11 minute read
Banff
NO BAD WEATHER
Banff is a winter playground of outdoor activities. There’s no reason to let the chilly days keep you indoors! Dressing for the elements is key, and you need to be wearing the right layers. Here’s what we recommend for those frosty winter days.
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Base Layer It’s important to have something warm against your skin that wicks moisture and keeps you dry. Merino wool is perfect for this task! This renewable resource is sustainable, and the high quality of the products will stand the test of time. Get merino wool base layers from Smartwool (right). Mid Layer Mid layers are all about temperature control. Down will keep you warm by trapping your body heat while synthetic materials perfrom well when wet. For more active sports, you’ll want a lighter mid layer so you don’t sweat so much, but for leisurely winter hikes, you’ll want to bulk up to stay toasty. For excellent mid layer options, visit The North Face (p 62) and Helly Hansen (right).
Outer Layer Outer layers are the first line of defence against the elements. You want something that’s wind and waterproof but will allow your own moisture to escape. Parkas have extra insulation for light activities, while technical jackets can keep you warm during active sports. Find your outer layer at Ultimate Sports (p 62) or Helly Hansen (right).
Accessories Toques, mitts, socks, extra socks, scarves, and balaclavas will keep your extremities warm. Find some excellent options at Smartwool (right) and Lolë (right). Ice grips, hiking poles and gaiters can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure. Don't have your own? Rent them from Snowtips (p 62).
APPAREL & SPORTS
ATMOSPHERE Everything you need for your next outdoor adventure. Apparel, gear, guidebooks, footwear, accessories, fitness trackers, and more. Selling top brands. 124 Banff Ave, 403-760-8249
AVENUE ROAD Fashions for everyone including shoes, dress shoes, accessories, and jewellery. Canadian designers and expert trained staff. Consultations for individuals and groups available. Fairmont Banff Springs, 403-760-3991
HARLEY-DAVIDSON HarleyDavidson apparel, riding gear, and accessories for adults, children, and pets. Gifts and souvenirs. Motorcycle sales through their Calgary Harley Davidson location. 202 Banff Ave, 403-985-1800
CHATEAU MOUNTAIN SPORTS
Casual apparel, technical outerwear, hiking footwear, and outdoor adventure gear. Selling top outdoor brands, Tilley hats, sunglasses, knives, ski and snowboard equipment, and day packs. Ski, snowboard, and Nordic gear rentals. Fairmont Banff Springs, 403-762-2508
HELLY HANSEN High performance apparel designed for the rugged mountain weather. Selling outerwear, sportswear, base layers, mid layers, footwear, and casual winter clothing. Products from sustainable materials. Rugged Odin collection outerwear as well as H2 Flow body heat regulating styles. Clothing for adults and children. Smith eyewear and Nikwax waterproofing and cleaning agents. 201 Banff Ave, 403-760-8282, hellyhansen.com
HUDSON’S BAY Canada’s oldest retailer, est. 1670. Canadiana including famous blankets. Designer apparel, MAC cosmetics, jewellery, luggage, and bedding. 125 Banff Ave, 403-762-5525
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PERFECT PROJECTS
Whether you’re looking for a last minute home fix, that perfect tool to tweak your camper’s furnace, or something to decorate for Christmas, you’ll find it at Standish Home Hardware (p 64). This locally owned and operated store is your one stop shop for all projects, big or small, and they have an excellent selection of seasonal items to make sure you survive winter in one piece. Whatever you're looking for, "If we don't have it... you don't need it!" -KATE BARKER
LITTLE BLUE HOUSE Stylish print driven clothing for the whole family. Sleepwear, swimwear, and more. Matching styles and prints for everyone. 125 Banff Ave, 403-762-2420
LOLË “Inspired by well-being.” Balancing nature and urban, active, and social through stylish lifestyle apparel. Canadian designed and made clothing including activewear, athleisure, outerwear, yoga, bags, accessories, and jewellery. Sustainable materials used where possible. 211 Bear St, 403-760-0817
MONOD SPORTS Est. 1949. Selling sportswear, footwear, and gear for outdoor mountain adventures from 288 premium brands. Expert advice from staff who live and love the mountains. 129 Banff Ave, 403-762-4571
PATAGONIA Clothing for travel, climbing, hiking, yoga, running, and snow sports. Base layers, fleece, down jackets, breathable/waterproof shells, and casual wear, some from organic fibres and recycled materials. Bags, books, and kids section. 94 Banff Ave, 403-985-5588 QIVIUK BOUTIQUE Traditional and fashion forward sweaters, coats, and socks made from qiviuk: a yarn made from Arctic muskox down. Also selling bison leather and muskox hide accessories. Fairmont Banff Springs, 403-762-4460. Also downtown at Qiviuk by Jacques Cartier Clothier, 131A Banff Ave, 403-762-5445
SMARTWOOL BANFF Merino wool clothing is itch- and odour-free, wicks away moisture, and resists shrinking. It's an environmentally friendly and sustainable resource that grows naturally and is ethically harvested from ZQ-Certified, humanely raised sheep. Canada's first concept store sells socks, base layers, sweaters, and active lifestyle outerwear. Wool from manufacturers and trimmings from production are recycled and used as filling for their select outerwear. 138 Banff Ave, 403-762-3007, smartwool.com
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Banff is Better in Merino
138 Banff Ave
403.762.3007
Smartwool, the Smartwool logo, and go far. feel good. are trademarks of TBL Licensing LLC. ©2021 TBL Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Your free maps to the Canadian Rockies
MAP HINTON 2020/21 BC ROCKIESMAP MAP JASPER 2020/21
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Sights ActivitiesShopping Entertainment Sights ActivitiesShopping Entertainment Sights ActivitiesShopping Entertainment
SNOWFLAKE Canadian owned and operated boutique store showcasing the best in Canadian designed cashmere, fur, leather, and shearling. Selling quality designer outerwear, sweaters, capes, shawls, and accessories. Available in two locations: Fairmont Banff Springs, 403-762-8770 and Sundance Mall, 215 Banff Ave, 403-762-3633
SNOWTIPS Family-owned store. Rent a wide range of outdoor equipment for any season and activity. Skis, boards, XC, touring, fat bikes, child packs, snowshoes, skates, and more. Expert fitting available. Skate sharpening and repair shop on site. 225 Bear St, 403-762-8177, snowtips-bactrax.com
THE NORTH FACE For more than 50 years, The North Face has made activewear and outdoor sports gear that exceeds your expectations. Shop durable jackets, apparel, shoes, and backpacks for adults and kids. Gear for all your mountain adventures. Never Stop Exploring. 124 Banff Ave, 403-762-0775
ULTIMATE SPORTS Selling mountain lifestyle and sport-specific clothing, footwear, outerwear, and accessories. Downhill ski and snowboard rentals for the whole family with free pick-up and delivery. Rental fleet is fully updated every season with everything to accommodate skiers and riders that are exploring the mountains for the first time, or exploring the steepest and deepest slopes Banff has to offer. Friendly staff are experienced and willing to answer any questions. 206 Banff Ave, 403-762-0547, ultimatebanff.com
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Sliders, sporting goods, adapters, appliances, auto accessories, & more...
A g r e a t s e l e c t i o n a t r e a s o n a b l e p r i c e s Standish
DOG BOUTIQUE
BANFF DOGHOUSE For dogs and dog-lovers. Dog food, treats, clothing, and accessories like leashes and collars. Souvenirs for humans who want to show their canine pride. 138 Banff Ave, 403-431-2685
DRUGSTORE
RX DRUG MART Remedies, cosmetics, skin, and body care as well as supports and braces. Sun and reading glasses. Magazines, cards, stamps, and bear spray. Instant photo kiosk. Pharmacy. Cascade Shops, Lower Level, 317 Banff Ave, 403-762-2245, guardian-ida-pharmacies.ca
FOOD & DRINK
BANFF SWEET SHOPPE Largest selection of saltwater taffy and Pez in Banff. Imported and retro candy, homemade fudge. 201 Banff Ave, 403-762-3213
BANFF TEA CO. Apothecary style store with 180+ loose leaf teas. Organic and wellness blends as well as Kusmi teas from Paris. Also selling Canadian pottery and teabrewing accessories. 208 Caribou St, 403-762-8322, banffteaco.com
IGA Supermarket with pharmacy, floral, bakery, deli, produce, dairy, and meats. Ready-made sandwiches and hot meals. On-site Starbucks kiosk. 318 Marten St at Banff Ave and Elk St, 403-762-5378
NESTERS MARKET "Where the locals shop". Supermarket with bakery, deli, produce, and meat. Ready-made items to go including sandwiches and salads. Weekly flyer deals. Ice and ATM. 122 Bear St, 403-762-3663, nestersmarket.com/banff
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE
FACTORY Exclusive handmade chocolates in the heart of Banff. Hundreds of unique creations for every taste. 117 Banff Ave, 403-985-0987, rockychoc.com
GIFTS & SOUVENIRS
BANFF GONDOLA Shops at both the upper and lower terminals sell activity-specific souvenirs such as logo shirts, sweaters, jackets, stuffies, toys, gifts, and Korite Ammolite jewellery. Take your memories home! Mountain Ave, 1-800-760-6934, banffjaspercollection.com
GREAT GEAR
Looking to hit the slopes but don't know where to start? Don't worry! Banff has the best rental shops to get you dressed and equipped to take on the mountains. Get exactly what you need for your next outdoor adventure, including downhill skis, snowboards, cross country skis, fat bikes, and snowshoes from Snowtips (p 62). For the right gear to hit the slopes, whether you're a beginner or an expert, talk to the friendly and knowledgable staff at Ultimate Sports (p 62). -KATE BARKER
BANFF TRADING POST Founded in 1903, the trading post has been a staple in Banff for 118 years. The store sells authentic Indigenous moccasins, mukluks, and crafts as well as clothing, jewellery, and gifts. Visit the mysterious merman and uncover the secrets of Lake Minnewanka! 101 Cave Ave, 403-762-2456
BRANCHES MARKETPLACE
Jewellery, home décor, and accessories handcrafted by Canadian artisans. Ceramics, aromatherapy, foods, and mountain lifestyle gifts. Main level, Cascade Shops, 317 Banff Ave, 403-762-4700
BUFFALO NATIONS MUSEUM
GIFT SHOP Museum branded apparel and souvenirs. Handmade moccasins, blankets, crafts, and jewellery. 1 Birch Ave, 403-762-2388
CANADIAN PACIFIC STORE
Canadian Pacific logo gifts and posters. Exclusive china and leather goods. Selling luggage, rail books, Fairmont bed linens, robes, tea, and Le Labo bath products. Fairmont Banff Springs, 403-760-6396 EXPLORE ROCKIES Banff specific apparel, games, books, and attraction specific souvenir items including Banff Gondola and Columbia Icefields activities. Attractions and tour bookings for iconic activities. Packages and deals available. Elk+Avenue Hotel, 333 Banff Ave, 403-760-3291, banffjaspercollection.com
SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Canada’s largest year-round Christmas store where it's always the magical season! Selling home and Christmas decor, tree trimmings, collectibles, nativity scenes, and hand carved Santas. Free personalized ornament inscription. 133 Banff Ave, 403-762-2501
WHYTE MUSEUM SHOP Unique gifts including distinctive, locally, and regionally crafted items inspired by Canadian Rockies culture and history. Books by local authors as well as guidebooks, stationery, cards, posters, handcrafted jewellery, and historic photos and cards. Proceeds support the museum and its programs. 111 Bear St. 403-762-2291 ext 340, whyte.org
HARDWARE & HOME
STANDISH HOME HARDWARE
Banff's only home and hardware store. Selling everything you need for home, auto, and outdoor necessities. Also selling building supplies and seasonal items like toboggans and other sleds, hockey accessories, and snow shovels. Lots of items for pets. Key cutting services. Weekly flyer deals offer great discounts! Friendly, knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer any of your questions. 223 Bear St, 403-762-2080, homehardware.ca
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JEWELLERY
AMMOLITE IN THE ROCKIES
Displays on the origins and processing of Ammolite. Fossils, stones, and jewellery. Dinosaur skulls. Crack your geode to see the crystal. Clock Tower Mall, 108 Banff Ave, 403-762-4698
CASTLE JEWELS Unique pieces utilize gemstones such as Ammolite, pearls, and diamonds. Works from award-winning designers, including Stephen Webster and Michael Jiang. Fairmont Banff Springs, lobby level, 403-760-6381
FREYA’S JEWELLERY & CURRENCY
EXCHANGE Canadian gifts, collectibles, jewellery, and watches. Knives, cutlery, and apparel. Sgt Preston's Outpost RCMP licensed items. Watch repairs. 108 Banff Ave, 403-762-4652
MJ WESTERN STONES Ammolite, amber, and pearl jewellery Designs by the shop owner. Native soapstone and BC jade. Brewster Mountain Lodge, 208 Caribou St, 403-760-0881
PANDORA Handcrafted rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and charms. Canadian Rockies specific charms including mountain lifestyle and wildlife. New location in Harmony Lane allows better access to the store and a luxury shopping experience. Harmony Lane, 102A-111 Banff Ave, 403-762-4500
SHOPPING MALLS
CASCADE SHOPS Fashions, pharmacy, books, electronics, laundry, restaurants, and more. 317 Banff Ave at Wolf St
FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS
Luxury shops in the Castle in the Rockies. Clothing, gifts, artwork, jewellery, and collectibles. fairmont.com/banff-springs
WESTERN WEAR
THE TRAIL RIDER Everything you need for a western adventure! Western themed gifts, cowboy boots, Stetson hats, Panhandle shirts, Pendleton blankets, and western gifts. Show your sleigh ride purchase for a 10% discount! 138 Banff Ave, 403-762-4553, horseback.com
WINE, BEER, SPIRITS & CANNABIS
BANFF CANNABIS INC. Banff's first locally owned and operated cannabis store offering a wide range of products and expert advice. 119 Banff Ave, 403-985-3337
BANFF WINE STORE International and Canadian labels including Canadian VQA icewines. Temperature controlled wine room. Rare and hard to find vintages. Downstairs, 302 Caribou St, 403-762-3465
FIRE & FLOWER 20 different licensed producer cannabis products. Pre-rolled, papers, grinders, glassware, and vaporizers. 229 Bear St. 1-833-680-4947,
LIQUOR DEPOT Banff's largest liquor store. Wines, spirits, beer, coolers, ice, and mix. Local craft beers on tap to fill a growler. 202 Wolf St, 403-762-2518
SPIRITLEAF Dry flower, edibles, and topical oils. 21 different licensed producer products. Expert advice. 203B Bear St, 403-762-5058
TOWNHOUSE LIQUOR Locally owned. Cold beer, small batch spirits, red and white wines. 200+ craft beers. 226 Bear St, 403-762-8434
Friendly staff, Banff’s newest rental fleet and hotel delivery*
Ski
Ice Skate Snowboard
Snowshoes
*delivery to Banff hotels only X-Country Ski
