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Spring skiing season is just around the corner! Warmer weather and longer days on the way means maximized outside time, whether ripping up powder or winding down with an après pint. We’ve rounded up the best spring patios to soak in the sunshine and ski vibe, during the golden hours of the day between last chair and last shuttle home.
Mad Trappers (open since 1928!) will be the life of the party at banff Sunshine Slush Cup. Expect live music, party vibes, and apres all day! | Photo by Banff Sunshine
Banff Sunshine Village takes on a life of its own once spring rolls around the corner. There’s no better place to be than lapping cruisey runs in the sun with your shredding posse. Mad Trapper’s Saloon is the epicentre of the action - its outdoor patio buzzes with people enjoying a brew. It even sprawls out onto the snow itself leaving ample room to enjoy the views and the Untracked Concert Series, running every weekend from April 1st to May 14th. When Slush Cup rolls around on May 22nd, you’ll want to show up early to get these prime viewing seats!
Banded Peak Patio at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, Photo by Jillian Tester
From March onward, the majority of some ski days are spent right here. It’s easy for an afternoon beer break to turn into an early apres party. Caesars by the fire pit, draught beer at the picnic tables, and a signature smokehouse menu make this an obvious spot to hang out with your friends. Wave hey from the patio as they line up at Glacier chair, you might even get in another cheeky lap or two!
Lone Pine Patio at Mt Norquay, Banff National Park.
Social shredding is what Mt Norquay is best known for, its a place where locals and visitors mingle seamlessly together. Kick-back on the Lone Pine balcony patio and cheer on riders still ripping laps of the North American chair. This second floor patio, known for it's view, value and vibe, is the perfect lookout to ease back a few craft brews and dip into fresh cuisine - with portion sizes perfect for crowd sharing.
Photo courtesy of the Juniper Bistro.
There’s no excuse not to visit The Juniper after a day of riding at Mt. Norquay - it’s right on the way home! Offering some of the best views in the Bow Valley, the Juniper does après right. Even in the cooler months, their staff are already happy to light the outdoor fire pit and serve you outside. Too cold for patio pints? There’s an inviting fireplace just waiting to be enjoyed inside.
Photo courtesy of The Wood.
This centrally located Canmore restaurant serves outside year-round if the weather allows. It's south-facing patio soaks up the sun all afternoon, meaning you can enjoy your outdoor après in all four seasons. With a sports bar inside complete with six big screen TVs, a casual family-friendly atmosphere, and one of the best Monday night wing nights in the Bow Valley, it's easy to see why this is a local's favourite.
Photo courtesy of Banff Ave Brewing Co.
From skis to patios, it’s not the size that matters - it’s how you use them! And Brew Co.’s patio definitely packs a punch. These spots are highly sought after once the warmer weather hits - you’ll catch the last of the sun’s warming rays as it sets in the west, and it’s a prime people watching location. Plus, this patio is open as early as you’d like. Grab your beer at the bar and make your way out to brave the cold!
Mount Rundle from the Elk & Oarsman patio, photo by Elk & Oarsman
Elk and Oarsman is the ‘people’s pub’ - no matter your age or background, you’re sure to have a good time here. When patio season hits, you can enjoy sunshine and panoramic views of Banff's signature peaks. They have a wide selection of beers on tap to kick back and soothe your ski legs! Even better, the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub is right across the street. If you've completed the Trifecta Challenge, head on over for your complimentary brew!
Photo courtesy of Maclab Bistro.
This patio is a bit off the beaten-track, but the effort is well worth the extra legwork - it’s still within walking distance of downtown Banff! With ample patio furniture and an outdoor fireplace to perfect the ambience, you can enjoy beautiful valley-wide views from Sulphur to Cascade Mountain. If you're here later in the season, check out these great patios that typically open by May long weekend to enjoy well into summer.
Ready to book your spring skiing vacation to Banff National Park? Our friendly Reservations Team are always happy to share their local knowledge and experience to help you find the best vacation package for your style and budget. You can reach them via Live Chat (scroll up for the Live Chat link at the top of our website), or by calling 1-844-754-2443.
