A COMPLETE Guide to Skiing in Alberta (2023-24 Season)

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last Updated on October 30, 2023

Rejoice! The snowy season is upon us once again. 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. Besides the amazing landscapes Alberta and the Canadian Rocky Mountains offer, skiers and snowboarders will find some of the best ski resorts and powder in the world.

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 seven 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.

Alberta Ski Resorts

Banff Ski Resorts

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

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

Banff Sunshine Village is one of Alberta and Canada’s most popular ski resorts. It’s famous for the crazy amounts of snow (average snowfall is over 9 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: 139
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 mountain peaks. Almost hidden from sight are Delirium Dive and the Wild West, two of the steepest and most technical lift-access zones in Canada. These advanced skier 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 and live webcams.

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

Half-day, multi-day, and a full-season pass can also be purchased online in advance. You can also purchase mobile tickets that will save you a few dollars. Avid skiers can also purchase the Sunshine Super Card, which will get you three free days of skiing throughout the season and discounts in November and May.

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 eight restaurants to choose from and three 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

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 to Lake Louise Ski Resort: The Lake Louise Ski Resort is approximately 40 minutes (60 km 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: 164
Number of lifts: 10 (1 gondola, 7 chairs, 3 conveyors)

The recently added 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 sides to explore. Installed last season was the Juniper Express Chair, the third base area lift to get skiers up the mountain faster! Plus, a new beginner and intermediate area and plans to build another high-speed quad chair.

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

Lift Tickets: Lake Louise lift tickets or a Lake Louise season pass can be purchased online or directly at the resort. Note that there are discounts for the early season pricing, so get out there now!

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. There are plenty of options for dining and apres-ski at Lake Louise Ski Resort. There are eight 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.

If skiing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other things to do in Lake Louise. 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!

Mount Norquay Ski Resort

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: Mt Norquay Ski Resort is the closest ski resort to the Banff townsite – being only 6 km 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: 6 (1 high-speed quad, 2 fixed grip quads, 1 double chair, 2 surface chairs)

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. Check out the latest Norquay snow report for the latest weather and ski conditions.

Lift Tickets: Norquay lift tickets or a Norquay ski pass can be purchased online or directly at the resort. Half-day tickets, night skiing, or a full-season pass can also be purchased online.

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 eight 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?

Jasper National Park Ski Resorts

Marmot Basin

There’s something special about skiing at Marmot Basin; it’s one of the best mountains for skiing in Alberta. Besides 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 five different mountain faces, there is surely a run for every skill level of skier. The resort also boasts of 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. Unfortunately, there is no shuttle from the Jasper townsite to Marmot Basin, but there are taxis (Caribou Cabs and Mountain Express Taxi) that can get you to the resort. During the ski season, there are also daily shuttle options from Edmonton to Marmot Basin.

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. Also, check out the latest Marmot Basin snow report for the latest weather and ski conditions, along with live webcams.

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

Be sure to check out the Marmot Escape Card and save 50% off regular-price Adult, Senior, Student and Youth lift tickets every day, all season, with no blackout dates. It’s touted as the best ski & snowboard deal in the Canadian Rockies.

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 three 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)

It’s all about the location of 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 mountain 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 are Canmore (56km away) and Banff (81km away). Note that there are no shuttles to the resort, so it’s best to plan your own transportation.

Number of runs: 79
Number of lifts: 6 (3 high-speed quad chairs, 1 double chair, 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 be purchased online or directly at the hill. Note that the price may vary based on the day you want to ski.

Other Amenities: If you plan on skiing at Nakiska and spending a night, we recommend staying 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 five 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. 

Are you 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)

In 1965, the T-bar lift and Swiss-style lodge were built on Castle Mountain. Fifty 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 Airport (YQL). From Calgary, it’s 244km or about a two and half hour’s drive. Head south towards Pincher Creek, 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: 94+
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. Check out the latest Castle Mountain snow report for the latest weather and ski conditions, along with live webcams.

Lift Tickets: Castle Mountain lift tickets or a multi-day Castle Mountain ski pass can be purchased online (and you can save up to 20% by doing so!) or directly at the resort. Note that higher prices may be charged depending on the day of the week.

Consider the Wonders of Winter (WOW) card that will save you plenty of money. Cardholders receive unlimited 50% off days, with no blackouts, at Castle Mountain Resort. The cards are on sale until December 24, or quantities run out.

Buying a lift ticket online seven 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. In addition, 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 other than skiing, guided snowshoeing tours (with a $10 pub credit included) are offered, or bring your camera along for a scenic snow-cat tour.

Pass Powderkeg Ski Resort (Crowsnest Pass)

Nestled in the heart of the Crowsnest Pass, Pass Powderkeg mountain is a 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. Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Lethbridge Airport (YQL) are nearest airports. From Calgary, head southwest for a scenic 220km drive which will take 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 be purchased online or directly at the resort. 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 Pass 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 that offer up a fun day! Here are some of the most popular spots:

Calgary Olympic Park – Winsport (Calgary)

There is good skiing in Calgary at WinSport (formerly 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 (lessons are available) to the high-performance athlete, the 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 carpets)

On their website, you will find a downloadable WinSport trail map along with the Calgary Olympic Park snow report.

Lift Tickets: Winsport lift tickets or a Winsport annual ski pass can be purchased online or directly at the resort. Prices may vary from the below depending on the day you go.

Other Amenities: There are no on-site accommodations at WinSport, but there are plenty of options for 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 refuelled.

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

Rabbit Hill Snow Resort (Edmonton)

In the scenic 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 km southwest of Edmonton. The resort is just north of Highway 19 and is accessible by several different routes.

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: Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the ski hill. 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 check out this article on Edmonton hotels to get ideas. There is a cafeteria on-site for food and beverage options to have a quick bite to eat so you can refuel and get back on the slopes.

Snow Valley Ski Hill (Edmonton)

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 Whitemud Drive and can be accessed from either the east or west end of Edmonton.

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

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

Lift Tickets: Both lift tickets and season passes can be purchased online or at the resort.

Other Amenities: There are no accommodations at the Snow Valley Ski Area, but plenty of options to stay in Alberta’s capital city (see our guide to the best Edmonton hotels to stay at). 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)

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 three 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)

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

Lift Tickets: Canyon lift tickets and ski passes can be purchased online or directly at the resort. 

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 nearby (and lots of things to do in Red Deer as well). For food and beverage, there is a rustic lodge, a cafeteria and a 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)

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. A daily shuttle 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 ski passes can be purchased online or directly at the resort. 

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 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 the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Be sure to have a warm winter coat, snow pants, gloves, and a cool toque (wool hat).