Adventure Bucket List Date Ideas in Banff

January 29, 2024

#FairmontLovesFebruary – 5 Winter Date Ideas in Banff for Adventurous Couples

Love is in the crisp, alpine air! With breathtaking mountain scenery and outdoor activities aplenty, it’s no surprise that Canada’s Western Mountains have all the makings for THE ultimate romantic getaway. In the spirit of love month, we’re sharing our top 5 adventurous date ideas to fall deeper in love in Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise and Whistler. Whether celebrating your better half this Valentine’s Day or spoiling them all season long, these adventure bucket-list ideas for couples will surely spark loving memories that will last a lifetime.

Romantic Stays in Banff

Stay at Fairmont Banff Springs or The Rimrock Resort where adventure awaits just steps away.

Banff Springs in Banff National Park under the starry sky. — Fairmont Banff Springs is nestled along the Bow & Spray Rivers.

The Rimrock Resort Hotel. Banff National Park — The Rimrock Resort faces Cascade and Tunnel Mountains.

5 Adventurous Date Ideas in Banff

To preface this list, we cannot omit skiing & riding the iconic peaks of the Ski Big 3 resorts nearby: Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay. But if you’re searching for adventure beyond the slopes, check out our top winter date ideas for adventurous couples in Banff:

1. Snowshoe with Breathtaking Views

You two will feel like you have Banff’s outdoor playground all to yourselves on the secluded trails. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and sweep your sweetheart off their feet as you walk miles of majestic mountain wilderness together. Snowshoeing is a great activity for beginners and a perfect way to rekindle your love for winter weather (and unknowingly sneak in a workout). Tour the trails just the two of you, or embark on a guided snowshoe adventure with a knowledgeable guide. Wander during the daytime or after dark on an evening snowshoe tour, which ends with a campfire, s’mores and a hot beverage to warm up afterward.

2. Soar high above banff

Couple at the top of Sulphure Mountain, Banff Gondola Romantic Experience — Take the Banff Gondola to the Top of Sulphur Mountain (Mînî Rhuwîn) *Photo by Travel Alberta / Youn Park*

Take your love to new heights with peak views of sweeping mountain vistas and the Bow Valley below. Visit the Banff Gondola and soar high above the alpine to the top of Sulphur Mountain (Mînî Rhuwîn). When you arrive at the summit, follow the boardwalk to the secluded Sanson’s Peak at 7448 ft. high. Or Dine at the Sky Bistro, where every meal pairs well with a Rocky Mountain view. Watch the sunset and discover Nightrise—an after-dark multimedia experience created with the Stoney Nakoda People (Îyârhe Îethka). The mountaintop comes to life unexpectedly with digital art installations, video projections and music.

3. Ice Skate Under the Stars

A couple Ice Skating at Fairmont Banff Springs — Skate under a blanket of stars, steps from the Castle

Fairmont Banff Springs and The Rimrock Resort guests need not travel far to enjoy classic Canadian winter fun. Both hotels boast picturesque skating rinks steps away from their doors. Enjoy a romantic evening of skating under a blanket of stars. On a clear night, you can look at the sky and spot the Milky Way and constellations like Cassiopeia, the Big Dipper and Orion the Hunter. If you’re looking for a way to warm up afterward, enjoy a specialty cocktail at Rundle Bar or Larkspur.

4. Chase Frozen Waterfalls

A couple taking a frozen waterfall selfie at Johnston Canyon. Photo by Devaan Ingraham — Chase frozen waterfalls at Johnston Canyon. *Photo by Devaan Ingraham*

As if Mother Nature decided to stop time herself, frozen waterfalls in the Rockies are like timeless works of art. Freeze a moment in time with your loved one on a romantic adventure chasing frozen waterfalls throughout Banff. Take to the miles of forested trails and venture to Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon Lower Falls & Upper Falls. Crampons or ice cleats, and hiking poles are strongly recommended! Or take your relationship to new heights and try Ice Climbing—a true winter bucket list experience—step outside your comfort zone to conquer frozen falls together. Join local ice climbing experts on guided outings for a safe and unforgettable experience.

5. Bowl Valley 5-Pin Bowling

Couple bowling at Bowl Valley 5 Pin and Pints, Fairmont Banff Springs — Keep things playful with a round (or two) of 5-pin bowling at Bowl Valley

Round off a day filled with romantic mountain adventures with some fun & games. Keep your love on their toes with a date at Bowl Valley. Enjoy 5-pin bowling and pints at Fairmont Banff Spring’s intimate alley. It’s the perfect place for couples to reconnect in a loving, competitive spirit! Perhaps the winner gets treated to a foot massage (or some other TLC of their choice). Reservations are recommended. Rent a lane by the hour (includes shoe rental).

More Unique Banff Date Ideas

Looking for more date ideas and inspiration from the romantic Canadian Rockies? Learn why we love February in Banff and check out our 5-Day Banff Winter Itinerary to plan the perfect Banff getaway this season.

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