The resort town of Banff, in southwestern Canada's Alberta province, is the heart of Banff National Park, a 2,500-square-mile adventure haven beloved in summer for its sparkling alpine lakes, wildflower fields, and scenic hiking trails that crisscross the mountainous landscape. But in this stretch of the Rockies, where ski season can last up to late May, resorts, hotels, and tours are adding winter appeal on and off the slopes.
In early 2026, skiers and snowboarders will gain access to Richardson's Ridge, a 200-acre sweep of skiable terrain at Lake Louise Ski Resort, one of Banff's three ski areas, along with Mt. Norquay Ski Resort and Sunshine Village. The Richardson's Ridge Express, a high-speed quad chairlift, will transport skiers and boarders to five new beginner and intermediate runs. Next year also marks the 100th anniversary of Mt. Norquay, Banff's oldest ski area. As part of its Norquay 100 Vision, the resort is building an elevated wheelchair-accessible walkway between mountain trails with striking views of the valley; an education and heritage center, created with local Indigenous communities; and, in 2027, a two-station gondola to replace the North American Chairlift and provide faster access to the summit.
Away from the resorts, adventure company Radventures now offers guided winter wildlife tours for spotting elk and bighorn sheep, followed by a ride up Sulphur Mountain to Nightrise, an after-dark experience that blends stargazing and Indigenous storytelling, making good use of some of the darkest skies in North America. The park is ideal for spotting the northern lights or night skating on a frozen Lake Louise under the glow of Orion's Belt.
Banff's most iconic hotels are also meeting the moment with new wellness offerings perfect for après-ski recovery. This past September, the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise unveiled the Basin Glacial Waters Spa, with thermotherapy offerings like heated pools, cold plunges, and steam rituals. Banff Park Lodge debuted its Mountain Whisper Spa in January 2025, alongside a refresh of its 211 guest rooms. And earlier this year, the Kenrick Hotel reopened after undergoing a $11 million transformation; the spa features a saltwater pool, whirlpools, and poolside cabanas. A new era of alpine adventure and relaxation has begun.
This article appeared in the December 2025 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here.
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