Banff: Standish Mountain Snowshoe Tour & Gondola Ride

Summary

Snowshoe through Rockies powder, cross into BC, sip cocoa up high

You’ll ride a gondola up Standish Mountain near Banff, strap on snowshoes for a real backcountry trek across deep powder, cross into British Columbia with your local guide, pause for hot chocolate and cookies at altitude, and catch wild views over Mt. Assiniboine — all with hotel pickup included. It’s not just about snow; it’s how alive you feel on that ridge.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever walked on clouds?” our guide Mark grinned as he handed me my snowshoes at the top of the Standish chairlift. I just laughed — honestly, I was more worried about not face-planting in front of everyone. The air up there hits different: sharp and cold but somehow clean, almost sweet. We’d come from Banff that morning (hotel pickup was a lifesaver since I can’t navigate mountain roads before coffee), and suddenly we were way above tree line, nothing but white rolling out in every direction.

The first few steps felt weird — like walking on pillows that might swallow your foot if you got cocky. Mark kept us moving steady, pointing out how the snow here is deeper than most places in the Rockies because of the wind patterns. He told us stories about crossing the Continental Divide right under our feet; apparently, one boot in Alberta, one in British Columbia is a real thing up here. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for the squeak of our snowshoes and someone’s laugh echoing off the slope. My nose stung from the cold but it felt sort of good — like you’re really awake.

We stopped for hot chocolate and cookies (I dropped mine in the snow, classic), and Mark showed us Mt. Assiniboine way off in the distance — it looked almost fake against that flat blue sky. I tried to pronounce “Assiniboine” right; Mark didn’t correct me but I’m sure I butchered it. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so small up there or so… happy? Maybe it was just sugar and altitude but something about sharing cookies with strangers at what feels like the edge of Canada sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snowshoeing in the Rockies backcountry

• Put on snowshoes
• Ride gondola and chairlift up Standish Mountain
• Snowshoe through deep powder wilderness
• Enjoy views of Mt. Assiniboine and Rockies
• Cross Continental Divide into British Columbia
• Have hot chocolate and cookies

Top questions

How long is the Banff Standish Mountain snowshoe tour?

The activity covers at least 3 kilometers on snowshoes through deep powder and includes time for breaks and snacks.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Banff?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

What should I wear for snowshoeing near Banff?

You’ll need a warm hat and gloves, winter coat, warm pants (not jeans), and sturdy winter boots or hiking boots.

Is lunch provided on this Standish Mountain snowshoe tour?

No full lunch is provided but you do get hot chocolate and cookies as snacks during the tour.

Do I need prior experience to join this Rockies snowshoe tour?

No experience needed but you should be reasonably fit; it’s moderately strenuous backcountry terrain.

What ages can participate in this Banff snowshoe adventure?

The minimum age to participate is 12 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Banff, all your gear—snowshoes and poles—plus a professional local guide leading you across Standish Mountain’s backcountry powder. You’ll also get snacks (hot chocolate and cookies) along the way before heading back down after your trek.