Western Canada’s Top Ski Destinations Worth the Trip This Winter
Ski season in North America has officially begun! We’re ready to hit the slopes. Are you? Don’t let another winter go by settling for poor conditions or long drives to the hill. This year, plan the ultimate ski or snowboard getaway to some of Canada’s ski destinations worth the trip. Stay and play just minutes from unforgettable powder days and pristine terrain. With our top tips for skiing and riding in Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Whistler, your trip will be easy to plan and your crew will thank you for it.
Ready to book your getaway to Western Canada? Discover our best ski offers of the season.
Pick the Best Time to Go Skiing & Snowboarding
For some, the best time to go is during Christmas and winter break before the kids return to school in January. Others prefer Spring Break in March for spring skiing. Many find anytime from late November to late April—or even early May—to be ideal. Arrive a day or two early to acclimate to the mountains before hitting the slopes. Planning your ski days around weekdays can make it feel like you have the mountain to yourself. Keep reading to discover some of Canada’s ski destinations worth planning for.
When is the best time to go skiing or snowboarding in Canada? It might seem like a trick question, but the answer is simple: whenever everyone can travel. The ski season in Western Canada is longer than most other ski destinations in North America. It starts in November and can last until May in places like Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Whistler. With such a long season, you’ll have more dates to choose from and a better chance of finding the perfect time to visit Canada’s ski destinations.
Choose A Place to Ski
Without a doubt, Western Canada has plenty of renowned ski areas to explore. But choosing the perfect ski area can seem daunting if you’re considering other factors, like varied terrain for all levels and abilities, generous snowfall, ease of getting to/from the mountain, and nearby accommodations. Luckily, we’ve narrowed the list to these sought-after Mountains in Western Canada that are worth the trip for these reasons and more! Discover some of Canada’s top ski destinations.
Best Ski Areas In Banff National Park
Banff National Park has some of the world’s most epic mountain terrain and scenery. Aside from the novelty of skiing and snowboarding in a UNESCO World Heritage site, you will love every aspect of skiing and snowboarding in Banff at three unique destinations in the Canadian Rockies.
Banff Sunshine Village
When people think of “skiing in Banff,” Sunshine Village first comes to mind. Bustling with pistes, restaurants, and attractions, this ski area boasts 3,358 skiable acres of varied terrain, everything from beginner to double-black diamonds, and a terrain park. Sunshine Village is a short 25-minute drive from the Town of Banff. It is located on the Continental Divide. So you can shred Alberta and BC in one day! Though bluebird days are synonymous with a name like Sunshine Village, you can also expect generous snow with an average of 232 inches (5.89 meters) of annual snowfall.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most photographed destinations in the country–but looks certainly aren’t everything. Each year, thousands of ski and snowboard enthusiasts are drawn to ski in Lake Louise from all corners of the globe. Known for its legendary slopes, Lake Louise is one of the largest ski areas in North America. Explore all 4,200 acres of backcountry or downhill varied terrain across four mountain faces. This alpine paradise offers a variety of runs for all skill levels, from complete beginners to World Cup Ski athletes and every level in between.
Mt. Norquay
Known as the local’s ski area in Banff since 1926, Mt. Norquay is the place to find familiar faces. Located minutes from the Town of Banff, this family-friendly ski area offers plenty of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs for all ages, plus an 8-lane tube park for a full day of family fun. Looking to extend your days out on the slopes? When the sun sets, Mt. Norquay transforms into the only night skiing destination in the Canadian Rockies. Night skiing is available Friday and Saturday nights (5 pm-9 pm) starting January 7, so you can keep shredding as the days get shorter.
IKON passholders can ski and ride at all three destinations in Banff National Park. See full stats to compare Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay.
💡 Travel Tip
Enjoy the scenic route to Banff National Park with the convenience of Airport shuttles available via Banff Airporter and Brewster Express from Calgary International Airport (YYC). You can also rent a car and charter your own journey. Regardless of the mode of travel, all visitors to Banff National Park must have a valid National Park Pass which can be purchased in advance.
Ski & Ride in Jasper National Park
With over 4,335 square miles (11,228 square kilometers) of rugged Canadian wilderness to explore, Jasper National Park is the largest of all Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks–a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jasper is home to spectacular glaciers, abundant wildlife, frozen waterfalls, deep canyons, and excellent skiing & snowboarding terrain. Ski in Jasper this winter at one of Canada’s best-kept secret ski areas, Marmot Basin.
Marmot Basin
Ski at the highest base elevation of any major Canadian Ski Resort at Marmot Basin. Perched at a base elevation of 5570 ft. overlooking the scenic town of Jasper, you will find heaps of powdery snow and incredible panoramic views of surrounding mountain ranges. Marmot Basin offers a refreshing escape from the crowds. Spend less time in the lift line and more time carving down the slopes. Again this 23/24 season, Mountain Collective Passholders can freely ski for two days at Marmot Basin. Explore all 1720 acres of skiable terrain and 90+ trails at Marmot Basin this winter.
💡 Travel Tip
The journey to Jasper National Park along the Columbia Icefields Parkway is a bucket list experience in itself! It sets the tone for skiing in the rugged Canadian Rockies. Rent and car for plenty of photo stops along the way. Or enjoy the scenic route with convenience of bus transfers via SunDog Transportation from Jasper to Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Edmonton International Airport (YEG). All visitors to Jasper National Park are required to have a valid National Park Pass which can be pre-purchased.
Ski & Ride Whistler Blackcomb
If you venture further west to Canada’s West Coast Mountains, you will find not one, but two big mountain experiences at one remarkable destination: Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain. Shredding Whistler Blackcomb is on almost every skier’s bucket list. This combined ski area offers more than 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, 16 alpine bowls and 3 glaciers. Whistler Blackcomb receives 465 inches of snow on average annually, so there is plenty of opportunity to manifest the pow.
See full mountain stats for skiing in Whistler.
Enjoy spectacular views along the Sea to Sky Highway en route to Whistler with the convenience of Airport shuttles from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Or rent a car for ample time for photo stops along the way.
Luxury Ski Resorts & Accommodations
Wherever you choose to ski, ride, and play, elevate your trip with a stay at some of the most iconic and luxurious mountain resorts in Western Canada.
BANFF
If you have your sights set on Banff, a stay at Canada’s Castle in The Rockies is a must. The legendary Fairmont Banff Springs are less than a 30-minute drive to Sunshine Village ski area, Mt. Norquay, and a 45-minute drive to Lake Louise.
Fairmont Banff Springs has access to convenient shuttle transportation to and from all three nearby ski areas, to make for a stress-free start and end to your days out on the slopes.
Delectable dining options, outdoor whirlpools, and an inviting spa are just some of the many reasons why skiers and riders love to stay and play at the Fairmont Banff Springs.
Banff Ski Packages
LAKE LOUISE
Deeper into the heart of Banff National Park, the majestic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers a true Rocky Mountain experience. Nestled between towering peaks, with views of frozen Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier, this timeless resort is just minutes from the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
During your stay, you can cross off a few bucket-list experiences: skate across one of the world’s largest outdoor skating rinks or enjoy a signature cocktail at the Ice Bar, open mid-December through mid-April (weather permitting).
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise combines alpine charm with easy access to legendary ski terrain.
Lake Louise Ski Packages
JASPER
Known for its quintessentially Canadian Cabins, rugged outdoor experiences, and relaxed comfort in the core of Jasper National Park, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a mountain resort unlike any other. Their collection of Signature Cabins are perfect for group ski & snowboard getaways, with space to sleep two to 16 guests in plush comfort and retro mountain panache. Enjoy the full Rocky Mountain skiing experience, complete with s’mores by the fire pit and a chance to watch the Northern Lights dance across the night sky. Greet wild park residents in the morning, like elk, deer, and bighorn sheep on your way to ski and ride at Marmot Basin.
Jasper Ski Packages
WHISTLER
For a luxurious ski-in, ski-out experience, stay at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, there’s no need to rush to the lifts—fresh tracks are just steps from your room.
After an adventurous day on the slopes, unwind in the Chateau’s heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, or cedar barrel saunas. Looking for something extra special? Whistler Experience Guides offer tailored excursions and introductions to the best skiing and riding in Whistler Blackcomb.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler blends luxury and location for the ultimate mountain escape.
Whistler Ski Packages
Ski Trip Packing Checklist
Nobody likes to freeze out on the hill. Pack appropriately to enjoy your ski & ride experience at Canada’s top ski destinations. Pack like a pro with our handy Ski & Snowboard Trip Gear Checklist:
- Base Layers to wick away moisture & sweat and stay dry
- Mid Layers like fleece or Merino wool Sweaters, to add insulation
- Waterproof Ski Jacket that is insulated with multiple pockets
- Waterproof Snow Pants with pockets
- Skiing/Snowboarding Socks made for performance, or with at least 40% wool blend
- Snow boots that are insulated/waterproof for when you’re not skiing or riding
- Goggles for eye protection from sun, wind, pow, and cold temperatures
- Neck Warmer to protect your skin from windburn & the cold
- Helmet for peace of mind to protect your mind
- Gloves or Mittens that are insulated and waterproof
Additional gear to pack (or rent)
- Additional Gear to pack (or rent):
- Ski/Snowboard
- Ski Poles
- Ski/Snowboard boots
Ski & Stay Packages
Whether it’s skiing the Canadian Rockies in Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise or venturing further west to Whistler Blackcomb, get there with great deals on stay & ski packages. Canada’s top ski destinations await!
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