Where to Ski in Banff
- vamos39
- Oct 21
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Your complete guide to skiing within and around Banff National Park.
Table of Contents
1. The SkiBig3 Resorts
Banff is world-famous for its trio of major ski destinations — Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt Norquay — all within 40 km of each other and accessible with one lift pass.
Resort | Distance from Banff | Terrain Size | Highlights |
Mt Norquay | 6 km | 190 acres | Family-friendly, night skiing, local vibe |
Sunshine Village | 17 km | 3,300 acres | Longest season (Nov–May), high-alpine snow |
Lake Louise | 40 km | 4,200 acres | 160 runs, modern lifts, incredible scenery |
Lake Louise Ski Resort
With over 4,200 acres, this is Alberta’s largest resort. The terrain mix suits everyone: 25 % beginner, 45 % intermediate, 30 % advanced. Expect breathtaking peaks, modern gondolas, and a lively base village.
Sunshine Village
Just 17 km west of Banff, Sunshine offers pure powder and panoramic views above the treeline. Its 157 runs and early-to-late season (typically November to May) make it a favorite for both locals and international visitors.
Mt Norquay
Only 10 minutes from downtown Banff, Norquay is perfect for families or a half-day outing. Night skiing and a relaxed atmosphere make it an easy, accessible choice.
Book Your YYC Airport Shuttle to Banff
2. Other Winter Options near Banff
Activity | Where to Try | Notes |
Cross-Country Skiing | Tunnel Mountain, Bow River Loop, Spray River Trail | Groomed trails for classic and skate styles |
Backcountry Skiing | Sunshine Meadows, Bow Summit | Untouched powder — avalanche gear required |
Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking | Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka | Ideal for non-skiers or families |
3. Alternatives Beyond Banff
If you’d like to explore more of Alberta and nearby British Columbia, several resorts offer exceptional terrain within a few hours’ drive.
Resort | Province | Distance from Banff | Notable Features |
Alberta | 82 km | Former Olympic venue; great for day trips | |
British Columbia | 167 km | Steep chutes, 1,300 m vertical drop | |
British Columbia | 150 km | Longest vertical in North America, backcountry access |
Planning Tips
The SkiBig3 Tri-Area Pass covers all three Banff resorts.
Shuttles and private transfers (like Vamos Express) connect Calgary Airport and Banff daily.
Book accommodations early — peak season runs mid-December to March.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re carving groomers at Lake Louise, chasing powder at Sunshine, or enjoying family runs at Norquay, Banff offers world-class skiing within minutes — and endless adventure just beyond its borders.
