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A guide to skiing in Banff, Canada

Guide Ski Skiing In Banff

If you’re looking for an adventurous ski destination that stands out from the crowd, we’d definitely recommend a ski holiday in Banff. Here are just five great reasons why you should visit this Canadian resort for your winter holiday:

Banff From £480pp

1. Incredible scenery

Banff National Park offers mountain scenery with a rugged and wild appearance that inspires a sense of adventure. The dramatic mountainous backdrop and endless pine forests covered in snow feel untouched by humankind - just imagine skiing in such wilderness!

2. Double Diamond Black runs and the Delirium Dive

Banff has an excellent reputation amongst advanced skiers, with incredibly challenging terrain in the Sunshine Village - this is the place to go if you are an avid skier or snowboarder. Head to the Goats Eye for an epic range of seriously steep and lengthy single and double black diamond runs or for the most notorious run in Banff.

Seek out the top of Lookout for the double black diamond, Delirium Dive. Delirium is a serious and very steep backcountry route (where a guide is required) - this is one of the world’s most renowned ski challenges.

3. Amazing non-ski activities

There is more than just skiing or snowboarding at Banff, so it’s worth a longer visit. Banff National Park is an excellent area for cross-country skiing, with approximately 80km of trails as well as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice skating - all popular activities.

Snowshoeing is also great for a slower pace and a closer interaction with the national parks nature and wilderness. 

Head up the road to Lake Louise and discover arguably the world’s greatest ice rink. This iconic frozen lake, nestled at the foot of a glacier and surrounded by towering peaks, offers a truly magical skating experience. Whether you're twirling under the alpine sky or simply soaking in the views, it’s a must-do winter adventure while staying in Banff. Finish up the experience with a hot chocolate from the world famous Fairmont Hotel. 

Winter walking in Banff doesn't get much better than the miles that stretch out alongside stunning Bow River. All you need is a warm jacket, hat, mittens, and a pair of winter boots and you're set to experience our winter wonderland.

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 breath-taking upper icefalls. Travel through prime wildlife habitat and learn the clues to how Johnston Canyon was formed.

Night skiing at Mount Norquay offers a unique and thrilling experience in the Canadian Rockies. It's the only place in the region where you can ski under the stars, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Night skiing is available on Friday and Saturday nights from 5 PM to 9 PM, typically running from late December to mid-March.

The flood-lit runs, including the popular Cascade run, provide a magical atmosphere for skiers and snowboarders of all ages.

The terrain park is also fully lit, allowing for extended fun well into the evening.

This activity is family-friendly and perfect for those looking to enjoy a different take on the ski resort experience. 

The hot springs in Banff offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience amidst the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies. The most famous is the Banff Upper Hot Springs, located at an elevation of 1,585 meters, making it the highest operational hot springs in Canada.

Here, you can soak in the mineral-rich waters while enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain.

The facility features an outdoor pool, a historic bathhouse, and amenities like a cafe and gift shop.

The water temperature is maintained between 37°C and 40°C (98°F to 104°F), perfect for a soothing soak after a day of exploring.

The Banff Upper Hot Springs are open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, making it convenient to fit into your schedule.

4. Ski and snowboard in Lake Louise

If you want to explore further than Banff, its worth a trip to Lake Louise. The ‘Tri-Area’ lift-pass includes a free bus that connects the two ski areas.

Lake Louise is approximately a 45-minute journey from Banff, but it is well worth getting up early to experience this incredible resort. Its remote location and over 139 runs to explore will ensure you will not be disappointed.

5. Downtown Banff

Though the surroundings might feel wild, Banff centre is a fantastic destination for eating out or getting a drink from one of the many bars. The mountains of Banff can still be seen from the main strip, Banff Avenue, meaning wherever you chose to sit for a glass or a bite to eat you can take in the views you came for.

It’s easy to eat somewhere different each night in Banff – there are over 100 restaurants with a variety of dining options, from traditional Canadian steakhouses serving local game, to Asian restaurants serving stir-fry and sushi.

Where to stay in Banff

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