Skiing & Snowboarding in Banff & Jasper National Parks 2024-2025

Skiing in Banff and Jasper National Parks in Canada is world-renowned, offering breathtaking mountain backdrops, abundant light, dry snow, and a long ski season. Despite being busier in summer, winter is ideal for snow lovers who enjoy pristine slopes, uncrowded lift lines, and a range of activities like dog sledding, ice-walking, and snowshoeing. The parks' unique inland climate preserves snow quality, with 3-4 meters of snowfall each year, making Banff and Jasper perfect winter destinations for skiing and scenic adventures amidst the Canadian Rockies.

Ski Season

Banff and Jasper enjoy a long ski season, running from mid-November to late May, with peak conditions between December and March. Snowfall is abundant during these months, creating ideal skiing conditions, though visitors should check snow reports in advance, as weather can occasionally be unpredictable.

Banff National Park Ski Resorts

Banff National Park has three of the world's most beautiful ski resorts: The Lake Louise Ski Area, Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise, located 57 km from the town, is one of Canada's largest and most popular ski resorts. With 139 km of slopes, the resort offers runs for all skill levels, serviced by 12 lifts. The resort's terrain ranges from forested areas on the front side to the freeride-friendly Back Bowls. Freestylers can enjoy the snow parks, while spring skiing is available through May. Known for its snow reliability, Lake Louise is typically one of the first to open for the season.

Ski Passes & Hours

Lake Louise Ski Resort, located in the heart of Banff National Park, offers a variety of ticket options for visitors. A day ticket during the main season is priced at C$ 155 for adults, C$ 119 for youth, and C$ 59 for children. For those planning to ski throughout the season, adult season passes start at C$ 859. The resort operates daily from 9 am to 4 pm, providing ample time for visitors to enjoy its 139 km of slopes, snow parks, and stunning mountain views.

Banff Sunshine

Sunshine Village, located 15 km southwest of Banff, offers a breathtaking skiing experience in Banff National Park. The resort is accessible via a 20-minute drive followed by a scenic gondola ride that takes visitors up to the ski area. With 109 km of slopes, Sunshine Village caters to all skill levels, from extreme runs for experienced skiers to gentle slopes for beginners. Situated between elevations of 1,660 and 2,730 meters, it boasts some of the best snow in the region, thanks to its high altitude. The resort also features snowparks for freestylers and provides stunning panoramic views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, with part of British Columbia visible from the top of Lookout Mountain. The ski season runs from early November to the end of May, offering ample time to enjoy the natural snow.

Ski Passes & Hours

The day ticket prices for Sunshine Village during the main season are as follows: Adults: C$ 165 (approx. € 109), Youth: C$ 127 (approx. € 84), and Children: C$ 69 (approx. € 46). The adult season pass is priced at C$ 1,760. The resort is open daily from 8:30 am to 4 pm.

Mt Norquay

Mt. Norquay, located just 6 km and a 10-minute drive from Banff town, is a cozy, family-friendly ski resort offering a more affordable option for visitors. With 30 km of slopes and 5 lifts, the resort caters to all skill levels, from beginners in the lower area to experts tackling steep runs and mogul slopes in the upper areas. Situated between elevations of 1,615 and 2,017 meters, Mt. Norquay is one of Canada’s oldest ski resorts, opening in 1926. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers snowshoe hiking, snow-tubing, and night skiing from December to March. Mt. Norquay is also a training ground for Olympic and World Cup athletes. Visitors can enjoy a world-class Snow School, ski and snowboard rentals, a lively après-ski scene at the Lone Pine Pub, and the iconic tube park with the longest lanes in Alberta.

Ski Passes & Hours

Mt. Norquay, just 6km from Banff, offers a family-friendly ski experience with 30 km of slopes and 5 lifts. It caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers, and features snowshoe hiking, snow-tubing, and night skiing. Day tickets cost C$ 134 for adults, C$ 99 for youth, and C$ 52 for children. The resort operates from 9 am to 4 pm, with season passes available for C$ 1,129.

Jasper National Park (Marmot Basin)

Marmot Basin, located in the stunning Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies, is a popular ski and snowboard destination. Just 20 minutes from Jasper, it offers 91 km of slopes across 1,720 acres of varied terrain, with a vertical drop of 3,000 feet (914m). The resort features large snow-filled bowls perfect for powder skiers, as well as groomed tree-lined trails. With slopes for all skill levels, it is a favorite for both experienced skiers and families. Marmot Basin is known for its relaxed atmosphere, first-class service, and breathtaking mountain views.

Ski Passes & Hours

Marmot Basin in Jasper National Park offers 91 km of slopes and seven lifts, catering to all skill levels. With elevations from 1,698 to 2,518 meters, the resort features a variety of terrain, including challenging runs and scenic forest slopes. Lift tickets are C$ 139 for adults, C$ 112 for youth, and C$ 49 for children. Season passes are available, with adult passes priced at $1,706.25. Marmot Basin operates daily from 9 am to 4 pm.

Winter Activities

In addition to skiing, Banff and Jasper National Parks offer a range of winter activities such as dog sledding through the snow-covered landscapes, ice-walking, snowshoeing, enjoying the hot springs in Banff, witnessing the Northern Lights above the town of Jasper, and winter wildlife tours. These activities ensure visitors can enjoy various adventures during the ski season.