Dreaming of coming to Banff National Park and skiing some of the most incredible mountains in the world? With a Mountain Collective Pass, you’ll ski 4 free days at the SkiBig3 resorts. Below is your guide for making the most of your Mountain Collective Pass at SkiBig3.
Be Prepared: What to Know Before you Go
- Book your accommodation early for best value and availability. With SkiBig3 Ski & Stay Packages exclusive for pass holders; you can book knowing you’ve got the lowest price.
- Select SkiBig3 as a pre-fulfillment option and receive your SkiBig3 Mountain Collective pass pre-loaded with 2 days at Banff Sunshine, and 2 days at Lake Louise and direct-to-lift access for all additional days.
- If traveling internationally, be sure to check out our Visitor Checklist for all the need-to-know info.
- Pre-book your rental gear from the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub in advance and save an additional 12%. We have locations in both Banff and Canmore.
- Download the SkiBig3 App and stay up to date with all things SkiBig3. access shuttle times, snow conditions, trail maps and more!
Arrival Day – Lake Louise Village
Photo Credit: Dan Evans
If flying into Calgary International Airport, it is a stunning 200km (125 miles) / 2-hour drive to the village of Lake Louise. You’ll find, whilst small in size, there are many quaint places to stay, dine and numerous local activities to do. One in particular being the 10-minute drive up to Lake Louise Ski resort.
Ensure a good night's rest because the next few days are going to be fun filled!
Day 1 – Ski day at Lake Louise Ski Resort
The NEW Pipestone Express Heated Chairlift | Photo Credit: Lake Louise Ski Resort
- Depending on whether you have a car or not, it will determine whether you choose to drive up the mountain (there is plenty of parking) or whether you catch the FREE shuttle.
- Your Mountain Collective Pass will be pre-loaded with your free days at all SkiBig3 resorts, so you can skip the ticket window and head straight to your first run of the day.
- Lake Louise Ski Resort has over 4,200 acres of spectacular skiable terrain. Spend your morning warming up those ski legs and exploring the gentle groomers off every chair.
- Be sure to ride the new 6 seater, heated bubble chairlift – Pipestone Express! Making laps of West Bowl even easier all well keeping the crew warm and dry.
- Head over to the backside and take the time to rest and refuel at Sawyers Nook for some famous cheese fondue and Charcuterie.
- Feel free to head back out and explore more of the challenging terrain off the back bowls.
- If you still have some energy at the end of the day, we recommend renting a pair of skates and heading down to Lake Louise (right outside the Chateau Lake Louise). This is truly one of the most magical experiences that is a bucket list activity for most people who come to visit.
Day 2 – Ski at Lake Louise Ski Resort
Photo Credit: Reuben Krabbe / SkiBig3
- Day 2 is the perfect opportunity to explore more of what the resort has to offer. Depending on the type of terrain you prefer, you can use the trail maps on the SkiBig3 App, to explore exactly what you want.
- If at any point you are feeling peckish or in need of something warm, Lake Louise Ski Resort has a great range of places to relax and eat. Depending on whether you choose to eat up on the mountain or at the base, you can choose from; Whitehorn Bistro, Banded Peak Basecamp, Slopeside Coffee, Lodge of Ten Peaks, Kuma Yuma, or Powder Keg Lounge.
- If you still have more in the tank, you can enjoy a few thrilling rides at the Tube Park.
Day 3 - Ski at Banff Sunshine and Stay in Banff
NEW heated, bubble Super Angel LX | Photo Credit: Jill Tester / SkiBig3
- With roughly a 40-minute drive to Banff Sunshine from Lake Louise Village, you’ll want to get up early to make the most of your day.
- There is no free bus from Lake Louise to Banff Sunshine, so having your own mode of transport will be very beneficial. Alternatively, you can book the next part of your stay in the town of Banff!
- If you skipped breakfast in town, a local favourite is to head to Frist Tracks Cafe (at the bottom of the gondola) and grab a hot cup of coffee and a baked good for the 20-minute gondola ride up to the upper village.
- When getting off the gondola – there are two main stations you can choose from. Your first opportunity to get off will be Goat’s Eye Mountain, offering more steep, advanced terrain. Otherwise, the Village base area (the main stop) will give you the option to explore runs tailored to all ability levels. The main chairs to explore will be Strawberry (great for beginners), Wawa, Standish and the NEW heated, bubble Super Angel LX.
- It can be overwhelming, so take the day to explore and learn the resort. This is a pretty easy resort to get around With incredible views of Canada’s famous Assiniboin Mountain.
- Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Mad Trappers Saloon for a pint and burger. The atmosphere at ‘Trappers’ is electric and a great place for socializing.
- After getting back to Banff, enjoy a walk along Banff Ave. before heading to one of the many delicious restaurants in town.
Day 4 – Ski at Banff Sunshine and Stay in Banff
Photo Credit: Sunshine Village / Rajiv
- On your final official day at SkiBig3, using your Mountain Collective Pass; enjoy some more challenging terrain up Goat’s Eye Express. Southside Chutes off Goat's Eye Express is a great advanced run for taking in beautiful views of Sunshine’s surrounding peaks, with a backcountry ski feel. Or several blue runs are so much fun for the intermediate skier – Sunshine Coast and Wild Fire are both classics.
- If you are looking for even more of a challenge, Banff Sunshine has two free-ride zones (Delirium Dive and the Wild West). Remember to pack your avalanche shovel and probe, transceiver, and bring a buddy as all are required to gain entry!
- Give the legs a break and head to the Lookout Lounge for some Italian style food and cozy environment.
- Once you’re satisfied with your efforts out on the mountain, feel free to catch a FREE bus back into town and experience Banff’s take on European Après.
- This year the après party is at Bluebird. Saturday – Thursday, enjoy cocktails from $6.50 and half price Fondue between 4-5pm. On Fridays, enjoy the same deals as well as a live retro DJ from 3-5pm. This is the perfect way to reward yourself for a big day out exploring the mountains.
BONUS Day at Mt. Norquay
Photo Credit: Dan Evans
Mountain Collective Pass holders can enjoy 50% off additional days at any SkiBig3 resorts – this includes Mt. Norquay! Located just 10 minutes outside the town of Banff, you'll find some of the very best rolling groomers anywhere - and some of the most outstanding views of the townsite. Tack on a full extra day of skiing at this local gem to get the most use of your pass.
Ready to Make use of Your Mountain Collective Pass at SkiBig3?
Check out exclusive Mountain Collective lodging deals. Our friendly Reservations Team is always happy to share their local knowledge and experience to help you make the most of your trip. Reach out to them by calling 1-844-754-2443.
