Banff’s highly anticipated ski season has officially started. On Friday, November 3rd, Mount Norquay and Lake Louise Ski Resort officially opened for the 2023/2024 winter. The combination of cold temperatures, early snow, and help from the snowguns have built enough of a base for Banff’s ski resorts to start turning the lifts.
With 13″ (35cm) of snow in the last week and a base of 17″ (43cm), Friday is Mount Norquay’s earliest opening date since the 19/20 season. Their snow-making team has been taking full advantage of the epic temps this week, and the coverage looks good! They have opened the Cascade chair and Sundance magic carpet, as well as six terrain features in the park.
Lake Louise also opened Friday, a full week ahead of schedule. An announcement on their site posted first thing Friday morning confirmed they would open for the day. Early season tickets are up to 50% off at the window but are subject to change. The Glacier Express Chair opened at 9 AM for Wiwaxy, Bald Eagle, and Easy Street, and the Grizzly Gondola is expected to open on the weekend.
Not to be outdone, Nakiska will be opening the upper mountain on Saturday, November 4th, with lifts running from 10 AM to 5 PM. Watch their website for up-to-date information about conditions and lift statuses.
Expect early-season conditions and limited terrain as the resorts gear up for the full season. That being said, the pictures are looking promising. With more snow in the forecast, it’s an exciting start to the ski season in Banff.
Banff is located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, just a few hours west of Calgary. It’s a popular tourist destination year-round and is a world-renowned ski destination. With three major ski resorts, Mount Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Nakiska, all within close proximity, Banff offers an unparalleled skiing experience. From steep bowls and powder-filled glades to perfectly groomed runs, there’s something for everyone at Banff’s ski resorts.
Not only is the skiing top-notch, but the surrounding scenery is breathtaking. With towering mountains, frozen lakes, and a quaint mountain town atmosphere, Banff is truly a winter wonderland.
