Skiing & Snowboarding
Venture into a majestic, unspoiled wilderness where carved trails, chutes, bowls and long, rolling runs elevate skiing and riding to a dream-like experience. There are 3 ski resorts to choose from, including Lake Louise Ski Resort just 5 minutes away.
Lake Louise Ski Resort can be considered the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies, boasting a staggering 4200 acres of varied terrain. Known for its unique layout with beginner, intermediate, and expert runs from nearly every chair, the resort allows families and groups of varying abilities to share the thrill together. Experience the excitement of exploring endless chutes, glades, and remote bowls, coupled with gentle slopes and cruising runs.
With a vertical rise of 991 meters, a top elevation of 2637 meters, and a skiable area of 1700 hectares, Lake Louise stands as the largest ski resort in the Canadian Rockies. The recent addition of the Juniper Express Chair, another high-speed quad lift, provides access to new runs, enhancing the overall skiing experience. With a remarkable 164 named runs across four mountain faces, served by 11 lifts (including 1 gondola, 7 chairs, and 3 carpets), the resort ensures you can chase the sun all day long.
1. Dress for Success: Warm Clothing and Outerwear
The most important tip we can give you is to pack clothing layers. Alberta winters can be chilly, and the Rockies amplify the cold. Dress in thermal layers, waterproof jackets, and insulated pants to stay warm and comfortable throughout your day on the slopes.
2. Protect Your Noggin: Helmet and Goggles
Don't forget to strap on a helmet to protect your head. Goggles are essential to shield your eyes from wind, snow, and the glorious mountain sun.
3. Equip Yourself Properly: Rent Gear at the Hill or Bring Your Own
No equipment? No problem! The rental shop at the hill has you covered. Ensure you have the right skis or snowboard and boots tailored to your skill level for a smooth and enjoyable ride. Of course, you're also welcome to bring your own gear.
Ensure you have all the right pieces before you head over to the chairlift:
For skiiers: skis, ski poles (optional for kids), properly fitted and secured ski bindings, ski boots and a helmet with goggles
For snowboarders: a snowboard fitted for your height, properly fitted and secured snowboard bindings, snowboard boots, a leash, and a helmet with googles.
4. Stay Hydrated and Energized: Pack Water and Lunch
Pack a backpack with water to stay hydrated and bring along a packed lunch. You can store your backpack in a locker or find a spot in the Main Lodge. Alternatively, explore the cafeteria for a variety of dining options.
5. Navigate the Peaks: Mountain Guide and Map
Study the mountain guide to understand the skill references for different runs. Familiarize yourself with the trail map to navigate the diverse terrain, ensuring an adventure that matches your expertise. We've included a button below to download the Lake Louise Ski Resort map.
6. Enhance Your Skills: Book a Lesson with a Trained Ski or Snowboard Instructor
Whether a novice or a seasoned pro, consider booking a private or group lesson to refine your skills. Lessons are offered for all ages. Learn from experienced instructors who can take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level.
7. Explore Beyond the Slopes: the Ski Louise Webpage
Visit the Ski Louise webpage for valuable insights into the mountain's offerings. Perhaps you'll be tempted to try out the tube park for an added thrill!
- Winter season dates
- Trail maps, current lifts, runs, and grooming statuses
- Mountain stats
- Information on rental equipment at the hill
- Ski snowboard lessons
- Terrain parks
- Private ski & ride tours
- Free group ski & ride tours
- Family-Friendly Options: Daycare Services
8. If you're bringing the family...
Daycare services are available from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily. Prices range from $75 to $92 per day, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for the little ones.
9. Fuel up at Mountaineer Lodge with a Free Full Breakfast Buffet to Start your Day
Take in our breakfast buffet and enjoy a hearty meal before you hit the slopes. It's included for every guest daily. The options range from a variety of protein choices to energy-packed carbs to fresh fruit, several juice options, and of course, hot coffee!
10. Catch the Free Ski Shuttle up to Lake Louise Ski Resort
This complimentary bus leaves from the main lobby doors at the Mountaineer Lodge. Here are the shuttle pick-up times for the 2023/2024 season:
- 8:15 am
- 8:45 am
- 9:15 am
- 9:45 am
- 10:15 am
- 11:15 am
11. Arrive Early for Maximum Enjoyment
Plan to arrive between 8 and 9 am to make the most of your morning or day. Beat the crowds and savor the pristine conditions of the mountain at their best.
12. Take It All In: Breaks, Views, and Photos
Remember to take breaks, soak in the breathtaking views, and capture the moments with plenty of photos. The Rockies offer more than just slopes; they provide a visual feast for your senses.
13. Dinner time!
Stop in at a local restaurant or pub for some cozy après ski eats. Click here for some excellent Lake Louise restaurant and pub recommendations.
14. The best end to the day
Finish off your day of winter adventures with a hot tub soak, steam room glow up, and relaxing in cozy comfort in your hotel room, just to do it all over again the next day.
Want to know what a Lake Louise ski getaway experience is really like?
Follow along with recent guest, Kayla as she unpacks her weekend getaway shredding the mountain. It breaks down the mountain stats, location, all about breakfast, the free ski shuttle from our front doors, and all the hotel amenities guests will love when they ski and stay at the Mountaineer Lodge.
Read the Blog Story: Your Top of the World Ski Getaway in Lake Louise, Alberta awaits
Find out More
Ski the Canadian Rockies
5 minutes from the Mountaineer Lodge and a free ski shuttle gets you skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort quickly and conveniently. Boasting 4,200 acres, "The Lake" is one of the largest ski areas, and most loved, in North America. Get to know the other ski resorts as well.
| Ski Resorts |
Connect with the Experts
Lake Louise Ski Resort
| Website |
The Lake Louise Ski Resort offers group lessons, private lessons, and even a first tracks experience. The first tracks experience puts you on the mountain with a professional guide/instructor 30 minutes prior to opening for the ultimate ski experience.
Wilson Mountain Sports
| Website |
A short walk from the Mountaineer Lodge, Wilson Mountain Sports has a huge variety of skis and boards, helmets and gear for an epic day on the hill. Mountaineer Lodge guests even enjoy a little discount - bonus!
Lake Louise Ski Shuttle
| Several Times - Mountaineer Lodge > Lake Louise Ski Resort > Mountaineer Lodge | |
| 8 minute ride | |
| Website |
This shuttle is fast, free and frequent from the Mountaineer Lodge to Lake Louise Ski Resort for all guests of the Mountaineer Lodge. Click the link to check the schedule online or at the Front Desk.
