Copyright Reuben Krabbe 2011
Conditions
SkiBig3
Tips
Thu, 14 Feb 2019

The Upside of Skiing in Negative Temps

Here in the Canadian Rockies, deep freezes happen from time to time. As the temperatures plummet, it can send people into a bender of over caffeination and mini-hibernation that borderlines cabin fever. Although many shy away from venturing to the Banff ski hills during these times of the chilly persuasion, there are big benefits to braving the great cold outdoors.

Sundog and mountain vistas at Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff National Park. Photo by Travis Rousseau

1) Vitamin D & Vistas

During these times of high pressure and cool temperatures, precipitation is warded off to clear the way for vitamin D and vistas. The Canadian Rockies and SkiBig3 resorts boast some of the most dramatic and wild views. These snow-covered, jagged peaks seemingly pop out everywhere. If you venture out to one of SkiBig3’s resorts during the colder days, you’ll have the best chance of getting that perfect snapshot of beautiful mountains. Not to mention, you’ll most certainly get the amazing feeling of being small in a sea of summits. The super sub zero conditions also allow for more of nature's neatness - sun dogs and ice spray!

 

2) Coffee Breaks & Burnt Calories

Coffee breaks are a staple in most days out riding. As the temperatures drop, this staple slides into the category of necessity. And who doesn’t like a good excuse to enjoy a hot beverage? Not to mention being out in the cold burns more calories. With all that extra potential energy burnt, you can have the guilt-free satisfaction of treating yourself to that delicious pastry.

Skiing at Banff Sunshine Village, Banff National Park. Photo by Daniel Thomson.

3) Frosted Tips

So hot right now.

AMA '98 Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic.

4) Wide Open Ski Runs

When the temps plummet, 8000 acres of skiable terrain will feel like your very own private ski hill. Lineups are virtually non-existent, and you'll feel VIP with endless uninterrupted laps to make the most of your day. Fewer crowds also pave the way for pristine runs all to yourself. Plus, the powder stashes will stay untouched for much longer!

Vistas at Banff Sunshine Village, Banff National Park. Photo by Mitch Pittman.

5) Bragging Rights

All good stories start with a little adversity. Going out skiing in these temperatures will definitely garner a good old fashioned 'hats off to you'. Not only can you come home with great memories and photos, but also bragging rights. If you happened to ski the SkiBig3 when it's below -25 degrees Celcius, you may qualify for the SkiBig3 Cold Award!Skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resorts, Banff National Park.

Photo by Travis Rousseau.

There's no such thing as bad weather - just bad clothing! Check out the video below to learn how to dress for winter on your trip to Banff National Park.

There's plenty of fun and fresh lines to be had at SkiBig3, no matter the temps! Talk to our Vacation Planners today to book your winter ski vacation to Banff National Park. Call them today at 1-844-754-2443 . Or, plan your Canadian Rockies ski vacation online. Great Ski & Stay Packages are available now.

 

Other blog posts

 Cover How to Spend Family Day Weekend in Banff and Lake Louise Royce Sihlis
Itineraries
Family
Wed, 28 Jan 2026

How to Spend Family Day Weekend in Banff and Lake Louise: Skiing & Off-Slope Fun

With three world-class ski resorts, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay, you’ll have nearly 8,000 acres of skiable terrain at your fingertips this Family Day Long Weekend, plus a cozy ski town packed with great food, winter adventures and après ski fun for all ages.
Cover photo_Community Days 2025
News
SkiBig3
Tue, 27 Jan 2026

Community Ski Days 2025: $33,600 Raised in Support of Jasper Wildfire Relief 

From December 5-7, 2025, the SkiBig3 Community Ski Days brought Bow Valley locals together for three days of skiing and snowboarding across the SkiBig3 resorts.
S B3 2021 Nov Sunshine Village Rajiv Dhaliwal 3
Blog
Lake Louise Ski ...
Mon, 26 Jan 2026

Everything you Need to Know about a SkiBig3 Lift Ticket

In the heart of Banff National Park, we’re fortunate to have 3 world-class ski resorts, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay, each offering unique experiences just a stone’s throw from one another.
 Cover Pic Big Mountain Energy With Nick Steers and Ski Big3 Pic by Jill Scarpato
Ikon Pass
SkiBig3
Mon, 26 Jan 2026

Big Mountain Energy with Nick Steers and SkiBig3

SkiBig3 had the pleasure of welcoming professional big mountain freeride skier, and Ikon Pass athlete, Nick Steers to Banff National Park.
 Cover Photo Celebrating 100 Years of Mt. Norquay – Big Chair Chronicles
Mt. Norquay
Events
Thu, 22 Jan 2026

Celebrating 100 Years of Mt. Norquay – Big Chair Chronicles

This year, Mt. Norquay will mark a milestone that few ski hills have reached: 100 years in operation. At the centre of Norquay's story is the North American chairlift, known locally as ‘Big Chair’.