The Canadian ski season is officially open! Today, Friday, November 3, 2023, both Mt Norquay and the Lake Louise Ski Resort launched operations for the 23/24 ski season. 

Snowfall and cooler temps allow for early November openings.

Thanks to quick transition from fall to winter, Mt Norquay opened today as scheduled, while the Lake Louise Ski Resort was able to leap forward a full week earlier than originally anticipated.  The first major snowfall of the season blanketed the Canadian Rockies just last week, dropping an impressive 29 cm in just 48 hours. In addition, cooler temperatures settled in, creating ideal conditions for snow-making to supplement the natural snow base.

Mt Norquay Opening Day: On the mountain 

First chair stoke at Mt Norquay for opening day, Friday, Nov 3, 2023. Photo by Dan Evans.

With a dusting of fresh snow for opening day, Mt. Norquay was a magical mix of locals, visitors, former Olympians and national team athletes all excited to once again be sliding on snow in the Canadian Rockies. Located just 10 minutes from town, Mt. Norquay is the closest SkiBig3 resort to the Town of Banff. 

As of 9:00am, Cascade Chair was spinning as well as the magic carpet in the Sundance Learning Area. Cascade run was groomed to perfection with cotton candy skies framing Mt. Norquay’s iconic view of Mount Rundle and the Town of Banff in postcard-like fashion. The Cascade Lodge was warm and welcoming, buzzing with the lively chatter of enthusiasts spanning all age groups, from young toddlers to seasoned veterans. The shared excitement of returning to the slopes permeated the air.

Lake Louise Opening Day: On the mountain

 

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Fresh snow overnight amped up the excitement for opening day. Even before the bull wheel started spinning, the energy was palpable as the eager skiers and riders lined up to score opening day commemorative T-shirts reserved for the first 200 riders on the Glacier Express Chair. Once on-mountain, accessible terrain included Wiwaxy, Bald Eagle, and parts of Easy Street. Peels of laugher and cheers wafted skyward as groups of riders took turns stomping tricks on table top jumps, boxes and rails in the terrain park.

For those craving meal-time favourites, the Lodge of Ten Peaks Cafeteria, Slopeside Coffee and Bier Stube were serving up burgers, sandwiches, snacks and treats, while the Powder Keg welcomed guests with post-ski pints. 

More to come!

More terrain and dining options are expected to open in the coming days and weeks. Lake Louise's Grizzly Gondola is  scheduled to open as early as this weekend. Follow SkiBig3’s social channels @skibig3 for the latest news on terrain openings and resort announcements. 

Stay tuned! Banff Sunshine is tentatively scheduled to open on Thursday, November 9 (weather permitting).

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