Cover March Break in Banff National Park Rueben Krabbe

Spring Skiing

Activities & Exp...

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Fri, 20 Feb 2026

March Break in Banff National Park: What You Need to Know

Planning your March Break in Banff National Park? If you’re dreaming of deep snow, longer sunny days, and unforgettable mountain views, there’s no better place to spend a family ski holiday than the heart of the Canadian Rockies. March is prime ski season in Banff and Lake Louise, delivering reliable snow conditions, vibrant après-ski energy, and adventure for every level of skier or snowboarder.

With SkiBig3, your March Break ski trip unlocks three world-class resorts on one lift ticket; Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt Norquay. Whether you're planning a family ski trip, a friends’ getaway, or your first visit to the Rockies, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your March Break in Banff National Park.

March Snow Conditions

A snowboarder wearing blue snowboards through powdery snow on a steep slope at Mt. Norquay | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

Snowboarding at Mt. Norquay on March 10, 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

March in Banff National Park is prime ski season and the start of spring skiing. Get winter-quality snow without mid-winter extremes. Longer daylight hours mean more time on the mountain and more time soaking up those iconic Rocky Mountain views.

By the time spring break rolls around, the snow base is typically at its strongest. After consistent snowfall through the heart of winter, the resorts are fully open, coverage is excellent, and terrain parks, beginner areas, and freeride zones are all in prime condition.

Historically, March continues to deliver fresh snowfall, meaning powder days are still very much on the table. At the same time, you’ll also score those classic bluebird afternoons with crisp air, softening snow, and patios calling your name by 3pm.

Where to Ski

Skiing with SkiBig3 gives you access to 3 world class resorts on the 1 lift ticket. Skiing within Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at either Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort or Mt. Norquay, unlocks stunning mountain vistas, wide open runs and terrain for every level of skier and rider.

02 March Break in Banff National Park Jill Scarpato

Banff Sunshine

Often called Banff’s ‘Island in the Sky’, Banff Sunshine Village is known for its high elevation and long season meaning excellent snow preservation well into spring. Beginners can cruise wide, forgiving groomers, while advanced riders can test themselves in legendary freeride terrain like Delirium Dive and the Wild West. On sunny March afternoons, the Trappers patio comes alive, and weekend DJ sessions at G.O.A.T Club add a distinct spring break vibe.

Skiing at Banff Sunshine on March 28, 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

03 March Break in Banff National Park Jill Scarpato

Lake Louise Ski Resort

With over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, Lake Louise Ski Resort offers terrain for every level of skier and rider, all set against stunning mountain vistas. Richardson’s Ridge, Lake Louise’s newest terrain, is a must see for families and beginners, offering rolling groomers and playful glades. After a busy day (or half day) on the slopes, lean into springtime stoke with patio après at the Temple Takeovers on the Temple Lodge patio. Enjoy spring sunshine, good vibes and live DJ tunes.

Skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort on March 31, 2025 | Photo credit: Royce Sihlis

04 March Break in Banff National Park Jill Scarpato

Mt. Norquay

Mt. Norquay, just 10 minutes from the town of Banff, is perfect for beginners to advanced riders. Mt. Norquay’s spacious learning area and expert snow school is perfect for first-timers and beginners. Advanced riders can spend hours lapping big steeps off Mt. Norquay’s iconic North American Chair. It is also the only hill in Banff National Park with night skiing, available Friday and Saturday under the lights. Add in tubing under the stars and après deals at the Lone Pine for a March break vibe that balances skiing and social energy.

Skiing at Mt. Norquay on March 10, 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

Planning your March Break Trip to Banff

Two friends walk arm in arm towards the camera down a small Canadian town with a snowy mountain in the background. Photo by Mirae Campbell

Downtown Banff | Photo credit: Mirae Campbell

When to Book

March is one of the most popular times to visit Banff. With Canadian and U.S. spring breaks overlapping, accommodations and lessons book quickly. Reserve lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and lodging early to secure preferred dates and the best availability. Planning ahead means less stress and more time focusing on the fun.

06 March Break in Banff National Park Robert Massey

Where to Stay

Between Banff, Lake Louise and Canmore, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to stay. If you want to be close to the action and within walking distance of shops, restaurants and nightlife, Banff is the option for you. Choose between family friendly suites or convenient spacious hotels, all centrally located close by Banff Ave. If you want a more relaxed escape, surrounded by nature, Lake Louise has you sorted. Choose from iconic luxury hotels or quiet forest lodgings. Canmore presents a more relaxed, local feel, and offers the largest number of self-catered lodgings for big groups and families.

The Fairmont Banff Springs | Photo credit: Robert Massey

Getting to Banff

With or without a car, getting to Banff is easy. If you’re flying in, Banff’s closest airport is Calgary International (YYC). From here, it’s a short 90 minute scenic drive to Banff, with Lake Louise a further 45 minutes west. There are plenty of shuttle options from YYC to Banff, stopping at most major hotels in Banff. Book a ski vacation package with SkiBig3 and bundle round trip airport transfers with your booking. Plenty of car rentals are available from YYC, however, Banff, Canmore and Lake Louise by no means require a car to get around.

Once in town, SkiBig3’s complimentary ski shuttle services all three resorts daily, so you can skip the driving and focus on skiing. Staying in Canmore? ROAM Transit connects you to Banff with ease.

What to Pack

March weather is milder than mid-winter, but mountain conditions can still change quickly. The key is layering. A wind-proof and water-proof shell jacket, insulated snow pants, an insulated puffer jacket, merino wool thermal base layers, warm mid layers and warm socks will have you covered for at the resorts. Don’t forget your helmet, a warm buff or balaclava, gloves or mitts and goggles.

For off-mountain time, pack a warm winter jacket, a beanie or toque, gloves and mittens, après outfits, waterproof boots, swimwear and slippers. Your camera, a massage gun, polarised sunglasses and sun protection are also good to bring!

Travelling without your skis and snowboards? SkiBig3 rental packages simplify everything, from fitting appointments to delivery and pickup at your lodging.

Activities Beyond Skiing

Two people slide down a tube lane in inflatable tubes

Tubing at Mt. Norquay | Photo credit: Rueben Krabbe

A March Break in Banff isn’t just about skiing, and the fun doesn’t have to end when the lifts stop spinning. Banff, Lake Louise and Canmore offer a range of winter activities to keep the adventure high.

For high-energy fun, try out tubing at Mt. Norquay. Perfect for families with kids who want thrills without skis or snowboards, the dedicated tubing lanes and magic carpet serviced hill make it easy to lap again and again.

Looking for something a little more relaxed? Spend an afternoon ice skating on frozen lakes surrounded by mountain views, try snowshoeing on scenic winter trails, or take a sightseeing gondola for panoramic views over Banff National Park. These experiences give non-skiers, and tired legs, a chance to enjoy the alpine setting at a slower pace.

One of the most iconic après-ski experiences is a soak in a hot pool. The contrast of crisp mountain air and warm water makes this a must-do March experience. Check out our guide for the best hot pools and hot springs in Banff and Canmore.

08 March Break in Banff National Park Mirae Campbell

And when it’s time to refuel, the town of Banff offers everything from cozy pubs and family-friendly restaurants to elevated Canadian cuisine. March Break brings a vibrant energy to Banff Ave, where you can warm up with comfort food, indulge in local Alberta beef, or enjoy a relaxed après drink with mountain views. Reservations are recommended during peak March Break weeks.

Dining at Bluebird, Banff | Photo credit: Mirae Campbell

Book with SkiBig3

Ready to plan your March Break in Banff? The easiest way to experience it all is by booking directly with SkiBig3. When you reserve your trip through the official SkiBig3 website, you get seamless access to three world-class resorts in Banff National Park, all with one lift ticket.

Make your trip even smoother with accommodation, lift ticket, rental and lesson packages. Stay in the heart of Banff and enjoy easy access to dining, shopping, and après-ski, while SkiBig3 handles the details. Bundling your lodging, lift tickets, rentals and lessons not only simplifies planning, it can also offer added value during the busy March Break season.

Start planning today and book your March Break with SkiBig3 now.