Banff Snowshoeing Tour to the Paint Pots

Your first time snowshoeing? Try one of the best snowshoeing trails near Banff.

On this guided tour, you’ll snowshoe on an easy trail along a bridge across the frozen Vermilion River and along the snowy path winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within Kootenay National Park.

Along the way, you will hear stories of Banff’s indigenous people, fur traders, and explorers, who lived in and traveled through the Rockies. You’ll learn about the history of the fur trade as you explore the fascinating Paint Pots, which are mineral deposits once used by First Nations people for rock painting.

After this crisp winter walk, enjoy a uniquely Canadian treat: hot maple taffy poured into snow to make a sweet frozen dessert. Plus try a crazy carpet slide down the hill while it’s being made – kids and adults alike love this part of the tour!

This is a great trip for beginners as it covers a mainly flat terrain with minimal elevation gain, and excellent for anyone wanting a pleasant activity outdoors and to explore one of the Kootenay National Park hikes.

• See the bubbling natural pools of the Paint Pots.
• Experience snowshoeing along an easy winding forest trail.
• See a Hudson's Bay Point Blanket Jacket that was used as a trade item between natives.
• Crazy carpet slide, a fun version of tobogganing.
• Taste maple taffy poured in the snow by your guide.

• Certified professional guide
• Snowshoes and hiking Poles
• Hot Chocolate and a maple taffy snack
• Transportation from Banff to Kootenay National Park (approximately 45 minutes)
• Pick up and drop off from most hotels in Banff.

• December – April with tours daily 1:30pm *
  *subject to availability.

• 4 hours

Walking distance:

• 3km

• This tour is suitable for beginners. You should be physically fit enough to walk up and down a few hills and walk at a comfortable pace for 3 kilometres.
• Minimum age for participation is 8 years.
• All children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by someone 18 years and older.
• A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18.
• All adults must sign a waiver prior to the tour.
• Please be prepared for mountain weather. Dress in full ski wear including thermals, a sweater, a winter jacket, snow pants, a hat, gloves, and winter boots.
• Small group size (up to 12 guests per guide).

Whether you are looking for a unique experience gift idea or fun things to do in Banff in winter, the Snowshoeing Tour to the Paint Pots is the way to go.

This Snowshoeing Tour to the Paint Pots takes place at Banff, Alberta.  VIEW MAP   

How To Book Your Experience