Lake Louise Ski ...
Mt. Norquay
SkiBig3
Banff Sunshine
Fri, 28 Oct 2016

Top 6 reasons to hit the slopes in November

With so many ski resorts opening shop well into December, the SkiBig3 mountains are always a bit ahead of the curve with their November start dates – and there are definite advantages to hitting the slopes early. Here are the top 6 benefits of heading to the slopes during the month of November:

Sunshine Village image by Reuben Krabbe

 

1) Get your ski legs back before the throngs arrive

The first few days back on skis or strapped into a board are always a bit rough: your timing may be off, you may catch an edge or just cruise along looking awkward, uncomfortable and anything but smooth. Usually this results in a slow-mo bail on embarrassingly simple terrain with a chairlift full of hecklers present to witness your embarrassment – all while you shake your fist, swearing audibly that you are not a novice or first-timer. Why not get this embarrassment out of the way, before the slopes get more traffic and your chances of running into someone you know increase? If you hit the slopes in November, it will just be you and Season Pass holders. Get those awkward first runs out of the way this month to ensure you look like a pro when you shred over the holidays.

Skiing at Lake Louise. Image by Reuben Krabbe.

 

2) Book what you want, when you want it!

The holiday season does get a little busier and, while the slopes remain relatively uncrowded, booking accommodation can become challenging.  That condo with a loft and fireplace you’ve been dreaming of is more likely to be available in November. Visiting early, before the holiday rush, will give you access to the widest selection of accommodation at various price points – you call the shots and don’t have to settle for just what is available. Discounted vacation packages are also available if booked before November 30th, so there are definite advantages to both booking and visiting during the month of November.

Deer Lodge, Lake Louise. Image by Ben Girardi.

 

3) Scope out this season’s ski fashion before getting kitted out

Coveting the latest gear is a common problem for most skiers and snowboarders – there is always a new shade of blue in that Arc'teryx shell jacket that you have been eyeing forever, or a board with a graphic so sweet you are instantly filled with envy. So hit the slopes early to scope out who's wearing what, then invest in the cream of the crop.

Skiing in Lake Louise. Image by Paul Zizka.

 

4) Skate on nature’s natural rinks!

There is a short window during late November/early December when the lakes freeze over but snow hasn’t accumulated quite enough to cover the glassy surfaces – it’s when outdoor skating in Banff National Park is at its best!  So if you need to take a day off the slopes, skate directly on the famous Lake Louise with a backdrop of glaciers, or, in Banff, hit up Vermillion Lakes for epic views of Rundle Mountain or Lake Minnewanka for the longest track of ice around.

Ice skating at Lake Minnewanka. Image by Paul Zizka.

 

5) Avoid crowds!

Mid-week skiing in November will make you feel like you own the mountain! Rock star parking right by the base will be wide open and you will always get straight onto the chair with zero wait! You’ll find fresh cord well after the first few runs and often into the afternoon.

Skiing at Mt Norquay. Image by Reuben Krabbe.

 

6) Come off as the Early Season Savant

For the REST of the season, when someone talks about conditions you can come across as a true sage by opening with, "When I was there early season…”  It will give you automatic cred.

Sunshine Village image via @outpostmagazine on Instagram. Sunshine Village image via @outpostmagazine on Instagram.

To book your next ski vacation at Ski Banff-Lake Louise-Sunshine, check out our featured ski and stay vacation packages or call us at 1-844-754-2443.

Other blog posts

Fri, 14 Feb 2025

Your Ultimate Pre-Arrival Guide to SkiBig3

Wahoo! You're heading north to experience the legendary winter of Banff and Lake Louise. To help you make the most of your trip, we've put together a handy step-by-step guide filled with must-know info and insider tips.
Fri, 14 Feb 2025

Putting SkiBig3 Forward as your next Ski Destination – Why Americans should come to the Canadian Rockies

When considering where to travel for your next ski vacation; it can be hard to decide between traveling interstate or going overseas. However, travelling to the Canadian Rockies can be the best of both worlds.
Tue, 11 Feb 2025

SkiBig3 Adventure Hub – The Only Place to Rent Head to Toe Ski Gear

We know that skiing can be expensive. Whether that be purchasing the gear or getting it to your ski destination – it all adds up. To help mitigate this, SkiBig3 offers a wide range of rental gear, to ensure you have a successful day out on the mountains.
Thu, 06 Feb 2025

A Weekend Getaway to SkiBig3 with Your Ikon Pass

If you're holding an Ikon Pass and looking for your next adventure, SkiBig3 in Banff National Park is the perfect weekend escape.
Lake Louise Ski ...
Mt. Norquay
Thu, 06 Feb 2025

Top Tips for your Family Day Weekend in Banff

Family day weekend is just round the corner, and holidays like these can often get overwhelming. All the planning, booking and making sure there are activities for the kids to enjoy – it can be a lot! We have the top tips on how to make the best of your time here at SkiBig3.