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Words by Bre Mirynech
It’s official! Spring has made its first appearance here in the Canadian Rockies and to say that we’re excited would be an understatement. Sunshine, warm temps, goggle tans, and that incredible spring snow. We love hitting the slopes on those beautiful spring days, but the day is not complete without a little après on a patio. So, to make sure you make the most out of your spring ski days, here is your guide to the springtime patios of Banff National Park.
Remember, while patios are open, health & safety protocols are also in place. Please do your part to safely follow restrictions to help us keep our spring season rolling until May 24th.
Veuve Clicquot in the Snow at Banff Sunshine Village
The patio that’s right out on the snow, Mad Trapper’s is the après spot you don’t want to miss. Grab your cohort and sunscreen and sip some afternoon bubbly or beers in the centre of Sunshine Village. Established in 1928, Mad Trapper's is full of history and memories from skiers all over the world. Feeling hungry from all the skiing? Don’t miss out on the Poutine or Pickle Fries! Want to step it up a notch? Veuve Clicquot in the Snow is back every weekend at Trapper's this spring, starting Friday, March 26th.
Banded Peak Base Camp, Lake Louise Ski Resort
Directly adjacent to the base of Glacier Chair, Banded Peak Base Camp is the perfect place to take your après to the next level. Grab a seat on the patio, soak up the spring vibe, and pair your slope side views with some tasty smoked BBQ bites and a pint. This is a spot you don’t want to miss!
Lone Pine Patio, Banff Mt Norquay
It’s time to cheers a Caesar to a good day at the mighty ‘Quay! The Lone Pine is the perfect place to après, socialize, and enjoy your favourite pub grub with a contemporary twist. Soak up some sunshine, enjoy some crisp craft brews, and watch the other skiers enjoy that famous Rockies powder.
Dogs Welcome on the Patio, Bear Street Tavern
Calling all the pizza-loving dog owners! The Bear Street Tavern patio is friendly for your furry companion to join you. After a big day at the hill, you get ridiculously good pizza and they get peanut butter balls or cookies. Seriously- ‘you gotta eat here!’ It was even featured on that show.
Photo courtesy of Banff Hospitality Collective.
This is the new patio on the block and you don’t want to miss it. Complete with personal fires and a ‘winter warmer’ cocktail menu, this is a great spot to have your après back in town. Located on Bear Street, dogs welcome!
Banff Avenue Brew Pub
The patio for locals and tourists alike, Banff Ave Brewing Co offers great beer brewed here! This patio gets the afternoon sun and features heaters for those cooler but gorgeous spring days. Inspired by the community, mountains, and wildlife, this is beer you don’t want to miss. Make sure to try out their newest collaboration with Mount Norquay Ski Resort- the Norquay 95 Quality Time Session Ale.
Bison Patio, Banff Alberta
This one is for the brunch fanatics. Located directly above the Bear Street Tavern is the quiet, beautiful patio at the Bison. Open for dinner every day, this patio is a hidden gem on a Sunday, the special day of the week that they offer their brunch menu. Start the day off with brunch, mountain views, and then hit the slopes for the afternoon.
Looking for 360-degree mountain views? Look no further than the rooftop patio at the Elk and Oarsman. The spot to be on a sunny, spring day, this patio gives you the views along with great food and beer. Don’t forget your sunglasses! If you have completed the Trifecta Challenge, you can stop by the Adventure Hub to collect your award and coupon for a complimentary pint on this patio.
Ready for a true springtime Rockies experience? Now is the time! Wax your skis, pack your sunscreen, and head to Banff and Lake Louise. Our three amazing ski resorts and these incredible patios are waiting! Know before you go - restaurants, pubs and cafes are open for service with cohort and distancing restrictions in place. All food and beverage services are operating under strict health & safety protocols established by Alberta Health Services. Detailed Health & Safety Information.
Consider booking a SkiBig3 Spring-Pack, providing the ultimate in Ski & Stay convenience for a local escape at a great price. Skiing in Banff National Park rolls until early May, so there is plenty of season available to plan for a quick road trip within your Albertan backyard.
