With three world-class resorts collectively known as SkiBig3, Banff offers some of the best skiing in North America. Here's your complete guide to hitting the slopes.
The Three Resorts Compared
Sunshine Village
- Terrain: 3,358 acres across three mountains
- Vertical: 1,070m
- Season: November to late May (longest in Canada)
- Best for: advanced skiers, powder chasers, and those who want the longest season
- Highlights: Highest base elevation (2,160m), most natural snowfall, Delirium Dive (experts only), and straddles the Continental Divide
Lake Louise Ski Resort
- Terrain: 4,200 acres -- the largest in the Canadian Rockies
- Vertical: 1,000m
- Season: November to early May
- Best for: all levels, families, and those wanting variety
- Highlights: Stunning scenery, famous back bowls for experts, excellent grooming for intermediates, and a friendly village base
Mt. Norquay
- Terrain: 190 acres
- Vertical: 503m
- Season: November to April
- Best for: families, beginners, night skiing, and quick sessions
- Highlights: Just 6 minutes from Banff town, affordable, night skiing on Fridays and Saturdays, and excellent for learning
Lift Tickets & Passes
A SkiBig3 pass gives you access to all three resorts on a single ticket. Multi-day passes (3+ days) offer the best value and let you experience each mountain. Single-day tickets at individual resorts range from $80-170 CAD depending on the resort and date.
Ski & Stay Packages
Many Banff hotels offer ski & stay packages bundling accommodation with lift tickets at 20-30% savings compared to booking separately. Check the SkiBig3 website for current deals.
Gear Rental
Rent from shops in Banff town (Monod Sports, Ski Hub, Snowtips-Bactrax) rather than at the resort to save money. Most offer multi-day discounts.
Snow Conditions
Banff's resorts receive 750-900 cm of snowfall annually. The best powder typically falls in January and February. Sunshine Village's high elevation and Continental Divide position give it the most consistent conditions.