Town of Banff

Ask a Local

More than 75 per cent of Bow Valley's population is permanent. Many came here for a season, and ended up staying for a lifetime. They welcome you to their community:

"Banff makes a great home base in both the winter and the summer, and there are so many cool things to do here. The people here make you feel at home in no time. The enormous mountains really put you in your place."
-Robyn Craig

"The Bow Valley is one of those places where people intend to come to for a short period of time, but once you're here you cannot image being or living anywhere else..."
- Jenn Olsen

"Even though the population in Banff is very mobile and people arriving and leaving all the time, there is still a real sense of community here. My advice? Make sure you get involved- volunteer, join some recreational groups, book clubs, whatever! I guarantee it will make you time here that much better."
- Angela Smith

"I like how going to the grocery store is even an event because you always run in to people you know. It takes forever because everyone always has a story of their last adventure."
- Jackie Coward

"Banff has the atmosphere and friendliness of a small mountain town, the accessibility to pristine Canada's premier national park outdoor-playground. On any given day it can also have energy, culture and excitement that can rival the big cities, but we still have the views and the clean air!"
- Daymon Miller

"No matter where I travel to, I always return home to the Canadian Rockies with the feeling that I live in one of the most beautiful places on earth."
 - Jamie Carpenter, Canmore resident

"The best way to meet people and connect in Banff is to join a sports team, sign up for a community class or volunteer at a special event. You meet both long time Banff residents as well as newcomers to the community."
- Mary Brewster 

Banff residents answer your questions.