Lake Louise is a mountain village, and here in Canada, that means a lot of things. With fewer than 700 residents nestled in a stunning corner of Alberta, Lake Louise is connected to the rest of the world only by Calgary Airport (YYC), but its few wooden houses overlooking a picturesque, crystal-clear lake are an important tourist attraction, both in summer and in winter. From this little world, trails lead to the mighty Canadian Rocky Mountains, and when everything is blanketed in white snow, you can glide down those same mountains on skis. Come and discover how it’s like to ski in Lake Louise… you’ll fall in love with Canada instantly!
The slopes of Lake Louise
The Lake Louise ski area is a dream for every American winter sports enthusiast. Slopes for skiers of all levels, including snowboarders, weave across the sides of mighty mountains and descend almost like a funnel toward the beautiful mountain lake that gives the area its name.
The highlight of Lake Louise is undoubtedly freeriding, the off-piste skiing that welcomes daredevils along the big Backbowls descent. Another special feature of these slopes is the prolonged accumulation of snow: you can ski until late May!
With 139 km of ski runs, served by 13 lifts, your funny time on the snow starts at 1,600 meters above sea level and rises up to 2,637 meters.
Lake Louise: not for everyone
Banff National Park, which includes this ski area, is home to 25 km of “blue”—meaning easy—slopes suitable for adults and children, beginners and weekend tourists. Immersed in the beauty of this protected natural setting, the easier slopes are suitable for everyone… but don’t be fooled: Lake Louise isn’t really “for everyone.”
In fact, most of the slopes here are “red” (medium-difficult) or “black” (very difficult/professional). The intermediate ones cover a full 63 km, while the professional slopes cover the remaining 42 km. Almost the entire area is therefore dedicated to “good” skiers, and it’s no coincidence that many American champions train here before competing in world competitions.
What to do in Lake Louise
In addition to challenging skiing, snowboarding competitions, and freeride adventures, in Lake Louise you can enjoy the Sunny Tube Park, where sleds of all shapes and sizes make every descent a joy; you can enjoy a gondola-boat ride on the lake; you can explore the flora and fauna of nearby Banff National Park; you can visit scenic locations such as Lake Annette, Mount Fairview, Mount St. Piran, and the Cathedral Formations (stunning Dolomite peaks located a few kilometers from Lake Louise). A two-hour drive on a convenient highway takes you from the ski resort to the vibrant city of Calgary, where you can admire the City Tower, the Heritage Park, the Stampede (the rodeo arena), the coal mines, and the Museum of Flight.
Why choose Lake Louise for skiing?
Because it is well-equipped to accommodate families with children.
Because it offers excellent dining options and assistance for those with limited mobility.
Because it is an eco-sustainable and environment-friendly resort.
Because the hotels are located right on the ski slopes.
Because it offers its own ski and snowboard schools.
Because off-piste skiing is not a crime here!
