Ultimate Guide to Banff in June

June is the beginning of peak summer season in Banff. With long daylight hours, moderate crowds, and increasing activity options, June is one of the best times to visit Banff.

Typically early June is when the landscape shifts dramatically as frozen lakes thaw and canoeing is on everyone’s list. You’ll still find snow clinging to the peaks in the first part of the month, but the long daylight hours and what feels like summer days makes you want to be outside the whole time.

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Banff Weather in June

Weather in June is unpredictable, but generally pleasant. Daytime temperatures usually range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), though mornings and evenings can still be chilly. Rain is common in Banff in June (as one of our rainiest months, especially in the afternoons, and snow is still possible in higher elevations.

Pack layers, waterproof gear, and waterproof hiking shoes. You’ll likely encounter everything from dry trails to muddy ones in the same day.

What to Expect in Banff in June

While we like to think of June as the beginning of summer in the mountains, it’s not quite there yet.

Expect a little bit of everything in Banff in June. Spring runoff will make the waterfalls extra impressive and vibrant turquoise lakes appear as the ice melts. Trails will start to catch up but are likely to be a mix of snow, mud and ice and higher elevations.

Early in the month, Moraine Lake can still be partially frozen and the water levels are still low.

Along the Icefields Parkway, you can find some lakes are still frozen and hiking trails are snowbound. Even the short walk to the Peyto Lake viewpoint can be icy, so always check trail reports before heading out.

Avalanche danger can still be present on many trails. As the snow melts, many popular hikes will have mixed conditions like snow, ice and mud.

Always check trail conditions before heading out!

What’s Open in June

There are several places in Banff that are open all year round, like visiting Lake Louise, the Banff Gondola or the Banff Upper Hot Springs. If the weather cooperates, canoeing will open on Emerald Lake, Lake Louise and in the town of Banff in May (or very early June).

Also at the end of May, you can expect the Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise and Maligne Lake Cruise (Jasper) to start up.

What Opens in Banff in June

Moraine Lake Road opens! And shuttles start up

Tea houses like Lake Agnes Teahouse and Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse will open when hiking without avalanche danger is possible (typically early June)

Bow Valley Parkway remains open for cyclists on the eastern section until June 25^th

Yoho Valley Road (Takakkaw Falls) – often opens mid to late June

Mount Edith Cavell Road (Jasper) – typically opens in the second half of June

Moraine Lake canoe rentals – dependent on ice melt, usually mid-to-late June

Sunshine Meadows opens at the end of June!

Getting Around Banff in June.

If you’ve rented a car, then you’ll have no issues getting around Banff. Just keep in mind as the month progresses as will the number of visitors. This means that parking lots will start to fill up. You’ll want to start visiting popular places like Johnston Canyon and Lake Minnewanka during off-peak times.

Similarly, it will get more difficult (if not impossible) to visit Lake Louise by parking at the lake unless you go very early. With Moraine Lake Road opening on June 1^st, you’ll want to plan a shuttle to get to both of these iconic lakes.

Public Transportation is fully on the summer schedule in Banff in June and it becomes much easier to get around Banff without a car in June.

You can now get to many of the popular places around Banff by Roam Transit. Roam Route 9 will get you to Johnston Canyon. Use Roam Route 6 to visit the Lake Minnewanka area.

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are easily visited until Roam Route 8X, just be sure to get the Reservable Super Pass which is the only way to visit Moraine Lake using Roam Transit. The Reservable Super Pass gets you access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake.

Best Things to Do in Banff in June

There are so many great things to do around Banff National Park in June. While so many people come for the incredible hiking, don’t think that’s all there is to do. Aside from what is in this list, you can find an even more extensive list of things to do in Banff for non-hikers. Even if you love hiking, you’ll want to check out this list!

Hike Tunnel Mountain

One of the first trails to be snow-free in the spring, the Tunnel Mountain hike is a quick and rewarding hike from downtown Banff. The 4.5 km round-trip trail offers panoramic views over the townsite and surrounding peaks. It’s a great introduction to hiking in the Rockies without venturing too far.

Explore Easy Town Walks

Enjoy scenic walks on the Bow River Trail, Fenland Loop, and the Marsh Loop near the Cave and Basin area. These flat trails are snow-free early and great for spotting wildlife or getting close to the river. They’re a good option when the weather is mixed or you’re easing into the elevation.

Visit Lake Louise

Lake Louise is usually thawed by late May or early June, revealing its famous turquoise color. Canoe rentals begin around the end of May, but the shoreline walk and photo ops are beautiful even without paddling.

For a short but steep hike with incredible views over the lake, go up to Fairview Lookout.

Hike to a Historic Teahouse

June is the perfect time to hike to one of Lake Louise’s famous teahouses once the trails are ready and there’s no avalanche danger (always check trail reports). You can hike to either Lake Agnes Teahouse or the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse.

These charming, rustic cafes operate without electricity and are supplied by foot or helicopter, making the experience feel like stepping back in time. The Lake Agnes trail is the shorter and more popular of the two (7.4 km return, moderate), while the Plain of Six Glaciers trail is longer and quieter (14.6 km return, moderate to challenging).

Bring cash (Canadian dollars), start early to beat the crowds, and check if the teahouses are open. They typically open early June.

Visit Moraine Lake

On June 1^st of every year, the Moraine Lake Road opens. Moraine Lake access is by shuttle, tour, or bike only. June mornings are stunning if you get an early shuttle time to catch the sunrise. Just know that the water levels are typically pretty low in early June when you can start to visit this lake and there might be some ice still on it. However, the mountain scenery is still incredible and worth a visit.

If you visit Moraine Lake for sunrise, be prepared for it to be chilly! I wouldn’t go without a warm jacket, warm hat and even mitts/gloves.

If you decide to cycle the Moraine Lake Road, be aware that the road is narrow and you’ll be sharing it with a constant stream of large shuttles and buses going by. In addition, this is grizzly bear territory so don’t go without your bear spray (and knowing how to use it).

Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola whisks you up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views, a boardwalk, and the chance to dine at Sky Bistro. The views are especially dramatic in early June as lingering snow contrasts with new greenery below. It’s a great afternoon or evening activity, especially for non-hikers.

Always check if parking will be an issue. You can take a free shuttle or Roam bus from downtown Banff.

Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive and Boat Cruise

Don’t miss the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive. This scenic loop includes Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, Cascade Ponds, and Lower Bankhead.

The Lake Minnewanka boat cruise is a top activity in June. It takes you deep into the lake with mountain views and local stories. Bring a picnic, watch for wildlife, and enjoy the easy lakeshore walks along the way.

You can also find some great hiking at Lake Minnewanka, a short easy hike around Johnson Lake or C-Level Cirque from the Upper Bankhead parking lot.

Drive or Cycle the Bow Valley Parkway

The closure of the Bow Valley Parkway only affects the 17km east of Johnston Canyon to the town of Banff. This closure to vehicles is in place until June 25^th plus there’s an overnight closure from 8pm to 8am for all traffic (bikes, foot, etc) for the wildlife.

Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon is a wonderful experience and a great way to spend a morning.

You can still drive the section between Johnston Canyon to Lake Louise. Driving the Bow Valley Parkway is filled with wildlife sightings and scenic viewpoints like Morant’s Curve.

Drive the Icefields Parkway

One of the most beautiful drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway is especially impressive in June. Snow still decorates the high peaks, and traffic is still relatively light. Stop at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake viewpoint, Mistaya Canyon, the Big Bend and the Columbia Icefield area.

The Columbia Icefield Adventure is a great addition to this scenic drive in Banff. Experience the ride on these massive vehicles with a stop on the glacier then venture over to the Skywalk. Plan 2.5 hours for this adventure.

This is also a great turnaround spot if you aren’t going all the way to Jasper.

Hike Johnston Canyon to the Upper Falls

The Johnston Canyon hike is a family-friendly hike that follows catwalks above a rushing creek past several waterfalls. In June, the waterfalls are flowing fast with spring melt, and the trail is usually clear of snow. If you’re up for more, continue hiking to the Ink Pots. The upper trail to the Ink Pots may still be muddy or snowy early in the month.

Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular easy hikes in Banff, so plan to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to get the most enjoyment out of this area.

Legacy Trail Bike Ride

The Legacy Trail connects Banff and Canmore with a 22-km paved path. Expect big views, a few gentle hills, and lots of photo stops along the way. Cycling the Legacy Trail can be done with e-bikes or regular bikes.

While it’s a long ride for some kids, they can always do a portion of it or one way (Roam Transit Route 3 between Canmore and Banff allows bikes to avoid needing to ride the Legacy Trail both ways).

There are plenty of bike rental options in both Banff and Canmore for this fun outing.

Look for Wildlife

June is one of the best months to see wildlife. Elk are calving, bears are often visible near roadsides, and bighorn sheep are commonly seen along many of the scenic drives. Head out early or late for the best chances.

Just follow safe and respectful practices when it comes to wildlife spotting. Never get out of your car. It’s best to just drive slowly by without stopping. And give a lot of space. Female elk can be extremely protective of their young (which they may have hidden nearby and you won’t even know it).

Paddle at Johnson Lake or Two Jack Lake

Canoeing at Lake Louise is spectacular, but these smaller lakes often offer a quieter paddling experience. Both lakes are calm and popular with locals for SUP and kayaking. Rentals are available in Banff or Canmore.

Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

This historic hot springs facility is open year-round and especially enjoyable on a rainy or chilly day. Soak in the hot mineral water while looking out over the surrounding peaks. It’s a popular spot, so visit early or in the evening for fewer crowds.

Catch a Sunrise or Sunset

Vermilion Lakes is one of the best places for sunrise. Its calm water and reflections of Mount Rundle are iconic. For sunset, consider Norquay Viewpoint, Lake Minnewanka, or the deck at Banff Gondola.

Visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

Located near Cochrane, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to learn about and see wolfdogs up close. Guided tours help you understand the challenges and beauty of these hybrid animals. It’s a great add-on for those arriving or leaving via Calgary.

Book a Family Photo Shoot

June is perfect for capturing memories, with lush forests, snow-capped peaks, and golden hour light well into the evening. Many local photographers offer short sessions in stunning spots like Cascade Ponds, Vermilion Lakes, or Lake Minnewanka. It’s a meaningful way to remember your trip.

Spend the Day in Kananaskis

Just a short drive from Banff, Kananaskis is a quieter, less visited gem. Scenic drives down Highway 40 reveal towering peaks, alpine lakes, and great wildlife viewing. You can also stop at Barrier Lake, Troll Falls, or the Kananaskis Village for a relaxing half-day outing.

The G7 Summit will be held in Kananaskis June 15-17 this year with many closures starting in early June. Check for closures and accessible areas here.

Spend a Day in Canmore

Canmore has its own charm and is a fantastic way to slow down and enjoy mountain life. Try a Bow River float tour with mountain views, hike to Grassi Lakes, or stroll the shops and cafes along Main Street. You’ll find great food, art galleries, and scenic picnic spots near Riverside Park.

Try Canyoning

If you’re looking for a unique and adrenaline-filled adventure, canyoning is one of the most exciting ways to explore Banff’s wild side. You’ll rappel down waterfalls, slide through natural rock chutes, and hike through remote gorges with expert guides.

June is a great time to try it, water levels are high from spring melt, and the experience is thrilling from start to finish.

Use code TravelBanff10 for 10% off your canyoning tour!

Take a Helicopter Tour

For unbeatable views of glaciers, peaks, and alpine lakes, a helicopter ride over the Rockies is hard to top. Tours depart from Canmore and offer short scenic flights or longer adventures with hiking or glacier landings. June’s clear skies and snow-capped mountains create incredible contrast in the landscape. It’s a splurge but one you won’t forget.

Try the Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay

Via Ferrata is a guided mountain climbing experience that uses fixed cables and ladders to help you scale the cliffs above Banff. With routes of varying difficulty and incredible views, it’s perfect for adventurous travelers who don’t want to rock climb solo.

Open mid-June, this is a fun way to gain confidence on the mountain and enjoy a high alpine experience. You’ll finish with a well-earned drink or meal at the Cliffhouse Bistro.

Go White Water Rafting

June is one of the best months for rafting thanks to the high water levels from melting snow. Choose a family-friendly trip on the Kananaskis River or go all-in with big rapids on the Kicking Horse River.

If you are adventurous, it’s a great way to spend a morning!

Go Mountain Biking

In Banff, head to Tunnel Bench Loop for scenic forest trails with easy-to-moderate terrain. For something more challenging, tackle popular Star Wars or sections of Lake Minnewanka Trail.

Just down the road in Canmore, the Canmore Nordic Centre offers a huge network of singletrack trails with everything from beginner loops to expert descents (plus trail maps, rentals, and bike wash stations on site). Whether you’re looking for a scenic cruise or an adrenaline-filled afternoon, mountain biking in June is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Spend a Day in Yoho National Park

A visit to Yoho National Park is a must while in Banff, especially around mid-June when roads are open and waterfalls are running strong. Start your day with a stop at the stunning Natural Bridge, where the Kicking Horse River has carved a dramatic passage through ancient rock. From there, continue on to Emerald Lake, one of the most beautiful and accessible lakes in the Rockies. The 5.2 km loop around the lake is a gentle walk with nonstop views.

Once it’s open (typically by mid-June), head up Yoho Valley Road to see Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls.

If you’re up for more adventure, hike to Wapta Falls. It’s a 4.8 km return trail leading to a powerful waterfall on the Kicking Horse River. It’s especially impressive during spring runoff in June. For a full-day outing, continue west to Golden, BC, where you can walk Canada’s highest suspension bridges at the Golden Skybridge. With epic views, zipline options, and family-friendly activities, it’s a great way to cap off a big scenic day.

Spend a Day in Kootenay National Park

Kootenay is often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem with quieter trails and some of the most unique scenery in the Canadian Rockies. A perfect day starts with a visit to Marble Canyon, where a short loop trail follows turquoise water through a narrow limestone gorge. Continue down Highway 93 to Paint Pots, an easy interpretive trail that winds through orange-tinged mineral springs once used by Indigenous communities.

If you’re up for more adventure, hike to Stanley Glacier, a moderate 10 km return trail that offers waterfalls, wildflowers (later in June), and views of a receding glacier. Or take a relaxing lunch break in Radium Hot Springs before looping back to Banff. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, especially bighorn sheep along the highway.

Visit Sunshine Meadows (Late June Onward)

If you’re visiting in the last week of June, you might be just in time for the opening of Sunshine Meadows, one of the most breathtaking alpine experiences in Banff National Park. Perched high on the Continental Divide, this area offers sweeping views and peaceful trails far above the valley floor. It’s one of the few places where you can get into true alpine terrain without a strenuous climb.

Access is via the Sunshine Village gondola and chairlift, which typically begin operating for summer in the final days of June (check opening dates in advance). Once you’re up there, choose from a variety of trail loops with views of Rock Isle Lake, Grizzly Lake, and the surrounding peaks. Bring layers as it’s cooler at this elevation, even on sunny days.

Where to Eat in Banff

June is a fantastic month for patio dining, mountain views, and trying out Banff’s growing food scene. Whether you’re craving a casual burger, creative cocktails, or a special occasion meal with a view, there’s no shortage of excellent options.

I’ve put together a Banff Restaurant Guide that includes some of the best options across Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore, and Jasper, complete with menu links and Google Maps pins to make your planning easier. You can download it here to take it with you on your trip.

What to Pack for Banff in June

June in Banff can feel like all seasons in one day, so layers are essential. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm fleece or puffy layer, and a mix of short and long sleeves. Waterproof hiking shoes with good grip are a must if you’re hitting the trails as many still have muddy or wet sections.

Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun is strong even on cooler days. And if you’re hoping to spot wildlife or go hiking, carry bear spray (available to rent or buy in town) and brush up on trail safety.

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