With three charming towns to choose from - Banff, Lake Louise, and Canmore it can be tricky to know where to stay during your trip to SkiBig3 in Banff National Park. Each town offers something unique, from snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes and three world-class ski resorts (Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay) just a hop skip and jump away. To help you choose where to stay here’s a quick guide to the three locations.
As soon as you arrive in the town of Banff, nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, you'll be swept away by the cozy ski-town vibe. There are accommodation options for every budget and preference, from luxury stays to family-friendly condos. If you're a foodie, Banff offers an endless variety of dining options, as well as traditional Canadian dishes, so there will be somewhere new to eat every night. For those who love to shop, the high street is lined with boutique stores and gift shops offering unique souvenirs to take back home. You'll also find the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub on Banff Avenue for all your skiing, riding, and rental needs.
Visiting the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub on Banff Avenue | Photo by SkiBig3
Let's not forget the skiing! To get to the resorts there are free ski shuttles conveniently located around town, making it super easy to access the three world-class ski resorts. Mt. Norquay is just 10 minutes from town, Banff Sunshine is 20 minutes, and Lake Louise is 45 minutes west of town.
Banff is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with local artists showcasing their work and museums offering fascinating insights into the town's history and Banff National Park. Banff is the perfect place to stay if you're looking to enjoy some magical ski-town vibes with dining and snowy experiences right on your doorstep.
Wondering down Banff Avenue on a snowy winter's day | Photo by Travel Alberta & Mike Seehagel
Lake Louise is the smallest of the three locations and a hidden gem just off the Trans-Canada Highway. Just 40 minutes west of Banff, this quaint village offers a variety of charming restaurants and accommodation options and is the perfect place to escape amongst the mountains and nature.
One of the best things about Lake Louise is the iconic lake, located just five kilometres up from the village, directly across the valley from Lake Louise Ski Resort. Trust us when we say that it's a must-see destination with a view that will take your breath away.
Birds-eye views of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Photo by Paul Zizka
Free ski shuttles are also available from the village to Lake Louise Ski Resort which are speedy and convenient. It only takes 10 minutes from the lake and 5 minutes from the village. Plus, on specific days of the week, you can catch a shuttle to Banff Sunshine.
As you begin your journey from Calgary International Airport into the mountains, your first stop is the enchanting town of Canmore. Located just outside of Banff National Park, Canmore is a stunning mountain town that offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With a wide range of accommodation options from family-friendly hotels to condo suites, you can choose a comfortable base camp that suits your travel needs. Canmore also offers a range of restaurants, shops, and a recreation center. You'll also be able to visit the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub in Canmore to collect your Lift Tickets and rentals.
From Canmore, you can easily access Banff through community bus services. However, to make the most of your mountain adventure, we recommend using a personal vehicle. By car, you can reach Mt. Norquay in just 30 minutes, Banff Sunshine in 35 minutes, and Lake Louise Ski Resort in 55 minutes.
Taking in the mountain views of Canmore | Photo by Travel Alberta / Mike Seehagel
Whether you're looking for a cozy ski town vibe or a quiet and peaceful mountain retreat, there's something for everyone in Banff, Lake Louise and Canmore. Take a look at the hotel and lodging options that are available. With endless activities, dining options, and stunning natural beauty Banff National Park is the perfect destination for your next adventure. To start planning your trip, our friendly reservations team will help you book your stay today and experience the magic of the Canadian Rockies!
