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Canada’s rugged landscapes are not only beautiful to behold, but they make for incredible natural playgrounds for winter sports enthusiasts. Home to some of the world’s most renowned ski resorts, Canada offers a wide-range of terrain and outdoor experiences for skiers and snowboarders alike. Among them, Jasper, Banff, Lake Louise, and Whistler are iconic destinations that promise unforgettable winter adventures in Canada. Get a taste of each of these as you plan your winter ski getaway to Canada.
Canada’s Best Ski Destinations
Jasper: Where Serenity Meets Adventure
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is a haven for those seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Located in Jasper National Park, and just 20 minutes from Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Marmot Basin boasts more than 1,720 acres (696 hectares) of skiable terrain over 5 mountain faces, featuring 91 trails, 3,000 feet (914 m) of vertical, and 2 terrain parks. Marmot Basin has a variety of terrain for every type of skier, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging bowls for the more advanced.
After a day on the slopes, the town of Jasper welcomes you with its cozy charm that comes in the way of local boutiques, great restaurants, and a warm, welcoming community. Discover more about skiing in Jasper National Park.
Banff: A Winter Wonderland
Banff National Park, just a short drive from Jasper, captures visitors with its pristine wilderness and postcard-worthy vistas. Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay feature a combined 8,000 acres (3237 hectares) of skiable terrain and 4,800 feet (1,463 m) of vertical. The sheer variety and expanse of terrain, coupled with jaw-dropping views of glaciers and turquoise lakes, make skiing here a truly unique experience. Can’t-miss adventures include Sunshine Village’s First Tracks experience and Mt. Norquay’s night skiing on Friday and Saturday nights. Now that’s how you start and end an incredible day of skiing in the Canadian Rockies.
Note that Mt. Norquay offers a ski shuttle to and from Fairmont Banff Springs, while Sunshine Village offers a ski shuttle to and from Fairmont Banff Springs and The Rimrock Resort Hotel.
Bonus: The town of Banff offers a lively atmosphere with its melting pot of great restaurants, après-ski bars, and vibrant arts scene. Discover more about skiing at Mt. Norquay and Sunshine Village.
Lake Louise: Where Beauty Knows No Bounds
Located 35 miles (57 km) northwest of Banff, Lake Louise has earned its name as Canada’s “diamond in the wilderness.” Its frozen lake, flanked by towering peaks on one end, and home to the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise on the other, provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Lake Louise Ski Resort offers a world-class skiing experience, with 4,200 acres (1,700 hectares) of skiable terrain and 3,250 feet (990 m) of vertical across 4 mountain faces. Like Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort offers a First Tracks experience for skiers and riders to get fresh morning tracks.
Skiers and non-skiers alike can take the gondola to Lake Louise Resort’s summit for stunning panoramic views. In Lake Louise’s village, visitors will find a charming blend of rustic lodges, boutique shops, and restaurants that showcase the best of Canadian hospitality.
Note that for guests staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise or Fairmont Banff Springs, a shuttle is available from Lake Louise Ski Resort. Discover more about skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Whistler: The Crown Jewel of Canadian Skiing
As one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Whistler Blackcomb needs no introduction, offering an unparalleled ski experience across two mountains served by the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. The two mountains combine for an incredible 10,000 feet of vertical, 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, 200-plus trails, 16 alpine bowls, 5 terrain parks, and 3 glaciers. Like Sunshine Village and Lake Louise, Whistler also offers a First Tracks experience.
Whistler’s vibrant, pedestrian-friendly village is a bustling hub of activity, featuring more than 200 restaurants, bars, shops, and more. Bonus: The Blackcomb Gondola is just steps from the five-star Fairmont Chateau Whistler in the Upper Village. Additionally, Whistler Blackcomb offers a ski shuttle to and from Whistler Village and Whistler Mountain’s lifts. Discover more about skiing in Whistler.
Canada’s ski destinations, from Jasper to Whistler, not only offer world-class skiing but also a chance to immerse yourself in some of the most breathtaking landscapes and adventures on the planet. Many of these destinations offer incredible, unique off-slope adventures, too, such as ice skating, dog sledding, guided snowshoe tours, snowmobiling, and even Olympic sports like bobsledding. Whether you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, or just want a relaxing escape, these Canadian destinations have it all.
Explore more at This Is Canada.
January 16, 2024
