An American's Guide to Skiing in Banff and Lake Louise

It's no secret that your Canadian neighbor to the North has a reputation for having all things Winter and wonderful. Snow capped mountains, undisturbed scenery, warm hospitality, and acres and acres of wide open, pristine skiing are waiting to be discovered in Banff National Park. SkiBig3 is home to three unique ski resorts - Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay all with their own distinct terrain and vibe that are worth a trip in themselves. Add in two vibrant mountain towns, plus plenty of rest day activities and attractions, and you'll find no shortage of reasons to spend a week or more in this beautiful destination.

Thinking of booking a winter or spring vacation to SkiBig3? Here are a few updated tips and considerations for U.S. travelers: 

Image by: Nick Hase Lake Louise Ski Resort

Don’t Forget Your Passport 

A valid passport is required for entry into Canada, whether travelling by plane or vehicle. Make sure it’s valid for the duration of your stay, and have your travel details, such as hotel address and trip length, handy to ensure a smooth customs experience.

Big Savings Thanks to the Favorable Exchange Rate

The U.S. dollar continues to go further in Canada, making your ski vacation even more affordable. With the exchange rate favoring USD, you’ll save on everything from lift tickets to dining and lodging. Pro tip: Exchange some cash before your trip or use a credit card with low foreign transaction fees to maximize your savings. Learn more about making the most of the exchange rate in our detailed blog post.

Insider tip: While some local businesses accept USD, change is usually given in CAD at a 1:1 rate. To get the most bang for your buck, stick with Canadian currency.

Getting Here: Fly to Calgary

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is your gateway to Banff National Park, just a 90 minute drive to Banff town. With frequent direct flights from major U.S. cities, you can land in the morning and be on the slopes by the afternoon. Shuttle services and rental cars from the airport make the journey hassle free.

Tap Into Local Expertise

The SkiBig3 Vacation Planners live and work in the Bow Valley, so they know the area inside and out. From accommodations and transportation to lift tickets, rentals, and gear through the SkiBig3 Adventure Hubs, they’ll help you craft the perfect itinerary to match your travel style and budget. Travel light and enjoy seamless convenience with options to have your ski or snowboard gear delivered to your hotel after your fitting and easy returns to the Adventure Hub, your resort, or even your hotel.

Image by: Jill Tester at Banff Sunshine Resort

Explore the SkiBig3 App 

Your all in one guide to the SkiBig3 experience, the app features resort trail maps, shuttle schedules, snow conditions, and even a ski tracker to keep tabs on your vertical feet. It’s the perfect companion for navigating Banff and Lake Louise with ease.

Check Off a Classic Canadian Experience

From après ski and poutine to ice skating on Lake Louise, there’s more to Banff National Park than just skiing. Enjoy après ski delights like fondue, visit the SkiBig3 x Bluebird Happy Hour, or explore ice climbing and vibrant mountain culture for a true taste of Canada. 

Image by: Reuben Krabbe Lake Louise Ski Resort 

Use Your Ikon and Mountain Collective Passes

Are you a Mountain Collective or Ikon Pass holder? Be sure to use up your SkiBig3 days this winter! With our extra-long season stretching from November to May, there's plenty of time to cash in on those ski and snowboard miles. Depending on the type of pass you have, it may just be enough to warrant two trips! Talk to our Vacation Planners about sweet deals on lodging, too!

Plan your trip today!

Ready for your ultimate ski vacation up North? Take advantage of this spike and book your vacation to SkiBig3. Call us at 1-844-754-2443 or check out our featured Ski & Stay vacation packages online.