2025–26 Canadian Rockies Ski Season Guide: Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore & Kananaskis

Whether you're chasing first tracks at Sunshine Village, carving Lake Louise's legendary front side, or cruising laps at Nakiska, early-season ski trips in the Canadian Rockies are where winter kicks off in style. This guide is your go-to for planning ski getaways in Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore, and Kananaskis — with opening dates, insider tips, pass options (hello, Ikon & SkiBig3), and how to save when you stay with Basecamp.

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When Do Ski Resorts Open in Alberta?

The Canadian Rockies are known for some of the earliest turns in Canada. While exact opening dates vary depending on snow and weather, most resorts aim for early November:

• Lake Louise Ski Resort opened early on November 4th.
• Banff Sunshine Village also opened early, on November 2nd.

• Mt. Norquay often kicks off the season as early as November 8th.
• Nakiska Ski Area, just outside of Canmore, is projected for an opening date of November 28th.

Pro Tip: Early November terrain is often limited to groomers and beginner/intermediate runs. By mid-December, most areas are spinning all lifts.

Passes & Lift Tickets: Which One’s Right for You?

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular ski pass options in the Canadian Rockies for 2025–26 — plus how to score the best deals.

SkiBig3 Lift Tickets

SkiBig3 covers Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay. With one lift ticket, you can ski all three resorts.

• Multi-day passes available from 1 to 14 days.
• Prices are cheapest online and increase closer to your ski date.
• Booking early often includes perks like free shuttle access and lodging discounts.

Basecamp Guest Perk: Ask us about discounted SkiBig3 tickets when booking direct — we often have exclusive guest rates.

Ikon Pass & Ikon Base Plus

• Lake Louise and Banff Sunshine are both included in the Ikon and Ikon Base Plus Passes.
• Ikon Base has blackout dates; Base Plus removes them for full holiday access.
• Best for skiers chasing multiple destinations in one season.

Early Bird Tip: Ikon Pass prices go up through the summer. Buying in spring or early fall locks in the lowest rate.

Mountain Collective Pass

• Includes 2 days each at Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise, plus 50% off additional days.
• Great for weekenders or those visiting multiple resorts.
• No blackout dates.

Nakiska Season Pass & RCR Rockies Card

• Nakiska is part of the RCR resort group. Their Rockies Card gives you 3 free days and discounts at Nakiska and other resorts.
• Nakiska also offers affordable family and weekday passes — great value if you’re based near Canmore or Calgary.

How to Save on Lift Tickets & Passes

Booking your pass at the right time can mean hundreds in savings. Here's how to get the most bang for your buck:

Book in Advance

• Online ticket prices are always cheaper than day-of window pricing.
• Buying tickets at least 48 hours ahead often gives you an automatic discount.

Look for Early Bird Deals

• SkiBig3 Early Bird Sales usually launch in September, offering deep discounts on multi-day tickets.
• Ikon Pass early pricing ends in the fall. Prices rise closer to the season.

Stay & Save with Basecamp

• Exclusive guest-only discounts on SkiBig3 lift tickets when you book directly with Basecamp Resorts.
• Take advantage of partner discounts on rentals, shuttles, and activities around Canmore and Banff.

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Where to Stay: Basecamp is Your Mountain HQ

No matter where you ski, Basecamp properties are built for easy mornings and cozy evenings.

Basecamp Suites Banff

In the heart of Banff. Private suites, full kitchens, rooftop hot tub, and SkiBig3 shuttle access.

Basecamp Resorts Canmore

Spacious, modern suites with full kitchens and rooftop hot tubs. Perfect for groups and families.

Everwild Canmore - Opening November 20

Upscale boutique hotel with spa services, onsite dining at Rhythm & Howl, and easy access to Banff and Kananaskis.

Sundance by Basecamp

Unplugged glamping near Nakiska and the Kananaskis Nordic trails. Simple, grounded mountain stays.

Ski Shuttle Access: SkiBig3 shuttles run between Canmore, Banff, and the ski hills — many Basecamp properties are on the pickup route.

Early Season Ski Tips

Terrain Expectations

• Early November = limited terrain (mostly green and blue groomers)
• More advanced terrain typically opens by mid-December
• Sunshine Village often has the deepest early-season snow

Must-Ski Runs

Lake Louise: Grizzly Gully for early-season powder and Meadowlark for wide open cruising.

Sunshine Village: Standish Face and Strawberry Face offer fun early-season laps; Wolverine offers early glades once it opens.

Mt. Norquay: Lone Pine and Spirit are local favourites for carving.

Nakiska: Gold and Silver chair groomers are typically the first open and great for speed laps.

Rentals & Where to Save

Need gear? No problem — Basecamp guests save at trusted local partners.

• Gear Up Mountain Sports (Canmore) – Local rental shop with top-tier skis and boards.

• Ultimate Sports (Banff) – Full rentals, tuning, and boot fitting near the Banff base.
• SkiBig3 Adventure Hub (Canmore & Banff) – Central hub for rentals, tickets, and gear in the heart of Canmore & Banff.

Guest Perk: Basecamp guests receive exclusive rental discounts when booking direct.

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Gear Tips: What to Pack

Early season in the Rockies can mean anything from pow days to bulletproof groomers. Be prepared:

• Layers: Base layer, midlayer (fleece or light puffy), and waterproof outer shell.
• Helmet + Goggles: Safety + visibility are key — especially in variable light.
• Gloves, neck warmer, and socks: Bring extras. Wet gear ends your day early.
• Avalanche Gear: If you're heading into the backcountry (Sunshine sidecountry or off-piste), bring your beacon, probe, and shovel — and know how to use them.
• Safety Tip: Always check the avalanche forecast at avalanche.ca and consider a refresher course before venturing out of bounds.

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Whether you're carving your first turns at Nakiska or planning a full SkiBig3 mission from Canmore or Banff, early-season in the Canadian Rockies delivers big snow, scenic towns, and unbeatable vibes. Lock in your pass early, book your Basecamp stay, and hit the slopes like a local.