Skier at Banff Sunshine with gondola overhead.
Thu, 06 Feb 2025

A Weekend Getaway to SkiBig3 with Your Ikon Pass

If you're holding an Ikon Pass and looking for your next adventure, SkiBig3 in Banff National Park is the perfect weekend escape. With Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay offering incredible terrain, stunning scenery, and endless winter vibes, your time in the north will be nothing short of unforgettable. Here's how to make the most of your snowcation. 


Day One: Banff Sunshine  

Morning: 
Kick off your weekend at Banff Sunshine, just a short drive from Banff town. This resort has offers over 3,300 acres of terrain for all levels. Start your day with laps off Super Angel LX Express Heated Bubble Chair and Great Divide Express Quad. From Super Angel LX, enjoy freshly groomed cruisers, and if you're up for it, test your legs on steeper terrain. At Great Divide, experience open alpine runs with spectacular views.

Lunch: 
Warm up at Trapper's, a cozy spot with rustic charm and hearty meals. The perfect mid day stop to fuel your afternoon.

Afternoon: 
Explore the best of Banff Sunshine’s varied terrain. Go big on the steeps of Goat’s Eye Mountain, ideal for advanced skiers craving a challenge. Prefer more mellow turns? Head to Standish and Strawberry chairs for playful cruisers.

Evening: 
Wrap up your first day with SkiBig3 Happy Hour at Bluebird Restaurant in Banff. This après experience is one you won’t want to miss. Indulge in cheese fondue paired with specialty cocktails or local brews. Stay in your ski gear, enjoy delicious bites, and soak up the vibrant après vibe right in town. 

Spotlio   in Text Images 61Photo Credit: Banff Sunshine Ski Resort / Dan Evans

Day Two: Lake Louise Ski Resort  

Morning: 
Make the scenic 40-minute drive to Lake Louise Ski Resort, known for its expansive terrain and breathtaking views. Start your day by riding the Grizzly Gondola for first tracks. Warm up with cruisers on the front side, then hop on the Pipestone Express Heated Bubble Chair to access even more terrain in West Bowl. Don’t miss the tree runs in the Larch area for a true mountain escape.

Lunch: 
Recharge at the Powder Keg Lodge, a lively spot located at the base of the mountain. Enjoy hearty comfort food and classic pub fair and a warm atmosphere that's perfect for a mid day break. It's an ideal place to refuel before heading back out to explore.

Afternoon: 
Venture into the legendary back bowls for deep powder stashes and thrilling runs, perfect for advanced skiers and riders. Prefer a more relaxed afternoon? Stick to the perfectly groomed front side runs for easy, scenic laps. 

Evening: 
After your Lake Louise adventure, head back to Banff for a night of fun. Grab sushi rolls and ramen at Hello Sunshine or head to Lupo for their Italian inspired menu. Wrap up the night with some friendly competition at High Rollers bowling alley! 

Spotlio   in Text Images 60 Photo Credit: Lake Louise Ski Resort / Jill Tester

Day Three: Mt. Norquay  

Morning: 
Just 10 minutes from Banff, Mt. Norquay is the perfect way to cap off your weekend. Its variety of terrain makes it a great spot for skiers and riders of all levels. Carve cruisers off the Cascade Chair or head to the Mystic Chair for steeper, more advanced runs.

Lunch: 
Warm up at the Lone Pine Pub, Norquay’s cozy slope side spot serving up delicious locally sourced meals with stunning views.

Afternoon/Evening: 
If you're visiting on a Friday or Saturday, stick around for night skiing. Mt. Norquay is the only resort in the area to offer this unique experience. Carving turns under the stars is an unforgettable way to wrap up your SkiBig3 weekend. 

Spotlio   in Text Images 59Photo Credit: Mt Norquay / Jill Tester

Make the most of your downtime by exploring Banff’s vibrant town scene. From boutique shops to scenic walks, there's always something new to discover. Don't forget to check out our events page for fun happenings while you're in town.

With your Ikon Pass in hand, a weekend at SkiBig3 delivers more than just incredible skiing and riding, it's a chance to immerse yourself in the wild, breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park.  
Pack your gear, head north, and make some memories with SkiBig3! 
 
View Ikon deals here 

Other blog posts

Blog Ratio (9)
Wed, 31 Dec 2025

Why Skiing in Banff National Park Feels Different

Skiing rarely happens in a place this protected, expansive, and deeply connected to nature. In Banff, three world-class ski resorts operate entirely within a preserved Canadian National Park, the oldest park in Canada, creating an experience that feels both elevated and refreshingly grounded.
Blog Ratio (7)
Tips
Events
Tue, 23 Dec 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise: Top Events, Festive Activities, and SkiBig3 Holiday Fun

Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise feels like stepping into a real-life snow globe. With powdery peaks, glowing lights, charming alpine towns, and festive celebrations around every corner, the Canadian Rockies set the stage for an unforgettable holiday season. Whether you're here for skiing, cozy winter moments, or magical holiday traditions, this guide highlights everything you need to know to plan the perfect December getaway.
Blog Ratio
Wed, 17 Dec 2025

Get Ready to Ride! Richardson’s Ridge Opening at Lake Louise Ski Resort

Big news for skiers and riders this winter. Lake Louise Ski Resort has officially opened the first phase of Richardson’s Ridge, welcoming guests to brand new terrain as of Wednesday, December 17, months ahead of schedule.
Ben Thunbs Up
Blog
Tips
Fri, 12 Dec 2025

Top Early Season Tips for Getting Back on Snow This December

Get ready for early season skiing in Banff with SkiBig3. Discover top tips for your first days back on snow, the best warm up spots at all three resorts, and how to plan a smooth winter getaway with flexible SkiBig3 Lift Tickets. Perfect for skiers and riders visiting Banff National Park this December.
Spotlio   Header Image  (4)
Fri, 05 Dec 2025

Celebrate SnowDays with Your Ikon Pass This 2025 MLK Weekend

Martin Luther King Jr. weekend is the perfect time to plan a ski escape to Banff and Lake Louise. While it’s a public holiday in the U.S., it’s business as usual in Canada, meaning fewer crowds and wide open slopes. Your Ikon Pass gives you access to three world class resorts: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay.