Tue, 21 Jan 2025
A Day in the Life at SkiBig3 - Banff Sunshine
A day at Banff Sunshine will never look the same, but here is the ultimate way to get the most out of your day and truly see it all.
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Wed, 28 Aug 2024
Ikon Pass Best Photo Winner!
Every August, the Ikon Pass team kicks off the photo contest of the year - the Ikon Pass Snow's Best Photo Bracket hosted on Instagram. It's that time of year when we start daydreaming about winter, relive the epic season we just had, and get stoked for the upcoming season ahead. Ikon Pass showcased 16 incredible shots that had been taken across the Ikon destinations from the past winter. The images were then put against each other, and it was up to you, the public, to pick the winner.
Each year, SkiBig3 looks forward to and proudly takes part in this event, submitting our favourite shots from the previous season, all captured by the amazing photographers we get to work with throughout the winter. In the past three years, we've landed a top 16 spot, a top 10 honourable mention, and this year, we finally became the champion with Carter Edward's awesome northern lights photo at Banff Sunshine. Congrats Carter! While we are super proud of the achievement, we also wanted to acknowledge Jamie Walters with his stunning solar eclipse shot. Another truly magical, nature-at-its-finest, picture-perfect moment.
The winning shot from Cater for the Ikon Pass Snow's Best Competition | Photo by Carter Edwards
With the winning shot being so epic and so much more than just an Aurora Borealis image, we wanted to give you the full story of how this image came to grace your screens.
Story behind the winning image
"May 2024 will be remembered for one of the most spectacular storms in recent history. The sun unleashed at least five Coronal Mass Ejections and a sunspot cluster sixteen times the size of the Earth, creating a celestial show that will forever be etched in my memory.
As the day wound down, my phone erupted with alerts about the approaching storm. My heart raced as the clouds dispersed, revealing a clear sky. Instantly, I contacted Kendra Schurfield at [Banff Sunshine] with a spontaneous plan. With her green light, my good friends Mark Valtr, Em Lucas, Jess Chapman, and David Arney joined me for an impromptu expedition to the iconic Howly Bowly course.
We watched the sun set, our anticipation growing. Then, the ski began to glow, and we sprang into action. With snowmobile high beams rigged for lighting and my tripod and camera at the ready, we captured the fleeting magic. Time was of the essence, and despite the last-minute scramble, we made every moment count.
Hours later, with a fire in our eyes, we sledded back down in a shared silence of awe and gratitude. As we reached the base, our exhilaration gave way to a serene calm. We headed to the Sunshine Lodge, ready to celebrate and rest after a night we would never forget."- Carter Edwards
Banff Sunshine at night illuminated by the starry skies and the aurora | Photo by Banff Sunshine
Questions with Carter
Was the Northern Lights volcano feature a single exposure?
“The Aurora photo is two frames taken about 10 seconds apart. The first frame captures the lights as Mark is skiing towards the feature and the second frame was taken right after the lights frame using a snowmobile high beam to illuminate Mark.”
What is one thing you dream of catching on film?
“One thing I do hope to catch on film would be an eclipse shot. I feel I got very lucky with time and place versus an eclipse, you have to have perfect planning.”
Want to capture the Aurora Borealis yourself?
The Northern Lights illuminating the sky above the town of Banff | Photo by Nick Hase
Experience the magical Aurora Borealis for yourself in Banff National Park. With its dark skies and minimal light pollution, Banff and Lake Louise are the perfect locations to catch the natural light show. Here are some of the best spots across the two towns to stargaze and watch the skies. While you're there, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the 3 world-class resorts, all nestled in the heart of Banff National Park.
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Other blog posts
Fri, 17 Jan 2025
Insider's Guide to Some of the Best Places to Eat at SkiBig3
It's easy to work up an appetite when skiing or snowboarding, especially if you’re trying new runs, perfecting a trick or lapping the groomers like there’s no tomorrow. Luckily, all SkiBig3 resorts have a huge selection of delicious dining options to satisfy any appetite. Whether you want to indulge in a hearty mid-ride meal or enjoy some après - we've got you covered. Check out our guide on the top places to eat at the SkiBig3 resorts.
Tue, 14 Jan 2025
Spring Skiing in the Canadian Rockies – Banff’s Secret Season
Whilst many Canadian ski resorts close their doors in early April, here at SkiBig3, Spring skiing is just getting started! Spring in the Canadian Rockies is truly one of our best kept secrets… well not anymore! In April and May we see warmer days, and longer afternoons, less conjected slopes, fun events and to the surprise of many – we have some of our best snow.
Fri, 10 Jan 2025
Why You Need to Try Skiing and Exploring Banff National Park
Skiing in Banff National Park is more than just a day on the slopes, it’s a chance to experience the wild beauty of one of Canada’s most iconic destinations. Towering peaks, snow covered forests, and an abundance of wildlife make it a unique adventure. Here’s why skiing in a national park stands out.
Wed, 08 Jan 2025
Where to Après in the Spring in Banff & Lake Louise
Spring is upon us and that means après on the patio in the afternoon sun are once again the thing we all look forward to after a few laps on the hill. Whether you’re looking for a drink and a boogie right on the mountain, or something in town; we have a list of the best places to try.
