Lake Louise Ski Resort officially kicked off its 2025/26 season on Tuesday, November 4, three days earlier than projected, marking the second SkiBig3 resort to welcome skiers and riders back to the slopes in Banff National Park. With fresh snowfall, ideal early-season conditions, and plenty of stoke in the air, winter has truly arrived in the Canadian Rockies.
First Tracks at Lake Louise Ski Resort | Jill Scarpato
Over the past week, 37 cm (15 inches) of snow fell across the region while temperatures stayed cool, setting the stage for excellent opening-day conditions. Thanks to consistent snowmaking and hard work from the operations team, Lake Louise opened earlier than expected.
The lifts started spinning early at 8:45 a.m. with Juniper Express and Easy Street open for smooth cruising, plus the Learning Area carpet for beginners eager to join the fun. Two early-season terrain parks opened with smaller features for skiers and riders looking to warm up their skills. The Grizzly Gondola is expected to open later this week as more terrain comes online. A gorgeous sunrise and cool temps kept the snow in perfect shape for crisp, fast turns. The energy was high, and Griff was out handing out swag to stoked skiers and snowboarders.
First Day Excitement at Lake Louise Ski Resort | Photo Credit Jill Scarpato
From the first chair to the final lap, the energy was electric. Locals, families, and visitors alike celebrated the return of ski season at Lake Louise Ski Resort. The Lodge of Ten Peaks Cafeteria and Slopeside Coffee Bar were buzzing throughout the day, while the Powder Keg Lounge filled with smiling faces swapping stories over their first après of the season.
Early Morning Chair at Lake Louise Ski Resort | Photo Credit: Jill Scarpato
This early opening is only the beginning. More lifts, runs, and terrain parks will come online as conditions improve and more snow moves into the forecast. Kicking things off in style, Lake Louise hosts Ride in Denim this Friday — a full day of on-mountain fun featuring discounted lift tickets for anyone in denim, live music on the Whisky Jack Deck, giveaways, and a group denim lap at 1:00 p.m. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the return of ski season in true Canadian fashion.
Grab your SkiBig3 Lift Ticket, Ikon Pass, or Mountain Collective and celebrate the season with your first turns at Lake Louise. Winter starts early in Banff National Park, and it’s only getting better.
Winter starts early in Banff National Park, and we’re just getting started. Check out photos of current conditions here.
