Experience the Best of Banff’s Ski Resorts with the Rocky Mountains Ski Safari

For those looking to explore Alberta’s stunning ski landscapes in a single day, the Rocky Mountains Ski Safari offers an engaging and comprehensive experience. Priced at $143 per person, this 8-hour guided tour departs from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, making it easy to include in your travel plans. The tour guides you through three of Banff’s most celebrated ski destinations — Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay — each with its own unique appeal.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on showcasing the spectacular vistas of the Rockies, along with fun activities like skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. While it provides lift passes and transportation, travelers should bring their own winter sports gear if they plan to hit the slopes themselves. This tour is ideal for those wanting a full day of alpine adventure with expert guidance, especially those who enjoy scenic mountain views and lively terrain parks.

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Key Points

Price: $143 per person for an 8-hour experience
Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, ski lift passes
Stops: Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village, Mt. Norquay
Unique features: Canada’s only heated chairlift, scenic gondola rides
Culinary highlights: Hot chocolate, mulled wine, or local craft beer in Banff
Physical requirements: Not suitable for children under 6 or people with mobility impairments

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Convenient Pickup from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff

The tour starts with hotel pickup from your choice of Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, adding ease and comfort to the day. Once onboard the comfortable shuttle, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies as you travel towards your first stop. The small group size limited to 9 participants ensures a personalized experience and friendly atmosphere.

This setup works well for travelers who want to maximize their time and avoid arranging separate transport. The pickup and drop-off service guarantees a stress-free start and end to your mountain day, whether you’re coming from the city or nearby towns.

Exploring Lake Louise Ski Resort’s Expansive Terrain

Your first destination is Lake Louise Ski Resort, Canada’s largest ski area. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels find plenty of options here, whether you prefer lesson-based learning or carving the slopes independently. The resort offers breathtaking views of Victoria Glacier and Lake Louise below, giving your adventure a scenic backdrop that’s hard to beat.

A highlight at Lake Louise is the Lake Louise Snow Castle, an impressive ice and snow structure that becomes a seasonal attraction. Alongside skiing, you can take a break at the Whitehorn Bistro, which offers amazing alpine vistas alongside your coffee. This stop balances action with relaxation, allowing you to soak in the scenery and recharge.

Riding the Gondola into Sunshine Village’s Alpine Realm

Next, the tour continues with a ride on the iconic gondola into Sunshine Village, one of Banff’s most beloved ski resorts. The gondola journey itself provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and leads you into an alpine wonderland.

Once at Sunshine Village, travelers can explore legendary terrain such as Sunshine Meadows and Goats Eye Mountain. A notable feature here is Canada’s only heated chairlift, the Teepee Town LX, which adds a touch of comfort even on the coldest days. For lunch, the Sunshine Mountain Lodge offers a delicious meal option, making this stop both scenic and satisfying.

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Mt. Norquay’s Family-Friendly Slopes and Panorama Views

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Mt. Norquay, a local favorite for families and those seeking lively terrain. Norquay’s lively terrain park and family-oriented environment make it a lively spot for a few hours of fun. For an extra dose of excitement, tubing is available at your own expense, offering a thrilling downhill experience that’s suitable for ages 4 and above.

The sweeping views from Norquay include the Banff townsite and Bow Valley, adding a scenic element to your downhill adventures. This stop offers a relaxed pace and a chance to enjoy mountain vistas in a more casual setting compared to the larger resorts.

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Savoring Local Flavors and Warming Up in Banff

As the day wraps up, the tour takes you back to Banff town, where you can warm up with a hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a local craft beer. These beverages are served at a cozy lodge pub, providing a comfortable setting to reflect on your day in the mountains.

This relaxed moment offers an authentic taste of Banff’s hospitality scene, perfect after a day of skiing or sightseeing. The drop-off at your hotel marks the end of a well-rounded mountain adventure that combines scenic beauty, exhilarating activities, and local charm.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, transportation in a comfortable shuttle, transport to all three ski resorts, and lift passes for skiing or snowboarding. Travelers should note that lessons or equipment rentals are not included, so plan to bring your own or rent on-site.

It’s recommended to dress warmly in layers, bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and pack winter sports gear if you want to ski or snowboard. For tubing at Norquay, additional expenses apply, and a valid ID is required for rentals and lift tickets.

The tour operates as a small group experience, ensuring personalized attention from the guides, who speak English and Hindi. Cancellation is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Limitations and Considerations for Participants

This tour is not suitable for children under 6 years or people with mobility impairments, due to the physical activity involved. Travelers should also be aware that alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the tour or in the vehicle, maintaining safety and sobriety.

While the tour offers a comprehensive day of skiing and sightseeing, those not interested in winter sports may find the focus too centered on active pursuits. Also, bringing or renting winter sports gear is essential for full participation in skiing or snowboarding, as gear is not included.

Why the Rocky Mountains Ski Safari Stands Out

This guided tour offers a convenient and well-organized way to enjoy Banff’s top ski resorts in just a single day. The combination of spectacular mountain views, diverse terrain, and unique features like the heated chairlift makes it a compelling choice. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops and relaxation.

While it doesn’t include lessons or equipment rentals, the lift passes are included, making it a good value for travelers eager to ski, snowboard, or simply enjoy the mountain scenery. The tour’s balanced itinerary allows enough time at each location, avoiding rushed experiences while providing a taste of everything.

Rocky Mountains Ski Safari: Perfect for Alpine Enthusiasts

The Rocky Mountains Ski Safari is best suited for adventure-seekers and mountain lovers who want to see multiple ski resorts in a single day without the hassle of planning transport. It’s an excellent choice for families, groups, or solo travelers who appreciate scenic rides, lively terrain parks, and cozy Banff evenings.

While it’s not designed for those with mobility restrictions or very young children, active individuals will find the tour rewarding. The inclusion of hot beverages and local drinks adds a warm touch to this full-day alpine experience.

This tour offers a comprehensive, scenic, and fun-packed day exploring Alberta’s renowned ski landscapes, perfect for those eager to experience Banff’s mountain magic with ease.

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Rocky Mountains Ski Safari: Lake Louise, Sunshine & Norquay

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, along with transportation to each ski resort.

Are ski or snowboard lessons part of the tour?
No, lessons are not included, but lift passes and transportation are.

Can I rent ski or snowboard equipment?
Equipment rental is not included but can be obtained on-site at each resort.

What should I bring?
Bring warm, layered clothing, a camera, and winter sports gear if you plan to ski or snowboard.

Is tubing available?
Yes, tubing is available at Mt. Norquay for ages 4 and above, at your own expense.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours in total.

What are the payment options?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 6 years or those with mobility impairments.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour guides speak English and Hindi.