March may mark the start of spring on the calendar, but in Banff National Park, it’s still very much winter. March in Banff and Lake Louise delivers the best of the Canadian Rockies ski season, combining deep winter snow with longer days, brighter sunshine, and a relaxed spring-skiing atmosphere. It’s a time when ski vacations in Banff hit their sweet spot, offering reliable snow conditions, milder temperatures, and full access to the park’s world-class ski resorts, winter activities, and mountain experiences. It’s when the town of Banff feels alive: the mountains are still wintery, the town starts to buzz, and there’s time to slow down and actually enjoy it all.
Snowboarding at Mt. Norquay on 10 March 2025 | Photo credit: Jill Scarpato
Historically March is one of the snowiest months for Banff and Lake Louise. Heavy snowfall combined with mild spring temperatures means the perfect balance of winter snow and sunshine. Expect powder, soft turns, longer days, and bluebird skies. As an added bonus, skiing in Banff and Lake Louise in March generally means you’ll dodge the colder Albertan temperatures typical of January and February.
Tubing at Mt. Norquay | Photo credit: Rueben Krabbe
Despite the sunshine and longer days, winter is far from over in March. The lakes can remain frozen, (sometimes, even through until April) making that iconic walk (or skate) on Lake Louise not just possible, but magical. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hikes are all still very much on the table.
For something more adventurous, March is prime time for adrenaline pumping adventures like ice climbing and canyoning. Prefer something playful? Head to Mt. Norquay’s Tube Park and slide, spin, and laugh your way down Alberta’s longest tube lanes. From dog sledding through snow-covered forests to horse-drawn sleigh rides, Banff’s winter experiences feel straight out of a postcard.
Spring break skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort on 31 March 2025 | Photo credit: Royce Sihlis
March for Canadian and US schools and universities means spring break and an ideal time for a family getaway. Kids can spend their days skiing, tubing, or skating, while parents soak up the scenery and slower pace that makes Banff feel like a true escape. Book with SkiBig3 and bundle lift tickets, rentals, lessons, guides and accommodation in the one booking.
Everwild Canmore | Photo credit: Everwild Canmore/Basecamp Resorts
One of the simple joys of March in Banff National Park is how easy it is to balance activity with downtime. Recharge in the hot pools at BASIN Glacial Waters at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise or unwind just outside the park gates at nearby Canmore’s Nordic Spa, Everwild. Start your mornings slowly with hot chocolate and mountain views and let the day unfold naturally.
Looking for more ways to unwind? Check out our Best Hot Pools & Hot Tubs in Banff, Lake Louise and Canmore.
G.O.A.T Club at Banff Sunshine | Photo credit: Banff Sunshine
March is when après season really comes into its own. Sunshine, patios, and that unmistakable spring stoke set the tone. At Banff Sunshine, the G.O.A.T. Club and Goat’s Eye Gardens come alive with live DJs, sunny afternoons, and laid-back vibes. Over at Lake Louise Ski Resort, Temple Lodge on the backside hosts iconic Temple Takeovers, stocked with bean bag chairs, snow volleyball and shot skis. Mt. Norquay keeps things local and cozy at the Lone Pine Pub, with events like Stay & Après featuring live music and locally crafted cocktails. For something truly special, the Cliffhouse Bistro’s Starlight Dinner offers a five-course meal at 7,000 feet for an experience you won’t forget.
Cascade Mountain from Bear Street, Banff | Photo credit: Robert Massey
As the days get longer, Banff’s town energy shifts. Locals linger longer on the slopes, patios fill up, and there’s a shared sense that winter is being savoured, not rushed.
This March also brings new events, including Banff’s first two-night electronic music festival, Aroabora, taking place March 27–28. With a mix of international and local artists, it adds another layer to Banff’s unique blend of mountain culture and creative energy.
With deep snow, brighter days, and a relaxed winter atmosphere, March is one of the best times to experience Banff National Park. Add in the chance to ski three distinct resorts, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay, with a single SkiBig3 lift ticket, and you’ve got a trip that’s hard to match anywhere in the world. March in Banff and Lake Louise isn’t about rushing through winter, it’s about enjoying it at its very best.
