Where to Stay: Banff, Lake Louise, or Canmore?

With three beautiful ski towns to choose from, deciding where to stay for your SkiBig3 holiday can be part of the adventure. Banff, Lake Louise, and Canmore each have their own character, scenery, and charm. All three give you access to Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay, plus the unforgettable experiences of Banff National Park. Here is your guide to choosing the perfect base. 

Located in the heart of Banff National Park, Banff is the ultimate Canadian ski town and the liveliest of the three. Accommodation is typically hotel-style, ranging from luxury properties to budget-friendly stays, perfect if you want to be in the hustle and bustle. 

Banff is a hub for dining, with everything from casual cafés to high-end restaurants. When you book SkiBig3 Lift Tickets, you also unlock exclusive dining discounts around town. The après-ski and happy hour scene is vibrant, with pubs, lounges, and live music giving you plenty of ways to unwind after a day on the slopes. Banff also offers unique shopping, art galleries, and cultural attractions.  

Plus, SkiBig3 delivers lift tickets right to your accommodation for convenience or pick them up at the Banff Adventure Hub. Free ski shuttles connect Banff directly to all three resorts, making it easy to ski the Big 3 without a car. Mt. Norquay is just 10 minutes away, Banff Sunshine is 20 minutes away, and Louise Ski Resort is 45 minutes away. 

Adventure Hub on Banff Ave | John Entwistle / Origin + SB3

Choose Banff if you want a lively ski town atmosphere with plenty of dining, nightlife, and easy resort access. Banff is an excellent choice. 

Lake Louise is a smaller, quieter ski town, ideal for those who want to be surrounded by nature. Located 40 minutes west of Banff, it offers a peaceful setting with a handful of restaurants and cozy lodges. It is the closest base to Lake Louise Ski Resort, with free shuttles taking just 5 minutes from the village and 10 minutes from the lake. On select days, shuttles connect Lake Louise to Banff Sunshine, making it possible to ski multiple resorts during your stay. 

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Mike Seehagel  

Choose the Village of Lake Louise if you want quiet surroundings, spectacular scenery, and a ski town that feels tucked away in the mountains. 

Just outside Banff National Park, Canmore is a laid-back mountain ski town with a more local feel. It is the first town you reach when travelling from Calgary, offering a mix of condo-style accommodation, vacation rentals, and boutique hotels. This makes it ideal for families or groups who want more space and self-catering options. 

SkiBig3 can deliver your lift tickets directly to your Canmore accommodation, or you can pick them up at the Canmore Adventure Hub. Guests can also take advantage of our premium rentals at the Hub. Your ski and snowboard gear is brought to you for fitting right in your room, so you can start your trip without a stop at the shop. 

While there are no direct ski shuttles from Canmore, the Roam Transit bus connects you to Banff, where you can easily access the free ski shuttles to all three resorts. Driving times are approximately 30 minutes to Mt. Norquay, 35 minutes to Banff Sunshine, and 55 minutes to Lake Louise Ski Resort. 

Choose Canmore for a relaxed pace, a more local ski town experience, and the convenience of in-room rentals. 

Ready to Ski the Big 3? 

Whether you choose Banff’s lively streets, Lake Louise’s peaceful beauty, or Canmore’s relaxed charm, each ski town offers its own unforgettable mountain experience. With three world-class resorts, endless winter activities, and breathtaking scenery, Banff National Park is one of the best ski destinations in the world. Let our reservations team help you plan your perfect winter getaway. 

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!