Planning a ski trip to Banff? One of the biggest decisions isn’t which mountain to ski, it’s how to experience all three. That’s where SkiBig3 comes in.
Located in the heart of Banff National Park, SkiBig3 combines Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay under one lift ticket. Together, the three mountains offer nearly 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, legendary Canadian Rockies scenery, and distinctly different experiences. Whether you’re chasing steep alpine bowls, long groomers, or family-friendly runs, you’ll find it here.
Each mountain has its own personality. Lake Louise is the largest of the three, known for its breathtaking views, wide-open terrain, and runs for every ability level. Sunshine Village sits high on the Continental Divide, delivering one of Canada’s longest ski seasons and famously light, dry powder. Mt. Norquay, just minutes from downtown Banff, it offers a laid-back local atmosphere, night skiing, and some of the best tubing in the Canadian Rockies.
If you’re up for a challenge, don’t leave after skiing just one resort. Complete the SkiBig3 Trifecta Challenge by skiing all three mountains during your trip, then stop by the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub to collect your Trifecta Award and celebrate with a well-earned souvenir.
Where to Stay in Banff
The Kenrick Hotel
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Good for: Couples, ski vacations
Proximity to the slopes: SkiBig3 shuttle stop directly outside the hotel
Amenities we love: The Nora Pool, featuring 2 hot tubs, cold plunges, steam room and cedar sauna alongside the large indoor heated pool.
Fairmont Banff Springs
$$$$
Good for: Luxury travelers, couples, special occasions
Proximity to the slopes: About 15 minutes via SkiBig3 shuttle
Amenities we love: Iconic setting with incredible mountain views. Multiple restaurants on site and an award-winning spa.
Moose Hotel & Suites
$$$
Good for: Families and groups, people traveling with pets
Proximity to the slopes: Walking distance to SkiBig3 shuttle stops
Amenities we love: Two rooftop heated pools, it is pet friendly, and there is a full service spa.
Best Après in Banff SkiBig3
The Goat Club
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Where: On mountain at the bottom of the Goat’s Eye Express Quad at Sunshine Village
When: DJ will be playing Saturdays and Sundays 1-4pm
What to order: Local Alberta beer
Vibe: Energetic, lively, and full of skiers still wearing their boots.
Ice Palace
$$
Where: Lake Louise Ski Resort
When: Every afternoon after skiing, while weather allows
What to order: Craft cocktail
Vibe: Scenic mountain patio carved out of ice with fire pits and music.
Lone Pine Pub
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Where: Mt. Norquay
When: Lunch through après
What to order: Burger and Alberta craft beer
Vibe: Relaxed local favorite
Best Places to Eat in Banff
The Fat Ox
$$$
Cuisine: Italian
Reservations: Recommended but not required
Best for: Date night or cozy dinner with friends.
The Dusty Boot
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Cuisine: Modern saloon fare
Reservations: Recommended
Best for: Fun night out
Bluebird
$$$
Cuisine: Steakhouse & fondue
Reservations: Highly recommended
Best for: Special occasions, make sure to order fondue.
Things to Do in Banff Besides Skiing
Mt. Norquay Tube Park
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Where: Mt. Norquay
When: Reserve ahead during busy weekends
Why we love it: Home to the largest and fastest tubing lanes in the Canadian Rockies, this is a fun activity for families and anyone wanting a break from skiing.
Go for a Winter Hike
Free
Where: Around Banff townsite
When: Best enjoyed during daylight hours
Why we love it: Banff’s scenic winter trails are just as memorable as its ski slopes. Stroll along Vermilion Lakes, take in the iconic view of the Fairmont Banff Springs from Surprise Corner, or visit Bow Falls to see the partially frozen waterfall, all within easy reach of downtown Banff.
Ice Skating
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Where: Banff Townsite or Lake Louise
When: Typically, December through March, weather permitting
Why we love it: Ice skating is a quintessential Banff winter experience. Skate on maintained outdoor rinks in Banff or head to iconic Lake Louise for a bucket-list skate beneath Victoria Glacier, complete with an ice castle, bonfires, and mountain views.
How to Get to Banff and Getting Around SkiBig3
Most visitors fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), located about 90 minutes from Banff. The Banff Airporter provides convenient shuttle service directly from the airport to Banff hotels, making it easy to skip renting a car.
Once you’re in Banff, getting around is surprisingly easy. SkiBig3 operates complimentary ski shuttles from select hotels, including The Kenrick, directly to Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay. Within town, the ROAM public transit system connects hotels, restaurants, and attractions, and many visitors simply walk along Banff Avenue.
Ski Passes and Ski Rentals
One SkiBig3 lift ticket provides access to all three resorts, giving you the flexibility to ski whichever mountain has the best conditions that day. SkiBig3 is also a partner of both the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective, making it easy for passholders to experience Banff’s incredible terrain.
Before your first ski day, stop by the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub in downtown Banff to rent equipment, purchase lift tickets, or book lessons. One of the biggest conveniences is their hotel delivery service, allowing you to complete your fitting in town while your skis or snowboard are delivered directly to your accommodation. After completing the Trifecta Challenge, return to the Adventure Hub to claim your commemorative award and celebrate skiing all three mountains.
Whether you’re planning your first ski trip to Banff or returning to explore more of the Canadian Rockies, SkiBig3 makes it easy to experience the very best the region has to offer. From the sweeping terrain of Lake Louise and the legendary powder at Sunshine Village to the local charm of Mt. Norquay, each mountain brings something unique to your adventure. Add in unforgettable après, incredible dining, and a stay at one of Banff’s exceptional hotels, and you’ll quickly understand why Banff remains one of North America’s premier ski destinations.
