With three resorts to choose from—Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village—a Banff Lake Louise ski vacation is sure to please every type of skier from novices looking for cruisers to extreme-seekers looking for some challenging inbounds terrain.
Those in search of serenity and quiet are sure to enjoy a trip to this beautiful region as the ski resorts are next to the protected wilderness of Banff National Park, which encompasses the town of Banff and Lake Louise and all three of the area's ski resorts. Banff's inland locale—on the border of interior British Columbia and Alberta—ensures light, fluffy powder which makes skiing in Banff and Lake Louise even more fun.
...in the charming mountain town of Banff or on the shores of Lake Louise.
...at a top elevation of 8,650 feet on Lake Louise ski resort.
...by flying into Calgary.
…breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies.
…the surrounding Banff National Park wilderness by snowshoe.
…130+ restaurants.
…yourself to ritual at the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs.
…Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and ice hockey—some of Banff Lake Louise’s many winter activities.
Skiers and boarders have more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain spread over three world-class ski resorts and accessed with one tri-area lift ticket. With more than 274 named trails, every level of skiing is well represented at Banff’s three resorts. Mt. Norquay, which is located just minutes from the town of Banff, is considered a family-friendly resort and offers weekend night skiing for those that just can get enough time on the slopes. The whole family will love learning about Mt. Norquay’s history as an Olympic and World Cup training ground.
Boasting 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, Lake Louise Ski Area takes the cake for “biggest” Banff skiing. With 25 percent beginner terrain and a green run accessible from every chairlift, 45 percent intermediate terrain and 30 percent expert terrain, the Lake Louise skiing suits every level and type of skier and is ideal for large groups or families. Plus, it’s probably the most conveniently located Banff ski resort because the Village at Lake Louise, which features restaurants and lodging options, is just minutes from the ski area.
Sunshine Village Ski Area is nestled in Banff National Park and 15 minutes from the town of Banff. Sunshine Village sits higher up than the other two resorts and allows skiers and boarders the chance to not only ski and ride on the Continental Divide, but also in two Canadian provinces: Alberta and British Columbia. Because of its slightly higher elevation and remote location, Sunshine often gets the most—and fluffiest—snow of all three. While nearly 75 percent of the terrain is designated as beginner or intermediate, Sunshine also boasts some of the area’s best expert and extreme terrain, with two off-piste zones atop the Continental Divide chairlift.
Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage and one of Canada's most beloved treasures. This protected wilderness is home to some of the world's most beautiful sights, including crisp turquoise lakes, like Lake Louise; breathtaking peaks, like Mount Assiniboine; and a long list of wildlife. The fact that this beautiful Canadian gem is convenient to world-class restaurants, hotels, nightlife and spas makes it the ultimate mountain destination.
Mountain Stats
2805'
Vertical Drop
5412'
Base Depth
8553'
Summit Depth
TERRAIN
7748ac
Total Acres
30
Total Lifts
0mi
Longest Run
Trails
Activities
TerrainPark
No
Tubing
No
Night Skiing
No