Ski Holidays in Banff

A lively town and your home-base to three distinctive ski resorts

  • Resort altitude of 1,383 metres 
  • 3,358 acres of skiable terrain
  • Over 360 inches of annual snowfall
  • Transfer time approx. 2 hour by shared coach transfer

Banff is a dynamic town set in the spectacular Banff National Park. Whilst skiing is core to Banff's winter appeal, the town is host to many other popular winter activities, you can enjoy everything from dog-sledding, snowshoeing and relaxing in hot springs in one of Canada's most beautiful and oldest national parks.

Skiing and snowboarding in Banff

Banff provides home-base to three distinctive ski resorts, and a triple area SkiBig3 lift pass covers all three - Mount Norquay (10 minutes drive), Sunshine Village (25 minutes drive) and Lake Louise (45 minutes drive). A regular and free ski bus service, included with your pre-booked lift pass, operates from our Banff hotels to all three ski areas.

Mount Norquay is often referred to as Banff’s 'local' hill but the resort should not be under-rated. It has easy trails but also some challenging ones too, such as Memorial Bowl, Temptation and Lone Pine. Sunshine Village has some of the highest skiing in Canada. It has three mountains: Mount Standish (with some of the easier trails) Lookout Mountain (high above the tree line with views across the Great Divide) and Goat’s Eye (with some of the best tree skiing on its lower slopes). Lake Louise offers one of the largest ski areas in North America with over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain. New terrain and chairlifts are continually being added to this beautiful area renowned for its jaw dropping glaciers, lakes and forests.

If you ski or snowboard all three (known as the Trifecta Challenge), along with bragging rights, you'll be rewarded. Stop by the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub on Banff Avenue and collect your reward which includes a FREE pint of beer for your efforts!

Where to stay in Banff

We offer a range of hotels across the lively resort of Banff, all offering facilities that will make for the perfect ski holiday. You'll find all our hotels have fantastic locations in regards to the resort centre and getting to the ski area, and you'll be able to use the spa facilities included to relax and rejuvenate those muscles so you can really maximise your time on the slopes.

Bars and restaurants in Banff

Downtown Banff offers traditional Canadian hospitality with an excellent variety of over 130 bars, restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries that cater for all tastes and budgets.

What's included in an Inghams ski holiday to Banff

Flights, transfers and accommodation based on self catering, bed and breakfast, half board, all inclusive or full board. Optional add ons include equipment hire, lift pass and tuition, please see the 'ski extras' tab below for more information on these.

View all Banff Ski Deals  Banff Early Booking Offers

Added value

Early Booking Offers at selected hotels

Early Booking Offers for prebooked lift passes

Ski hotels in Banff

  • from£1056pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 184 Rooms
100_Banff_Caribou_Lodge_Winter.jpg

The Caribou Lodge has a prime location on Banff Avenue and is well connected to downtown Banff and the ski areas. This traditional mountain lodge has excellent facilities including a full service spa and in-house Keg Steakhouse & Bar. The welcoming and friendly staff will ensure you have a fantastic stay and return every year.

  • from£1293pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 768 Rooms
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Banff Canada Banff_Springs_Winter

The old Baronial splendour of the Fairmont Banff Springs never fails to amaze. This luxury hotel features all the amenities of a world-class resort and a personalised service to go with it. The hotel sits across the Bow River but is well linked with a short shuttle to the town centre.

  • from£1150pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4.5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 174 Rooms
Ski big 3 banff moose hotel and suites exterior snow

The newest hotel in Banff, the Moose Hotel & Suites is a Deluxe four star plus property centrally located in downtown Banff. Designed with the mountains in mind, this hotel offers a warm welcome.

  • from£975pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    3.5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 99 Rooms
canada_big-3-ski-area_banff_banff-inn_Exterior

The Banff Inn is a popular and friendly hotel located on Banff Avenue and only minutes from the restaurants, shopping and vibrant nightlife.

  • from£1250pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4.5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 333 Rooms
Exteriorref

The elegant Rimrock Resort Hotel has superb views of the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park. Try out their multiple restaurants and bars, or the great wellness facilities including a indoor heated pool and hot tub.

  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4.5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 116 Rooms
Ski_Big_3_Banff_Fox_Hotel_and_Suites_Winter.jpg

Ideally located on the main Banff Avenue, the Fox captures the historic and natural elements of Banff National Park. Fox and Suites is an Inghams favourite with great ambiance.

  • from£1050pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    3 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 134 Rooms
canada_big-3-ski-area_banff_banff-ptarmigan_inn_Banff Ptarmigan Inn Winter

Located just moments away from Banff Downtown, the Banff Ptarmigan Inn has great restaurants, cafes, shopping, and nightlife right on the doorstep. The hotel has recently been refurbished and is offered on a room only or bed and breakfast board basis.

  • from£1121pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 77 Rooms
Banff Canada Ski Big 3 Brewsters Mountain Lodge Exterior Winter

Located just one block from the Banff Avenue, the hotel is just steps away from Banff downtown's excellent restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. The hotel is decorated in a traditional lodge style, and all rooms have handcrafted custom-made log furnishings.

  • from£1128pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 88 Rooms
Ski Big 3 Banff Aspen Lodge Winter Exterior (1)

The Banff Aspen Lodge is a popular hotel situated only three minutes walk from the shops and restaurants on Banff downtown. This hotel features comfortable and spacious rooms and fantastic outdoor hot tubs with an outdoor fireplace. 

Ski & Snowboard
Skiing levels
Beginner
Intermediates
Advanced
Snowboard
Cross country

Beginner skiing and snowboarding in Banff

Every winter, Banff's national park turns into a playground for beginner skiers and snowboarders. Standish, located in Banff's Sunshine Village, contains the most novice-friendly slopes, with some lovely long green trails back to the town. The beginner slopes located in Mt. Norquay are also perfect if you're looking to find your snow feet and consist of gentle green runs that will help you build confidence on the mountain. Although it is a relatively small beginner area, you'll find the pistes are not as crowded as the other two parks. Not only that, but Mt. Norquay also offers incredible views of Banff town and the surrounding Rocky Mountains, so you're in for an all round treat.

Ski schools in Banff

Whether you're looking to learn, or refine your existing skills on the slopes, Banff offers ski schools that can cater for all ages and levels. You'll benefit from experienced instructors whose top priority is getting you to master the basics at your own pace. 

Intermediate skiing and snowboarding in Banff

If you're an intermediate skier, you're in for a treat and can expect something from each of the three resorts in the Big3 ski areas. 

Sunshine Village is known for it's incredible views and provides a variety of intermediate terrain. 

Lake Louise is set amongst the trees and you're in for some great scenic routes through the woodland. 

Mt. Norquay provides access to a handful of good intermediate slopes and is the perfect option if you and your party are made up of mixed ability skiers and snowboarders. 

Advanced skiing and snowboarding in Banff

Mount Norquay packs a considerable punch with nearly half of it's piste considered to be black diamonds and double blacks. We'd recommend making a pit stop at some point to attempt the 'Black Magic' black diamond run - the steepest groomed pitch between the three areas and one of the steepest groomed runs in Canada.

Off piste and snow parks in Banff

Banff sunshine village provides some of the best powder skiing in Banff. The sunshine village can received up to nine metres of snow throughout the season and uses only 100% natural snow - no need for snow canons. One of Banff's sunshine village highlights includes the Delirium Dive - named as one of the top 10 off-piste destinations in the world.

Lake Louise holds the title for having one of the biggest terrain parks in the whole of North America, located in the Juniper Jungle area. 

Cross country skiing in Banff 

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.


Mountain facts
Ski area Alberta
Resort Altitude 1630m
Ski Alt. From 1384m
Ski Alt. To 2730m
Runs 62 132 58
Longest run 8 Km
Lifts Chairlifts 17, Draglifts 4, Gondolas 2, Magic Carpets 1
Lift Ski LockersNo
Whole Area Pass Lifts24
Night Skiing IncludedYes
Off-piste OptionsNo
Slope DirectionN, E, S, W
Things To Do

Things to do in Banff

Restaurants, food and drink 

There are so many options for food and drinks in the town of Banff and village of Lake Louise, from distilled spirits to microbrews, to delicious juices for breakfast, pizza or picnics for lunch, or Western style steak or vegan meals for dinner.

Après, bars, clubs and nightlife 

Après is a way of life in Banff and Lake Louise. Whether you want a cold beer brewed with glacial water at the locals’ hangout, a hot chocolate by a log fire, or cocktails and dancing, you will find what you are looking for guaranteed. Don’t miss a chance to explore the town by night, it may even get a little wild.

Spas and relaxation

Travelling is a great opportunity to nourish your body and soul, especially in a place like Banff and Lake Louise where you are surrounded by such majestic natural beauty - it’s difficult to not feel inspired here. Amongst the pristine wilderness, vibrant townships, and inherent peacefulness of the landscape, you will find relaxation and rejuvenation.

Hike up Tunnel Mountain just above the town of Banff to watch the sunrise; sit with a book by the Bow River; participate in a yoga or fitness class; savour the indulgence of a spa treatment; absorb the stillness and silence of the forest; or gaze upon the stars in the crystal clear sky. Banff and Lake Louise is a place where you can truly relax, rejuvenate, and renew.

Shopping

 

Banff Resort Activities

Dog sledding

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 dog-lovers 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 Skating

A favourite Canadian sport, ice skating on frozen lakes and playing shinny with your friends on an outdoor rink is an incredible way to enjoy fresh mountain air.

There are several indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks open during the winter in Banff and Lake Louise and the best part - 90% are free!

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.

Winter hiking and snow shoeing 

Two activities that are enjoyed by locals every day are winter hiking and snowshoeing. All you need is a warm jacket, a toque, mittens, and a pair of winter boots and you're set to experience our winter wonderland. If you're keen to experience something a little different, strap on some snowshoes and play in the freshly fallen snow.

Ice climbing and back country skiing

For the adrenaline-inspired, Banff National Park boasts some of the best ice and mixed climbing routes in the world. Imagine climbing up frozen waterfalls while you look down at a spectacular frozen creek below. For the best and safest experience hire an Alpine Mountain Guide for the day through Yamnuska Mountain Adventures.

Backcountry skiing is a spectacular way to find your inner mojo. It's an activity that can be both exhilarating and peaceful at the same time. You can fly by helicopter with CMH Heli-Skiing to a remote luxury backcountry lodge where thousands of feet of vertical and fresh tracks await, or you can ski the majestic Puracell Range with R.K. Heli-Skiing. Get out and explore!

Johnston Canyon Icewalk

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.

  • Snowmobiling
  • Sleigh rides
  • Ice fishing
  • Heli-skiing
  • Night skiing at Mount Norquay
  • Cross country skiing
  • Dinner and ski
  • Excellent range of sight seeing excursions
  • Calgary shopping trip
  • Ice hockey games
  • Hot springs
  • Museum
  • Arts centre
  • Cinema
Lift Passes Winter 2024/25

Lift Passes

Lift passes go up in price the closer you get to your departure date. Pre-book your lift passes early to secure the lowest prices. Pay just 10 weeks before departure.

Ski Big 3 Area Pass: (Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise & Mt. Norquay)

6 Days Season

Child

6 - 12 years

Youth

13 - 17 years

Adult

18 - 64 years

Senior

65+ years

Tri-Area Pass Low £143 £258 £356 £258
Mid £197 £355 £490 £355
High £261 £465 £644 £465

 

Season dates

  • Low season: 08 Apr - 30 Apr 25
  • Mid season: 01 Dec - 19 Dec 24, 06 Jan - 13 Jan & 24 Feb - 07 Apr 25
  • High season: 20 Dec 24 - 05 Jan, 14 Feb - 23 Feb 25

 

Lift pass information

  • Children (0-5yrs) can pick up a free lift pass locally
  • Your lift pass allows for a certain number of non-ski days with the following example grace periods:
    • 6 day tickets have 2 grace days and can be used within a period of 8 days
    • 8-12 day tickets have 3 grace days and can be used within a period of 11-15 days

Lift passes will be delivered to your hotel and will be available upon check-in. If you experience any issues please visit the SkiBig3 hub at 114 Banff Avenue (opening times are 8am to 9pm daily, subject to change).

Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing but may vary up or down; correct prices will be advised at the time of booking.

Ski Equipment

Ski Equipment

6 days Category

Child 4 - 12 years

Adult 12+ years

Skis Red - £132
Black - £163
Skis & boots Red £72 £154
Black £123 £211
Snowboard & boots Red £90 £154
  Black - £184

Equipment hire information

We are excited to be working with Black Tie Ski Rental. This coming season you will have the option to pick up your equipment in store or they will come to your hotel and do a fitting in the comfort of your room. Booking early is highly recommended. The team at Black Tie have expert knowledge and will contact you before you travel to take some important measurements to ensure you get the equipment you need. We will therefore require your contact details to pass on to them closer to your holiday. 

It’s often recommended that you rent your skis and boards: you will save money on transporting your equipment overseas, you get to sample the latest technology, and if you consider yourself an occasional skier, it’s a chance to find out what your slope style is before committing to a pair of skis/board.

Ski boots come with a wide selection of brands and models, including stiffer boots for more advance skiers, or wider or narrower fitting boots for wide/ narrow feet or calves. 

Helmets are bookable in-resort and payable locally.

Prices and supplements are correct at time of publishing but may vary up or down; correct prices will be advised at the time of booking.

Tuition

Tuition

Unfortunately we do not offer ski tuition in Banff or Lake Louise but we can help advise you how to book directly with the ski school. As there are 3 ski areas, we can also help with where is best to go depending on your ability. 

 

 

Meet Your Rep

Inghams rep based in resort

Your rep in resort is a local expert and works on behalf of Inghams to make sure you have an enjoyable holiday and everything runs smoothly. They aim to contact you within 24 hours of your arrival.

Transfers
To Depart from Day
Calgary Heathrow Daily
Gatwick Mon/Tues/Thurs/Sat*
Calgary (via AMS) Regional airport** Daily

*Gatwick departures restricted to following holiday durations:

  • Monday (7,11,14 nights), Tuesday (10 nights), Thursday (10,11 nights), Saturday (11 nights)

**Regional airport flights with KLM via Amsterdam are available from Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

Flying time

  • 9hrs direct

Transfer time

  • Approx. 2 hour by shared coach transfer

Transfers are operated by a local transportation provider. Private transfers are also available. Information for your transfer meeting point is included in your Welcome Pack.

Ski bus info:

Free with lift pass

Good to know

  • High altitude skiing & guaranteed snow
  • The heart and soul of the Canadian Rockies
  • Flights with top scheduled airlines
  • Inghams rep based in resort
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