Episode 6: What to Expect in Banff in May

Banff in May is one of those months that catches people off guard, in the best way. It’s not quite winter, not quite summer, but it offers a unique mix of quiet trails, snowy peaks, and early spring energy. In this episode, I’ll reveal why you might actually love visiting Banff in May, even if it’s not my personal favourite.

It’s not the month I recommend for everyone, but depending on your travel style, it might be just right for you.

Banff in May Is a Month of Change

May in Banff is a bit of a seasonal identity crisis. The town feels like spring (bikes are out, patios start opening) but 10 minutes up the road, you’ll still find frozen lakes and snow-dusted trails.

That said, there’s something special about this shoulder season. You get the mountain peaks still capped with snow, but the valleys are waking up. Trails begin to clear. Prices are lower. Crowds are thinner. And you can do a surprising number of activities, if you know where to look.

For me, it’s not always my favourite month only because it’s not really the best time for hiking. Trails can be quite muddy and sometimes still icy. Avalanche danger is still a very real possibility. But for people who like to sightsee, go for scenic drives, and have fewer people around, it’s honestly kind of perfect.”*

What’s Open in Banff in May (and What’s Not)

Here’s the real breakdown of May in Banff including a short list of what’s open and what’s not.

Here’s what open and accessible for your May trip to Banff:

• Lake Louise is accessible by car or public transit from the town of Banff. The shuttles start start May 15th (shuttle reservations open Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 8 am MDT).
• Banff Gondola, restaurants, and town attractions are all open in May.
• Lower elevation hikes like Tunnel Mountain, Johnston Canyon, Fenland Loop are great in May.
• Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake are often thawed by mid-month
• Cycling options around Banff in May include the Bow Valley Parkway (car-free until June 25!) and the Legacy Trail between Canmore and Banff.
• Enjoy wildlife viewing as this is prime bear season!
• Scenic drives like Icefields Parkway and Minnewanka Loop are well worth it in May.
• Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise typically opens late May.

Here’s what’s not quite ready around Banff in May:

• Moraine Lake is still closed to vehicles though the road might be bikeable in late May if plowed (expect the lake to still be frozen or partially frozen).
• High elevation hikes are snowy or have avalanche danger.
• Lake Louise canoeing often doesn’t start until late May.
• The Yoho Valley Road to Takakkaw Falls remains closed possibly until mid-June.
• Roam Transit summer schedules don’t kick in until mid/late May.

Every year I hear from people disappointed they didn’t see turquoise lakes in early May or they didn’t realize they couldn’t visit Moraine Lake. The truth? It’s not the month for it but the tradeoff is fewer people, open roads, and lots of wildlife sightings.

Best Things to Do in Banff in May

As a local, if I were building a May itinerary for someone who wants to experience Banff without needing full summer weather, here’s what I’d include:

Ride the Banff Gondola – it’s warm enough, the views are great and it’s not crowded.

Easy walks like the Bow River Trail, Fenland Loop, Surprise Corner should be clear of snow and ice. Perfect for a sunny spring day.

Hike Tunnel Mountain or Johnson Lake Loop. These lower elevation hikes may have mud or ice but no avalanche danger.

Visit Johnston Canyon. Johnston Canyon is great any time of year, and especially early in the morning when it’s the least crowded.

Cycle the Bow Valley Parkway or Legacy Trail.

Catch sunrise at Vermilion Lakes.

Visit Cave & Basin on a rainy or cool day. It’s the perfect rainy day activity.

Take a day trip to Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge. The drive is scenic and both places will be less busy this time of year.

Look for wildlife. Spring is an ideal time to spot bears, elk, and bighorn sheep, who are all active.

Paddle at Johnson Lake (often thawed by mid-May) on a warm day.

Take a scenic drive, especially the Icefields Parkway or Minnewanka Loop. Expect some snow on trails along the Icefields Parkway.

Book a helicopter tour if you’re up for a splurge. The snow covered peaks make from incredible views in May in the Canadian Rockies.

Explore Walking trails in Canmore. Trails like Policeman’s Creek, the Bow River Loop or a hike up to Grassi Lakes are beautiful in May.

Search for Parks Canada red chairs around Cascade Ponds and Two Jack Lake.

Local tip: Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway ride is one of my favourite things to do all year and you can only do it car-free in spring and fall. May is the sweet spot for it.

Weather & What to Pack

The weather in May is… dramatic. Highs are usually between 10–18°C (50–65°F), but snowstorms and sunny days can happen back-to-back.

Your best bet? Pack for every season.

Here’s what I always recommend to pack for a trip to Banff in May:

• Puffy jacket
• Waterproof shell
• Merino or synthetic base layers
• Hat and gloves
• Waterproof hiking shoes or boots
• Optional: microspikes for icy shaded trails
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Bear spray

Trails can be muddy, icy, or dry, all in one loop. And temperatures drop quickly at night, especially at elevation. Don’t underestimate the spring chill.

Final Tips for Visiting in May

• Be flexible with your plans. The weather and conditions can change quickly.
• Check trail and road conditions daily (before heading out).
• Book Lake Louise shuttles if you’re visiting after May 16, so you don’t have any parking issues.
• Bring bear spray. The bears are out!
• Expect fewer transit services early in the month, especially if you’re visiting without a car!

Here’s my full blog post on what to expect in Banff in May. It’s packed with even more trail suggestions, packing tips, and things to do around Banff in May.