May in Banff is a month of change. As a local, I love this time of year because it feels like the park is slowly waking up from winter. You still get snow on the mountain peaks, but down in the valleys, trails are starting to dry out, lakes are beginning to thaw, and the town comes alive with that early-season energy. It’s not quite summer yet, but it’s full of potential.
That said, it’s also a tricky time to visit if you’re not sure what to expect. Some trails are still muddy or snow-covered, mountain lakes are just starting to melt, and Moraine Lake is still completely inaccessible. But if you come prepared, you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and a chance to see Banff in its in-between season when you can hike, bike, paddle, and even ski, sometimes all in the same weekend.
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What’s the Weather Like in Banff in May?
If you’re coming to Banff in May, pack for all four seasons because you just might get them. Early May often still feels like spring in the Rockies: chilly mornings, snow on the mountains, and trails that are either muddy or still under snow. But by the second half of the month, you’ll start to feel hints of summer. You might be hiking in a T-shirt one day and waking up to frost the next.
Daytime highs typically sit between 10–18°C (50–65°F), but it’s not uncommon to get snow flurries in the first week or sunburn in the last. Nighttime lows can still dip below freezing, especially at higher elevations. The weather can change quickly, so your best bet is to dress in layers and always carry a waterproof jacket just in case.
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What’s Open and What’s Still Closed in May?
May is when Banff starts to open up but slowly. Some activities become possible again, especially in the second half of the month, while others are still a few weeks away.
Here’s what you can expect:
Lake Louise is accessible by car and shuttle service begins mid-May. The lake often starts to thaw in the second half of the month canoe rentals may open around late May, depending on conditions.
Hikes at lower elevations (like Tunnel Mountain and Johnson Lake loop) are usually snow-free by mid-May.
Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake are typically thawed by the middle of the month perfect for a walk or spring paddle.
The eastern section of the Bow Valley Parkway gets closed to vehicles and open for cycling.
Mountain biking is often in full swing by mid-May.
Scenic drives like Bow Valley Parkway and Icefields Parkway are open and beautiful this time of year.
Moraine Lake is still inaccessible to vehicles and shuttles you can’t get there unless you bike in (typically becomes rideable in the last week of May once the road is cleared).
Many alpine hiking trails are still under snow or unsafe due to avalanche conditions.
Wildflowers haven’t arrived yet most bloom from mid-July to mid-August, with a few exceptions like in lower elevation areas like the Bow Valley Provincial Park.
Lake Minnewanka is often still partially frozen until late May, and boat rentals or cruises may not start until closer to June.
Some campgrounds open in May, check ahead if you’re planning to stay overnight.
Roam bus schedules transition from the winter schedule to a summer schedule with more frequency and more routes.
Yoho Valley Road to Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park remains closed.
Getting Around Banff in May
Public Transportation is still on the winter schedules around Banff National Park in the first half of May. They don’t typically shift over to the more frequent routes and schedules until the third week of May.
If you plan to visit Banff without a car in early May, then it’s important to know which spots you can visit using public transportation. You may be more restricted on days and times.
For example, Roam Route 9 to Johnston Canyon only operates on weekends in the first half of May. Other routes like Roam Route 6 to Lake Minnewanka have not started back up for the summer season until mid-May.
Shuttles to Lake Louise don’t start until May 16th in 2025, so Roam Transit, tours or driving a car are the best ways to get to Lake Louise in early May. Paid parking is also not in effect at Lake Louise lakeshore until May 16th, so if you are driving you’ll get to avoid the $36.75 parking charge by visiting in early May!
Best Things to Do in Banff in May
May in Banff is a month of change, similar to April but just getting closer to those incredible summer days in the Canadian Rockies. It’s still early spring in the Rockies, which means snow on the peaks, the first thawing lakes, and quiet trails if you know where to go.
Some days feel like spring, others feel like winter, and the key to enjoying Banff in May is being flexible.
You’ll find a little of everything: early hikes, scenic drives, wildlife sightings, the start of cycling season, and even the chance to paddle if you time it right. Here’s how to make the most of Banff in May.
Banff Gondola Ride
For a memorable Banff adventure, take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain. You’ll be treated to spectacular panoramic views of the Bow Valley and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Plus, you can enjoy meals with a view at the Sky Bistro or grab coffee at the mountaintop café.
It’s an experience that’s perfect for May warmer than winter, quieter than summer.
Explore Easy Banff Walks
One of the best ways to enjoy Banff in May is to head out for short, scenic walks that are mostly snow-free by mid-month.
- Bow River Trail – A lovely riverside walk right in Banff town where you view the popular Bow Falls
- Fenland Loop – A peaceful forest loop that’s flat and usually dries early.
- Central Park to Surprise Corner – A nice walk with big views of the Bow River and the Banff Springs Hotel.
Pack layers it can still be chilly and bring a hot drink to enjoy by the river.
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Here are all the best hikes and easy walks in the town of Banff.
Early Spring Hikes in Banff
May isn’t full summer hiking season yet, but several trails are in good shape as the snow melts at lower elevations.
Tunnel Mountain – A 4.5 km return trail with rewarding views over Banff town. Usually snow-free by mid-May.
Johnson Lake Hike – Flat and scenic, and one of the first areas to thaw. Ideal for a spring walk or an easy paddle.
Marble Canyon – A short loop with bridges over a stunning limestone gorge. A great shoulder-season hike just inside Kootenay National Park.
Fairview Lookout – A quick climb from Lake Louise lakeshore to a beautiful viewpoint.
You’ll still want to check trail reports before heading out mud, snow, and even avalanche warnings at higher elevations can linger into May.
Visit Cave and Basin National Historic Site
The Cave and Basin is the birthplace of Canada’s national park system and a great spot to visit in May. Explore the historic cave, bubbling hot springs, and exhibits explaining how Banff became Canada’s first national park. It’s mostly indoors, making it a great backup for rainy or cool days.
Don’t skip the short boardwalk trails out back as early birds and wildlife love this area in spring.
Visit Lake Louise
By mid-to-late May, Lake Louise begins to shed its winter coat. The lake usually starts thawing in the second half of the month, and if you’re lucky, you may catch it during that magical half-frozen, half-reflective stage.
Canoe rentals at the Fairmont Lake Louise typically open near the end of May when conditions allow. Even if it’s not fully thawed yet, it’s absolutely worth a visit to walk the lakeshore trail or hike up to Fairview Lookout.
Bike the Bow Valley Parkway
Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) is one of the best spring experiences in Banff. From May 1 to June 25, the east section (Banff to Johnston Canyon) is closed to vehicles, making it a dream for cyclists.
You’ll ride through forested corridors, spot wildlife, and enjoy peaceful, car-free roads. Bring bear spray and plan for cooler mornings. This is one of my top May recommendations if you’re a casual or experienced cyclist.
Bike the Legacy Trail
The Legacy Trail is a paved bike trail between Banff and Canmore. It is often cleared in April and is a perfect spring ride with big mountain views.
Stretching 22.3 km one way, it offers big mountain views, gentle hills, and a ride away from highway traffic. It’s a perfect spring bike ride whether you go one-way, there and back or just enjoy a shorter out-and-back section.
Note: As of April 30, 2025, the Legacy Trail is currently only open from Banff to the Valley View picnic area due to a damaged bridge.
Catch a sunrise Vermilion Lakes
While Moraine Lake sunrise isn’t accessible in May, Vermilion Lakes offers an incredible and easy to reach alternative. Just a few minutes from downtown Banff, this quiet stretch of lakes reflects Mount Rundle beautifully at sunrise. Pack a hot drink, bundle up, and arrive early for mirror-calm water and pastel skies.
Bike to Moraine Lake (Late May)
Once Parks Canada plows the Moraine Lake Road (typically very late May), cyclists can ride up to Moraine Lake before the shuttles and cars start running in June.
It’s about 11 km each way (or 14 km from Lake Louise Village) with a steady climb, but reaching Moraine Lake with hardly anyone else around is one of Banff’s most unforgettable spring experiences.
Bring extra layers Moraine Lake is at a higher elevation and stays colder than Banff.
Visit Johnston Canyon
The Johnston Canyon hike is accessible year-round, and May is a beautiful time to visit. The Lower Falls and Upper Falls trails are open, and you’ll likely see a mix of thawed streams and roaring waterfalls from spring melt.
If conditions allow, you can continue past the Upper Falls to the Ink Pots, a series of colorful mineral springs in a peaceful alpine meadow.
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Traction devices are a must for any hiking in April around Banff. Find out which traction devices we use and recommend.
Spot Wildlife
May is one of the best months for wildlife viewing in Banff.
- Bears are emerging from hibernation and can often be seen along lower elevation trails and roadsides.
- Elk are calving be extra cautious if you spot elk, as new mothers can be very protective.
- Bighorn sheep, deer, and mountain goats are also active and visible, especially early in the morning or at dusk.
Always give wildlife plenty of space, observe from a distance, and carry bear spray if you’re hiking.
Take a Scenic Drive
May is a fantastic time for road trips and sightseeing in Banff before peak summer crowds arrive. Here are just a few scenic drives in Banff to add to your itinerary:
Bow Valley Parkway – Ride it on your bike or drive it later in the day after 8 a.m. (due to a seasonal closure nightly from 8pm to 8am) for a wildlife-rich, scenic route.
Icefields Parkway – Snow still blankets the high peaks along this stunning route from Lake Louise toward Jasper. Stops like Bow Lake and Peyto Lake are beautiful even with snow.
Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive – Look for bighorn sheep near Two Jack Lake and near the Lake Minnewanka day-use area. Minnewanka may still be partially frozen early in May but should start thawing by the end of the month.
Paddle on a Lake
Paddling season usually kicks off later in May, depending on thaw conditions.
- Lake Louise canoe rentals often open late May if the lake has thawed enough.
- Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake are often fully thawed by mid-May and perfect for early but chilly paddling.
- Rentals start reopening in Banff and Canmore as temperatures warm (always call ahead to confirm availability).
Explore Canmore Walking Trails
If you have extra time, Canmore’s easy trail network is beautiful in May.
- Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk – A relaxing walk through wetlands and forested areas.
- Bow River Loop – A paved loop with views of the Bow River, bridges, and the Three Sisters peaks.
These easy Canmore walking trails are a great option if you want an easy day outside town.
Find Banff Red Chairs
Parks Canada places iconic red Adirondack chairs in scenic spots across Banff. May in Banff is the ideal time to slow down and enjoy the views from the Banff red chairs! You can either enjoy a hike up Tunnel Mountain to enjoy the views from up high or find lower elevation ones at Cascade Ponds, Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka.
Finding them makes for a fun self-guided mini-tour with epic backdrops.
Take a Helicopter Ride
If you want a splurge activity, May is a great time for a helicopter tour over the Rockies. Departing from Canmore, these flights offer unbeatable views of snowy peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and winding valleys.
It’s one of the best ways to appreciate how massive the Canadian Rockies really are and May’s mix of winter snow and early greenery makes it especially stunning.
Visit Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge
Just across the border into Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge are accessible and beautiful in May. Natural Bridge shows off the power of the Kicking Horse River as it carves through rock, and it’s especially dramatic during spring runoff.
Emerald Lake may still be partially frozen earlier in the month but usually starts thawing as May progresses, offering reflections of surrounding peaks. Both stops are easy to combine into a half-day side trip from Lake Louise.
Visit Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
Located about 45 minutes east of Banff near Cochrane, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary offers a rare chance to see and learn about wolfdogs up close. Visitors can take a self-guided walk or join an interactive tour to meet the animals and hear about conservation efforts.
It’s a meaningful and accessible outing that’s especially great if you’re looking for something unique to add to your Banff trip.
Book a Family Photo Shoot in Banff
Spring is a beautiful time to capture family memories in Banff, with fewer crowds, dramatic snowy peaks, and the first signs of green returning to the valleys. Many local photographers offer sessions at scenic spots like Lake Minnewanka or Lake Louise.
A family photo shoot is a fun way to remember your trip and the spring scenery makes for unforgettable backdrops.
Skiing and Snowboarding
While the towns may be thawing out, spring skiing is still going strong in Banff in early May. Lake Louise Ski Resort typically wraps up its season in early May, while Banff Sunshine often keeps the lifts spinning until the third week of May, offering some of the latest skiing in North America.
If carving spring snow against a backdrop of snowy peaks sounds like your kind of adventure, early May is a perfect time to hit the slopes before the season officially ends.
What to Wear in Banff in May
Packing for Banff in May is all about layers. Mornings and evenings are still chilly often near or below freezing so plan for a big temperature swing between day and night. It’s also entirely possible to get large dumps of snow in May.
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
Clothing Essentials
- A light insulated jacket or puffy that can handle cold mornings
- A waterproof jacket or shell for any May rain (or snow) that happens
- Merino wool or synthetic base layers to stay warm without overheating
- Hiking pants or leggings, plus waterproof pants if you’re doing longer trails
- Gloves and a hat (yes, still)
- A mix of short- and long-sleeved layers for changing daytime temps
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking shoes or boots there will be mud, puddles, and maybe snow
- Optional: microspikes or ice cleats for early-season hikes like Johnston Canyon or shaded trails
Other Must-Haves
- A small backpack with room for layers and water
- Sunscreen and sunglasses the UV is strong at elevation
- Bear spray (essential if you’re hiking, even early in the season)
Final Tips for Visiting Banff in May
Be flexible with your plans. May is unpredictable snowstorms and sunny afternoons can happen in the same week. Have backup activities in case a trail is closed or a lake hasn’t thawed yet.
Start early if you’re visiting popular spots like Lake Louise or Johnston Canyon. Even in May, parking can be limited especially on weekends.
Watch for wildlife and always carry bear spray if you’re hiking especially with bears active again.
Check trail and road conditions daily. Parks Canada posts regular updates, and conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Expect some closures at higher elevations until late May or June.
Banff in May is one of those times of year that surprises people in the best way. It’s quieter than summer and more accessible than winter
Come prepared for the in-between season and you’ll get the best of both worlds snow-dusted peaks, unfrozen trails, and just enough unpredictability to make it feel like an adventure.
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Celine Brewer, a local Canmore resident, is the co-owner of Travel Banff Canada. She has a passion for being out in the mountains any time of year. In the summer, you'll often find her hiking or mountain biking. In the winter, she enjoys cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking the most.
As much as she loves the mountains, she also loves travel! When she's not playing outdoors at home, she's either traveling the world with her husband and two kids or working on their other two travel sites: Family Can Travel and Baby Can Travel.