Climate

The Rockies host a “continental” climate, which means there is a great range in temperatures over the year. The weather patterns are strongly influenced by the tall barrier-like nature of the range. The eastern slope is noticeably cooler and drier than the western slope, and strong westerly winds called Chinooks can warm the eastern slope suddenly in winter. The summers are cool and short and the winters are cold but dry. Canmore sits at 4300 ft above sea level.
For up to date weather forecasts go to weatheroffice.com

Seasons Our summer climbing months are June through to the end of September with July and August being the busiest. The ice climbing season is in full swing by mid November through to April. There is good glacier skiing as early as December but the best ski touring and ski mountaineering is February through to April.

Mt. Alberta and hut

Accommodation

The Calgary International Airport is a 1 1/2 hours drive to the Bow Valley where you will find the mountain towns of Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise. Public transport is limited, a rental car is recommended. The Bow Valley offers a full range of accommodation from luxury hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts, to hostels, alpine mountain huts and campgrounds. Check out canmorealberta.com, banfflakelouise.com, or rockymtnskilodge.com. Exquisite cuisine is one of the Bow Valley's specialties and there are dozens of different restaurants to choose from. Grocery shops, equipment shops, climbing and ski gear rentals are available in all three towns.