Banff Sunshine Village surprised everyone this weekend with a last-minute opening announcement, officially launching SkiBig3’s 2025/26 season on November 2nd, six days earlier than expected. With more snow piling up and excitement building across Banff National Park, Sunshine’s early opening makes it the first ski resort in Canada to start the season.
Anticipation was built all week long with forecasts calling for up to 20 centimeters (7.9 in) of fresh powdery snow for Sunday morning. The Bow Valley was buzzing with anticipation, and when the official announcement came through on Instagram, skis were waxed, plans were changed, and the countdown to first chair was officially on.
First tracks at Banff Sunshine Village | Photo Credit: Jill Tester
Eager skiers and snowboarders arrived bright and early in Halloween costumes and Blue Jays Jerseys, The Banff Sunshine Gondola started spinning at 8:00am. You could hear the excitement in the crowd as people anticipated the first chair.
By 9:00 a.m., the Strawberry Express Quad and Mitey Mike Conveyer Lift opened up. Strawberry Terrain Park had seven features, and guests had access to early-season favourites like Boutry’s Bowl and Rock Ilse Road. With fresh powder underfoot and dreamy cotton candy skies above, it was the perfect start to the 2025/26 ski season.
Stoked skier at first chair | Photo Credit: Jill Tester
When it was time to refuel, skiers and riders gathered at Mad Trappers for a cozy après-ski break, with warm comfort food, local brews, and good vibes all around. Down at the base, Creekside Bar + Grill offered its classic menu of hearty favourites, keeping the energy high after a day on the hill.
With the season officially underway, Banff Sunshine has set the tone for what promises to be an incredible winter in Banff National Park. Keep up with Banff Sunshine Village's snow report for upcoming powder days.
View from Strawberry Express | Photo Credit: Jill Tester
As the season unfolds, Banff Sunshine will continue to open additional terrain and amenities. Stay tuned to @SkiBig3 and the SkiBig3 Snow Report for the latest updates on conditions, weather, and resort openings across Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay.
Be sure to tag @SkiBig3 in your opening day photos — your shot might just be featured as we celebrate the start of another unforgettable winter season in the Canadian Rockies.
