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.
Tue, 12 Nov 2024
Embracing the North: La Niña Could Bring a Snowy Surprise for the Canadian Rockies!
As the 24/25 ski season is fast approaching, we are getting pretty excited about the little whispers that are floating around, saying we could be seeing a La Nina season. Unfortunately, we can never guarantee the kind of snowfall we’ll see. However, there are many scientific factors coming into play, that suggest a weak La Nina season is on its way.
What is La Nina and where does it come from?
La Niña is a climate pattern that causes cooler sea temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. This low-pressure system often results in more frequent and intense storms moving into British Columbia, Alberta and the Canadian Rockies, bringing increased snowfall and wetter conditions. Ski resorts in these areas typically benefit from the additional snowfall and cooler temperatures.
What we’re seeing between 2016/17 and now
Research from Open Snow forecaster, Bob Ambrose, has shown that the weather events over the 16/17 winter, are most closely corelating to the trends we are starting to see coming into the 24/25 winter. The 16/17 winter saw a significant drop in temperature from late December through most of February and into early March; with Both Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise Ski Resort seeing above average snowfall.
Sunshine Village brought in 770 cm (303”) of snow, 106% of average
Lake Louise Ski Resort 580 cm (228”) of snow,121% of average
Image from The Weather Network
Right now, we’re in “ENSO Neutral” conditions, which means that our temperatures are close to normal for this time of year. However, sea surface temperatures have fallen slightly, with experts suggesting a 60% chance of a weak La Nina, starting November. Much like the 16/17 winter, we’re hoping this cooler weather turns into longer lasting quality snow.
Photo by: Jill Tester / taken November 8th 2024
Are you ready for another unforgettable season?
With the potential of an incredible winter season coming our way, there’s no better time than now to book your ski vacation. Whether you’re looking to set some fresh tracks down the groomers, or glide through knee-deep powder; there’s nothing quite like experiencing it at the SkiBig3 resorts. The North is truly where these spectacular mountains come to life. Your SkiBig3 adventure awaits!
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.
