Winter has arrived to Banff National Park, and we’re only weeks away from the anticipated opening days at Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay.
Local skiers and snowboarders have already been out amongst the fresh snow because, like us, they just can’t wait for those first lift rides and slope lines of the season. Until then, here are four reasons to get excited for an extra snowy winter in Banff and Lake Louise this season.
1) We’ve had a rainier than usual summer
The Rocky Mountain Outlook reported that the Bow Valley “experienced one of the rainiest summers on record” in 2019. Environment Canada reported this summer as the 12th wettest since 1890, and the rainiest since 2005, with a recorded precipitation of 245 mm (compared to an average of 166 mm). Fingers crossed this trend continues into winter!
2. We’ve seen snowfall every month this year
This isn’t that unusual – we are in the Canadian Rockies, after all! But it’s comforting to know that our favourite form of precip has paid us a visit every month this year – even in July! Just take a look at these summer webcam photos from Banff Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Winter is at home here.
3) The Old Farmer’s Almanac is Predicting Big Snowfall
While you always have to take these predictions with a grain of salt, the Old Farmer’s Almanac is predicting a Canadian “season full of snow, snow, and more snow. And more snow. Nearly all of Canada should expect above-average precipitation this winter, much of it falling as snow.” So far the predictions are holding true – Alberta has already seen two snowfall warnings this Fall!
4) Environment Canada Predicts Higher than Normal Winter Snowfall
As of September 30th, Environment Canada’s seasonal prediction system indicated a 40% above normal probability of winter precipitation (i.e. snow!) from October to December, 2019. We like those numbers, and are hopeful to kick the season off with great early season conditions!
Can’t wait for winter? Neither can we! Talk to our in-destination Reservations Specialists today to book your dream winter vacation with SkiBig3 to Banff National Park. Call 844-754-2443 or check out our ski & stay packages online.
