Alberta is home to some of the best skiing in the world, and the resorts in the Canadian Rockies are a must-visit for any skier or snowboarder.
This itinerary is great for ski and snowboard enthusiasts of all skill levels.
At a glance
- 9 day itinerary
- 1040 km (646 mi) total distance
- 14 hrs 29 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in Calgary
CrossIron Mills
One of the Calgary area’s ultimate shopping destinations, located 10 minutes from the YYC Calgary International Airport and 30 minutes from downtown. There are more than 200 premium and designer outlets to shop here.
WinSport Canada Olympic Park
This year-round attraction was home to many of the events at the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. Practice your skills on the slopes, take on the half-pipe and terrain park, or try out the Servus Tube Park for some easy winter fun.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
After WinSport, drive to Canmore and stay at the Malcolm Hotel.
Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours
Dog sledding has been a winter mode of transportation for centuries. Join your new furry friends and expert guide on a family-friendly, two-hour excursion, or take on an adventurous half-, full- or multi-day expedition. Fun fact: Some of the dogs have even starred in popular TV shows and movies.
Banff Gondola
Who says you need to climb a mountain for epic views? Climb aboard and take a ride 884 m (2,900 ft) up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. You’ll experience 360-degree mountain views from the observation deck, and you can take a stroll along the boardwalk. Grab a bite at Sky Bistro.
Bow Falls
Take an easy winter walk to Bow Falls, located near the famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel—also known as the Castle in the Rockies. Wear footwear with proper grip.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Stop by the Fairmont Banff Springs for cocktails in the Rundle Lounge.
Mt. Norquay
This family-friendly ski resort is ideal for beginners, with plenty of groomed green and blue runs. But there are also steep-and-deep runs for adventure seekers. Plus, it’s the only resort with night skiing in Banff National Park.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
If you’re up for another activity, book a sleigh ride at Warner Stables.
Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort
This world-class ski and snowboard destination is only 15 minutes from the town of Banff, and it offers more than 8,240 acres of skiable terrain. There are more than 130 runs to choose from, or you can hone your skills at the Rogers Terrain Park. Experienced skiers can explore pristine backcountry, too.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
The natural mineral springs were discovered by settlers in 1883, and they’re one of the top attractions in the Canadian Rockies among locals and visitors alike. Relax after a day of skiing surrounded by stunning views.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Enjoy dinner at Farm & Fire in downtown Banff.
Lake Louise Ski Resort
Take on 4,200 acres of world-class skiable terrain and more than 145 runs. You can access beginner, intermediate and expert runs from all nine lifts at the resort, and you won’t want to miss some of the gourmet dining on-site when you need a break.
Fairmont Château Lake Louise
Skate on one of the world’s most beautiful ice rinks. The scene looks straight out of a postcard. Bring your own skates or rent a pair from the Fairmont Château Lake Louise.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Wrap up your evening with dinner at the Fairview Bar & Restaurant.
Jasper Food Tours
Sample delicious food on the Downtown Foodie Tour, presented by Jasper Food Tours. The 1.5-km (0.9-mi) walk stops at four different restaurants. The tour lasts approximately three hours, and you’ll get to learn about Jasper’s unique history while you dine.
Maligne Canyon Ice Walk
Strap on some ice cleats and explore the deepest canyons in Jasper National Park. Walk through a winter wonderland of frozen waterfalls and natural ice sculptures. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Jasper Planetarium & Telescope Experience
Did you know Jasper National Park is also a dark sky preserve? Enjoy an evening of cosmic exploration, first in the domed planetarium theatre and then take a peek through a telescope to see the wonders above.
Marmot Basin
This family-friendly resort offers 91 runs on four mountain faces that are almost an even split between different skill levels. Marmot also offers children’s programming and one of the longest ski seasons in Canada.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Have an après-ski snack at the Caribou Chalet at the base of Marmot Basin.
Lake Louise Ski Resort
Explore more of the resort and revisit some of your favourite runs. Or try activities like the tube park, sightseeing gondola or snowshoe tours. Don’t forget about après ski, a favourite pastime of anyone who visits Alberta ski resorts.
Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort
Choose between spending more time on the epic slopes or opting for other activities at the resort. The sightseeing chairlift offers 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies, or you can take a scenic snowshoe adventure to Sunshine Meadows.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Stay overnight in the heart of Banff at the Elk + Avenue Hotel.
Mt. Norquay
Slide down the longest tube lanes in Alberta. Snow tubing is tons of fun for all ages, and you don’t even have to climb the hill afterward – let the magic carpet do all the work for you. There’s even nighttime tubing on select days – check in advance.
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