Ultimate Guide to Lake Louise Mt. Slushmore

Lake Louise’s legendary Mt. Slushmore is back and ready to make a splash on April 25, 2026. This is the ultimate season send-off: a high-energy, costume-filled, splash-happy celebration where the vibes are strong and the sends are big.  

Mt. Slushmore is all about soaking up spring with your crew. Think live beats, wild costumes, and skiers and riders charging full speed toward an icy pond with one goal: make it across (or go down in glory trying).

With live entertainment from Raven, DJ Petch, and CORN kicking off at 11AM, the base area transforms into a full-on mountain party. From 12–4PM, competitors take their shot at pond skim greatness. Whether you stick it clean or take an all-time splash, it’s all part of the show. Best of all? It’s completely free and open to everyone. 

Schedule 

11AM – Pond skim registration opens & entertainment begins!

12PM – Pond skim officially kicks off

2:30PM – Pond skim registration closes

4PM – Final skims + awards ceremony on the Whiskyjack Deck 

Mt. Slushmore 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

Who can compete

Mt. Slushmore welcomes skimmers of all abilities, from first-timers to seasoned senders. If you’ve got the courage (and maybe a bit of speed), you’re in. To take part, competitors must be at least 6 years old and over 4 feet tall. Participants under 18 are required to have a guardian present in the pond skim area while they take their run. All competitors must also register in advance to secure their spot.

Where to register

Ready to send it? You’ll need to lock in your spot.

You can register:

• Online (until April 24 at 4PM)
• In person starting at 11AM at the base area under the Lake Louise tent

Mt. Slushmore fills up fast, it’s one of the most hyped events of the season. If you’re serious about skimming, register early or show up bright and early to secure your place. Spots in the pond skim are first in, best dressed, so arriving early and bringing the energy (and the costume) definitely helps your chances of dropping in. Once you arrive, head to the Lake Louise tent to check in, grab your wristband, and make sure all waivers are signed. Then it’s go time. 

Mt. Slushmore 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

When to arrive

For competitors, if you want your shot at glory, early is everything. Even though registration opens at 11AM, the die-hards start lining up as early as 8AM.  

If you want to spectate, show up by noon to catch the first riders charging the pond. The action runs all afternoon, building toward the final splashes and awards at 4PM. Want the best view? Get there early and stake out your spot.  

 

What you’ll need 

If you’re planning to compete, you will need;

• Valid ID or a guardian if you’re underage
• A signed events, model release and Mt. Slushmore waiver
• A wristband (collected at check in)
• Your best, boldest costume
• A change of clothes
• Your skis or snowboard (no poles allowed!)

If you’re wanting to spectate, you will need 

• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Layers, prepare for a range of temperatures (we’re in the mountains after all!)
• Waterproof boots or shoes (it’s going to get slushy) 

 

What to wear 

Mt. Slushmore 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

If you’re competing, go all in. From outrageous to ridiculous, the wilder the costume, the better. Think iconic, hilarious, or just straight-up absurd. Nothing is off-limits. Don’t forget to bring dry clothes, you might need it.  

If you’re spectating, lean into the après vibes. Neon, retro fits, party shirts. This is your excuse to dress loud and join the energy. Sunglasses are mandatory, style points encouraged.  

How to get there 

Getting to Mt. Slushmore is easy, just plan ahead. Driving? Bring your crew, carpool, and always assign a sober driver. Or hop on the free SkiBig3 shuttle for a stress-free ride. Return buses to Banff run at 2PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, and 5:30PM, perfect for catching the action and making it back in time for après. 

Mt. Slushmore 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato

Slush Season

Make a full day of it. Get out early, carve some spring laps, soak up the sunshine, and then roll straight into the madness of Mt. Slushmore. There’s nothing quite like skiing under bluebird skies, shedding layers, and finishing the season with a full-speed skim across icy water (or an unforgettable wipeout).

One last thing: whether you’re sending it or cheering from the sidelines, Mt. Slushmore is all about good times, big laughs, and celebrating an unreal season in the Rockies. So grab your crew, bring the energy, and get ready to make a splash.