Banff Sunshine Ski Resort: Everything You Need to Know
Banff Sunshine Village is one of Canada’s most popular ski resorts for a reason. Visitors adore its extra-long ski season, world-renowned advanced terrain, on-piste accommodations, and easy proximity to Calgary. And did we mention the views? They’re absolutely unforgettable.
From seamless travel and optimal timing, to the best runs and dining options, join us as we explore the ski experience at Banff Sunshine Village.
Table of Contents
Banff Sunshine Village Ski Resort: An overview
Banff Sunshine Village offers three mountains with an excellent mix of slopes from beginner to expert-level challenges. Goat’s Eye Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and Mount Standish are all linked by runs and lifts so you can choose from family-friendly terrain, European-style alpine skiing, or playful cruising runs. With up to nine metres of annual snowfall, Banff Sunshine Village is the snowiest resort in Canada.
A single gondola from the mountain base takes you to Goat’s Eye Mountain and the resort village, where you can access the resort amenities and the majority of the lifts. Plan to arrive early on weekends, the gondola lineup can be as long as 1-2 hours.
Quick guide
Quick guide
Base: 1,658m
Peak: 2,730m
Vertical drop: 1,070m
Longest run: 8km
Beginner runs: 20%
Intermediate runs: 55%
Advanced runs: 25%
Five different terrain parks
How to get to Banff Sunshine Village
Banff Sunshine Village is loved for its proximity to Calgary. Whether you’re travelling by coach, car, or private transportation, Banff Sunshine Village is a scenic 1.5-hour trip along the four-lane Trans-Canada Highway. Enjoy a spectacular show, courtesy of the Canadian Rockies—the peaks grow closer and closer until you’re surrounded on all sides. The town of Banff is just 20 minutes away from the ski resort via car or ski shuttle.
From Calgary Airport to Banff
Calgary International is the closest airport to Banff Sunshine Village. Depending on your needs, there are multiple transportation options from the airport:
Car rental
Calgary Airport has an on-airport rental car centre that operates eight major rental companies. Located directly across from the arrivals roadway, you can pick up your car and start your trip quickly and easily. We recommend booking ahead of time to make sure there’s a vehicle available for you.
Please note that any private vehicle entering Banff National Park requires a park pass. You can purchase your pass ahead of time online or at the park gates on your way to Banff Sunshine Village. Your park pass must be displayed on the dash of your vehicle while you’re traveling around and staying in the national park.
Ski Coaches & Shuttles
The two best-known shuttles between Calgary and Banff are the Banff Airporter and the Brewster Express. These comfortable options offer pick up from Calgary airport and will drop you off at various hotels in the town of Banff. There’s plenty of room for ski gear and luggage no matter which company you choose.
Private transportation
The Post Hotel & Spa will recommend reputable private transport and arrange the trip for guests. We can accommodate any and all needs, whether you require a town car, limousine, or you’re traveling with a large group. You can focus entirely on the incredible mountain scenery and Post Hotel & Spa will handle the rest. Our trusted transportation partners include:
Western Limo
Discover Banff Tours
Banff Airporter
Fairview limousine
Driving times from other cities
If a road trip is part of your Rocky Mountain adventure, Banff Sunshine Village is a reasonable drive from many major cities:
Lake Louise: 45 minutes
Jasper: 3.5 hours
Edmonton: 4.5 hours
Saskatoon: 7.5 hours
Vancouver: 9.5 hours
Where to stay at Banff Sunshine Village
On the Ski Hill
The only ski-in, ski-out hotel in Banff National Park, Sunshine Mountain Lodge is a comfortable base-camp for your time at Banff Sunshine Village. The hotel offers casual and fine dining, a large hot tub, and rustic mountain-themed rooms with jet tubs and large TVs. There’s also a calendar of nightly activities including s’mores and hot tub bingo. Given the long gondola lineup from the base of the mountain, staying on the hill gives you a distinct advantage if you plan to stay at Banff Sunshine Village for your whole trip.
The Town of Banff
Banff is a town of almost 9,000 people with lots of shopping, restaurants, a movie theatre, bowling, and an active nightlife. When you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle, it’s a quick trip to Banff Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay. Banff is a wonderful option if you’re looking for action alongside natural beauty. The town offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs, but for a quieter stay that combines unparalleled service with gourmet dining during your ski getaway, Lake Louise is the premium choice.
Gourmet Dining and Access to Both Ski Hills
If you want more terrain with less travel time, consider staying at the Post Hotel & Spa in Lake Louise. Our luxurious alpine retreat offers respite from the crowds and ensures your every whim is catered to. With world-renowned hospitality, dining, and service in the most breathtaking setting, nothing else in the area compares.
Just 5 minutes from Lake Louise Ski Resort and 40 minutes from Banff Sunshine Village, Post Hotel & Spa perfectly positions you to ski both mountains on your winter tour of the Rockies.
The best time of year to ski at Banff Sunshine Village
Banff Sunshine Village’s ski season is the longest season in Canad running for seven months from November until late May, depending on conditions. It’s the longest non-glacial ski season in Canada. And because the base-area altitude is 7,200 feet, the snow stays light and skiable for most of the season. March is a particularly special time to visit with Banff’s biggest snowfall of the year, warmer weather, and lots of glorious ski days.
In Banff National Park, there’s beauty in every season. If you visit in November, you’ll beat most of the crowds, December comes with holiday Magic, and January and February bring big snow. From March to May, enjoy plenty of sunshine and more bluebirds than you could ever imagine.
The best terrain for beginner, intermediate, and expert skiers
From the bunny hill to a free-ride zone that requires avalanche gear, Banff Sunshine Village has runs for everyone.
Our favourite beginner runs
Mighty Mite Magic Carpet Lift
The magic carpet is perfect for first-timers or anyone who needs a refresher. Kids and adults alike get their ski legs on this short bunny hill with an extremely gentle downslope. In fact, most beginner ski lessons at Banff Sunshine Village start here. The hill’s slow-moving sidewalk doesn’t take any special skill to get on, just a little bit of balance. Once you arrive at the top of the hill, simply step off and begin your journey down. There are lots of attendants nearby if you need help, tips, or have questions.
Dell Valley
Off the Strawberry Express, Dell Valley is likely the most popular green run at Banff Sunshine Village. This beginners paradise starts off with an easy downward slope, then you gently pick up speed as you reach a steeper hill and descend into the valley. Don’t worry—there’s plenty of space to go as slow as you need and almost every other skier on this run is a beginner, too.
Our favourite intermediate run
South Divide
Located directly on the Continental Divide, this run has it all: easy cruising, great snow, and jaw-dropping views of Mt. Assiniboine—also known as the Matterhorn of the Rockies. Feel free to take in your surroundings as you ski, hitting unexpected or challenging terrain isn’t a worry. As an added bonus, you’ll ski both B.C and Alberta depending on what side of the run you’re on.
Our favourite expert run
Delirium Drive
Voted 15th out of the top 100 ski runs in the world, this expert-only free-ride zone challenges even top skiers and riders. Delirium Drive has endless terrain, including chutes, steeps, cliffs, frozen waterfalls, and more. Head to the top of the Great Divide Lift and hike to a guarded gate. Ski Patrol is on duty to make sure you have a ski buddy, appropriate avalanche gear, and that you know how to use your equipment—you won’t be granted access otherwise. Once you get the go ahead, turn on your transceiver to open the gate and dive into this run’s deep, steep surprises.
Things to do at Banff Sunshine Ski Resort
Banff Sunshine Village has all the amenities you need for a day on the hill: shopping, rentals, guest services, lockers, and Sunshine Village Lodge. When you need to refuel, you can choose from six village eateries. The main base and Goat’s Eye mountain also have places to dine and quench your thirst.
The best places to dine
Mad Trappers
Established in 1928, Mad Trapper's walls are covered with pictures and artifacts that tell its storied past. Smoked meats and Southwestern dishes are the specialty here, and we highly recommend the Chef’s Signature Dry Rub. Located in the Old Sunshine Mountain Lodge, this is a cozy, family-friendly spot for lunch or après-ski.
Nikko Ramen
At the base of Lookout Lodge, Nikko Ramen will warm you to the core with hearty, flavourful bowls of noodles. Away from the bustle of the Alpine Grill, you can enjoy a relaxing sit-down meal of authentic Japanese bites and signature ramen that will give you energy for the rest of your day.
Lookout Lounge
At the top of the Sunshine Mountain Lodge, you’ll find the Lookout Lounge. Dine on a variety of bistro-style dishes, including salads, pizzas, burgers, and more, while taking in awe-inspiring views of the mountain. If you’re not immediately heading down the gondola after the last lift, this is also a popular spot for après.
The Chimney Corner
With large bay windows and two wood-burning fireplaces, Banff Sunshine’s best spot to sit back, enjoy a meal, indulge in après, and take in your mountain surroundings. On a warm, sunny day, Chimney Corner’s outdoor terrace can’t be beat.
Eagle’s Nest
For upscale dining in a true mountain lodge atmosphere, we recommend Eagle’s Nest Bistro. Dine on locally-sourced specialties such as bison, salmon, and AAA Alberta beef, and treat yourself to a selection of beautiful house-made cocktails. Whether you’re out with friends, having an intimate dinner, or partaking with your family, the service and cuisine alongside views of Lookout Mountain are truly special. The most picturesque windows book quickly, be sure to make a reservation.
Events at Banff Sunshine Village
Banff Sunshine Village has a robust calendar of events, with something fun scheduled most days of the week. While events change regularly, there's one that takes place every single year: The Slush Cup. For anyone skiing at the end of the season, this annual tradition is not to be missed.
The Slush Cup
The Slush Cup is traditionally celebrated on the last day of the Banff Sunshine winter season during Canada’s Victoria Day long weekend. Participants don their craziest costumes and attempt to cross an ice-cold slush pond on skis or a snowboard. It’s widely known as the best entertainment in Banff and Lake Louise.
The first jump of the cup is at Noon. We recommend arriving early and hiking up the course for the best viewing spot—it can be tough to see in the crowds at the bottom.
If you’re planning to compete, registration starts at 8:00 a.m. on the day of the event. Plan to get up bright and early as keen, costume-clad jumpers stand in line for the gondola as early as 7:00 a.m. Costumes aren’t mandatory, but they’re highly encouraged. You must be 18 to enter.
Other activities at Banff Sunshine Village
If skis and snowboards aren’t to your taste, there are lots of other ways to take in the mountain when you’re at Banff Sunshine Village.
Get a sightseeing pass
With a sightseeing ticket, you can ride the Standish Chair for incredible 360-degree views of the valley, peaks, and wildlife. The ride, which takes approximately 8 minutes, lets you out near the Standish viewing platform at an astounding 2,400+ meter elevation. It’s the highest lift-accessed sightseeing spot in Banff National Park. When you’re able to tear yourself away, take the chair back down to the village for an array of dining, drinking, and shopping options.
Snowshoe in the Sunshine Meadows
Ride the Standish Chair above the treeline and enjoy a scenic snowshoe adventure through Sunshine Meadows—just like Banff’s early explorers. Surrounded by white powder without trails or crowds, you’re free to roam miles of snowy backcountry with one of the mountain’s professional guides. Cross the Continental Divide, enjoy unobstructed views of Mt. Assiniboine, and delight in the pleasure of the great outdoors. This trip can be challenging, so it’s not suitable for children under 12.
Buying ski passes
Banff Sunshine Village has tickets, passes, and packages for any and every skier. You can purchase lift tickets online or visit guest services when you get to the hill. We recommend purchasing a mobile ticket, which goes directly to an app on your phone. Head straight for the lifts and the attendants will simply scan your phone instead.
Tips for skiing at Banff Sunshine Ski Resort
Tips for skiing at Banff Sunshine Ski Resort
In peak season and on powder days, the gondola line can be 1-2 hours long. Visit on a weekday or arrive bright and early (before 7:30am) if you want to avoid the wait.
Quickly running to the car isn’t an option at Banff Sunshine Resort, unless you want to ride the gondola all the way down to the base. Make sure your pack has the essentials before you leave the parking lot.
Mobile tickets go straight to an app on your phone so you can avoid the ticket window and head straight to the lifts. They’re also slightly discounted, they reduce paper waste, and shorten the lines for everyone else.
The highest mountain at Banff Sunshine, Lookout Mountain, has everything from the longest green run to the most extreme black diamonds. And you can’t beat the views.
Tucked away in the lower mountain, this gem can be easy to miss. If you love long tree runs and challenging terrain, be sure to visit. Beginners should give this one a miss, the Goat’s Eye Express chairlift is only suitable for intermediate skiers and up.
In these twice-daily ski tours, amazing volunteers share their favourite runs, mountain tales, secret spots, and more. Plus, you get to hit the slopes with a group of like-minded people who love mountains as much as you do.
The snowbound escapade you need!
The beauty of Banff Sunshine Village awaits you. Book your stay at Post Hotel & Spa for unparalleled access to multiple ski hills in Banff National Park. Please reach out to our reservations team at (403) 522-3989 or info@posthotel.com with questions, requests, or help planning your visit.
FAQ
Is Sunshine Village good for beginners?
Yes, absolutely! Banff Sunshine Village has lots to offer beginner skiers from the bunny hill to an array of gentle green runs. We recommend a beginner ski lesson to build your skills and confidence so you can explore more of the mountain.
What is the hardest run at Sunshine Village?
Named one of the most extreme ski runs in the world, Delirium Dive is regarded as the hardest run at Banff Sunshine Village. Located in the mountain’s free-ride zone, behind a ski-patrol guarded gate, access to the run requires a ski buddy and working avalanche gear. If you’re granted access, you’ll experience every terrain imaginable from chutes and powder bowls, to frozen waterfalls, and more.
Is it worth visiting Sunshine Village?
Banff Sunshine village is consistently rated one of the top resorts in Canada for skiers of all levels. Add breathtaking views and proximity to Calgary, Banff, and Lake Louise, and Banff Sunshine Village is definitely worth a visit.
What is there to do in Banff if you don't ski?
Banff Sunshine Village and the town of Banff offer a number of activities for non-skiers including sightseeing, snowshoeing, hiking, sledding, skating, shopping, dining, cultural events, and nightlife.
What are the 3 ski resorts in Banff?
The three resorts in Banff National Park are Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay Ski Resort.
Is Banff expensive to ski?
The average cost for a day-pass at Banff Sunshine Village is $150. This is slightly more expensive than Lake Louise and Mount Norquay, but on par with most large ski resorts in Canada. On-hill amenities range in price with many affordable options for food, drink, rentals, and other necessities.
