Basics: During the summer months, Banff is typically very dry. Be sure to follow the rules regarding grilling and use only designated grilling areas. Additionally, check the BBQ status in the area before your departure. When we visited, there was a complete ban on charcoal grills, so we needed to purchase a gas grill while we were there.

 

Kosher Food: For kosher food, we brought along frozen milk, hot dogs, hamburgers, and buns. The rest of our food we purchased at the local Safeway. Keep in mind that Canada does not have many OU products; however, we did find products with an MK.

 

Since we were there, Chabad has opened in Canmore, about 20 minutes outside of Banff. Chabad has some takeout options as well as some additional kosher food resources.

 

Weather: The weather in Banff is a bit cooler than in New York; however, the sun can be very strong. Be sure to bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration. A light sweater will suffice for the evenings.

 

Hotels and Attractions: We had no trouble booking hotels, however, we did not find any hotels in Banff that we wanted to stay at. We booked a hotel in the nearby town of Canmore. The accommodations and views were beautiful!

 

We booked the Lake Minnewanka cruise as well as the Columbia Icefield experiences in advance.

 

In general, although there were many tourists at each site we visited, the area was able to handle the influx of tourists well, and nothing was overcrowded.