Banff & Lake Louise

BANFF SUNSHINE

Straddling the Continental Divide in the Canadian Rockies, Banff Sunshine Village is a mountain paradise for skiers and riders. The resort, a 15 -minute drive from the Banff townsite, boasts Canada’s first heated chairlift (Teepee Town LX) and convenient ski -in/ski -out accommodation. Given the 9 metres (30 feet) of annual snowfall, it’s no wonder Sunshine has Canada’s longest non -glacial ski season from November to late -May. Skills progression is the name of the game in this alpine playground, with 137 runs and 12 lifts fanning out over 3,000 acres (1,200 hectares). Beginners and intermediates will discover secret powder stashes, a terrain park and fresh corduroy. Big mountain chargers can test their metal in expert -only freeride zones like the famed Delirium Dive, traversing through chutes, steeps and bowls. Feel the power of nature with every turn as the jaw -dropping vistas of Banff National Park unfold.

FROM A LOCAL

Hey everyone, it’s Izzy from the Visitor Experience team at Banff & Lake Louise Tourism. Today, I’ll be sharing some tips for a ski trip. I originally moved to Banff from the UK in 2019 for the winter season. Skiing has been a passion of mine for many years, and now I have the mountains and three incredible ski resorts right at my doorstep! I have a Skibig3 season pass, which allows me to visit all three resorts during the season: Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Banff Sunshine. During your visit, you can purchase skibig3 lift tickets which gives you access to all three ski resorts while you’re here. I love being able to wake up and choose which resort to go to based on snow fall. Each ski resort has a complimentary shuttle from the Town of Banff so you don’t have to worry about driving, just sit back, relax and enjoy the views before hitting the slopes. If you’ve always wanted to try skiing or snowboarding in a national park, there are also lessons available for all skill levels.

LAKE LOUISE SKI RESORT

Perched in Banff National Park, Lake Louise Ski Resort offers dramatic scenery and excellent skiing and snowboarding. The resort’s four mountain faces deliver versatile terrain ranging from gentle groomers to powder-filled bowls and gullies. A web of 164 runs spider out across 4,200 acres (1,700 hectares), making Lake Louise Ski Resort one of the largest ski areas in North America. Hop on aptly named lifts like Top of the World Express and Paradise to see the vistas for yourself. At the top, alpine summits overlook the jagged teeth of the Canadian Rockies and gladed runs below hold powder stashes that beckon to be explored.

A five-minute drive from the peaceful village of Lake Louise, the resort offers accommodations to suit all budgets and group sizes. Whether you’re learning to ski or want to challenge yourself with gnarly cornice drops and steep descents, this is one resort you’ll want to put on your bucket list.

Mount Norquay

Located just 10 minutes outside the Banff townsite, Mt. Norquay has been thrilling skiers since 1926. With 60 runs and six lifts, this family -friendly resort is safe and fun for beginners and also an excellent training ground for elite athletes due to its bounty of advanced and intermediate terrain. At a base elevation of 1,630 metres (5,350 feet), light snow accumulates (lots of it). Go powder hunting in lesser -known zones off the North American and Mystic chairlifts or hit the groomers with rewarding views of the valley below. Tube Town, with eight groomed lanes, is another heart -pumping way to slide on snow. Those who visit on Fridays and Saturdays can enjoy night skiing and tubing under the floodlights. Locals and visitors alike love the relaxed atmosphere and intimate setting of Mt. Norquay, a charming resort that offers a mighty ski experience.

Ski and Après Culture

Immerse yourself in the mountains with a winter visit to Banff National Park. Powder-filled fun awaits in the trifecta of ski areas located within a short drive of the Banff townsite and the village of Lake Louise. The spectacular topography of the Canadian Rockies is a gateway to deep bowls, gladed runs and meandering groomers. Off-slopes you’ll discover countless winter activities, including ice skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Those in a celebratory mood can hit the town for après at a local pub, restaurant or bar to enjoy classic Canadian cuisine and local fare. You can also sample beer and spirits made locally at craft breweries and Canada’s only distillery in a National Park. One of life’s greatest delights is cozying up after snowy adventures. Snuggle by the fireplace, hit your hotel hot tub, or head for a hot springs soak to wind down and reflect on a day well spent.