Banff National Park Is Magical in the Winter With Skiing, Frozen Waterfalls, and Castle Hotels-Here's How to Plan a Visit

"It's the magic of water and ice and snow and crystals."

"I think in the winter it becomes a really special community of people that love to be outside,"

"It's still a little bit of a secret gem."

Banff and Lake Louise transform into a winter wonderland of jagged peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and alpine villages under snow. Winter activities include ice climbing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and skiing along a grizzly bear refuge. Winter typically runs from November through May, with prime ice conditions in mid-December through February and the best snow in February and March when a solid base forms. Winter brings fewer crowds and a close-knit community of outdoor enthusiasts. The three-week SnowDays Festival occurs in January and February. Winter visits often yield first-time challenges and memorable discoveries amid spectacular frozen landscapes.

Read at Travel + Leisure