Top 6 Reasons We Love Skiing at Lake Louise
Deep in the heart of Banff National Park, you’ll find the Lake Louise Ski Resort. It’s the park’s most expansive ski area and one of the top destinations for freestyle skiers in the world. Known as the “friendly giant,” it’s a great destination for families, absolute beginners, thrill seekers, and everyone in between.
Deep in the heart of Banff National Park, you’ll find the Lake Louise Ski Resort. It’s the park’s most expansive ski area and one of the top destinations for freestyle skiers in the world. Known as the “friendly giant,” it’s a great destination for families, absolute beginners, thrill seekers, and everyone in between.
With so much terrain, you rarely feel crowded on the slopes, like you may at many European destinations. Plus, the resort’s close proximity to the village of Lake Louise and nearby outdoor adventures truly can’t be beaten.
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Skiing at Lake Louise: Why it’s our favourite
The champagne powder, the breathtaking views, the relaxed surroundings, and easy access to the hill? There are seemingly endless reasons to love Lake Louise, but these six features are why it’s our most loved resort (and why it could be yours, too).
1. There’s something for all ski abilities
It’s rare to find a mountain that captivates everyone, from the most advanced skiers to first-timers and everyone in between. With 4,200 acres of skiable terrain and approachable runs off almost every chair, Lake Louise offers something for everyone. The resort also puts a lot of effort into slope marking and signposting so you can always find the right run for your ability and preferences or see the easiest way down from where you stand.
Breakdown of Runs
Breakdown of Runs
Beginner runs: 25%
Intermediate runs: 45%
Advanced runs: 30%
Terrain park for riders of all levels
Learning area
Lake Louise has a dedicated learning area for new skiers. Conveniently located just off the resort’s base area, beginners can access the gentle slope via magic carpet so there’s no need to attempt the chairlift before you’re ready. Rely on the friendly attendants to help if you’re struggling or sign up for a private or group lesson. Adult and child lessons are available for all abilities.
For skiers planning on staying in the learning area, Lake Louise Ski Resort offers a discounted lift ticket.
Terrain park
At Lake Louise, even the terrain park welcomes all abilities. With distinct areas geared towards specific levels and a varied mix of features, it’s the perfect place for anyone to work on jumps and tricks, and embrace a bit of freestyle.
Our favourite beginner run
We’ve all skied Wiwaxy, either as an easy warm up or a gentle cool down, with a beginner friend, or with kids who’ve graduated to the chairlift. With its wide-open turns, it’s the perfect run for beginners or intermediate skiers looking to start or end their day with a smooth, enjoyable cruise. Wiwaxy offers something for everyone: its broad turns and playful side hits add an extra element of fun for experts. Known as a family-friendly run, it’s the perfect choice for introducing your little ones to the slopes.
Our favourite intermediate run
For Lauren Telfer, our Director of Marketing, Cameron Way has long been a cherished gem, especially during her return to skiing and quest for improvement. Its expansiveness, delightful twists, and immaculate grooming path make it an irresistible choice for warming up your legs. However, these days, the ultimate thrill awaits at Paradise Bowl, particularly after a fresh blanket of snow. Its abundant moguls present a formidable challenge and a true test of stamina, and the exhilaration is simply unparalleled.
Favourite expert run
Getting to 140-UNC (pronounced un-ck even though it’s short for Upper North Cornice) requires a skate, a traverse, and a hike. Sitting directly above North Cornice, it starts with a steep, tight turn around rock that reveals the chute below. As you gain speed, the run widens into a rock-laden obstacle course where your turns matter. It’s a challenge even for terrain lovers, but finding your flow is incredibly rewarding. Is the name a little nondescript? Yes, but we think it helps keep the masses away.
2. It’s the perfect hill for families
At Lake Louise, the whole family can ski together—and not just in the learning area. With green runs off almost every lift on the mountain, even new skiers can explore the whole mountain. And if the more experienced skiers want to explore on their own, kind, capable instructors and carers are waiting to take over.
Ski lessons at Lake Louise
The Lake Louise Ski School has private or group options, and specialty programs for every kind of skier. Put your kids in a full-day lesson and spend some time on the back bowls, or schedule a private session with the family. Did you know? You can add up to 3 family members to your private lesson? Book lessons online or stop by the Snow School desk on the lower level of Whiskey Jack Lodge. Our concierge can also arrange your lessons for you, ask us any time.
Daycare at Lake Louise
If any of your family members are too little to ski, Lake Louise has a fully licensed daycare centre with wonderful, attentive staff. They offer full-day and half-day care for infants to 5-year-olds, so your little ones can have a fantastic day while you enjoy some uninterrupted ski time.
Our favourite run for family skiing
When everyone has graduated from the magic carpet, head to the Grizzly Gondola for Pika. This highly enjoyable run has something to satisfy everyone. For newer skiers, it offers gentle twists and turns, and enough decline to maintain your speed without being too scary. If you're looking for a challenge, it’s easy to find jumps and treed terrain along the sides, or take a detour down one of several black diamonds. You can meet up with your family closer to the bottom of the run. The best part about Pika? You pass right by the Temple Lodge, where you can all enjoy a well-deserved break.
Family-friendly après ski at Lake Louise
Family-friendly après ski at Lake Louise
We find kids are welcome everywhere in Lake Louise. Reward your efforts on the hill at any of these wonderful après spots.
Outpost Pub
Just 5 minutes driving from the ski resort, the Outpost Pub at the Post Hotel & Spa is a family-friendly gathering spot with an English-pub atmosphere. Refuel with classic pub fare, irresistible kids bites, and a curated selection of craft brews while you relive the day’s adventures. Be sure to treat everyone to a Coupe Danemark—a well-known secret among regulars—even though it isn’t on the menu.
Post Hotel & Spa room service
Cozy up by your very own fire, put on a movie, and enjoy room service treats from the Outpost Pub. Better yet, fill up the generous jacuzzi tub and soak the day away—it can comfortably accommodate one adult or a few small children.
Banded Peak Base Camp
Located right at the base of the Glacier Chair, Banded Peak Base Camp serves authentic smokehouse BBQ, snacks, beer, wine, other beverages, and more in a relaxed setting. Undo your boots and recharge on the patio with music and a 360-degree view of the Rockies.
Powder Keg
Head straight from the lift to the oversized chairs at Powder Keg. Also located at the bottom of the Glacier Chair, everyone can get comfortable and warm up with cozy pub food. The bar offers a range of domestic and imported beers, a selection of wine, as well as warm and cold cocktails. Don’t hesitate to ask for shirley temples or hot chocolate for the kids.
Luxury stays for the whole family
Post Hotel & Spa provides an idyllic backdrop for a family holiday, whether you’re building snowmen, cozying up by the fire, or enjoying the many outdoor activities the area has to offer. Adults will enjoy the impeccable cuisine, extensive wine list, and old-world charm, while the pool, pub, and friendly staff delight our younger guests. Our oversized soaker tubs, in-room fireplaces, and turn-down treats make everyone happy. Post Hotel & Spa also offers childcare when parents want to indulge in fondue for two, a night-time sleigh ride, or handcrafted cocktails after bedtime.
3. It’s a mecca for advanced skiers
Lake Louise is an amazing hill for expert or advanced skiers, especially now that West Bowl is officially part of the resort. Known as freerider’s paradise, Lake Louise has perfected what they call “patrolled off-piste”—the thrill of open, untouched terrain, but with ski patrol close by for safety. For the truly advanced and adventurous skier, we recommend Whitehorn 1 and 2.
Arguably the best power runs in the Canadian Rockies, WH1 and WH2 offer eight steep and deep gullies, also called alphabet chutes. At the top of Summit Platter Chair go straight to your left for WH1 or take Boomerang Traverse to reach gullies A through H. Whichever entry you choose, you’ll be rewarded with mostly untracked snow and incredibly challenging terrain. The area used to be a permanent avalanche closure, but was recently added to the permanent run inventory at Lake Louise.
4. You can’t match its coziness and access to adventure
Lake Louise truly has its own unique feel, which is completely different from Banff. Embraced by the mountains and away from the crowds, it’s easy to let go, enjoy nature, and drink in your surroundings. The vibe and the views are simply breathtaking.
Lake Louise’s unique location also means you’re just minutes from an array of outdoor adventures. You can easily get on the first gondola rather than spend your day driving to and from the ski hill, and the area’s best winter activities are all close by.
Tube Park
Located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, the tube park gives you the thrill of downhill without the hassle of ski equipment. The park is groomed daily for hours of snowy fun with the whole family. Tickets for the tube park are separate, even if you have a lift pass. Open from 10:00am to 4:00pm daily, ticket prices range from $22 for a child to $119 for a family of four.
Hiking
Lake Louise offers a number of solo or guided winter hikes, all within easy distance of the village. There are plenty of beautiful options for beginners and experienced hikers alike, ranging from 2 kms to 12.5 kms. Our most-loved winter trails include:
Lake Louise Lakeshore
Fairview Lookout
Taylor Lake
Book Lake
Check the Parks Canada website for weather conditions, hiking safety tips, and an equipment packing list before you hit the trails.
Ice skating at Post Hotel & Spa
Enjoy a peaceful skate on our private ice rink, exclusively for hotel guests. Secluded by trees, with a glorious view of the mountains, the rink’s quiet ambiance is absolutely magical. You’ll need to bring your own skates or rent at Wilson Mountain sports, which is only minutes away. Our staff are pleased to arrange skate rentals for you.
Post Hotel & Spa pool and hottub
Take a refreshing dip in our Roman-inspired salt water pool, or soothe your muscles in the hot tub or steam room. Open from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water and the peaceful forested views.
Temple Mountain Spa
Treat yourself to ultimate relaxation or incredible post-ski rejuvenation at Post Hotel’s Temple Mountain Spa. Sink into the softest fireside chairs while you sip freshly infused water and await your treatment. Indulge in a soothing massage, luxurious facial, botanical body wraps, or other blissful treatments. Unwind with a trip to the steam room or whirlpool. Be sure to book ahead, appointments fill up quickly.
5. It’s the best place to connect with nature
Deep in the heart of Banff National park, surrounded by ancient glaciers, brilliant turquoise lakes, glorious snow-capped peaks, woods, and wildlife, Lake Louise is one of the best places on earth to experience natural wonders.
Lake Louise
In the winter, Lake Louise turns into a magical icy wonderland with some of the finest outdoor adventures in Canada. Glide across the lake on cross-country skis, scale frozen waterfalls, or strap on your skates for a game of hockey or a turn around the rink.
Pipestone River
Gently meandering right outside the Post Hotel & Spa, the Pipestone river becomes a shimmering, icy marvel in the colder months. For a more leisurely experience, you can take in the river, woods, and sunshine from the generous porch at the hotel’s secluded Pipestone cabin.
Icefields Parkway
Linking Lake Louise with Jasper, Alberta, the Icefields Parkway is one of the most spectacular drives on the planet. This 232 km stretch of highway winds through impressive rocky mountain peaks, and sweeping icefields and valleys. Don’t miss the Columbia Icefields, the otherworldly views of Peyto Lake, the Weeping Wall, or the Glacier SkyWalk. Ask our concierge to create an itinerary and hire a driver for you, it’s a treat to ignore the road and take in all the spectacular sights.
Johnston Canyon Ice Hike
One of Banff National Park’s most beloved attractions, Johnston Canyon and its wintertime Icewalk is an experience everyone should have at least once. Take a guided hike along steel catwalks built into the canyon walls where you’ll see breathtaking frozen waterfalls and luminous ice formations. You’ll eventually reach the iconic Upper Falls and your reward: stunning views of the gorge below. The walk is just 1.2 km to the Lower Falls and 2.5 km to the Upper Falls, with minimal incline, so it’s manageable for hikers of all levels.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing right outside Post Hotel & Spa
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are peaceful ways to embrace nature and connect with the wilds of Lake Louise. The trails around Post Hotel & Spa are plentiful and easy to access, no matter where you’re staying. Plus, most of them accommodate both classic and skate skiing styles. Stop by Wilson Mountain Sports for rentals, or ask our team to arrange them for you.
6. The views are absolutely unparalleled
Most people find themselves looking in amazement, whether you’re on the road to the resort or at the peak. Everywhere you turn, the scenery elicits a true “wow.” Visitors from Europe, who are accustomed to some of the world’s best-known mountain ranges, are still in awe of their surroundings at Lake Louise. You can just look up from almost anywhere in the area and be rewarded with incredible views, but here are some of the best spots to take it all in:
The peak at Lake Louise Ski Resort
Top of the Gondola at Lake Louise ski Resort - for those that just want to ride up. Or summit chair if you’re skiing. 360 degree views of the rockies.
Fairview Lookout
However long you’re in Lake Louise, you’ll want to make time to visit the Fairview Lookout—one of the most famed trails and viewpoints in the region. The walk starts on the shores of Lake Louise and takes you 1 km along a wide, gently sloped path. Once you reach the lookout, you’re perfectly poised for unobstructed views of the entire area. Watching the sun rise from Fairview Lookout is a near-perfect experience, but the scenery is equally stunning any time of day.
Post Hotel & Spa
The Post Hotel & Spa dining room and outdoor patio offer perfectly framed views of Mount Temple, the prominent triangular peak that towers above the village of Lake Louise. The view only adds to the enjoyment of a long breakfast or a beautiful Beaujolais. Many impressive peaks are visible from the village of Lake Louise, but Mount Temple truly stands out.
Lake Louise
Simply stand on the edge of the lake and you’ll be treated to an unobstructed view of the spectacular Victoria Glacier. For a closer look, follow the trail to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea or continue on to the Abbot Pass Viewpoint for the best vantage point of all.
Lake Louise is a must-visit destination for skiers, nature lovers, families, and anyone seeing an escape to the mountains. Post Hotel is the perfect homebase for skiing in Lake Louise and experiencing all the area has to offer. Please reach out to our reservations team at (403) 522-3989 or info@posthotel.com to book your rooms or get help planning your visit.
FAQ
Is Lake Louise ski resort good for beginners?
Yes! Lake Louise is a fantastic resort for beginners. There are plenty of gentle slopes designed for anyone who’s just starting out and there's a green run at the top of almost every chairlift, so beginners can explore most of the mountain.
Our favourite beginner run is Pika. A relaxed, cruising run, Pika gently twists and turns through the picturesque valley between Whitehorn Mountain and Mt. Richardson. The descent is smooth with just the right amount of decline to slow down safely.
Is Lake Louise ski resort good for expert skiers?
Lake Louise is one of the top freestyle resorts in the world. Approximately 30% of the mountain is dedicated to expert terrain. Advanced skiers visit from all over the globe to experience the resort’s famous bowls, champagne powder, chutes, gullies, and other challenges. The resort has perfected what they call “patrolled off-piste”. You can ski what feels like open, uncharted terrain, but with the peace of mind that ski patrol is available if you need help.
Do I need a reservation to ski at Lake Louise?
No, you don’t need to make a reservation or book in advance to ski at Lake Louise. However, we recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time to avoid long waits in the lift ticket line. You can also inquire at the front desk at the Post Hotel & Spa to purchase tickets at a preferred rate.
How busy is Lake Louise?
This depends on when you choose to visit. During peak season (January through March) or on a particularly good powder day, Lake Louise ski resort can be quite busy. The parking lot typically fills up by 7:00 a.m. and the lift lines are often 10-15 minutes long. That being said, the ski season at Lake Louise is long and every month has its unique charm. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in November or December, or from mid March to mid May.
What is the best month to ski at Lake Louise?
Every month has something different to offer, but March is the best month to ski at Lake Louise. March is the start of powder season and the beginning of warmer spring skiing, so you’re guaranteed plenty of spectacular ski days.
Will my hotel provide a shuttle to get to Lake Louise?
Many hotels in the area provide shuttle service to the ski resort. Post Hotel & Spa’s complimentary ski shuttle to the Lake Louise Ski Resort departs from the main doors of the hotel at 8:30am, 9:00am, 9:30am, 10:00am, 10:30am, and 11:30am daily. At the end of the day, the shuttle collects you from the ski hill and returns you to the hotel at 3:00pm, 3:30pm, 4:00pm, and 4:30pm daily. It’s just five minutes from the hotel to the ski resort.
Is Lake Louise kid friendly?
Lake Louise Ski Resort is a fantastic hill for families and kids. With green runs off almost every lift on the mountain, even young skiers can explore the whole mountain. If it’s your kids’ first time out, the kind, capable instructors at the ski school are ready to teach them the basics. For the littlest visitors, Lake Louise has a fully-licensed daycare centre with wonderful, attentive staff. They offer full-day and half-day care for infants to 5 year olds.
