There’s nothing quite like winter in Banff — crisp mountain air, powder-covered peaks, and world-class ski resorts just minutes away. For those seeking both adventure and relaxation, Buffalo Mountain Lodge offers the ideal home base. Perched on Tunnel Mountain with easy access to Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay, this cozy retreat blends alpine luxury with authentic mountain charm from early-morning lift rides to fireside evenings, here’s your perfect three-night ski itinerary in Banff.
Ski Holiday Tips
Get slope-ready with ease by picking up your ski or snowboard rentals right in Banff. Convenient, flexible, and perfect for making the most of your mountain adventure. Popular rental shops include Snowtips-Bactrax, Ultimate Sports, Banff Adventures, and Chateau Mountain Sports, all offering quality gear and helpful local advice.
Lift Tickets
SkiBig3 – The SkiBig3 Lift Ticket gives you access to all three Banff resorts – Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay – with one convenient pass. Purchase online in advance through SkiBig3.com for the best rates, or buy in person at their Banff
Adventure Hub on Banff Avenue. Multi-day passes include free shuttle service from town to the resorts.
SUNSHINE VILLAGE – Lift tickets for Sunshine Village can be purchased directly online at skibanff.com or at the base of the gondola. Buying ahead of time is recommended during peak weekends and holidays.
LAKE LOUISE SKI RESORT – Day and multi-day lift tickets are available online
at skilouise.com or on-site at the resort base. For savings, book in advance or bundle your tickets with rentals and lessons.
MOUNT NORQUAY – Lift passes for Mt. Norquay can be purchased online at banffnorquay.com or at the ticket window. Norquay offers unique options such as hourly tickets, night skiing passes, and tubing park access.
Day One: Settle In and Warm Up
4:00 PM – Check-In
Arrive at Buffalo Mountain Lodge and unwind in your cozy room complete with a real wood-burning fireplace.
6:00 PM – Dinner at The Prow
Kick off your stay at The Prow Food & Drink, a beloved spot for après-ski dining. Savour elevated Rocky Mountain dishes like elk short ribs or smoked bison tartare, paired with a glass of wine or craft cocktail.
8:00 PM – Outdoor Hot Tub Soak
End the evening with a soak in the outdoor stainless-steel hot tub. Surrounded by snow-draped pines and mountain views, it’s the perfect way to ease into your Banff adventure.
Day Two: Sunshine Village Skiing and Fireside Comfort
7:00 AM – Summit Breakfast To-Go
Fuel up for a big day on the slopes with a Summit Breakfast box—available for pickup at the front desk starting at 7 AM. Pre-order by 8 PM the evening prior.
8:00 AM – Ski Sunshine Village
Head to Sunshine Village, just a short drive or free shuttle ride from downtown Banff. With over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain spread across three mountains, Sunshine offers everything from gentle groomers to powder-filled bowls. Don’t forget to grab lunch at Trappers Pub or Nikko Ramen on the hill.
4:00 PM – Happy Hour at The Prow Lounge
Return to the lodge and unwind with shareable bites and happy hour specials (3–5 PM) beside the lounge fireplace.
7:00 PM – Outdoor Hot Tub
Soothe your muscles in the steaming outdoor hot tub, open until 11 PM daily.
9:00 PM – Fireside S’mores
Wind down the night in your room by the fireplace. Ask the front desk for a s’mores kit to end the day on a sweet note.
Day Three: Big Ski Day at Lake Louise
7:00 AM – Breakfast at The Prow
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast — options include pancakes, eggs benedict, and the classic Mixed Grill.
8:00 AM – Explorer’s Packed Lunch To-Go
Pick up your packed lunch from the front desk before heading out for another day on the slopes. Make sure to pre-order by 8 PM the night prior.
9:00 AM – Ski Lake Louise Ski Resort
Take the scenic drive or Roam Bus to Lake Louise Ski Resort. Spanning over 4,200 acres, this resort features terrain for all levels — from smooth cruisers to thrilling steeps. Stop mid-day at Temple Lodge to enjoy your packed lunch amid panoramic views of the Rockies.
5:30 PM – Après Ski Drink at The Prow
Toast to an epic day with an après-ski cocktail or local beer by the lounge fire.
7:00 PM – Dinner in Downtown Banff
Discover Banff’s dining scene at:
SALTLIK – for steakhouse favorites
The Maple Leaf – for refined Canadian cuisine
Park Distillery – for hearty comfort food and house-distilled spirits
9:00 PM – Hot Tub or Firepit Wind-Down
Return to the lodge to relax in the outdoor hot tub or gather around the outdoor firepit with friends.
Day Four: One More Run at Mt. Norquay
8:00 AM – Breakfast at The Prow
Enjoy one last breakfast before hitting the slopes.
9:00 AM – Check-Out
Bid farewell to your cozy mountain retreat—but not before one final adventure.
10:00 AM – Ski Mt. Norquay
Just minutes from Buffalo Mountain Lodge, Mt. Norquay is Banff’s most convenient ski hill. With wide-open groomers, night skiing, and breathtaking views of the Bow Valley, it’s the perfect finale to your Banff ski trip.
3:30 PM – Depart Banff
Leave with unforgettable memories (and maybe a few ski goggle tan lines).
Why Skiers Love Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Close to Banff’s top ski resorts — Sunshine, Lake Louise & Norquay
Secluded location atop Tunnel Mountain, minutes from downtown
On-site dining at The Prow Food & Drink
In-room wood-burning fireplaces
Outdoor hot tub & firepit for post-ski recovery
Free parking & 24-hour fitness centre
Plan Your Perfect Ski Getaway
From first chair to last run, Buffalo Mountain Lodge offers everything skiers need for a seamless winter escape in Banff National Park.
