The 2026-27 ski season is officially underway in the Canadian Rockies, with three Banff-area ski resorts set to welcome skiers and snowboarders this weekend. Lake Louise Ski Resort kicked things off on Sunday, November 1, Mt. Norquay opened today, Friday, November 6, and Banff Sunshine Village is scheduled to open tomorrow, November 7.
With all three resorts operating by Saturday, skiers and riders will have multiple options for getting their first turns of the season in the Canadian Rockies.
Lake Louise Leads the Way
Lake Louise was the first of the three resorts to open, welcoming guests back to the mountain on November 1. The opening marked the start of another winter season at one of Canada’s most recognizable ski destinations.
The resort has continued working to expand its early-season terrain, with mountain crews focusing their efforts higher up the mountain.
Glacier Chair is scheduled to open Saturday, November 7, providing access to the Bald Eagle and Juniper runs. The resort also has plans to expand operations toward the Top of the World and Pipestone Chairs as conditions allow, eventually bringing the first upper front-side trails into play.
For now Juniper Chair provides access to Easy Street and two small terrain parks. The Magic Carpet in the dedicated Learning Area is also operating, with lessons, rentals and select dining options available.
Mt. Norquay Opens Friday
Mt. Norquay became the second Banff-area ski resort to open for the season today, November 6. The resort is beginning its 2026-27 operations with the Sundance Carpet and Cascade Chair. While the opening-day terrain is limited, Norquay’s return gives local skiers and snowboarders another opportunity to get back on snow ahead of the weekend.
Sunshine Village Joins Saturday
Banff Sunshine Village rounds out the opening weekend lineup, with its season scheduled to begin Saturday, November 7. Sunshine is planning a limited early-season opening, with the gondola, Magic Carpet and a hike-accessed rail park on lower Strawberry available to guests. The rail park will require visitors to hike back uphill between laps, as Strawberry Chair will remain closed until more natural snow arrives.
The resort has been making snow on lower Strawberry in preparation for opening day. Select restaurants, shopping, rentals and guest services will also be available, including Trappers. Additional terrain and lift openings will depend on snowfall and mountain conditions.
There’s not a lot of terrain, but three open ski resorts is still great news for those eager to get on snow. Early terrain can be variable, so prepare for potentially difficult or changing conditions if you decide to visit.