Banff Lake Louise

About Banff and Lake Louise

With three resorts to choose from—Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village—a Banff Lake Louise ski vacation is sure to please every type of skier from novices looking for cruisers to extreme-seekers looking for some challenging inbounds terrain. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a snow lover’s dream, home to three world-class ski resorts: Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Banff Sunshine Village. Whether you're carving through fresh powder or soaking in the breathtaking mountain views, Banff offers a ski experience like no other. With the SkiBig3 lift ticket, you can seamlessly explore all three resorts, each offering its own unique terrain and unforgettable skiing and snowboarding adventures.

Boasting 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, Lake Louise Ski Area takes the cake for the “biggest” Banff skiing. With 25 percent beginner terrain and a green run accessible from every chairlift, 45 percent intermediate terrain and 30 percent expert terrain, the Lake Louise skiing suits every level and type of skier and is ideal for large groups or families. Plus, it’s probably the most conveniently located Banff ski resort because the Village at Lake Louise, which features restaurants and lodging options, is just minutes from the ski area. But Banff isn’t just about the slopes. The charming town of Banff is an adventure hub, brimming with top-tier restaurants, cozy cafes, and vibrant art galleries, all set against a backdrop of towering peaks. It's a place where history and culture meet outdoor thrills, making it the perfect base for your mountain escapades.

Just a short drive away, the serene village of Lake Louise offers a more tranquil escape. Here, you’ll find peaceful surroundings and easy access to some of the best hiking and skiing in the Rockies. The village is the gateway to the iconic Lake Louise, where stunning natural beauty meets thrilling outdoor activities. Those in search of serenity and quiet are sure to enjoy a trip to this beautiful region as the ski resorts are next to the protected wilderness of Banff National Park, which encompasses the town of Banff and Lake Louise and all three of the area's ski resorts. Banff's inland locale—on the border of interior British Columbia and Alberta—ensures light, fluffy powder which makes skiing in Banff and Lake Louise even more fun.

How to get to Banff and Lake Louise

Since Calgary International Airport is just an hour and half from Banff and a little over two hours from Lake Louise, you’ll find a Banff ski vacation is extremely convenient. 

Calgary International Airport services 84 different cities worldwide via nonstop flights. Once in Calgary ski travelers have the option to take a frequent airport shuttle service to Banff Lake Louise lodging accommodations, or rent a car and drive along the all-weather, four-lane Trans-Canada Highway, aka Hwy 1.

Navigating Banff and Lake Louise is a breeze, whether you're on foot, bike, or public transit. Hop on a shuttle, ride the Roam bus, or take the scenic route on a bike path. With easy access to all the must-see spots, your adventure is always just around the corner!

Skiing in Banff and Lake Louise

Skiers and boarders have more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain spread over three world-class ski resorts and accessed with one tri-area lift ticket. With more than 274 named trails, every level of skiing is well represented at Banff’s three resorts. Mt. Norquay, which is located just minutes from the town of Banff, is considered a family-friendly resort and offers weekend night skiing for those who just can get enough time on the slopes. The whole family will love learning about Mt. Norquay’s history as an Olympic and World Cup training ground.

Beginner Skiing in Banff, Canada

About 22 percent of all three Banff ski resorts' terrain is rated green, so intermediate skiers on a Banff Lake Louise ski vacation are guaranteed plenty of options. Lake Louise, specifically, has a bit more beginner terrain than its sister resorts and is generally renowned as the best choice for beginners and families. However, the other two resorts—Mt. Norquay and Sunshine Village—also have plenty of redeeming qualities, making them a great option, too. For example, Mt. Norquay is considered a “local” mountain and is the smallest, with only 77 acres of skiing, and closest to the town of Banff, so if you’re looking for laidback trails look no further Mt. Norquay. Alternatively, Sunshine has an ideal beginner area in the below tree line saddle between Lookout Mountain and Goat’s Eye Mountain.

Mt. Norquay

If convenience is high on your list, then beginners will be spending most of their time at Mt. Norquay. First-time skiers will like the easy access of the Sundance surface lift (magic carpet) which is located just steps from the base village lodge. Once you’ve acquired the skills to wedge, turn and stop, the Cascade chairlift, which is right next to the Sundance lift, offers comfortable progression to longer, slightly steeper green slopes below the lift. And when you’re ready there are more meandering trails to skier’s right off the chairlift.

Family vacations in Lake Louise

Banff and Lake Louise are brimming with family-friendly adventures that guarantee unforgettable memories in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Families looking for convenience will want to stay at Sunshine Village’s Sunshine Mountain Lodge. The Sunshine Mountain Lodge is Banff’s only ski-in ski-out hotel which provides a unique experience that is unlike anything else, with West wing rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy fireplaces, private balconies and additional upscale amenities. For kid-friendly off-mountain activities, like pools, families on a Banff family ski vacation will want to stay at the Inns of Banff, Lake Louise Inn or Banff Rocky Mountain Resort.

With three ski resorts to choose from on a Banff family ski vacation, every member of your clan, no matter what age, level or terrain preferences will enjoy themselves. Banff’s proximity to Calgary ensures that it sees a bit of weekend warrior traffic, not to mention a significant jet set crowd and tourists looking to catch a glimpse of the famed wilderness of Banff National Park. The array of clientele, both local and international, ensures there is a range of lodging and dining options to suit every penchant.