Banff Nightfall: Lake Minnewanka & Two Jack Stargazing
Experience Banff after dark on a thoughtfully paced 5-hour evening journey that begins high above town, moves along quiet lakeshores, and culminates beneath a sky filled with stars at Two Jack Lake. Designed with comfort and intention in mind, the experience blends gentle storytelling, peaceful transitions, and immersive stargazing in one of Banff National Park’s most reliable night-sky locations. As the crowds fade and the park settles into night, you’re invited to slow down, settle in, and experience Banff in a way that feels calm, meaningful, and unhurried.
What to Expect on this Stargazing Tour
Your evening begins at our favorite local lookout, where you’ll take in a beautiful nighttime view of Banff as the town lights glow below and the surrounding peaks fade into silhouette. From this elevated vantage point, your guide sets the tone for the night, sharing thoughtful insights into Banff’s history and how this mountain town came to be — a calm, reflective start that invites you to slow down and leave the day behind.
From here, a short, scenic drive brings you to Lake Minnewanka as dusk deepens. By the water’s edge, the pace remains unhurried as your guide shares a selection of captivating stories connected to this place — from Indigenous perspectives and long-standing relationships with the land, to the wildlife that moves through the area after sunset.
Leaving Lake Minnewanka behind, you’ll travel a short distance deeper into the park as the forest darkens and the night settles in.
Upon arriving at our hand-selected viewpoint on the shores of Two Jack Lake, you’ll settle into premium heated chairs, thoughtfully chosen to keep you warm as the temperatures drop. You’ll have access to telescopes, binoculars, and iPads equipped with constellation-identification apps, allowing you to explore the night sky in vivid detail. Planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies come into focus, transforming the sky into a living map of light. To complete the experience, enjoy a complimentary hot chocolate or cup of tea — a simple, cozy comfort that pairs perfectly with the quiet atmosphere of the evening.
Throughout the evening, every detail is carefully considered to keep the experience smooth, comfortable, and unhurried — focusing on atmosphere and awareness rather than rushing through facts. Whether you’re a first-time stargazer or simply looking for a peaceful way to end your day, you’re invited to settle in, look up, and experience Banff in a way that feels calm, meaningful, and deeply memorable.
Closer Look at Your Stargazing Experience
CAD $125
5 hours
13 people max
May-Oct
-
Price per person (6 Y/O and above) CAD $125
We aim to provide a seamless, comfortable, and thoughtfully curated experience so you can fully relax and enjoy the night sky. Here’s what’s included on your stargazing adventure:
Comfort & Amenities
Complimentary Warm Beverages
A selection of teas and hot chocolate to keep you cozy during the evening.
Headlamps
Essential lighting provided for lakeshore walks and moving comfortably around the stargazing area.
Premium Stargazing Experience
Heated Chairs
Relax into premium heated chairs at our stargazing location for maximum comfort while taking in the night sky.
Stargazing Equipment
Enhance your experience with professional-grade tools, including:
Binoculars for closer views of planets and constellations
A telescope for exploring deep-sky objects and planetary details
An iPad loaded with a constellation-identification app to help you navigate and understand the night sky in real time
Knowledgeable Local Guide
Discover the night sky, local wildlife, and Banff’s natural history through engaging stories and insights from a passionate local guide.
Small Group Setting (Max 13 Guests)
A relaxed, intimate experience that allows for better views, quieter moments, and more personal interaction.
Transportation
Convenient Shuttle Service
Travel comfortably in a 15-passenger Ford Transit van with large windows, offering a smooth ride and scenic views along the way. Your belongings remain accessible in the vehicle throughout the tour for added comfort and convenience.
Stargazing Time
Stargaze: Enjoy approximately 2 hours under the stars
Spend uninterrupted time at Two Jack Lake observing celestial highlights, asking questions, and soaking in the peaceful mountain night.
To ensure you experience the night sky at its best, our departure times adjust with the changing sunset and moon phases. This itinerary is just an example, but rest assured, we’ll take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable evening of stargazing in the Rockies.
7:00 PM – 7:15 PM: Pick-up in Canmore
7:15 PM – 7:30 PM: Pick-up in Banff
7:35 PM – 7:50 PM: Travel from Banff to our lookout location.
7:50 PM – 8:05 PM: Panoramic night views and photography
8:05 PM – 8:30 PM: Travel from Lookout to Lake Minnewanka
8:30 PM – 9:15PM: Lake Minnewanka lakeside Stop
9:15 PM – 9:25PM: Travel from Lake Minnewanka to Two Jack Lake
9:25 PM – 11:25PM: Stargazing at Two Jack Lake (telescopes, binoculars, and iPads provided)
11:25 PM – 12:00 AM: Return to Canmore for drop-offs
Pick-Up
The tour begins in Canmore, with additional pickups in Banff. To ensure a smooth and timely departure, please be ready 10 minutes before your designated pickup time at your chosen location.
Pickup times vary by location — please refer to your specific pickup time for accurate details. Being ready early helps keep the tour on schedule for everyone.
Drop-Off
You’ll be comfortably returned to your original pickup location at the end of the evening.
Preparation & Safety
What Is the Evening Weather Like in Banff for Stargazing Tours?
Evening temperatures in Banff can feel surprisingly cool year-round due to the park’s high elevation and mountain climate — even during summer. Here’s what you can typically expect in the evenings by month:
Summer Evenings
June
Evening and overnight temperatures typically range from 4–7°C (39–45°F). Nights can feel chilly, especially near lakes and with light mountain breezes.
July
Banff’s warmest evenings, with average nighttime temperatures around 6–8°C (43–46°F). While daytime can be warm, temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
August
Similar to July, with evening temperatures averaging 6–8°C (43–46°F). Clear skies and cooler air create excellent stargazing conditions.
Early Fall / Shoulder Season
September
Evenings become noticeably cooler, with temperatures averaging 2–4°C (36–39°F). Frost is possible later in the month, especially at night.
October
Cold, crisp evenings with average nighttime temperatures around 0–2°C (32–36°F). Frost is common, and early snowfall is possible.
Important to Know
Banff sits at a high elevation, and temperatures can drop quickly after sunset. When stargazing — especially while sitting or standing still — the air can feel colder than expected, even in peak summer.
What to Bring
To stay comfortable during changing mountain temperatures, we recommend bringing:
- Long pants
- Warm layers (jacket, fleece, or insulated layer)
- Closed-toe walking shoes
- A small backpack
- Camera or phone for photos
- Gloves, a toque, and a scarf — highly recommended for stargazing, as you’ll be sitting or standing still during cooler nighttime conditions
Even in summer, once the sun sets, temperatures at Two Jack Lake can feel near freezing due to the high elevation and proximity to the water.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Seniors?
Yes. This stargazing tour at Two Jack Lake is designed to be comfortable and accessible for seniors, families with children, and guests seeking a relaxing evening with minimal walking. The experience involves short walks on mostly flat, uneven ground near the lakeshore and does not require hiking.
As the tour takes place after dark, guests must be comfortable walking in low-light conditions and remaining with the group at all times. For safety reasons, guests are not permitted to stay behind or remain in the vehicle on their own during the tour.
Sustainability & Responsible Tourism
How Are Your Tours Environmentally Friendly?
We operate with a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. For every guest who books with us, a tree is planted through our partnership with the Blue Green Planet Project, helping restore Canadian forests.
On all tours, we follow Leave No Trace principles, minimize waste, and actively educate guests on protecting the landscapes we explore. Our goal is to ensure Banff’s pristine environments remain just as untouched for future generations as they are today.
Tour Experience & Logistics
What Happens if the Weather Is Cloudy or Rainy?
We closely monitor weather conditions leading up to your tour. Guests will receive an update at least 48 hours before departure if conditions are expected to impact the experience.
If weather conditions are not ideal for stargazing, you may choose to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. While we always aim to provide the best possible experience, stargazing visibility depends on clear skies and natural conditions.
Will We See the Northern Lights?
Northern lights are always a magical bonus, but they can never be promised. Clear skies and the right natural conditions are required for them to appear. In Banff National Park, the best chances typically occur from late August through October, when nights are darker.
Even without aurora activity, Two Jack Lake offers excellent dark-sky viewing and beautiful night-sky experiences.
Is Food Available During the Tour?
No. We highly recommend eating dinner beforehand, as there is no food available during this tour and you return late at night. Guests are welcome to bring their own food, such as sandwiches or light snacks, to enjoy during the experience.
Will There Be Washrooms Available?
Yes. Washroom breaks will be available before and after the tour. Guests are encouraged to use facilities when available, as washroom access is limited during the stargazing portion of the experience.
Stargazing & Wildlife Safety
What Can We See in the Night Sky?
Depending on conditions and the time of year (June–October), guests at Two Jack Lake may see:
- The Milky Way — visible on dark, clear nights, especially from late June through September
- Seasonal constellations — such as the Big Dipper, Cassiopeia, Cygnus, Scorpius, Sagittarius, and Orion (late fall)
- Planets — bright planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, or Mars when visible
- Satellites — commonly seen moving quietly across the night sky
- Meteors (shooting stars) — possible year-round, with increased activity during meteor showers like the Perseids (late July–August) and Orionids (October)
- Star clusters and deep-sky objects — visible with binoculars or a telescope when conditions allow
- The Moon — observed in detail when present, though brighter moonlight may reduce Milky Way visibility
Your guide uses binoculars, a telescope, and a star-identification app to help guests locate and better understand what they’re seeing.
Is It Safe to Be at Two Jack Lake at Night Because of Wildlife?
Yes. Guest safety is our top priority. Your guide is trained in wildlife awareness and risk management, carries appropriate safety equipment, and ensures the group remains together at all times. All nighttime movement is guided and carefully managed.
Parks Canada recommends a minimum group size of four when traveling in wildlife-active areas. Our tours always meet or exceed this recommendation, and guests are never left alone during the experience.
Waiver
In order to participate all adults must sign the electronic waiver form prior to the tour. A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18. Failure to complete the waiver will result in the cancellation of your tour. For your reference, please see the waiver link at the bottom of the website.
Proper Clothing & Weather Preparedness
Mountain weather can change quickly, as our tours venture into the mountains from early sunrise through sunset and into the nighttime hours. Temperatures in the Rockies are often much cooler than in town, even in summer.
Guests must arrive dressed appropriately for cold, windy, and variable conditions. We strongly recommend:
Warm layers (including a jacket or insulated outer layer)
Long pants
Closed-toe, sturdy footwear
Gloves, hat, and additional layers for sunrise, sunset, and stargazing tours
Being properly dressed ensures your comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout the experience. For safety reasons, we reserve the right to refuse participation if a guest is not adequately dressed for the conditions.
Please visit our FAQs for more information or visit Banff Lake Louise page for some ideas on what to in Banff this winter