This winter, we’re all about micro-vacations from the comfort of our own backyard. These short-stay getaways to the SkiBig3 resorts can be enjoyed over two or three days. Plus, they pack high value in thrilling and unique winter experiences to share with your cohort.
With stunning Rockies vistas and resort terrain, mouth-watering Canadian cuisine, and authentic off-day adventures, these mini-getaways are packed with unforgettable moments. They’re the perfect escape to reinvigorate the spirit and create new mountain memories.
Photo by Will Lambert.
Conveniently located along the four-lane Trans-Canada Highway, the town of Banff is a 90-minute straight line drive from Calgary and just 3 hours from Edmonton. Mt. Norquay ski resort is conveniently located only 15 minutes from Banff, and is the most accessible SkiBig3 resort.
Grab all of your ski and snowboard essentials at our one-stop-shop winter adventure shop - the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub, conveniently located right on Banff Avenue. Pick up gear to suit any style and ability, and grab any extra essentials you may have forgotten.
Purchase your SkiBig3 lift tickets before arrival for the best discounts. Your tickets can be picked up at the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub and are direct-to-lift, so you don’t need to worry about any lift ticket window waits at the resort.
Consider making a midweek visit to the destination! Visiting between Monday and Thursday ensures wide open spaces and shorter lift waits, often bordering on a private resort experience.
With ever-evolving Covid-19 restrictions in place, it’s important to know before you go and stay informed on the current operational protocols at the SkiBig3 resorts. Read up on our Health & Safety Protocols page before arrival, and check out our tips for how to SkiBig3 during Covid-19.
Mt. Norquay is the people pleaser of SkiBig3. This local favourite is a hidden gem in Banff National Park, with a funky family vibe. It's perfect for finding the best stashes all to yourself on a powder day or ripping up perfect groomers during night skiing - only offered at Mt. Norquay. With terrain suitable for beginners to advanced skiers, there's something here for everyone.
Mt. Norquay - Photo by John Price
Mt. Norquay has several great grab-and-go options to enjoy for a tailgate lunch in the parking lot, and they're serving up fresh bakery treats every day. Pick up your pastries at the main level cafeteria in the Cascade Lodge. You can also pick up any of these great take out options from Banff to bring along for your parking lot lunch!
Photo courtesy of Mt. Norquay.
Insider Tip: If you're visiting on a weekend, you won't want to miss Mt. Norquay's night tubing and night skiing! Visiting midweek? Tubing is still available to enjoy every day.
Photo courtesy of Canalta Lodge.
After a day on the slopes, the fun, hip and cozy vibe of Canalta Lodge is just minutes away back in the town of Banff, and conveniently located on Banff Avenue.
Photo courtesy of Canalta Lodge.
Whether travelling as a couple or as a family with young ones, the layouts and styles of their rooms and suites will meet your every need. Featuring family-friendly loft suites with bunk beds, kitchenettes for those who plan to settle in for awhile, or just the simple luxuries of in-room fireplaces, you'll love the contemporary yet cozy cabin design of this accommodation.
And you don't want to miss out on their amazing amenities! Enjoy a fireside s'more at their outdoor fire pit seating areas, or go for a dip in one of their outdoor hot tubs.
After getting checked in and settled in at your hotel, it's time to head to Banff Avenue for a bit to eat! There are several trendy dining locales to check out within walking distance of most hotels. Park Distillery + Bar serves up the ultimate comfort food in the form of campfire cuisine with a Canadian twist.
Offering both dine-in and take-out menus, you won't want to miss their wild game bannock or Benchmark striploin. Don't forget to top it off with a smoked s'more!
Photo courtesy of Park Distillery + Bar.
Insider Tip: Pick up a take-home cocktail kit to enjoy in your hotel room! Individually mixed and bottled with love, their Cocktails on Call include their signature spirits distilled in house.
Day 2 - Fat Biking Trails Near Banff
Photo courtesy of
For day two, it’s time to discover the trails near Banff via fat bike! Canalta Lodge conveniently has fat bikes available for hotel guests to head out and explore. You can also rent them in town at SnowTips BacTrax. With extra-wide, grippy wheels, fat bikes are perfect for taking on snow-covered trails during winter. Any of these easy and intermediate routes will do nicely!
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Stay local and explore your own backyard this winter. During these uncertain times, we’re here to help you book a quick get-away to ski your choice of Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise & Mt Norquay. Or, consider booking a SkiBig3 Flex-Pack, providing the ultimate in Ski & Stay convenience for a local escape at a great price. Skiing in Banff National Park rolls until early May, so there is plenty of season available to plan for a quick road trip within your Albertan backyard.
