A Day in the Life at Lake Louise Ski Resort

Often called the friendly giant, The Lake Louise Ski Resort is known for its spectacular alpine views, diverse terrain, and welcoming atmosphere. With over 4,200 acres to explore, it’s the perfect setting for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to enjoy a truly unforgettable day. 

Morning Views and First Tracks

Photo Credit: Jill Tester

Start your day by hopping on the free ski shuttle from your Banff hotel, which conveniently drops you right at the base area of the resort. Gear up in the specular post-and-beam Lodge of Ten Peaks and grab a quick coffee and treat from Slope Side Coffee to get energized before hitting the slopes.

Once you’re ready, there are three lifts out of the base area: Grizzly Express Gondola, Glacier Chair, or Juniper Chair.  Glacier and Juniper Chairs take you mid-mountain with connections to the new Pipestone Express heated bubble chair and Top-of-The-World highspeed six-pack, while the Grizzley Gondola heads straight to the top with access to long rolling groomers, or back-side lifts including Ptarmigan, Larch and Paradise Chairs.  No matter which routes you choose, enjoy sweeping views of Lake Louise and the surrounding glacial peaks. If you’re lucky, you might even witness an inversion, where colder air and a blanket of clouds fill the valley bottom while the top of the resort basks in sunshine, endless views and warmer temperatures.

On the front side of the resort, intermediate and advanced skiers should head to Juniper (3), Grizzly Gully (39) or Men’s Downhill (1) for a warmup of exciting turns and fast groomers.  Beginners will appreciate Wiwaxy (9) or Easy Street (13) with well groomed trails designed for confidence building.

Thrill seekers will want to head towards the Summit Chair which leads to challenging chutes and bowls on the backside of the resort. Morning is the ideal time for backside visibility and powder stash exploration as the sun basks over this easterly aspect of the resort. If you are sticking to the frontside, the infamous West Bowl is a powder lover’s paradise. West Bowl starts with your choice of wide-open bowls, then progresses into exciting tree glades before finally popping out at the base of the new Pipestone Express bubble chair. 

Lunch at Whitehorn Bistro

Whitehorn Bistro: Lake Louise Ski Resort

Midday, stop by Whitehorn Bistro, a mid-mountain dining experience that offers a combination of gourmet Canadian cuisine and breathtaking views across the valley of Mt Temple and Victoria Glacier. Try their popular Whitehorn Burger or share a pot of warm fondue with your group. Whether relax indoors or sit on the patio to take in the alpine air, Whitehorn Bistro offers a delicious way to refuel and soak up some of the best views in the Canadian Rockies. 

Afternoon Exploration

Photo Credit: Nick Hase

After lunch, make your way to the backside of the mountain for more adventure. For an exciting challenge, head to Paradise Chair, which gives access to Paradise Bowl (95) for a series of steep chutes, ideal for experts seeking powder and thrilling lines. Beginners can enjoy the gentle Saddleback run (109), a long, easy trail that loops around the backside of the resort, eventually leading you all the way to Temple Lodge. Additional black-diamond back-side terrain is accessible from the Summit Chair, giving riders a Paradise/Summit Chair loop that will test the mettle of any expert skier.  

Once you're warmed up, head to the Larch area that offers a quiet escape, with tree lined runs that promise plenty of hidden powder stashes for those willing to explore. Intermediate skiers can carve smooth, flowing turns on Marmot (143), a favorite trail that winds through picturesque glades. For experts seeking a challenge try Tower 12 (151) for some steep lines and deeper snow.

When it’s time to take a breather, Temple Lodge on the backside of the mountain provides the perfect spot to recharge. Grab a hot drink to warm up and a quick snack for a boost of energy. The laid-back atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it an ideal pit stop before heading back out for a few more laps. 

Après Ski

Photo Credit Lake Louise Ski Resort / Travis Rousseau

Wrap up your day at the Lodge of Ten Peaks, where the ski-lodge ambiance makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a full day on the slopes. Treat yourself to a steaming hot chocolate or indulge in a hearty plate of poutine. For those wanting a little extra, the Powder Keg Lounge serves craft beers and tasty snacks in a pub-like setting, perfect for winding down with friends. Or, weather permitting, the Banded Peak Patio is the perfect place to round off the day with an après pint in hand.

Once you're ready to head back, grab your gear and catch the free ski shuttle to Banff, making for a smooth, scenic and convenient end to an incredible day at Lake Louise. 

Is the Lake Louise Ski Resort calling you?

Lake Louise Ski Resort is accessible with a SkiBig3 Lift Ticket, Mountain Collective or Ikon Pass. The SkiBig3 Reservations team is happy to answer any questions and help you plan your next winter adventure to the Canadian Rockies. Book online or give us a call at 1-844-754-2443.