What Are The Big Three Ski Resorts? A Complete Guide
Summit Skier contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
The Big Three Ski Resorts, located in Banff National Park, Canada, are famous destinations for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. These resorts showcase stunning snowy landscapes and provide excellent opportunities for winter sports, making them highly sought-after resorts for winter vacations.
My husband and I share a passion for skiing and snowboarding, having explored more than 20 ski resorts worldwide. Given our frequent winter getaways to the slopes, it was only natural for us to experience the Big Three Ski Resorts firsthand.
In fact, we had the chance to ski in Banff this winter, allowing us to share our personal insights into the skiing experiences offered by these three remarkable resorts. Continue reading for a detailed exploration of each ski resort in the Banff area.
So, What Are The Big Three Ski Resorts?
The Big Three Ski Resorts consist of Lake Louise Ski Resort, Mount Norquay, and Banff Sunshine. Situated in the core of Banff National Park, each of these resorts offers distinct terrain, diverse apres-ski activities, and uniquely picturesque views.
Breaking Down The Big 3 Banff Ski Resorts
If you’re wondering about the differences between the three ski resorts or trying to decide which one to visit, don’t worry! I’ve been to them, so I can tell you what makes each one special.
1. Lake Louise Ski Resort
Lake Louise Ski Resort is awesome for skiers and snowboarders, offering a massive 4,200 acres of terrain with 11 lifts and 164 trails. It’s especially great if you love intermediate runs since 45% of the terrain is made up of enjoyable blue runs.
My favorite ski resort out of the three was Lake Louise Ski Resort, mainly because of the cozy apres-ski scene right at the bottom of the slopes.
You’ve got to check out the Powder Keg Lounge for fantastic drinks and food. Personally, I’d suggest trying their espresso martini along with some tasty chili.
2. Mount Norquay
Mount Norquay has 190 acres for skiing, with 6 lifts, and a cool 44% of its runs are for advanced skiers.
It’s the closest to downtown Banff and has a cozy, smaller vibe, making it perfect if you want to stay near downtown and enjoy a more intimate resort experience.
3. Banff Sunshine
Banff Sunshine has a huge 3,358 acres for skiing, with 12 lifts. It’s especially awesome for intermediate skiers, with a whopping 55% of the terrain being blue runs.
The cool thing about Banff Sunshine is the amazing views. Riding up in the gondola takes you way up high, and it’s absolutely stunning.
FAQs About The Big Three Ski Resorts Banff
Keep reading below as I answer some frequently asked questions about the ski resorts in Banff.
What’s better Banff or Whistler?
Whistler is better than Banff because of its convenient village and it usually gets more snow. It’s important to note that, Banff tends to be less crowded and often a bit more budget-friendly though.
Why is Banff so popular?
Banff is super popular because it’s a beautiful national park. The views are amazing, and it’s a hot spot to visit all year round. In winter, you’ve got three big ski resorts to check out, and in summer, there’s the stunning Lake Louise with its crystal-clear blue water.
Anytime you visit, you can also explore the cute downtown area with its adorable shops, restaurants, and cozy places to stay.
How many days in Banff is enough?
To really enjoy Banff, you should plan for at least three full days, but the longer, the better. This way, you can try out various activities in the area and take your time soaking in the local hotspots.
What is the best time of year to go to Banff?
The best time to visit Banff is winter. There are fewer tourists compared to summer, so you might find good deals on places to stay and flights. The town looks all festive with Christmas decorations, and you get to enjoy the snowy charm. It’s perfect for skiers and snowboarders too, thanks to the Big 3 Resorts.
Is Banff an expensive trip?
Banff is an expensive trip. You’ll need to fly into Calgary and then rent a car to reach the national park. The downtown area can be on the expensive side, especially for shopping and dining. Also, if you’re thinking about excursions, tours, or skiing, the costs can add up pretty quickly.
That’s why we suggest choosing winter for your visit. We were able to find affordable accommodations and flight deals, which really helped save money on our trip.
Final Thoughts On: The Big 3 Ski Resorts
The Big Three Ski Resorts in Banff National Park offer a mix of stunning nature, exciting skiing, and plenty of activities. Whether you’re exploring Lake Louise, soaking in the energy of Mount Norquay, or enjoying the heights at Banff Sunshine, each resort has its own unique charm.
Banff isn’t just fantastic in winter though, it’s great all year round with breathtaking views, a charming downtown, and opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
Whether you’re a passionate skier, a nature lover, or just looking for a memorable winter getaway, the Big Three Ski Resorts in Banff provide an amazing winter escape in the Canadian Rockies.
