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Sunshine Village season 2025–2026. A Year-Round Mountain Paradise in Banff National Park

Updated: 1 day ago

1. Introduction

Nestled high in Banff National Park, Sunshine Village is one of Canada’s most iconic destinations. Known for world-class skiing in the winter and breathtaking alpine hiking in the summer, it’s a four-season wonderland just 90 minutes from Calgary. Whether you’re here for the slopes, the wildflowers, or simply the crisp mountain air, Sunshine Village offers something unforgettable for every traveler.


Sunshine Village – A Year-Round Mountain Paradise in Banff National Park
Sunshine Village – A Year-Round Mountain Paradise in Banff National Park

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2. Getting to Sunshine Village from Calgary


The resort lies about 135 km west of Calgary International Airport (YYC). The main route is straightforward:

  • Take Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) westbound toward Banff.

  • After passing Banff townsite, look for the Sunshine Village exit (about 8 km west of Banff).

  • Follow Sunshine Road for 9 km until you reach the base area parking lot.


Transport Options

Option

Details

Approx. Price

Duration

Car Rental

Available at YYC, easy drive

CAD 70–120/day

1h30–2h

Shuttle Bus

Services like Banff Airporter or private shuttles

CAD 70–100 one way per person

2h

Private Transfer

Door-to-door, family-friendly vans

CAD 350–700 per group

1h30



3. Travel Time and Scenic Stops


Driving takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather. If you’re not in a rush, stop at:

  • Canmore – charming town for coffee or brunch.

  • Vermilion Lakes – quick photo stop just outside Banff.

  • Mt. Norquay Viewpoint – panoramic view of Banff townsite.



4. Sunshine Village in Winter – Ski Paradise


From late November to mid-May, Sunshine is a skier’s dream.

  • Snowfall: Over 9 meters annually.

  • Terrain: 3,300 acres, with runs for beginners to experts.

  • Unique Feature: Skiing across the Continental Divide, straddling Alberta and British Columbia.


Skiers can stay in Banff and take a shuttle, or overnight at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge, the only ski-in/ski-out hotel inside Banff National Park.



5. Sunshine Village in Summer – Alpine Hiking and Meadows


From late June to early October, Sunshine Village transforms into a hiking paradise. The Sunshine Gondola and Standish Chairlift operate for visitors, giving quick access to high-alpine trails.

  • Standish Viewing Deck (2,385 m): Offers views of three turquoise lakes.

  • Rock Isle Lake Trail: Easy family hike, about 1.5 km.

  • Sunshine Meadows: Wildflower carpets in July and August.



6. Best Photo Spots

Location

Best Time

Highlights

Standish Viewing Deck

Morning

Three alpine lakes, panoramic views

Rock Isle Lake

Midday

Reflections in turquoise water

Continental Divide Sign (Winter)

Anytime

Ski photo at Alberta/BC border

Sunshine Meadows

July–August

Wildflowers in bloom



7. Where to Eat


At the base and on the mountain you’ll find:

  • Mad Trappers Grill – rustic, hearty meals.

  • Sunshine Burger Company – fast casual dining.

  • Java Lift Coffee Bar – quick snacks and warm drinks.


In Banff (20 min drive), options expand from casual pubs to fine dining at places like The Maple Leaf or Three Ravens Restaurant.



8. Where to Stay Overnight

Option

Location

Type

Price Range (CAD)

Sunshine Mountain Lodge

On-hill

Ski-in/ski-out hotel

300–600/night

Banff Hotels

20 min drive

Resorts, lodges, motels

150–500/night

Canmore Hotels

40 min drive

Budget and mid-range

120–250/night



9. How Much Time to Spend

  • Quick Visit: Half-day for gondola ride and short hike.

  • Full Experience: 1–2 days in summer or 2–3 days in winter.

  • Extended Stay: 4–5 days for ski trips or multi-day hiking.



10. Nearby Campgrounds and How to Book

There is no camping directly at Sunshine Village, but nearby options include:

Campground

Distance from Sunshine

Facilities

Booking

Tunnel Mountain

25 min (Banff)

Full services, showers

Parks Canada Reservations

Two Jack Lakeside

30 min

Lakeside, basic services

Parks Canada

Johnston Canyon

35 min

Near waterfalls, tent/RV sites

Parks Canada

Tip: Book early, especially in summer (June–August).



11. Grocery Stores and Shops


While Sunshine itself doesn’t have large supermarkets, you’ll find essentials in:

  • Banff: IGA, Nesters Market, specialty shops.

  • Canmore: Safeway, Save-On-Foods, larger grocery options.

  • On-hill: Small gift shops and ski/hike rental stores (not full grocery).



12. Final Tips for Sunshine Village Visitors

  • Bring Layers: Weather at 2,000+ meters changes fast.

  • Buy Park Pass: Required for all vehicles in Banff National Park.

  • Parking: Free at base, but fills quickly on weekends.

  • Best Seasons:

    • Winter: December–April for skiing.

    • Summer: July–August for hiking and wildflowers.


  1. Banff Sunshine Village Lift Tickets 2025/2026

Lift Tickets Available November 2025

Sunshine Village Lift Ticket Guide – Prices, Passes & Money-Saving Tips >>>

 
 
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