise Rasmussen: An Alpine Trilogy" and "Second Take: History of Film in the Rockies" - two captivating explorations of art, memory, and mountain culture. On view until April 2026. Discover more.

⭐ Most Popular Last Issue

Uncover the story of Bankhead Ghost Town. Once a bustling coal-mining community, Bankhead is now an open-air museum of ruins, relics, and history tucked beneath the slopes of Cascade Mountain. Discover more about the site.

🏔️ Plan Your Trip

A Quiet Marvel: Visit Peyto Lake on the Icefields Parkway

If you're exploring Banff National Park, make time for Peyto Lake. Tucked high along the Icefields Parkway, this glacier-fed lake is one of the most breathtaking sights in the Rockies. It’s brilliant turquoise colour shifts with the light, and from the viewpoint, you'll see why many say it looks like a wolf's head.

The walk to the main lookout is short but scenic, about 15 minutes uphill from the parking lot. It's paved and easy to follow, with benches and interpretive signs along the way. For a quieter experience, arrive early in the morning or later in the evening when the tour buses have moved on.

If you're coming from Banff, take the Bow Valley Parkway instead of the highway. The drive is slower but incredibly scenic, and you might spot elk, deer, or even a bear along the way. On your return, stop at nearby Bow Lake for another stunning glacier-fed view - it's a peaceful spot that's often overlooked.

👉 Add Peyto Lake to your Banff itinerary - it's a quick stop that delivers unforgettable views.

🎸Events, Activities & Live Music

📅 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 |

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