Nestled in the stunning Canadian Rocky Mountains, Banff is a winter wonderland that offers an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience. The picturesque towns of Banff and Lake Louise serve as gateways to the renowned 'Ski Big 3' area, comprising the ski resorts of Mount Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village.
As one of the best Canadian ski resorts, Banff combines breathtaking natural beauty with top-tier skiing. Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Banff ski holiday. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.
Let's get started!
Banff is located in the province of Alberta, within Banff's National Park.
For a detailed view of Banff's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Family friendly | It's expensive |
| The center is easily reachable on foot | Can get busy during peak times |
| Overwhelming scenery | It can get very cold |
| Endless outdoor opportunities | No real ski-in ski-out accommodation |
For those new to skiing, all three areas in Banff provide beginner-friendly slopes and top-notch ski schools. After mastering the basics, beginners can head to the Juniper chair in Lake Louise for a gentle and scenic run, or explore Banff Avenue at Sunshine Village, a picturesque tree-lined green run perfect for honing skills.
Intermediate skiers will find Banff to be a dream destination. Wide, well-groomed corduroy runs are plentiful, offering the chance to ski against the backdrop of the dramatic Rocky Mountains. Lake Louise, part of the World Cup circuit, offers a chance to test skills on renowned downhill courses, and the Trifecta Challenge across all three areas adds an adventurous goal to the holiday.
Advanced skiers have a wealth of options. Lake Louise’s back bowls offer fresh tracks and breathtaking mountain views, Goats Eye Mountain in Sunshine Village provides steep and challenging terrain, and Mount Norquay, often quieter, allows for shorter lift queues and pristine powder.
Banff excels in off-piste opportunities. Mont Norquay is ideal for deep snow days, especially the Long Pine run. Lake Louise has easily accessible spots for those wanting to alternate between piste and powder, with West Bowl providing a diverse terrain. Sunshine Village’s Delirium Dive, South Side Chutes, and Wild West backcountry areas are must-skis for off-piste enthusiasts.
Banff is a haven for snowboarders of all levels, with a landscape free of draglifts. Beginners can practice on the easy-going runs at the base of Sunshine and Lake Louise, while Mystic Ridge on Mount Norquay offers excellent carving opportunities. For those interested in freestyle, Sunshine Mountain hosts one of the best snow parks in the Rockies.
The ski season in Banff for 2024/25 is expected to start in early November and run until May 20th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Banff this season, be sure to explore our Banff ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Banff offers optimal snow conditions from December through April. December and January consistently bring about 10 cm and 6 cm of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.3 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly increases to 10 cm and occurs more frequently, averaging 4.0 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Banff, with an impressive 15 cm of snow over 4.6 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 13 cm of snow over 4.0 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 10 cm | 3.5 days |
| January | 6 cm | 3.2 days |
| February | 10 cm | 4.0 days |
| March | 12 cm | 4.2 days |
| April | 13 cm | 4.0 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Known for its convenient location and inviting atmosphere, this is a popular spot with its menu including a range of comforting and easy-to-eat options.
Located at The Juniper Hotel, it serves locally sourced, Canadian-inspired cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Situated in the Banff Park Lodge, the restaurant features a menu of classic Italian dishes, complemented by a selection of fine wines.
Located on the slopes of Lake Louise, this restaurant offers a menu featuring a variety of gourmet dishes, including local specialties.
Located at the top of Sunshine Village, this restaurant serves a variety of hearty dishes.
Set in a Bavarian-style cottage, the pub is known for its selection of beers and hearty pub fare.
A favorite local brewery and pub in the heart of Banff, offering a range of craft beers brewed on-site, along with a menu of classic pub dishes.
In the evenings, here you can enjoy the bistro’s creative cocktails and exquisite small plates while taking in the stunning sunset views over the mountains.
Park Distillery is known for its unique distillery-inspired ambiance and fantastic cocktails made with spirits distilled on-site.
Download Banff resort map here
