Alberta has long been synonymous with oil and the Calgary Stampede, but after this legendary start to the winter season for SkiBig3, that is likely to change. For the uninitiated, SkiBig3 is the result of a partnership between three world-class ski resorts within Banff National Park: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay.
Together, these three resorts offer almost 8,000 acres of diverse terrain, all on one pass. Located just 90 minutes from Calgary and linked by a complimentary shuttle bus, SkiBig3 is as accessible as it is expansive.
A Record-Breaking Season
What truly sets SkiBig3 apart this year is the insane snowfall. These three resorts average over 30 feet of snowfall annually, and current conditions are already blowing past expectations.
- The 100-Inch Club: Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise are currently the only resorts in Alberta to have surpassed the 100-inch mark this season.
- Buckle Up: A fresh storm cycle is forecasted to dump another 19 inches across the Banff area this weekend.
- What Are You Waiting For? If you are looking for deep powder, expansive terrain, and short lift lines, this is the spot.
With SkiBig3, it is genuinely a dealer’s choice of opportunities made possible by the accessibility and expansiveness of this resort network. To truly appreciate the offerings of this ultimate ski destination, located in the Canadian Rockies, let’s take a deep dive into SkiBig3.
Banff Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort
Located high on the Continental Divide is Banff Sunshine, the Island in the Sky. In and of itself, it is a world-renowned resort. Just this year, Banff Sunshine was ranked #1 by Ski Magazine in “Top 10 Resorts in the West for overall Satisfaction, 2025.” This family-friendly resort offers excellent amenities and breathtaking views from every angle.
With a base elevation of 5,440 feet and maxing out at 8,954 feet at its top elevation, it is no wonder that Banff Sunshine is known for its snow. This year in particular, the snowfall has been especially great. In the past seven days, they received 39 inches of snow, bringing their total to 129 inches this year. With over 360 inches of snow annually, it’s safe to say that Banff Sunshine is looking forward to surpassing that average.
It would be easy for Banff Sunshine to sit back and hang its hat on the snowfall alone, but what really sets it apart is the acreage and terrain. Boasting 3,358 acres of terrain, 130 trails, and 12 lifts, Banff also excels at providing an excellent experience for all. In fact, one reason Ski Magazine ranked it #1 for overall satisfaction is its expansive grooming operation.
With another storm cycle ready to hit, you can guarantee that two things Banff Sunshine will not be lacking anytime soon are snow and good times.
Lake Louise Ski Resort
Next up, but offering even more breathtaking scenery, is Lake Louise, Canada’s Friendly Giant. Just minutes from the village of Lake Louise, and of course connected via complimentary shuttles, enjoy the four mountain faces of this resort. The diversity of its exceptional layout provides terrain for almost every ability level from each chair. With that variety, split up your day going from gentle slopes and long cruising runs, to glades, chutes, and wide open bowls.
Much like its partner resort, Banff, Lake Louise is absolutely massive. With over 4,200 acres of terrain, 164 trails serviced by 12 lifts, you can spend your day hitting every variety and difficulty available here. You can take in some of the beautiful views nature has to offer, with outlooks of mountains, glaciers, lakes, and forests, only Canada’s first National Park has to offer.
Annually, this resort averages 179 inches of snow, but already this year, Lake Louise has recorded 166 inches. In fact, 44.5 inches of snow have fallen in the last week, allowing Lake Louise to be almost fully opened, not even two months into the year.
Mount Norquay Ski Resort
Opened in 1926, Mt. Norquay thrives as the local gem of the SkiBig3 partnership. This resort has long been a training ground for Olympic and World Cup athletes and offers beginner terrain suitable for all. Located on the opposite side of the Town of Banff from Banff Sunshine, you can continue your day after the other two resort lifts stop spinning with night skiing.
While not as large as the other two resorts making up SkiBig3, Mt. Norquay still has plenty of offerings for any skier. It comprises 190 skiable acres of terrain, 60 trails, and is served by six lifts. While Mt. Norquay doesn’t receive as much snowfall as the other two resorts due to its lower elevation, it still averages 120 inches annually.
What makes Mt. Norquay in Banff’s backyard special is not only that it is the original resort in Banff, but also that it has retained its local vibe. Enjoy short lift lines, its historic charm, and accessible skiing for all levels.
It is rare to find world-class slopes, ease of access, and exceptional snowfall all in one package. Since its inception, SkiBig3 has simplified access to three resorts with a single pass. With a surplus of snow already on the ground and more on the way, the choice is simple: why settle for one resort when you can have the best of three?
December 2025 Photos
