Where to Ski Right Now: Your Guide to Early-Season Skiing at SkiBig3 in Banff 

Ski season is officially ON in Alberta and the stoke is sky-high. With the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival wrapping up ,the Rippin in the Rockies winter kick off event and several stunning aurora bora nights lighting up the valley, Banff National Park is buzzing. If you’re wondering where you can ski right now, the answer is simple: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay are open and ready for you. 

On clear November nights, the northern lights often shimmer above Banff National Park, adding an unexpected glow to early-season adventures. Catching the aurora after a day on the slopes turns an already unforgettable ski trip into something magical.

Whether you’re chasing the first turns of the year, warming up for a big winter ahead, or starting out as a new skier or rider, early season in Banff National Park is the place to be. Cold temps, fresh snow, and a head start on your technique all add up to a winter you won’t forget. 

November 12th, 2026 | The Northern Lights of Vermillion Lakes in Banff | Jill Scarpato 

Why Ski Early Season at SkiBig3? 

Early season here hits different. The Rockies are quiet, the energy is high, and the conditions often feel more like midwinter than November. Think soft snow, crisp air, and wide-open alpine views. 
It’s also the perfect time to: 

• Warm up your legs before powder season arrives
• Ease into new terrain and build confidence
• Learn the basics with more space and mellow vibes 

November 12th, 2026 | Riders stoked on chairlift on November 8th Mt.Norquay | Jill Scarpato 

3-Day Early-Season Itinerary 

We knows exactly how to make the most of the first days on snow. Our go to early season routine covers all three SkiBig3 resorts. Each one brings its own mix of terrain, scenery, and mountain vibes. 

Day 1: Banff Sunshine 

Kick off your early-season adventure at Banff Sunshine, where high-elevation slopes and cold temps deliver consistently good early-season conditions. Right now, riders can enjoy Strawberry Express, Wawa, Wolverine, Jackrabbit, and the Mity Mite Carpet, with mellow groomers and early-season park features. Even more terrain is expected to come online in the days ahead as snowfall and temps allow. 

Do not miss: 

• Lapping the terrain park and playing with new features 
• Cruising wide open runs with classic alpine views 
• Wrapping up the day with a Caesar or pint at Trappers 

November 12th, 2026 | Snowboard hits early features at Banff Sunshine | Jill Scarpato 

Day 2: Lake Louise Ski Resort 

Day two is all about smooth flow and those signature Lake Louise views. Right now, you can ski and ride off the Grizzly Gondola, Juniper Express, and Magic Carpet, with six long groomers to warm up the legs. Even better — Top of the World will be opening this weekend, unlocking more vertical and even more early-season terrain to explore. 

Do not miss: 

• Carving long turns on long groomers
• Exploring mellow glades
• Taking in the birds eye view of Lake Louise from the lifts 

November 4th , 2026 | Skier carves down run at Lake Louise Ski Resort in November | Jill Scarpato

Day 3: Mt. Norquay  

Wrap up your early season tour at Mt. Norquay, reopening this weekend. This local favourite is the closest ski resort to the town of Banff and known for fast laps and crisp morning conditions. It is the perfect place to dial in your technique and enjoy wide open views of the Bow Valley. 

What to expect: 

• Fresh corduroy for early morning carving
• Quick laps that help build confidence fast
• A large learning area for new skiers and riders 
• Big mountain scenery right above Banff 

Mom and son smiling on run at Mt. Norquay in November | Jill Scarpato  

Start Your Season Strong at SkiBig3 

If you want to ski right now, Banff is the place. Whether you are progressing your skills, carving your first turns, or chasing that early season energy, SkiBig3 delivers the winter kickoff you have been waiting for. 

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