Ski the “Big Three” in Banff.Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada offers three world-renowned ski resorts – Sunshine Village, Lake Louise and Norquay. And a Banff vacation rental will let you experience this area in comfort and luxury.
With an average snowfall each year of 30 feet and a lengthy ski season from mid-November to late May, Banff skiing is some of the best skiing in the world. Skiers from across the globe vacation at Banff for its fresh, deep “champagne powder,” meticulously groomed slopes and short lift lines. With its unique terrain, Banff offers something for everyone. From deep and steep bowls to smooth glades, skiers of all levels will find runs to suit their desires.
The best news is that skiers don’t need to choose where to ski, as many ski vacation packages include interchangeable lift tickets for all three resorts.
SunshineVillage.Take a short 15-minute drive from the town of Banff and a brisk ride in a high-speed, eight-person gondola and arrive atop some of the best skiing around. Sunshine Village offers some of the choicest terrain with wide open bowls and breathtaking steeps. With nine major chairlifts and 107 trains, the ski runs are un-crowded and the lines are short.
Ski Norquay.Considered the most family-friendly ski resort of the Banff area, Norquay offers terrain for all levels including well-groomed, wide-open runs. The Snow Sport Center provides ski lessons perfect for novices looking to take the plunge or for intermediate skiers simply looking to sharpen their skills. Additionally, there’s an on-mountain daycare so kids (and their parents) can take a break. Norquay is also the only resort in Banff to feature night skiing every Friday starting in January.
Lake Louise.One of the largest ski areas in North America, Lake Louise is an ideal winter ski vacation destination for large groups and families because all levels of ski runs are accessible from every chair. Novices and intermediate skiers can cruise down gentle slope or long runs, while experts can spend the whole ski season exploring the intense, challenging terrain through its abundant bowls, chutes, glades and gullies.
A winter or summer vacation … off the beaten path.For a winter ski vacation filled with world-class skiing, breathtaking scenery and unmatched hospitality, Banff National Park delivers. Banff, which is nestled in the Canadian Rockies, was established in 1885 as Canada’s first National Park and provides a true vacation getaway among the glacial lakes and high, jagged peaks – indeed one of the most pristine wilderness settings in North America.
Banffski lodging – rest like royalty.Steeped in character, culture and history, a winter ski holiday in Banff makes for a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors can choose from a variety of lodging including the world-famous castle-style hotels, ski-in, ski-out accommodations, spacious condominiums and charming family-owned inns.
BanffNational Park – wonders abound.Banff National Park offers plenty of activities for vacationers looking to take a break from the slopes. From resting in luxurious spas to partaking in more adrenaline pumping pursuits, the Banff area has it all. Non-ski outdoor activities include nature tours, snowshoeing, ice skating, camping, ice climbing and camping.
Additionally, the area offers more than 200 restaurants and bars always guaranteed to provide unmatched service steeped in local charm. Visitors also enjoy strolling through the abundant shops and boutiques offering unique gifts and local treasures.
Banffin the summer.Banff National Park is filled with natural wonders and many choose to spend their vacations at this national park for an experience that is hard to duplicate in other parts of North America.
Summer outdoor activities include:
- Wildlife viewingallowing adventurers to discover the Grizzly Bear in its natural habitat.
- Hikingalong Lake Louise and exploring the glacier trails.
- Heli-hikingto discover natural alpine landscapes and high mountain vistas.
- Rafting,a perfect activity for family summer trips.
- Horseback riding
- ATV tours
- And more!