Planning a ski holiday this winter? If you’re ready to swap the crowds for wide-open slopes, ultra-light prosecco powder, endless off-slope adventures, and friendly locals, a ski holiday to Banff National Park should be at the top of your list.
Set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is home to three iconic ski resorts: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay. A SkiBig3 Lift Ticket gives you access to all three. This travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip, including when to visit, where to stay, how to get around, and what to do beyond the slopes.
Book early for the best rates and availability, especially over Christmas, February half-term, and Easter.
Bundle and save with a Ski & Stay Package that includes lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and more in one easy booking.
Otter Hotel in Banff by Travel Alberta / Cakewalk Media
Get travel insurance that includes winter sports coverage. It’s a smart move in case of medical emergencies, travel delays, or lost gear.
Skip the ski luggage. Rent high-performance gear through SkiBig3 at the Adventure Hub’s. If you have boots you love, bring them. If you’re staying in Banff, we offer hotel delivery and pick-up for added convenience.
Rental Fleet at the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub by Jill Tester
Plan a rest day. Lift tickets include grace days (for example, 5 days of skiing over 7), so you can take a break and explore without losing value.
Skating Lake Louise by Max Stussi / Heliconia Adventure Cities
New to skiing or snowboarding? SkiBig3 offers private lessons at all three resorts, with certified instructors, lift-line priority, and programs for beginners, families, kids, and confident skiers looking to explore more.
Family Skiing at Mt. Norquay by Photo by Royce Sihlis
Whether you’re chasing fresh snow, planning around holidays, or looking for sunshine and slushy laps, here’s what to expect throughout the season.
November
Banff kicks off the ski season early. While most Canadian resorts wait until December, SkiBig3 resorts can open as early as the beginning of November, offering quiet slopes and fresh snow for eager skiers looking to get their turns in as early as possible.
Early Season at Lake Louise by Travis Rousseau
December to January
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, this is your moment. By mid-December, most terrain is open across all three resorts. Expect festive lights, snow-covered streets, and full-on alpine magic.
Seasonal highlights: Skiing with Santa, In Search of Christmas Spirit, Banff Christmas Market, SnowDays Festival, and live music and family-friendly activities on Bear Street.
Banff Sunshine in January by Sunshine Village / Rajiv
February to March
Peak powder season. Storms roll through regularly, delivering that classic dry, fluffy snow the Canadian Rockies are known for. Days are a bit longer, and temps start to ease up — perfect for powder laps, family trips, or romantic getaways.
Seasonal Highlights: Mt. Norquay’s Lifts of Love, a retro speed-dating on a chairlift, Canadian style.
Mt. Norquay in March by Reuben Krabbe
April to May
Late season brings spring skiing at its finest: soft snow, sunny après, and a more laid-back mountain vibe.
Seasonal Highlights: Banff Sunshine’s Untracked Concert Series and Holy Bowly, Mount Slushmore at Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay’s Lone Pine Pub for closing weekend groomers and sunshine.
Untracked Concert Series at Banff Sunshine Resort by Jill Tester
Fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC) for the most direct access to Banff and the Big 3. From there, it’s a scenic 1.5-hour drive into the mountains. Rent a car or skip the hassle and leave the driving to us with year-round airport shuttle options, offering service to Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise.
Once you’re here, getting around is easy. Ski shuttles are included with your SkiBig3 Lift Ticket, offering daily service between all three resorts.
Roam Transit is a separate public bus system connecting Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise, ideal for getting around town or planning a rest day. Those staying in Canmore can take ROAM into Banff, then connect to the ski shuttles from there, as there’s no direct complimentary ski shuttle from Canmore.
Ski Shuttle at Lake Louise Ski Resort by Jill Tester
From boutique hotels and cozy condos, there’s no shortage of great places to stay. Whether you’re after luxury, value, or something in between, SkiBig3 makes it easy to find your perfect fit.
Town of Banff
Banff is the most popular home base, with a lively downtown, restaurants, shops, and direct ski shuttle access to all three resorts. The ideal ski town if you want to mix après and mountain-town energy.
Banff Ave by Jill Tester
For a more secluded stay, Lake Louise offers a peaceful alpine escape just 40 minutes from the town of Banff. Lodging is available in the quiet village or along the scenic 1A, only minutes from the ski resort base.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Ice Bar by Travel Alberta / Mike Seehagel
Just 20 minutes from Banff, Canmore offers a quieter pace, more space, and that ‘live like a local’ feel. Ideal for families, longer stays, or travellers looking for condo-style accommodation.
Downtown Canmore by Travel Alberta / Jaime Vedres
Need help deciding? SkiBig3 Vacation Specialists can help you plan every detail. Book a Ski & Stay Package and unlock exclusive deals on lodging, lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and airport transfers — all in one flexible booking, backed by local support.
A ski trip to Banff National Park is more than just time on the slopes. With endless winter adventures, it’s the kind of destination that works for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone who simply loves snow-covered mountains.
