tonya_in_la

My husband and I are planning a short 5 day trip to Banff in November (the week of American Thanksgiving). We have been to Banff and surrounding areas before but in July. I know the weather can be "tricky" in November but I am trying to plan ahead (and this girl from Southern Louisiana doesn't have much winter clothing). Can you give some suggestions as to what we may need? If we are able to ski, snowmobile and etc. we will rent everything.

Thank you in advance for any information you can offer!

sludick

Unfortunately, I'd say you will be there too early for any snow sports. But you will certainly be there for cold weather. A quick check of a weather chart shows that average temps fall rapidly each day later in the month, with November 21 averaging 16-30 and November 9-24 (fahrenheit).

For an overview of the month, here is something from http://www.holiday-weather.com/banff/averages/november/ :

Averages for Banff in November

As the climate can be entirely unpredictable and changeable in the mountains, early November in Banff can see everything from summery weather to wintery weather, nevertheless there is a decided drop in temperature in general.

The average daily temperature high is at 0.2°C (32°F), whereas the average minimum temperature is -8.4°C (17°F). Be prepared for extreme colds with plenty of protective, warm clothing.

It would also be advisable to take a waterproof jacket with you, also, as there is on average a rainfall of 26.8 mm over 13 days.

The average expected amount of sunshine for this month also drops considerably to only 2 hours a day.

Expect extremes of climate as well, packing accordingly, as there are on average 5 days of snow and fog expected over this month.

sludick

That first paragraph - November 30 was the second date. Sorry.

tonya_in_la

Thank you so much for your very informative reply! I really appreciate it.

ShelliDawn

Last year we had early snowfalls and a number of ski hills opened in early November including Lake Louise, Sunshine and Norquay. So, there's a chance you may be able to ski in late November.

Even if you are planning on staying in the townsites, a pair of warm boots is necessary. Just walking down the street, looking at shops etc. can be cold.

Obviously, a warm jacket is necessary. My everyday winter coat is a North Face Transit jacket. I like down jackets because you can be really warm without bulk. I also like longer ones that cover my butt.

Gloves/mitts, scarf, a toque and/or ear muffs are must haves as well. I get along with just ear muffs until it gets really cold (-15C or lower), but I've got really thick hair. But, I always have ear muffs on me as the cold air gives me ear aches.

tonya_in_la

Thank you so much. I really appreciate you taking the time to give me such great information!

tonya_in_la

Since y'all were so great, I want to ask one more thing. I have been reading and I haven't seen very many positive posts about visiting Banff in November. I know that it will be a completely different trip from when we visited in July. I understand that the last week of November may be in between seasons but my husband and I would be happy to sight see, take lots of pictures, hopefully view some wildlife and of course, eat! Will we be disappointed?

Eric101

If you did not mind Banff in July, you will will like in Nov, because the crazy crowds are all gone, the food scene is still the same!. Pictures may not be so great as the summer, but again its still the same beautiful mountains.

eliztravels2

Some positive thoughts to get you in the mood:

Accommodation with a fireplace and outdoor hot tub would chase away the chills.

The service staff in hotels and restaurants will be glad to have customers in the off season and will be extra attentive.

Christmas lights and decorations will give the town a festive feel.

You won't need to worry about sunburn or mosquitos.

The poor light will challenge your photography skills and encourage you to experiment.

Charity shops are a great source of cheap, warm clothing.

There's nothing more entertaining to the locals than someone all bundled up like a Canuck talking with a southern drawl. ;-)

With the right attitude, anyone can have a good time anywhere in any weather (well, almost). Have fun!

krp329

Two ski resorts in Banff Naitonal Park - Sunshine Village and Lake Louise - and Jasper's Marmot Basin are all planning to open for the season on November 8th.