The Canadian Rockies are a true winter wonderland, with Banff and Lake Louise at the heart of all things snow, ice and entertainment.
A trip to Banff National Park means jaw dropping wilderness, adventure and hospitality – all at your mittentips.
1. Winter wonderland activities
The magic of winter lives at Banff and Lake Louise.
Walk through frozen canyons, strap on some snowshoes, be pulled on a dog or horse powered sled or sleigh.
Recline in hot pools, catch fish through the ice, tube, tour via snowmobile, or give ice hockey a whirl on a frozen pond.
Heli-tours, ice-skating, wildlife safaris – if you’re ever going to make the most of a winter escape, this is the place to do it.
2. Three mountains, one lift pass
Imagine having access to 8,000 acres of skiable terrain across three mountains on one lift ticket. At Banff and Lake Louise – that is the reality.
SkiBig3 brings together Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt Norquay – three world class resorts in one national park.
From friendly groomers to challenging, steep terrain – snow bunnies can find fresh new runs everyday.
3. Powder days for days
Three ski resorts in one national park would be useless without the snowfall to enjoy – and Banff does not disappoint.
An average of 30 feet of famously dry powder snow hits the region annually, ensuring not only powder days for days – but one of the longest seasons in North America, too.
4. There are off slope festivities aplenty
Festivals, parades, markets and sporting events add another unique dimension to a holiday in Banff National Park.
From Santa’s annual visit, to craft beer exposés, outdoor ice carving exhibitions and ice hockey competitions – it is a Canadian cultural melting pot.
5. It’s a world heritage site
Banff National Park is one of seven which comprise the Canadian Rockies – an area so resplendent it is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The stunningly rugged mountain landscapes are filled with icefields, glaciers, alpine meadows, lakes, waterfalls and canyons.
But they are also filled with some of the most significant glacial processes and fossils in the world.
Millions of years old, the unique rock formations provide key evidence for the history and early evolution of most of the world’s animal groups.
6. Poutine & mountain cuisine
Fried potato, cheese curd and gravy (Poutine) is a rite of passage for any Canadian-bound traveller – but Banff and Lake Louise cater for more refined palates, too.
Proudly farm to table and glacier to glass, local cuisine here is just that: Local. Ingredients are sourced from nearby and restaurants are award winning.
Late evening entertainment is also catered for with pubs, bars and even a saloon to fuel the Apres (and post-Apres) crowds.
Correct spelling for Apres
7. Three mountains, three days
New guided 1 and 3 day adventures for the 2017/2018 season allows skiers and boarders to experience the mountains like the locals do.
Suited for intermediate and above skill levels, qualified snow guides will show you the ins and outs of all three ski resorts.
There is no knowledge like local knowledge, meaning you’ll not only leave with a few new tricks and better form – but the best memories (and photos) of the best of Banff and Lake Louise.
8. Accommodation options aplenty
Five star luxury? A chalet for the family? Or how about a hostel atmosphere? Self-contained apartment? Cosy bed and breakfast?
All levels of a-comm are catered for here: Join the hustle and bustle of the Banff town centre, or escape to a backcountry lodge – the choice is yours, and there are plenty of them.
9. Fly in, fly out
Flying directly to Canada is a breeze – with regular connections to Calgary. Upon arrival, regular shuttle buses provide a scenic 90-minute transfer to Banff National Park or you can choose a rental car option.
10. Exchange rate delight
The Kiwi and Australian dollars go far in Canada, providing even more excuse to pack your winter woollies and head to North America.
The competitive rate means you will be able to experience the best of Banff National Park and keep a few dollars in your pocket. There is also no sales tax in Alberta – which is very convenient when it comes to retail therapy.
