Banff National Park
Snowy mountains, clear blue lakes and green forests make Banff National Park a wonderful bucket list destination. The pristine wilderness is a mecca for walkers.
Banff Weather in December
December in Banff averages -10°C (14°F) during the day and -18°C (0°F) at night. Around 35 mm (1.4 in) of snowfall is typical for this time of year.
Rainfall in Banff in December
The climate data from previous years indicates about 9 days of snow, averaging 35 mm (1.4 in) for the month. A fairly balanced picture this month, some wet days but nothing too extreme in terms of intensity.
Temperature in Banff in December
If you're visiting Banff in December, expect highs of -10°C (14°F) and overnight lows around -18°C (0°F). Experience the winter season in December. It stays very cold throughout much of the day, so warm winter clothing is essential. With lows of -18°C (0°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated. As the coldest month of the year, it's important to pack plenty of warm clothes and winter gear.
Sunshine in Banff in December
With limited sunshine this month, there are about 45 hours of sun. It's ideal for those who prefer a cooler, cloudier climate.December in Banff has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Banff Temperature in December
Min Temperature
-18°C (0°F)
Max Temperature
-10°C (14°F)
Chance of Rain
30%
Precipitation
35 mm (1.4 in)
Rainy days
9 days
Humidity
66%
Sunshine
45 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Banff Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Banff - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Banff typically drop from around -4°C (25°F) at the start of December to approximately -7°C (19°F) by the end. Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -17°C (1°F) to -11°C (12°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather records for Banff in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Banff spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Banff historical weather extremes in December
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Banff from 1976 through 2025.
Best Places in Canada in December
Find out more about the weather in Canada and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Canada in December →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Banff in December
Winter clothing is essential for visiting Banff in December. If you have a heavy coat, waterproof boots with good traction, and plenty of warm layers it's smart to bring them. Pack cloths like thermal underwear, wool socks, and insulated gloves. Pack a light rain jacket or compact umbrella for occasional showers. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.
What To Do in Banff in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
-
Swimming1/10 -
Cycling1/10 -
Walking1/10 -
Camping2/10 -
Outdoor sports1/10
Banff 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Banff
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Banff climate overview or explore weather in Canada.
Popular in December
Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Vancouver
7°C (45°F) Toronto
4°C (39°F) Niagara Falls4°C (39°F) Montréal
0°C (32°F) Ottawa0°C (32°F) Calgary
-1°C (30°F) Whistler-3°C (27°F) Quebec City-2°C (28°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Banff National Park
The 5 most beautiful lakes in Canada
Explore Canada's stunning lakes: Lake Louise, Lake Superior, Maligne Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Okanagan, each offering unique beauty and activities.
Canada in September: Where Is the Best Weather?
Compare September weather in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Quebec City and Osoyoos to find Canada's warmest, driest and sunniest destinations.
Canoeing the south Nahannii
The South Nahanni in the northwest of Canada is one of the most impressive wilderness rivers in the world. Canoeing the south Nahanni is something you must add to your bucket list.