Ski at Lake Louise

Lake Louise has risen to the ranks of a legendary ski resort for more than just its views alone. The massive vertical drop and expert-focused back side make it a mountain to test your mettle. On the front side of the mountain are wide, flowing groomers and sneaky little powder patches in between them. Ski patrol also said that some of their best terrain hardly ever gets tracked-out because it’s only accessible by POMA lift on the far side of the mountain.

But our favorite runs were tucked high on the backside. Paradise Bowl gives fun fall-line skiing into a forest of larch trees that holds snow even days after the last big storm. You can eat lunch mid-mountain at the Whitehorn Bistro, which has the hands-down best view of any restaurant I’ve been to as you stare across the valley at Mount Temple, Mount Victoria, and the frozen Lake Louise.  

Don’t miss out on the Larch Mountain portion of the resort, either! This area sees a little less traffic, but that just means you’ll be able to scope out your chute from the chairlift and still get first tracks down once you reach it.  

And once you’re in the area, it’s a very worthwhile side trip to head a few kilometers up the Icefields Parkway just to the north for either sunrise or sunset. Every turn holds a new view and even a short drive shouldn’t be missed – but be careful because this road isn’t as well maintained as the main highway you drove in on.