A Complete Guide to Skiing in Alberta

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on November 15, 2020

Feature photo provided by Travel Alberta credit John Price @johnpricephotography

Downhill (alpine) skiing in Alberta is some of the best in the world and many people from far and wide plan their vacations here around the activity. Apart from the amazing landscapes Alberta offers, skiers will find some of the best powder along with luxurious on-hill ski-in/out resorts. The most difficult decision visitors have to make is choosing which resort they’ll visit. This guide will answer all your questions about skiing in Alberta and give top recommendations for ski hills and resorts throughout the province.

Alberta Ski Season

Having 7 months of winter certainly helps Alberta’s ski situation. Skiing in Alberta typically starts in November and ends in May, but it all depends on the snowfall. There have been seasons when the snow comes early and ends late. With the high elevation in the Rocky Mountains, the deep snow base can stick around.

Where to Ski in Alberta

Skiing in Alberta: Banff

There are 3 main resorts within Banff National Park: Sunshine Village, Mount Norquay and Lake Louise Ski Resort. They are marketed together as the Big 3 and are all world-class ski resorts.

The closest airport to Banff National Park is Calgary International Airport and the driving time from there is approximately 90 minutes. There are also plenty of shuttles and other options to make the journey – see our complete guide to getting from Calgary to Banff to plan the trip.

Sunshine Village Ski Resort

Status: Open for 2020/2021 season

Banff Sunshine Village is one of the most popular ski resorts in Alberta and Canada. It’s famous for the crazy amounts of snow (annual average over 10 metres) and three different mountains with ski runs.

Getting here: From the Banff townsite, it’s only a 15-minute drive west to Sunshine Village, just follow the signs right from Highway 1. Be sure to arrive early as the parking lot at the base of the resort gets packed. If you are not driving, there are shuttle options from Banff Village.

Number of runs: 120
Number of lifts: 12 (One 8 person gondola, 7 high speed quads, 2 fixed-grip quads, and 2 beginner conveyors)

Sunshine’s terrain is wide open and it feels like there is an endless amount of terrain spread across three mountains. Almost hidden from sight are Delirium Dive and the Wild West, two of the steepest and technical lift-access zones in Canada. These expert-only areas require users to wear an avalanche transceiver, carry both a shovel and probe, and ski with a partner.

This map of Sunshine Village will give you an idea of how big the resort is. As it is one of the biggest resorts in Canada, there will surely be something for everyone and every skill level. To know the latest ski conditions, check out the most current Sunshine snow report along with live webcams.

Lift Tickets: Sunshine Village lift tickets or a Sunshine Village Ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort.

• Adult Full Day: $127
• Senior Full Day: $99
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $99
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $49

Half-day, multi-day, and a full season pass can also be purchased online in advance.

Other Amenities: It’s possible to plan your whole ski vacation at Sunshine Village. Staying at Banff’s only mountain top hotel, guests at Sunshine Mountain Lodge are treated to extraordinary luxury and breathtaking scenery atop the Canadian Rockies. There are 8 restaurants to choose from and 3 different coffee bars. And the activities don’t stop at skiing! Enjoy the outdoor hot tub, take a pair of snowshoes and go hiking in the Banff back-country, or unwind at the Verde Day Spa.

Lake Louise Ski Resort

Status: Open for 2020/2021 season

Please be aware of the Lake Louise Ski Resort safety protocols for 2020/2021.

Lake Louise Ski Resort was voted 2018 World’s Best Family Ski Resort for good reason. With four mountain faces to cruise down, skiers can explore gentle slopes to long chutes. For the experienced skier, it can be some of the most challenging terrain in the Canadian Rockies.

Getting here: The Lake Louise Ski Resort is approximately 40 minutes (60 kms or 36 miles) west of the town of Banff. If driving, you will need to take Highway 1 west from Banff and follow the signs from the highway. There are also shuttle and bus options which will take you directly to the resort from Banff.

Number of runs: 143
Number of lifts: 10 (1 gondola, 6 chairs, 3 conveyors)

New to Lake Louise in 2020, West Bowl adds to the wide-open alpine-style terrain available to expert skiers, but Whitehorn still offers the biggest terrain on the mountain. Beginner and intermediate skiers have few limitations at Lake Louise, with runs accessible on the front and back side to explore.

Here is where to find the latest Lake Louise map for over 4000 acres of ski terrain across 4 mountain faces. To know the latest ski conditions, check out the Lake Louise snow report along with webcams for the latest views.

Lift Tickets: Lake Louise lift tickets or a Lake Louise ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort.

• Adult Full Day: $118
• Senior Full Day: $95
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $95
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $38

A full season pass can be purchased online or consider a Lake Louise Plus Card which can get you crazy good discounts.

Other Amenities: Although there is no hotel or accommodations at the ski resort, there are plenty of places to stay in Lake Louise Village. For dining and apres-ski there are plenty of options at Lake Louise Ski Resort. There are 8 different cafes, pubs, and base area dining options including the Powder Keg Lounge for cold beers and Kuma Yama for an in-lodge sushi bar. For a more intimate dining experience, be sure to try the Whitehorn Bistro for its upscale menu and beautiful mountain views.

There are plenty of other activities to take part in at Lake Louise if skiing isn’t your thing. Grab your camera and go for a beautiful scenic guided snowshoe tour. Take the gondola up the mountain for a scenic view of the Lake Louise valley. Or for some real snow thrills, try the sunny tube park.

Mt Norquay Ski Resort

Status: Open for 2020/2021 season

Please be aware of the Norquay Ski Resort COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

Since the 1930’s skiers have given the thumbs up to Norquay ski resort. It’s known as the “locals” ski hill and boasts unbeatable views of Banff from above. There are hills for every skill level and has been voted as one of the best hills to learn how to alpine ski.

Getting here: Norquay Ski Resort is the closest ski resort to the Banff townsite – being only 6 kms away, it’s a quick 7-minute drive up the mountain. There is also a free shuttle to Norquay from various hotels in Banff that will bring you and your equipment to the resort.

Number of runs: 60
Number of lifts: 5 (1 high speed quad, 2 fixed grip quads, 1 double chair, 1 surface chair)

In the spring, Mt Norquay catches the upslope storms that bring snow into the Bow Valley. Because it’s smaller than its two Ski Big 3 counterparts, it often goes unnoticed. Catching fresh tracks in the steep terrain off the top of the North American chairlift is something of a rite of passage for Bow Valley residents. The rest of the mountain has great beginner and intermediate terrain and lift lines are extremely rare.

Check out this interactive Norquay ski map for over 190 acres of ski terrain in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. For the latest weather and ski conditions, check out the latest Norquay snow report.

Lift Tickets: Norquay lift tickets or a Norquay ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort.

• Adult Full Day: $93
• Senior Full Day: $72
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $72
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $37

Half-day tickets, night skiing, or a full season pass can be purchased online as well.

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations at the Norquay ski resort, but being so close to the townsite there are plenty of options for places to stay in Banff. Food options are never a concern at Norquay with four different spots to refuel. Our recommendation is the Cliffhouse Bistro: a transformed tea-house with a retro look of a Euro chalet and boasts one of the most scenic spots in the Rockies for a bite to eat.

There’s plenty more to the Norquay than just skiing. Rent a pair of snowshoes and head off on one of five marked trails into the backcountry for deep powder and stunning views. Or if you are seeking a little fun and thrill, rip down the mountain on a snow tube. There are 8 lanes for tubing and it’s the biggest snow tube park in Alberta. Finally, if you are just wanting to capture an incredible view, then why not take advantage of a Norquay sightseeing ticket and take in the fresh mountain air and a bird’s eye view of Banff townsite.

Skiing in Alberta: Jasper

Marmot Basin

Status: Open for 2020/2021 season

Please be aware of the Marmot Basin health and safety guidelines for 2020/2021.

There’s something special about skiing at Marmot Basin; it’s one of the best mountains for skiing in Alberta. Apart from being the highest base elevation of any Canadian ski area, skiers are treated to a pristine, uncrowded feel. With over 1,700 acres of skiable terrain on 5 different mountain faces, there is surely a run for every skill level of skier. The resort also boasts for having the longest high-speed quad chair in the Canadian Rockies stretching 2.3 kilometres long.

Getting here: Marmot Basin Ski Resort is 21km from the Jasper townsite. If you’re not driving, there are shuttles from every hotel that will take you and your equipment directly to the ski resort. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for the shuttle and it’s $7 one way and $14 for a return trip. There are also daily shuttle options from Edmonton to Marmot Basin during the ski season.

If you are starting your journey from Alberta’s capital city, be prepared for up to a five hour trip to Jasper. There are plenty of options to get you there, and you can start planning your trip by reading our guide on getting from Edmonton to Jasper.

Number of runs: 91
Number of lifts: 7 (4 quad chairs, 1 triple chair, 1 double chair, 1 Magic Carpet)

Beginner and intermediate skiers will truly appreciate Marmot Basin’s varied terrain. Every lift accesses at least one green or blue run and few resorts can match the length and variety of this terrain. Expert skiers aiming to get off-piste will appreciate Tres Hombres, a 45-acre bowl accessed by the Paradise Chair; Eagles East, accessed by the Eagle Ridge Chair; or Charlie’s bowl, found atop the Knob Chair.

You will find a detailed Marmot Basin map along with all the information about what runs are operational on their website. For the latest weather and ski conditions along with live webcams, check out the latest Marmot Basin snow report.

Lift Tickets: Marmot Basin lift tickets or a full season Marmot Basin ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort.

• Adult Full Day: $105
• Senior Full Day: $85
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $85
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $37.50

There are also half-day options and multi-day passes that offer a discount for multiple days of skiing.

Other Amenities: There is no lodging at the Marmot Basin Ski Resort, but there are plenty of options for accommodations in Jasper.

Finding a bite to eat at Marmot Basin is easy with 3 different chalets to refuel and get you back out on the slopes. There is also a store on-site in case you forget a necessary piece of gear and need to buy something.

Other Popular Mountain Skiing in Alberta

Nakiska Ski Resort (Kananaskis)

Status: Open for 2020/2021 Season

Please be aware of the Nakiska COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

It’s all about the location for the Nakiska Ski Area. Nestled in Kananaskis Country, it’s a unique ski resort, not being near a ski town. The ski hill was built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, and the hill is well known for its long ski seasons and immaculately groomed trails. 

Getting here: Arriving at Nakiska by car is easy. From Calgary, it’s 83km away by taking Highway 1 west, turning south on Highway 40, and then following the signs to the resort. The nearest towns to Nakiska is Canmore (56km away) then Banff (81km away). Note that there are no shuttles to the resort so it’s best to plan your own transportation.

Number of runs: 64
Number of lifts: 6 (4 chairs, 2 carpets)

Here is a detailed Nakiska map giving you all the information about the runs and which are operational. For the latest weather and ski conditions along with live webcams, check out the latest Nakisa snow report.

Lift Tickets: Nakiska lift tickets or a Nakiska ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the hill. 

• Adult Full Day: $89
• Senior Full Day: $71
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $67
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $36

A full season pass can be purchased online as well. 

Other Amenities: If you plan on skiing at Nakiska and are going to spend a night, we would recommend a stay at the world-class Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. The lodge is right next door to the ski resort making it easy to get back and forth from the ski hill.

There are 5 different dining options at the Nakiska ski area. Depending on your mood, you can grab a quick bite at the cafeteria or enjoy a burger and beer at the Finish Line Lounge. 

Not planning on skiing? You can rent a pair of snowshoes and play in all the snow. There are options to take a tour or head off and explore on your own. For some winter fun, be sure to check out the Wanidu Tube park to cruise down the hill.

Castle Mountain Ski Resort (Castle Provincial Park)

Status: Open for 2020/2021 Season

Please be aware of the Castle Mountain Ski Resort COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

In 1965, the T-bar lift and Swiss-style lodge were built on Castle Mountain. 50 years later Castle Mountain Resort is the most popular ski resort offering exciting terrain that many southern Albertans have enjoyed for years. With the opening of Mount Haig in 2005, Castle Mountain offers fantastic ski options to a wide range of skiers.

Getting here: The nearest airports to fly into are Calgary International Airport (YYC) or Lethbridge International Airport (YQL). From Calgary it’s 244km or about a 2 and half hour drive. Head south towards Pincher Creek and turn into Pincher Creek and simply follow the signs to Castle Provincial Park. Here are detailed instructions to arrive at Castle Mountain ski resort. Note that there are no shuttles that run to Castle Mountain Resort.

Number of runs: 95
Number of lifts: 6 (2 triple chairs, 2 double chairs, 1 t-bar, 1 magic carpet)

You will find all trail and resort info on the Castle Mountain map along with all the information about what runs are operational. For the latest weather and ski conditions along with live webcams, check out the latest Castle Mountain snow report.

Lift Tickets: Castle Mountain lift tickets or a multi-day Castle Mountain ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort. 

• Adult Full Day: $99.95
• Senior Full Day: $84.95
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $74.95
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $39.95

Buying a lift ticket online 7 days in advance will get you a discount and there are options to buy a Castle Mountain full season pass as well. 

Other Amenities: There are options to stay at Castle Mountain Ski Resort including the Castle Ski Lodge which has ski-in-ski-out condos. There are also multiple bed and breakfasts nearby. Castle has dining options at the resort including a pub for apres-ski, a cafe, and a cafeteria.

One unique activity Castle Ski Resort offers is cat-skiing. The cat will give skiers access to more than 900 acres of terrain and some of the best snow in North America. And for something else to do other than skiing, there are guided snowshoeing tours (with a $10 pub credit included) offered, or bring your camera along for a scenic snow-cat tour.

Pass Powderkeg Ski Resort (Crowsnest Pass)

Status: Open for 2020-2021 Season

Please be aware of the Pass Powderkeg COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

Nestled in the heart of the Crowsnest Pass, Pass Powderkeg mountain is the little mountain that is big enough to offer trails for all difficulty levels. Since 1938, everything about Pass Powderkeg has remained authentic, including the beloved T-bars, bringing big smiles to all its visitors. One of the best things about Pass Powderkeg is one of the longest night skiing runs in Canada and a Terrain Park for everyone to play under the stars.

Getting here: Pass Powderkeg is situated in the town of Blairmore, AB in the middle of the Crowsnest Pass. The nearest airports are Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Lethbridge International Airport. From Calgary head south west for a scenic 220km drive which will take you approximately 2 ½ hours.

Number of runs: 27
Number of lifts: 3

For information on all the trails be sure to visit the Pass Powderkeg trail map and for the latest conditions and open runs visit the up to date Pass Powderkeg snow report. You can also see the live conditions on the ski hill’s webcam.

Lift Tickets: Pass Powderkeg lift tickets or a PassPowderkeg ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort.

• Adult Full Day: $49.99
• Senior Full Day: $39.99
• Youth (age 7-17) Full Day: $39.99
• Child (age 0-6) Full Day: $14.99

There are also discounts for half-days, night skiing and during the week.

*Note Pass Powderkeg ski area is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations directly at the ski resort, but there are plenty of places to stay nearby. We recommend either the York Creek Bed and Breakfast or Country Encounters Accommodations.

Be sure not to miss the restaurant at Pass Powderkeg. After a full day of skiing, visitors can relax in the lodge soaking in the spectacular mountain views to go with their meal. From comfort foods (be sure to try the brussel sprouts!) to more adventurous options, there is something on the menu for everyone.

Although the ski resort offers no extra activities, there are plenty of options for things to do in the Crowsnest area including hiking and snowshoeing.

Popular Non-Mountain Skiing in Alberta

Not all skiing in Alberta has to be in the mountains. There are plenty of options which offer up a fun day. Here are some of the most popular spots:

Calgary Olympic Park – Winsport (Calgary)

Status: Open for 2020-2021 Season

Please be aware of the WinSport Ski Area COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

There is good skiing in Calgary at WinSport (otherwise known as Canada Olympic Park). The ski area also offers an array of winter sports catering to all ability levels including a terrain park boasting a half-pipe that is a replica of what is used in the Winter Olympics. From the beginner to the high performance athlete, WinSport ski area presents a fun day of skiing for everyone.

Getting here: Located on the west side of Calgary along the Trans Canada Trail (highway 1), WinSport is easy to access from any point in the city. 

Number of runs: 13
Number of lifts: 8 (2 chairlifts, 4 T-bars, 2 magic carpet)

You will find a downloadable WinSport trail map along with Calgary Olympic Park snow report on their website.

Lift Tickets: Winsport or COP lift tickets or a Winsport annual ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort. 

• Adult Full Day: TBD
• Senior Full Day: TBD
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: TBD
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: TBD

Other Amenities: There are no on-site accommodations at WinSport, but there are plenty of options of hotels nearby and we recommend the Sheraton Four Points West. For food and beverage, there is a cafeteria at WinSport to make sure skiers are refueled.

If you’re looking for something other than skiing to do at WinSport, there are a variety of activities including a tube park.

Rabbit Hill Snow Resort (Edmonton)

Status: Open for 2020-2021 Season

Please be aware of the Rabbit Hill COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

In the scenic Edmonton North Saskatchewan river valley is Rabbit Hill Snow Resort. The resort is Edmonton’s largest local ski and snowboard area with over 40 acres of ski and snowboard trails.

Getting here: Rabbit Hill Snow Resort is located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Edmonton. The resort is just north of Highway 19 and is accessible by a number of different routes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rabbit Hill Snow Resort (@skirabbithill)

Number of runs: 9 + 2 terrain parks
Number of lifts: 3 (1 chairlift, 2 T-bars) + 3 ropes and 2 magic carpets

View the latest Rabbit Hill snow conditions and trail map to plan your visit.

Lift Tickets: Rabbit Hill lift tickets or a Rabbit Hill ski pass for 2021 MUST be purchased online. 

• Adult Full Day: $45
• Senior (age 55-69) Full Day: $17
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $42
• Child (age 7-12) Full Day: $37

There are also discounts for half days, students, and super seniors (age 70+). A full season pass can be purchased online as well. 

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations at Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, but plenty of options to stay nearby in both Edmonton and Leduc. For food and beverage options there is a cafeteria on-site to have a quick bite to eat so you can refuel and get back on the slopes.

Snow Valley Ski Hill (Edmonton)

Status: Open for 2020-2021 season

Please be aware of the Snow Valley Ski Hill COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

The Snow Valley Ski Hill is a small ski resort in the west end of Edmonton. It offers Edmontonians and visitors a decent option to get out and ski without leaving the city. 

Getting here: The ski hill is located right off the Whitemud drive and can be accessed from either the east or west end of Edmonton.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Snow Valley Edmonton (@snowvalleyski)

Number of runs: 8
Number of lifts: 4 (1 quad chair, 1 triple chair, 2 magic carpets)

You can find the latest Snow Valley ski conditions, trail information and live webcams on their website.

Lift Tickets: Snow Valley lift tickets or a Snow Valley ski pass for 2021 MUST be purchased online in advance.

• Adult Full Day: $35
• Senior (age 65+) Full Day: $25
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $35
• Child (age 7-12) Full Day: $25

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations at the Snow Valley Ski Area but plenty of options to stay in the Edmonton area. The Lodge at Snow Valley is a beautiful setting with tall walls of glass overlooking Edmonton’s Rainbow Valley which offers food and beverage options to its visitors.

Canyon Ski Resort (Red Deer)

Status: Open for 2020-2021 season

Please be aware there are COVID-19 precautions at Canyon Ski Resort for 2020/2021.

Being Alberta’s largest non-mountain ski area, Canyon Ski Resort has 80 acres of skiable terrain. The resort is sure to offer challenges for any level of skier and is winter fun for everyone, plus they offer night skiing 3 times per week.

Getting here: The Canyon Ski Resort is located 8 minutes east of Red Deer. There are no shuttles that run to the resort but there is a bus that runs there.

Number of runs: 23
Number of lifts: 6 (1 triple chair, 1 double chair, 2 T-bars, 1 tow, 1 magic carpet)

You will find all the latest Canyon Ski conditions here along with trail information, and the latest forecast and live webcams on their website.

Lift Tickets: Canyon lift tickets or a Canyon ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort. 

• Adult Full Day: $48
• Senior Full Day: $30
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $37
• Infant (age 5 and under) Full Day: $15

Family lift tickets and half-day tickets can also be purchased in advance online.

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations on site at Canyon Ski Resort but there are plenty of options to stay in Red Deer. For food and beverage there is a rustic lodge, a cafeteria and cozy lounge for apres-ski beers. 

In addition to skiing, a popular attraction at the resort is the two lane (groomed) tube park with a dedicated tubing lift offering lots of fun.

Hidden Valley Ski Resort (Elkwater / Cypress Hills)

Status: Opening December 12 for 2020-2021

Please be aware of the Hidden Valley Ski Resort COVID-19 policy for 2020/2021.

Winter fun is what Hidden Valley Ski Resort is all about! Nestled in the Cypress Hills Provincial Park, Hidden Valley Ski Resort is a unique Alpine Resort. 

Getting here: Hidden Valley Ski Resort is 65km southeast of Medicine Hat and in the heart of Cypress Hills Provincial Park. There is a daily shuttle that operates from the Medicine Hat Lodge for $15 return or free with a season pass.

Number of runs: 8
Number of lifts: 4 (1 Quad Chair, 1 T-Bar, 1 Tow and 1 Magic Carpet)

You can find the latest Hidden Valley snow report, weather forecast, trail conditions and live webcams on their website.

Lift Tickets: Hidden Valley lift tickets or a Hidden Valley ski pass can either be purchased online or directly at the resort. 

• Adult Full Day: $40
• Senior Full Day: $35
• Youth (age 13-17) Full Day: $35
• Child (age 6-12) Full Day: $30

There are also multi-day and half-day discounts available for purchase online.

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations on-site at Hidden Valley Ski Resort but there is an option to stay at the beautiful Elkwater Lake Lodge or the Reesor Ranch which are both in the Provincial Park. For food, the Hidden Valley Lodge has a cafe, brown bag lunch areas and the Snowflake Lounge to make sure the skiers are fed and hydrated.

There are plenty of activities to take part in within the provincial park and close to the ski hill including snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating and fishing.

Skiing in Alberta: Equipment Rentals

If you plan on skiing in Alberta and need equipment, you can rent ski and snowboard equipment at any of the ski resorts. Although it is much more economical to either bring your own or rent equipment from the city and bring it to the slopes. Here are some popular spots in the cities and towns to rent equipment:

• Calgary – Sports Rent
• Edmonton – Pacesetter Ski and Snowboard
• Lethbridge and Castle – Alpenland
• Canmore – GearUp Mountain Sports
• Banff – SkiBig3
• Jasper – Totem Ski Shop

Also, don’t forget to dress for the elements as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Be sure to have a warm winter coat, snow pants, gloves, and a cool toque (wool hat).

Sharing is caring!