Here in Banff and Lake Louise, Christmas spirit is still alive and well in the frosty winter air. While our usual favourite celebrations, gatherings, and traditions aren’t possible this holiday season, there are plenty of ways to tap into holiday cheer with your cohorts in the great outdoors.
Try out this Cohort Christmas Scavenger Hunt hand-selected by SkiBig3 for a fun, festive, and socially distanced way to celebrate the holiday spirit with your friends and loved ones.
Snap photos of each of these locations and activities, and don’t forget to share your cohort Christmas cheer by using the #CohortChristmas hashtag on Instagram!
1. Summit Selfie
From the summit of any mountain at the SkiBig3 resorts, snap a socially distanced selfie as you take in the view. The brand new Summit Chair at Lake Louise Ski Resort is perfect for getting you there!
2. Christmas Lights House
The locals in Banff and Lake Louise don’t skimp out on Christmas decorations! Find a house decked out in all the Christmas bells, lights and whistles.
3. Outdoor Hot Chocolate
Many coffee shops and cafes are still open in Banff and Lake Louise. Grab yourself a cup of hot cocoa and go for a wintery wander. Both Banff and Lake Louise have beautiful walking paths along the Bow River running through town.
4. Chairlift Selfie
Here’s an easy freebie! Snap a selfie on any chairlift at SkiBig3 with yourself on one end of the chair, and your cohort buddy on the other.
5. Photo With Santa
The SkiBig3 resorts will have Santa roaming around the runs this season! Catch him for a photo, but remember to stay two metres apart. Join Santa on the Mountain at Banff Sunshine Village on December 19th and 20th.
6. Tailgate Picnic
Tailgating is where it’s at this winter! Check out our local tips on how to tailgate like a pro, including easy take-out options from local eateries in Banff and Lake Louise.
7. Snow Angel
Find an untouched powder patch at any of the SkiBig3 resorts and leave your snow angel mark in the snow. Use your ski poles to make extra giant wings!
8. The Mt. Norquay “Patch”
Boasting one of the best birds-eye views of the town of Banff, you can find this open glade en route to Mt. Norquay ski resort. Pull over when you see the short stone wall about halfway up the switchbacks.
9. Bear Street Banff Sign
This winter a brand new illuminated Banff sign is lighting up Bear Street, similar to the sign located next to the road entering the town.
10. Wilderness Skating
Strap on a pair of skates and check out any of these nearby lakes for a session of wilderness skating! Be sure to check the ice thickness for safety before heading out. Any of these lakes near Banff and Lake Louise will do just the trick.
11. George the Grouse
Keep your eyes peeled for a photo of Lake Louise Ski Resort’s resident grouse! He keeps a watchful eye over things and can pop up just about anywhere – including resort runs, lift lines, and ski racks.
12. Dad Jokes
Keep an eye out for daily Dad jokes at the SkiBig3 resorts as you load the chairlifts! These zingers are updated daily with one-liners and snippets of sage wisdom. These Dad jokes are handy to keep in your back pocket, too.
13. Rainbow Rest Stop
Banff Sunshine Village has been providing additional outdoor seating in the village this winter! Keep an eye out for their rainbow-coloured lawn chairs near Mad Trapper’s Smokehouse. Or snap a photo in one of their brightly coloured gondola cabins.
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While operations look a little different this winter, you can count on finding amazing ski terrain across 8,000 acres and 3 mountain resorts. SkiBig3 has always been known for its wide-open, uncrowded slopes and this year is no different. Being active and outside is guaranteed to provide some respite during this challenging time. This winter could be the best time to experience all the outdoor adventures that make this place special. Mid-week is the ideal time to visit to enjoy lots of extra space.
In the spirit of keeping things flexible, SkiBig3 is committed to keeping you updated with ongoing health & safety information. Should you need to cancel or change your plans this winter our no-questions-asked cancellation policy allows for free changes and cancellations until 3-days prior to arrival. To book your winter ski vacation, call 1-844-754-2443 to speak with a reservation specialist or go online to access to some exceptional Ski & Stay Package deals and Short Stay Escapes.
