Think Banff Is Too Expensive? Here’s Why It’s Actually Canada’s Best-Value Ski Trip

When people think of Banff, they often picture bucket-list scenery, luxury hotels, and a ski trip with a hefty price tag. But the truth is, Banff is home to one of Canada’s best-value ski holidays. 

Here are 10 common myths about skiing in Banff, plus tips to help you ski big and save smart this winter. 

Myth 1: “Skiing in Banff isn’t worth the price”  

Reality: One pass gives you access to three world-class resorts, nearly 8,000 acres, 28 lifts, and experiences like tubing and night skiing, all for less than most big-name destinations. 

A SkiBig3 Lift Ticket covers Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay. Each resort offers a mix of alpine bowls, perfectly groomed runs, glades, and terrain parks. Multi-day lift tickets often cost 20-40% less than at comparable resorts. 

Bonus tip: Sign up for the SkiBig3 newsletter and get access to promotions to save even more!  

Three skiers at Mt. Norquay | Photo by Reuben Krabbe / SkiBig3 

Myth 2: Big terrain means heading to B.C. or the U.S. 

Reality: Banff delivers it all. Plus, it's only 90 minutes to a Northern Paradise at SkiBig3 from Calgary International Airport. 

Banff’s three resorts offer steep chutes, wide cruisers, deep Prosecco Powder (TM), and long seasons. It holds its own against any destination. And you don’t have to cross borders or deal with the exchange rate. Stay close to home and ski some of the most iconic terrain in the world. 

Learn about our resorts. 

Skier at Lake Louise Ski Resort by Rueben Krabbe

Myth 3: Banff is always crowded

Reality: Winter is calm, with wide-open slopes and short lift lines.

Banff’s busiest season is summer. In winter, especially on weekdays, January and Spring, the pace is much calmer. You’ll find short lift lines, wide-open runs, and easy access to restaurants, shops, and spas. It’s a more relaxed mountain experience from top to bottom.

Bonus tip: Visit outside of peak holiday periods like Christmas or Family Day, and you will have the mountain almost all to yourself!  

Fresh lines and empty slopes at Mt. Norquay on a powder day by Jill Tester

Myth 4: Lodging in Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise is out of reach 

Reality: There are plenty of affordable places to stay, especially with lower winter rates and Ski & Stay package savings.

Compared to peak summer pricing, lodging in Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise is often significantly more affordable in winter. From budget-friendly hotels and condo-style suites to boutique lodges and luxury stays, there’s something for every budget. Ski & Stay packages add even more value by bundling your accommodation with lift tickets, rentals, and transportation. Ikon and Mountain Collective pass holders can unlock additional savings, too.

Bonus Tip: You’ve always wanted to stay in a luxury hotel without the hefty price tag? January is the best time to check them out at a fraction of the cost compared to summer! And the earlier you book, the better the savings, plus SkiBig3 will price match! 

Checkout current vacation specials 

The Otter Hotel by Banff Lodging Co.

Myth 5: Flights to the mountains are expensive 

Reality: Reality: Calgary is one of Canada’s easiest and most affordable airports to fly into.

Calgary International Airport (YYC) has direct flights from most Canadian cities, and fares are often lower than flying into other ski destinations. Alberta also has no provincial sales tax, which means you’ll save on everything from accommodations to après-ski.

Start pre-trip planning with Calgary International Airport 

Flight map by SkiBig3

Myth 6: You need a rental car to ski Banff

Reality: Getting here is easy, and you can go car-free and still reach all three resorts.

Banff is one of the most accessible ski destinations in Canada. Roam Transit and free ski shuttles (included with your SkiBig3 Lift Ticket) connect Banff to all three resorts. The SkiBig3 Airport Shuttle runs directly from Calgary International Airport to your hotel.

Bonus Tip: Guests staying in Canmore or Lake Louise may prefer a rental car as shuttles are less available to the resorts and can come at a cost.  
 
Leave the driving to us 

Individuals waiting for the ski shuttle in Banff, photo by Jill Tester

Myth 7: Ski vacations are too expensive for families 

Reality: There are plenty of family deals that make a Banff ski trip more affordable 

From hotel packages to activity bundles, Banff, Lake Louise, and Canmore make winter getaways more affordable. SkiBig3’s Ski & Stay deal is just one example, offering savings on lodging, lift tickets, and rentals when you book together. Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise Ski Resort also offer affordable childcare options right on the mountain!

Bonus Tip: Book by September 30, 2025 and kids (up to 12) ski and rent free with an adult purchase. Book on mountain daycare early, as spots can be limited on the weekend!  

Checkout our Family Guide 

Family skiing at Banff Sunshine, photo by Royce Sihlis 

Myth 8: Après is dead, and food is overpriced 

Reality: Affordable eats, fun events, and friendly locals keep the vibe alive.

Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise are full of great options for food at fair prices, especially happy hour options. On the hill, après is alive with DJ sets, patio parties, night skiing, and tubing. The vibe is relaxed, the locals are welcoming, and some SkiBig3 Lift Tickets include dining discounts to help you save even more.

Bonus tip: Visit in April over the weekend for the best Apres parties on the mountains!  

Checkout our Dining Guide 

Après at Lake Louise Ski Resorts, photo by Jill Tester

Myth 9: You need a full week to make it worth the trip 

Reality: Banff is perfect for weekend getaways or short breaks 
 
With quick travel from Calgary and flexible lift ticket options, Banff is ideal for a three-day trip or a midweek break. You don’t need a week off to make it count. 
 
Checkout our Travel Tips 

Snowboarder at Banff Sunshine, photo by Jill Tester 

Myth 10: “There’s nothing to do if you don’t ski or when it’s too cold”  

Reality: Cold days don’t stop the fun, they just change the pace

Sure, Banff gets its share of cold snaps. But winter in the Rockies comes prepared. When the temperature drops, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy your trip without freezing on a chairlift. Plus, we have heated bubble chairs.  

Checkout other adventures and indoor activities  

Two people sit inside the Banff Gondola summit building, photo by Mirae Campbell

 
Ski Big. Spend Smart. Stay Close to Home. 

Banff, Lake Louise, and Canmore are not just beautiful. They offer real value for Canadian skiers. From lower lift ticket prices and affordable lodging to tax-free savings and bundled packages, this is one of the smartest winter getaways in the country.

With friendly locals, wide-open terrain, easy access from Calgary, and some of the best scenery in the world, you get more mountains for your money.

Start planning with SkiBig3