Wed, 14 Jan 2026
6 Reasons February is the Best Time to Ski in Banff and Lake Louise
February combines bumper snow conditions with ski town charm and smaller crowds, making it one of the best times to ski in Banff and Lake Louise.
Thu, 11 Nov 2021
Banff Sunshine is now open!
Banff Sunshine is now open for the 2021/2022 winter season! The third and final resort to open in the SkiBig3 trio.
On November 11 at 9:00 am, Banff Sunshine switched on its gondola and carried guests into the alpine, to its famous upper village. One of Canada’s most beloved ski destinations, Banff Sunshine Village is located 7200 feet high with 360-degree uninterrupted mountain views of Banff National Park.
There, the entire Banff Sunshine team - from operations to hospitality - were eagerly awaiting the arrival of skiers and snowboarders and the resort was buzzing with opening day stoke.
Skiers and snowboarders were all smiles as Banff Sunshine powdered up their gondola to bring guests into the upper village. | Photo by Josh Segeleski
On Banff Sunshine’s opening day, the Strawberry Express Quad was spinning for skiers and snowboarders to carve their first deep turns of the season while the Mighty Might learning area was open for beginners and little shredders to start practicing early. The terrain park crew even installed seven mini jibs for park-lovers to get some opening day air.
How was the snow? We’re glad you asked.
Thanks to its unique location, situated on the Continental Divide, Banff Sunshine is known as a snow magnet and opening week was no exception. On the weekend prior to opening day, the resort was hit with a dump of more than 20cm of fresh powder, while another unsettled storm pattern is forecasted to bring an additional 10cm through opening weekend.
Some tasty powder stashes on opening day at Banff Sunshine. | Photo by Josh Segeleski
With an opening date of November 11, Banff Sunshine shared this date with Remembrance Day, a Canadian national holiday for the men and women who served, and who continue to serve, our nation. To honour this day of remembrance, Banff Sunshine paused the gondola at 11:00 am for the nationwide moment of silence. In recognition of service, the resort is offering free skiing Nov 11-13, for all active or retired members of the NATO military.
Now that Banff Sunshine is open (joining Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay that opened on Friday, November 5) all SkiBig3 resorts are now open and excited to welcome visitors from around the world.
Wondering what covid protocols to expect this season at Banff Sunshine and skiBig3 resorts, visit our travel, health, and safety page.
Thinking about a ski vacation to Banff National Park this winter? Call our friendly ski specialists for the latest deals and packages 1-844-745-2443 or check out some of our best SkiBig3 online deals.
Other blog posts
Tue, 13 Jan 2026
What to Pack for a Ski Trip to Banff and Lake Louise
Preparing for a ski trip to Banff and Lake Louise and not sure what to pack? This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of everything you’ll need to après in style, keep warm on the slopes and unwind after a big day up the mountain.
Mon, 12 Jan 2026
Professional Skier and Indigenous Ski Activist, Connor Ryan, on Finding Belonging in the Mountains
This past December, SkiBig3 hosted Connor Ryan, also known as @sacredstoke, for a few days of early-season powder in Banff National Park. A proud Hunkpapa Lakota skier raised at the foot of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Connor brings intention, and respect for the land into every turn he makes as he explores the mountains.
Fri, 09 Jan 2026
2026 Banff Skijoring Weekend Guide: Events, Après & Skiing
Banff’s Skijor weekend is fast upon us. This January 17-18, Banff Avenue will transform into an action packed western après festival filled with fur, fringe, flips and plenty of horse-powered tricks and stunts. This guide brings together all the best viewpoints, restaurants, bars and festivities to make the most of this Skijoring weekend.
Fri, 09 Jan 2026
Snow Alert! Record-breaking Snowfall in Banff and Lake Louise
The 2025 and 2026 ski and snowboard season has kicked off with an absolute bang at SkiBig3. As of December 31, SkiBig3s three ski resorts, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay, have already shattered historic snowfall records, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable winter season.
