Many people consider the summer months to be the best time to visit the Canadian Rockies, making the warm months the peak season. The warmer temperatures make a lot of the available nature activities more inviting, but you must content with a high influx of visitors. Find out the key advantages and disadvantages of a summer vacation in the Canadian Rockies.
Popular Time to Visit
Peak season runs through the summer months, typically from June through September. This is a popular time for many people as it's easier to plan outdoor activities due to the better weather.
While the pleasant temperatures provide an excellent advantage for many common activities like mountain hikes, exploring meadows, viewing local wildlife, and spending time on one of the gorgeous lakes, you must prepare yourself to face larger crowds during the peak season. Prices often rise at this time too, making the cost of accommodations, air fare, and some ticket prices for popular attractions more expensive than during the shoulder season and winter.
Some people may enjoy the increased activity and chance to bond with fellow vacationers when selecting summertime travel arrangements, while others prefer to take in the splendor of the Rocky Mountains in a quieter, more intimate way when there are fewer people around.
[ Read: Best Places to visit in Canada during Summer ]
Weather During Summer Months
The temperatures in June are pleasant, with a low of 35 degrees at the higher elevations and a high of 72 degrees for most places. June is also generally the wettest month of the year in the Rockies. The average amount of rain varies by year, but you can expect an increased likelihood of running into rain. The good news is that rainshows are usually brief, isolated events that rarely last all day. Despite the higher chance of rain, June is a wonderful time to visit one of the specular lakes offset by the view of snow-capped mountain peaks.
For the Canadian Rockies, the best time to visit for warm temperatures and good weather is July and August. Average temperatures range from a low of 37 degrees to a high of 76 depending on your elevation and location.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Visiting During Peak Season
The benefits and drawbacks of visiting during peak season are varied. The pros include warmer weather and increased availability of outdoor activities, while big crowds of tourists and high prices feature on the cons list.
Recommended Activities During Summer Months
The long days and stable weather conditions make it easier to plan for some of the area's top activities. Some excellent activities to check out during the peak season include:
- Hiking trails
- Boat tours
- Rafting
- Canoeing
- Golfing
- Fly fishing
- Horseback riding
- Campgrounds
For visitors who want to enjoy the Rockies during the popular time of the summer months but prefer less vigorous activities, there are ample chances to view the scenery from the comfort of guided tours by bus, train, boat, and even gondola for an aerial view. Relax and enjoy a meal or drink from an observation deck meant to showcase the landscape, or simply soak in the views from the comfort of your accommodations. Depending on your preferred lodgings, you may also have the advantage of enjoying a luxury spa treatment, a food tour of local cuisine, or even just lounging poolside in the shadow of the mountains.
Most tourist attractions are open by the end of May or early June and stay open through late September or early October.
[ Read: Summer Activities in Toronto ]
What to Pack for the Canadian Rockies in Summer
It's important to do your research and pack appropriate clothing for the expected weather and your preferred activities. Some essential items to pack for a summer trip to the Canadian Rockies are:
- Sturdy boots
- A second pair of shoes
- Long underwear
- Rain gear
- A warm sweater
- Compass
- Water filter
- Bear spray
Consult a packing list to ensure you don't miss anything important. When it comes to clothing, bringing along layers that you can easily add or remove to make yoruself comfortable is a great strategy.
