Top Early Season Tips for Getting Back on Snow This December

Ski season is now in full swing and with the holidays around the corner, many people are heading out for their first turns of the winter. December is the perfect time to ease back onto the slopes, shake out those early season legs, and get stoked for the months of skiing and riding ahead. 

Whether you are returning to Banff National Park or visiting for the first time, check out these tips and watch our SkiBig3 early season tips video to gear up for the your first days back on snow! 

Warm up before you even hit the hill 

Lake Louise Summit Chair Opening in November | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

A little pre-season movement goes a long way. Light strength training, mobility work, or even a few sessions at the gym can help your body feel more prepared for the first ski days of winter. Your legs will feel steadier, and your confidence will come back faster. 

Do an on mountain warm up 

Warming up is a great way to prevent injuries | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato 

Once you arrive at the resort, make sure to stretch and warm up your legs before clipping into your skis or snowboard. Next, take a few easy laps to get your feet under you again. Gentle groomers help you rebuild balance, wake up those ski muscles, and reset your technique. A few simple warm up runs can make the rest of your day feel smoother and more fun. 

Take it easy on day one 

Easy laps at Banff Sunshine | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato 

Your favourite runs will be there all season. Start with mellow terrain, focus on getting comfortable, then gradually work your way back up to steeper or more challenging areas. Ski season is a marathon, not a sprint, and pacing yourself helps prevent fatigue or injury. 

Take breaks before you need them 

Coffee and Hot Chocolate breaks are essential | Photo credit: Royce Sihlis 

Regular breaks help you stay energized and keep your legs feeling fresh. Here are a few of our favourite quick and cozy spots across the SkiBig3 resorts: 

Banff Sunshine Village 

• Coco Lab for a warm hot chocolate or coffee to get your energy up!  
• Nikko Ramen for a hearty reset
• Goat’s Eye Grill for an easy stop between laps 

Lake Louise Ski Resort 

• Whitehorn Bistro for incredible views and a elevatededmid-day break
• Temple Lodge Cafeteria for fast snacks and warm drinks
• Kuma Yama for sushi, ramen, and delicious cocktails 

Mt. Norquay 

• Cascade Lodge Cafeteria for a quick refuel
• Lone Pine for a relaxed warm up and featured 'Mighty Quay 100' send'tennial kolsch 

Use your SkiBig3 Lift Ticket grace days 

Exploring Banff | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato 

Build some rest into your trip. Your SkiBig3 Lift Ticket includes grace days, which give you the flexibility to take a day off without losing ski time. Explore the town, hit the spa, sleep in, or enjoy a relaxed day before heading back to the slopes feeling fresh. 

Take a lesson to refresh your skills 

SkiBig3 Instructors will help you get your ski legs back | Photo credit: Nice Hase 

No matter how long you have been skiing or riding, a lesson can make your early season feel smoother and more confident. Instructors can help you fine tune your technique, get comfortable on terrain, or simply help you shake off the rust. You are never too advanced and never too old to learn something new. 

Get ready for a great season ahead 

Lots of snow all season long in Banff National Park | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato 

Early season is all about warming up, easing in, and enjoying every moment back on your skis or snowboard. With three incredible resorts to explore and plenty of time left in the season, December is the perfect way to kick things off. 

When you book with SkiBig3, we can help you choose the right lodging, set up lift tickets with built-in grace days, and line up rentals or lessons so your first turns of the season feel smooth and easy.