Banff Ghost Walks: Evening Paranormal Walking Tour of Banff’s Haunted Streets
Walk Banff after dark with an interpretive guide who threads history, geology and spine-tingling local lore into a 100-minute tour of haunted hotels, mining ruins and downtown alleys. Perfect for curious travelers who like their history with a chill.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Even summer nights at Banff’s elevation are cool—bring a warm layer and a windproof shell.
Wear sturdy shoes
The route is paved but uneven in places; avoid heels or open-toed shoes.
Bring a refillable water bottle
The tour is nearly 100 minutes and portable water keeps you comfortable in cooler, dry air.
Charge your phone
Low light helps atmosphere but a charged phone is useful for photos and as a backup light source.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bankhead Ghost Town remains—short drive from Banff for a raw industrial ruin experience
- •Surprise Corner and the Bow River banks for quieter, atmospheric night views
Wildlife
- •Elk (often in town’s quieter streets at dusk)
- •Coyote (may be heard or seen in outskirts)
Conservation Note
Respect private property and follow Leave No Trace in historic sites; nighttime tours should minimize light pollution and noise to protect wildlife.
Banff developed around the hot springs and the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 1800s; mining camps like Bankhead and the grand Banff Springs Hotel shaped many local legends.
Photographer's Notes
- • Outside the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel entrance
- • Along Banff Avenue near the Bow River bridge
- • Alleys and side streets between Banff Avenue and the river
What to Bring
Warm jacketEssential
Night temperatures drop quickly—bring a warm layer even in summer.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Supportive footwear handles uneven sidewalks and short alleyways.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated at elevation keeps you comfortable during the 100-minute walk.
Phone with flashlight / headlamp
Useful for photos and as a backup light if you prefer to see architectural details.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the guide?
Meet on the Good Earth Coffeehouse patio in downtown Banff; the guide wears a black shirt with the Banff Canmore Ghost Walks logo and may carry a flag or lantern.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes—minimum age is 8 and children must be accompanied by an adult; the content includes spooky stories rather than graphic detail.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled for extreme weather; light rain or snow usually doesn’t stop the outdoor walk—dress appropriately.
How physically demanding is the walk?
It’s an easy, mostly flat 1 hour 40 minute stroll on paved streets with minimal elevation change.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes—photography is allowed, though low light conditions mean a tripod or phone with night mode will help.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Much of the route is on paved sidewalks, but some alleyways or historic sidewalks may be uneven—contact the operator ahead to confirm accessibility needs.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–2 hours
Location
Banff, Alberta
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly flat walking on paved streets
Ready to Explore Banff?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now