WINTER EXPERIENCES IN BANFF AND LAKE LOUISE SKI & SNOWBOARD SKIING & SNOWBOARDING Bigger than your brain can comprehend. The mountains that surround you are so rugged, their jagged and twisted shapes towering into the sky. Glaciers plunge to the valley floor far below while the lakes and rivers at their base lie frozen and still. Terrain that is so astounding it feels surreal. As you make turn after turn, floating through the light, silky snow, a massive grin erupts on your face. The feelings of joy and exhilaration are something you ll remember forever. Banff and Lake Louise is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Three world class resorts, the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, light and fluffy snow, and the most stunningly scenic backdrop you ll ever experience all add up to a must-visit location for snow lovers. The skiing and snowboarding in Banff and Lake Louise are uniquely accessible. All the resorts are short, easy drives from the town of Banff and hamlet of Lake Louise and offer huge variety for skiers and riders of all ages and abilities. You can buy lift tickets for the individual resorts, or try the Ski Big 3 Tri Area pass which gives access to all three resorts. Stacked with world famous Rocky Mountain powder and aweinspiring scenery, the ski resorts of Banff and Lake Louise are something special. With the Tri-Area pass giving you access to all three resorts, there s an endless amount of fun to be had. SKI THE CANADIAN ROCKIES Banff and Lake Louise is home to three world-class ski and snowboard areas: Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and the Lake Louise Ski Resort. The unique combination of cold light snow, diverse terrain, stunning scenery and warm and enthusiastic people makes Banff and Lake Louise one of the world s favourite destinations for skiers and snowboarders. MOUNT NORQUAY Only 10 minutes from the town of Banff, at Mount Norquay you can make turns while looking over the town and valley. With such quick and easy access, it s the perfect place for when you can sneak away for a couple hours on the slopes. It s a great ski hill for families, with diverse terrain for beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers and riders, and the very popular Tube Town tubing park. You can also ski when the stars are out, with night skiing and snowboarding on Fridays and Saturdays.
LAKE LOUISE SKI RESORT The Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest ski areas in North America, offering spectacular views, long runs and lots of terrain for all ability levels. With 139 runs, there is a huge variety for beginner, intermediate and expert skiers and riders, making the Lake Louise Ski Resort a great choice for families and groups. Big open bowls and gnarly chutes and gullies offer a lot of fun for intermediate and expert skiers as well. It is located 5 minutes drive from the hamlet of Lake Louise. SUNSHINE VILLAGE Topping out at 2730 metres (8954 feet) above sea level, Sunshine Village occupies a lofty position. When you stand at the top of a run you re high up on the Continental Divide, far above tree line with clear views of the surrounding peaks. Sunshine Village is a 15 minute drive from the town of Banff. It has more than 3,300 acres of ski and snowboarding terrain, including the massive 12 acre Rogers Terrain Park. For advanced skiers Delirium Dive and Goat s Eye have some of the most extreme in-bounds terrain in the country. HELI SKIING & SNOWBOARDING When you re dropped off at the top of a run, with only untracked snow and you and your friends in sight, you ll understand the addictive stoke of heli skiing and snowboarding. There are a range of heli ski and snowboard packages available. All include a certified mountain guide and avalanche safety equipment and instruction to ensure safe shredding in the backcountry. Day trip packages will normally offer you a day out in the pristine mountains, packed lunch, and enough helicopter-assisted runs to make your legs wobbly and your face sore from smiling. Multi-day trips are the ultimate heli ski and snowboard experience. Basing out of a backcountry ski lodge on a multiday trip is your chance to go fully off the grid and enjoy day after day of skiing some of the best runs in the world. Note: Heli Ski & Snowboard packages are available just outside of Banff National Park - helicopters are not allowed to land in the National Park. BACKCOUNTRY SKIING & SNOWBOARDING The backcountry ski and snowboarding in Banff National Park is near endless. There are many options for single day and multi day tours covering all sorts of terrain, from glacier bowls to steep alpine lines. There is easily accessible slackcountry and backcountry skiing and snowboarding from the ski resorts. The Icefields Parkway is also a popular location, offering up some great highway lines that you can check out while driving by. For a multi-day mountain retreat, stay at one of Banff National Park s backcountry lodges. Banff National Park is serious mountain terrain. You must ensure that you are well prepared and appropriately experienced in alpine and avalanche terrain. See the Parks Canada website for more information about winter backcountry safety and the latest avalanche forecast. OTHER WINTER ACTIVITIES APRÈS After your day on the ski slopes or your hike in the hills, it s time for big decisions in Banff and Lake Louise: where will you après? Spend a leisurely, late afternoon by the fire trading stories of your day and refuelling with drinks and nachos. Take the family for hot chocolates all around at a mountain lodge. Enjoy the evening sunshine and a beer at a terrace table. Listen to upbeat tunes while kicking back at the base of the ski hill. Sip cocktails and meet new people at a plush hotel lounge. Après is a way of life in Banff and Lake Louise. CAVING No matter what time of year, caving with Canmore Cave Tours will take you deep into Rats Nest Cave, exploring the vast and intricate system that lies below Grotto Mountain. The temperature in the cave remains much warmer then the air above and while down there, it s easy to forget the winter wonderland that awaits above.
Photo: Destination Canada CROSS COUNTRY SKIING - GENERAL You glide silently on freshly-made tracks alongside trees laden with snow, their branches bowing under its weight. Pausing for a breath, the wind picks up suddenly, breaking the stillness and dusting you with snowflakes. The snow is lit up by the sun, creating a sparkling path before you. Rounding a bend, the forest opens up to a breathtaking view of a frozen lake and snow covered peaks. Cross country skiing offers a special combination of pure, serene wilderness and energizing outdoor discovery. Cross country skiing is a great way to explore Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies during the winter months. A vast network of classic and skate skiing trails provides plenty of options for all fitness levels. Banff, Lake Louise and Castle Junction trails are track-set and groomed regularly, giving you the choice of leisurely loops or more demanding routes. Pack a lunch, grab your gear and choose your ideal trail. CROSS COUNTRY SKIING BANFF There are many classic cross country trails around the town of Banff, ranging from easy to moderate. Some have single or double track-sets and may also offer a skate skiing lane. Venture through dense forest to the Brewster Creek Junction, enjoy pleasant rolling terrain in the Cascade Valley, and go night skiing under the stars at the Tunnel Mountain Campground Trailer Court. It s track-set and lit from dusk until dawn. CROSS COUNTRY SKIING LAKE LOUISE Lake Louise has a large number of spectacularly scenic trails from novice to advanced, with single or double track-settings and skate lanes. Climb steadily up picturesque Moraine Lake Road, ski across frozen Lake Louise, or explore old pioneer log cabins. CROSS COUNTRY SKIING BOW VALLEY PARKWAY There are four trails along the Bow Valley Parkway, a spectacularly scenic winding road that connects Banff and Lake Louise. Take the Castle Lookout to Protection Mountain trail to see the original auto-route through Banff National Park or climb gradually through lodgepole pine forests to the Shadow Lake trail from the Redearth Creek trail. DOG SLEDDING The dogs didn t seem bothered by the fresh dusting of snow on the ground. Their warm breath hung in the cool air as they eagerly pulled the sled along the trail. Apart from the jingle of the dogs collars, the pitter-patter of paws on the snow and the occasional command from the musher, your team glides on in silence, navigating its way through the stillness of the snow-covered forest. The trees thin and the sled floats into the vast expanse of a snow-covered lake backed by soaring rugged mountains. It s really quite surreal - how often are you pulled on a sled by a team of dogs through the most awe-inspiring landscape you ve ever seen? Travelling by the power of dogs is a remarkable experience. Originally used as a means of transport by the Inuit people of the Canadian Arctic and the early settlers of Banff, dogsledding has since been adopted as a recreational activity well suited to the snowy slopes of the Canadian Rockies. This unique experience can be tranquil at some times, and exhilarating and delightfully chaotic at others. Dogsledding is a must-do activity for any traveler, but especially so for doglovers or those wanting to experience a classically Canadian activity. Explore the rich history, culture, and techniques of dogsledding as your musher and dog team guide you through the incredible scenery of the Canadian Rockies.
ICE FISHING Ice fishing in the winter months between December and April is a unique way to spend a day quite literally chilling out with friends and family. Don t be discouraged by the cold booking with a guided outfitter will ensure you re set up with all the fishing gear and warm clothing you might need as well as a heated hut on the ice to relax in. Spray Lake is a popular ice fishing location. ICE SKATING IN LAKE LOUISE For a truly spectacular skating experience, you must try the iconic Lake Louise. Named as one of the 10 most beautiful ice skating rinks in the world, by CNN Travel, the frozen lake is cleared and maintained daily by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and has a heated shelter to warm chilly fingers and toes. An additional rink near the Nordic Stop on the shores of Lake Louise is open to hockey enthusiasts. During the Ice Magic Festival each winter, ice carvers create a giant ice castle on the lake. The Lake Louise Recreation Centre, located on Village Road, has a covered outdoor hockey and ice skating rink. JOHNSTON CANYON ICE WALK The Johnston Canyon Icewalk traverses a series of steel catwalks that give spectacular views of the Johnston Canyon below. This popular ice walk leads you past the lower falls and to the breathtaking upper icefalls. Travel through prime wildlife habitat and learn the clues to how Johnston Canyon was formed. ICE SKATING - GENERAL Feel like a kid again, skating in the open air with rosy cheeks and a huge grin. Gliding by snowbanks piled high along the shore, everything glitters in the sunlight. You stare up at snowy peaks and glaciers, totally awed by their sheer size and rugged beauty. It feels so uplifting and free to be here skating across a frozen lake, breathing in the icy cold air, surrounded by these incredible mountains. A favourite Canadian sport that is fun for all ages and abilities, ice skating in Banff and Lake Louise is a great way to enjoy the fresh mountain air with family and friends. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of your surroundings or maybe join in a game of pick-up, or shinny hockey. Then take a break and warm up with hot cocoa beside a bonfire before heading back out on the ice for more. There are several indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks open during the winter in Banff and Lake Louise. All skating rinks are free unless otherwise noted, and skate rentals are available in both Banff and Lake Louise. SLEIGH RIDES Hugging the edge of a frozen lake, the trail traces a path beneath vast glaciers and craggy peaks. The seemingly tireless horses maintain a steady rhythm and the sleigh glides on, swiftly and silently while you sit cozy under a warm blanket. The sound of jingling sleigh bells and the sights of the magical snowy landscape make you feel like you are a character in your very own fairytale. ICE SKATING IN BANFF For a traditional experience, head to The Waldhaus Rink in the Spray Meadow behind The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. It s a picture-perfect spot for skating, with a warming hut and open fire nearby. Have a snack at the German pub, located directly above the rink. The well-equipped Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre offers indoor public skating and shinny year round on two full hockey rinks. There is an entry fee to the rink. The outdoor rink at Banff High School in downtown Banff is lit in the evenings. An outdoor rink at the Banff Train Station is ideal for family skating and pick-up hockey games. There is additional lighting until early evening and bench seats and washrooms are available in the train station.
Sleigh rides are a classically romantic way to enjoy the winter wonderland of Banff and Lake Louise. Join a public tour or indulge in a private ride it s sure to be a memorable experience. Sleigh rides are available both in the town of Banff and in Lake Louise. SLEIGH RIDES - BANFF Guided sleigh rides in the meadows of Banff begin with a visit to the stables to meet the horses and staff. Then cuddle up beneath blankets in the sleigh as you journey through a snowcovered valley under the power of the beautiful horses. Along the way your guide will point out any wildlife and tell some stories about the history of the area. SLEIGH RIDES LAKE LOUISE Sleigh rides in Lake Louise take you along the lake beneath Victoria Glacier and to the Ice Falls by day or the expansive starry skies and a glowing Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise by night. For a more intimate trip, set out in a small, two-seat cutter sleigh your very own one-horse open sleigh. Reserve a romantic and unforgettable sleigh ride complete with a fireside stop, Champagne, chocolates and a buffalo robe for added warmth. SNOWSHOEING With a pair of snowshoes on your feet, you need not stop hiking when it s white out. It is spectacular hiking through the silence of a snow-laden forest or the stark beauty of the frozen alpine. With appropriate care and the necessary gear, winter hiking is an accessible experience for all. There are many opportunities for winter hiking in Banff and Lake Louise. It s worth the effort to put on some extra layers and venture outside into the fresh, cold mountain air; it will make spending the evening sitting in front of a fire that much more enjoyable. Winter hiking options range from short strolls around the town of Banff to long hikes in the backcountry. Prime snowshoeing season is normally late December through to early April. TUBING Exchange your skis and snowboard for an inflatable tube and let gravity work in your favour. Originally used as transportation by the Inuit and First Nations groups of Canada, tubing have been adapted into a thrillingly fun winter activity. Snow tubing is a whole lot of fun. It is similar to tobogganing, however instead of having to trek to the top of a hill after riding down, a plush towing system will do the hard work for you. As you relax back while being pulled to the top, take in the fresh mountain air and views before hurtling back down again. Tubing is a great activity for all ages, including children over the age of 4 (or 42 inches tall). This exhilarating outing can be enjoyed at the Mt Norquay and The Lake Louise Ski Resort. ICE CLIMBING In the winter, the ice climbing in Banff National Park is regarded as some of the best in the world. There are long and challenging multi-pitch routes, but also great beginner crags and climbing areas. The ice climbing season in Banff and Lake Louise is from around November through to the end of April, depending on temperatures and elevation. In ice climbing, ice axes and crampons are used to climb frozen waterfall ice pitches. It might sound intimidating, but with a certified ice climbing guide, people of most ages and physical capabilities can learn how. There are several guiding companies in Banff and Lake Louise that will fit you with all the gear, teach you the key techniques, and have you scaling up a frozen waterfall.
YEAR-ROUND EXPERIENCES BANFF UPPER HOT SPRINGS In 1883, three rail workers stumbled across hot water and steam flowing out of a cave on the lower slopes of what is now known as Sulphur Mountain. The hot spring was discovered to be one of nine sulphurous hot springs on the mountain s northeast flank. In the midst of the late 19th century craze for the water cure, commercial operations were soon established and people flocked to Banff to take the waters and enjoy the soothing and reputedly healing properties of the mineral-rich springs. The Banff Hot Springs are still a favourite today amongst visitors and locals. It s magical to sit in the pools in the wintertime, watching snow fall on the surrounding peaks. Sunrise and sunset at any time of the year is also a wonderful time to visit, as the mountain air cools down during these times of day. The springs are open until late in the evening year-round. The facilities at the Banff Hot Springs include a large pool and cafe. SPA & WELLNESS For hundreds of years people have been travelling to the lands of Banff National Park to relax and recuperate in the natural hot springs. The longstanding tradition of rejuvenation continues today with a rich range of spas and wellness providers in Banff and Lake Louise. Many spas in town offer massage and other treatments that will lull you into a blissful state of relaxation. Treat yourself to an aromatherapy massage after a big day of hiking or skiing your legs will thank you the next day on the hill. It can be difficult to fit beauty treatments into your everyday busy schedule, so take the opportunity while on vacation to book in with a beauty salon for a body and hair treatment. Vacation time is also a great chance to savour some wellearned rest and rejuvenation for your mind and body. There are several providers of public yoga classes in Banff and Lake Louise why not take a class and then continue the good work with clean food at a fresh juice bar or cafe? SIGHTSEEING GONDOLAS - GENERAL If you desire the unforgettable bird s eye views of Banff and Lake Louise without the physicality or time required of a strenuous hike, then take a seat and soar into the alpine in a gondola. On a clear day, taking a gondola is a great activity for families, groups, and couples. Once up top, savour the sweeping vistas, explore the many hiking opportunities, or relax with a meal on the roof of the Rockies. There are two sightseeing gondolas in Banff and Lake Louise open year-round: the Banff Sightseeing Gondola at Sulphur Mountain, and the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Each offers a unique experience. SIGHTSEEING GONDOLA BANFF Floating its way up Sulphur Mountain, the Banff Sightseeing Gondola is located five minutes drive from the town of Banff. The eight minute ride takes guests to a lofty altitude of 2,281 metres (7,486 feet) in cabins that seat up to four people.
Once at the top, enjoy the restaurants, cafes, short hiking trails and new interpretive centre. If you are feeling adventurous, walk along the ridge line of Sulphur Mountain to see the Cosmic Ray Station, a historic site of Canada built to study cosmic rays. SIGHTSEEING GONDOLA LAKE LOUISE Part of the Lake Louise Ski Resorts array of ski lifts, the gondola also takes sightseers into the alpine to experience the expansive beauty. From the top at 2,088 metres (6,850 feet) elevation, gaze upon the stunning views of Victoria Glacier. HISTORIC SITES AND MUSEUMS Canada s oldest national park, Banff National Park has preserved its classic historic and cultural sites for visitors to explore. Immerse yourself in a history just as rich and complex as the landscapes of Banff and Lake Louise by visiting some of the many historic sites and museums. BANFF PARK MUSEUM The Banff Park Museum is housed in a log cabin constructed in 1903 and is the oldest museum of natural history in western Canada. Displaying historical collections of the diverse flora and fauna of Banff National Park, including an impressive taxidermy exhibition, it has been designated a Heritage Site of Canada. WHYTE MUSEUM Founded by the prolific landscape artists and husband and wife duo, Peter and Catharine Whyte, the Whyte Museum seeks to preserve and make accessible the history and culture of the Rocky Mountains. The museum hosts ongoing events, seasonal art exhibits and a comprehensive collection of original artworks, photographs and other archives. Open daily and located on Bear Street in the town of Banff. CAVE AND BASIN NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE This historic site preserves the stories of the hot springs that have drawn visitors to Banff since three railroad workers stumbled across them in 1883. The classic bath houses, sulphuric mineral springs, and interactive displays will transport you back in time to relive the origin of Banff and Lake Louise and Canada s National Park system. The site is located a short drive or pleasant stroll outside of Banff s town centre. FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS HOTEL Nestled between towering peaks at the confluence of the Bow and Spray Rivers, the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel has as much historic significance as it does grand beauty. It was constructed in 1888 and marked the beginning of tourism in the Canadian Rockies. Its architecture and fine dining make this luxury hotel a must visit. Located on the outskirts of town, the hotel offers accommodation, drinking and dining, and a bowling and entertainment centre. BUFFALO NATIONS LUXTON MUSEUM The Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum immerses visitors in the heritage of the First Nations indigenous groups that have inhabited the Banff and Lake Louise area for centuries. The exhibits showcase a variety of artifacts and art pieces including weaponry, tools, clothing and ceremonial pieces and describe the rich and diverse First Nations way of life within Banff National Park. Open daily and located just across the Bow River to the south of Banff s town centre. USEFUL LINKS Hashtag: #MyBanff I @banff_lakelouise I @banff_squirrel I banffnationalpark I banfflakelouise2