Top 10 Banff Ski Resorts

Our No. 9 Banff Ski Resorts pick is the idyllic Rimrock Resort Hotel. While saying the Rockies Rimrock Resort three times fast can certainly tie up your tongue, your moment of speechlessness will really come when you lay eyes on this AAA/CAA Four-Diamond hotel surrounded by mountain tops.

Rimrock has taken Banff luxury living to a whole new level. State-of-the-art fitness facilities with exercise balls and mats, resistance tubing, cardio equipment, free weights and a squash court allow you to maintain your routine or spice it up! The indoor sauna, whirlpool and pool are just teasers for the deep-set and lasting relaxation found at Rimrock Spa. After a papaya and pineapple drenched Tropical Escape Crème Fraiche Body Wrap, you’ll almost forget the tree tops are covered in snow. Speaking of rooms, while the white blanketed landscape is perfect for cross country skiing and making snow angels, it’s the blankets on your Simmons® Beautyrest® bed that you’ll look forward to at the end of each day. Before throwing back those covers, however, Eden awaits. Not the garden, but still paradise, this Five-Diamond restaurant serves exquisite French cuisine and has wine sommeliers at the ready to assist with wine and course pairings.

Address

300 Mountain Ave., Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1J2

Highlights

Other scrumptious onsite food and beverage options include the casual but elegant Primrose Dining Room, Larkspur Lounge, Divas “Martini Jazz” Lounge and the Rimrock Café.

Related activities

Surprise your sweetie with the Eden Romance Package. Feel like the only Adam and Eve on earth with sparkling wine and chocolate dipped strawberries in your Rimrock room, four-course dinner for two at Eden and breakfast the next morning.

Some of the most famous storybook characters and real life heroes came from humble beginnings. While our No. 10 pick certainly had a less than modest start with its 1888 construction as a Scottish Baronial castle, it is still a fairytale destination that will inspire you on your Banff winter getaway.

The Fairmont Banff Springs is not only the point of convergence for Old World elegance and modern day comfort, but also for the Bow and Spray Rivers. Anglers and avid nature lovers will revel in this meeting point that conveniently provides fishing spots and hiking trails near the breathtaking Banff National Park. If slippers suit you more than snowshoes and you still feel the urge to experience the Canadian countryside, The Willow Stream Spa brings the beauty of the outdoors inside. The powerful but peaceful streams and hot springs of the north are harnessed by waterfalls and a mineral pool at Willow Stream. Your Fairmont Banff Springs accommodations are a testament to distinct and classical sophistication. Gaze out at the mountain peaks from your whirlpool in the Presidential Suite or curl up in front of the stone fireplace with your favorite novel.

Highlights

You’ll never give in to boredom at Fairmont Banff Springs because of the extensive list of onsite and offsite activities. Play a few games at the resort’s bowling center, take a canyon ice walk, try dog sledding or ice fishing, take a sleigh ride or turn figure eight’s in the resort’s ice rink.

Related activities

Don’t just stare at the mountains, explore them with a set of skis on one of the local ski areas, including Banff Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.

Related Onsite Offerings

All rooms in Fairmont Banff Springs are appointed with cable TV, an iron and ironing board, hair dryer, coffee maker, high speed Internet and more.

At Banff Park Lodge you have the best access to ski and snowboard areas on the surrounding mountains, being the "last on, first off" the ski shuttle that swings by the lodge's front doors!

Banff Park Lodge features both the peace and solitude of a quiet location, yet quick access to a livelier scene in downtown Banff. Conveniently located just steps away from the glacier-fed Bow River, fantastic skiing is just a courtesy shuttle ride away. When you aren't tearing up the slopes, you'll be relaxing in one of the 211 spacious guest rooms or suites and enjoying the fresh alpine air and exceptional views from your private balcony. Amenities are, of course, top-of-the-line. The indoor pool, eucalyptus-infused steam room, exercise facilities and whirlpool may tempt you to linger indoors, but make sure you also get out and explore historic downtown Banff!

Address

222 Lynx St, Banff, AB T1L 1K5, Canada

Related activities

The hotel is a 3-minute walk from downtown Banff and 4.5 km from the Banff Gondola.

Related Onsite Offerings

There's also more than 18,000 sq ft of meeting space, on-site shops and underground parking.

If not for the comfy rooms and stylish décor, we have to give our No. 7 Banff winter vacation pick kudos for choosing a memorable homeland creature for their name. From now on, the Banff Ptarmigan will bring to mind images of fluffy-feathered, rounded, dove-like birds, and scrumptious Italian food.

Have no fear, the Banff Ptarmigan Inn by no means attempts to blend the bird and the cuisine. The menu at The Meatball only features mouthwatering creations such as Atlantic lobster and spinach dip, Sambuca prawns, Fusilli Carbonara and a grilled eggplant and Portobello tower. After such a delectable meal – which we’re sure you paired with a white or red cellar favorite – your Banff Ptarmigan Premium Room calls out for an evening curled up in front of the fire with a good read. When morning comes, and your cup of coffee is enjoyed in the comfort of your own room, get ready for a day full of Banff style activity. Explore Bow Falls, Cave and Basin National Historic Site and the Banff Upper Hot Springs. All are within convenient walking distance of Banff Ptarmigan Inn.

Address

337 Banff Ave., Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1H8

Highlights

Let Banff Ptarmigan take care of your big night when you host your event in the elegant Atrium or Sundance Room.

Related Onsite Offerings

High speed wireless Internet, Mountain Luxury Bed®, heated underground parking, ski tuning room and lockers, two whirlpools, steam room, dry sauna, exercise room and more.

Upon seeing our No. 3 resort’s name, our interest was piqued. We began to look for furry auburn-coated creatures peeking out from behind the lobby’s rock features. Alas, only the cherry-hued wood used throughout the hotel reminded us of our foxy friends, but we still found plenty more to excite us.

Fox Hotel and Suites puts you steps from the streets of Banff without sacrificing the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. In fact, Fox’s centerpiece, the Cave and Basin Hot Pool, brings the unique features of rock and water from the surrounding landscape into a luxury setting. Wade through steaming waters and weave around rock pillars and outcroppings in the peaceful cavern. For more creature comforts, hop out of the hot pool and into your Fox suite. Outfitted in a rustic but elegant style, bedrooms boast country-style bed covers and wooden doors while the suite blends chic wallpaper with a jewel red, serene teal and calming beige.

Address

461 Banff Ave., Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1H8

Highlights

For an intimate business luncheon or special meeting, the tastefully decorated Fox Board Room and Chili’s Private Dining Room are convenient and ideal options.

Related activities

The onsite Chili’s keeps hungry Banff travelers happy with its famous baby back ribs, bottomless beverages and nutritious Guiltless Grill.

Resting at the foot of Cascade Mountain and surrounded by the beautiful Canadian Rockies, the Inns of Banff is everything you're looking for in a memorable winter vacation. Their prime location makes it easy to get out and hit the slopes, and their onsite ski rentals ensure you're equipped with all the right gear before you do. The Caribou Snow School at the Caribou Lodge offers private or small group lessons for beginners or those needing a freshner as well. Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and the Lake Louise Ski Area all offer challenging and exciting hills that everyone is sure to love! And after your day of thrills, return to the inn for true comfort and relaxation. Indulge in a meal at the Wildfire Grill, warm up at the indoor pool or sauna, or relax by the fireplace in the lobby as you swap tales about your skiing adventures. However you choose to spend your time, this a winter vacation you're sure to never forget!

Address

600 Banff Ave Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1H8

Highlights

The outdoor hot pool is a fantastic place to unwind after a day out at on the slopes! The steamy heat is sure to relax your muscles, keep you warm, and clear your mind!

Related Onsite Offerings

Inns of Banff features a selection of accommodations ranging from standard rooms to executive cottages to four-bedroom condominiums. Equipped with modern touches such as flat-screen television, balconies and full kitchens, you're sure to feel right at home!

If you’re starting to wonder why we didn’t write a Top 10 Banff Beach Vacations instead, hold off on those cold season blues. We bet that after one look at our No. 2 Banff winter vacation resort, you’ll swap that frown for a smile and beach sand for Banff snow.

Hidden Ridge Resort is tucked away in the heights of Tunnel Mountain, minutes from the bustle of Banff but isolated enough to feel worlds away from it all with only the Cascade, Rundle and Bourgeau mountains as your neighbors. When you’ve had your fill of crisp mountain air from your balcony, turn inside your luxurious condo. If it’s just you and your honey, take in the view from your balcony hot tub in the Premier King Suite. But if you brought the whole family along, we won’t blink twice if we find you in the game room of your spacious four-floor Premier Two-Bedroom Loft Condo. You should be equally unsurprised if you find us in one of the two new, outdoor hot pools. With stunning vistas of the Canadian Rockies and the Bow River Valley, it’s all too easy to remain in those warm, deep blue waters all day.

Address

901 Hidden Ridge Dr., Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1B7

Fun facts

Hidden Ridge is pet-friendly and provides pet beds, bowls and treats!

Related Onsite Offerings

Guest laundry facilities, grocery service, complimentary firewood, free transportation on the energy-efficient Banff Roam buses, Mountain Luxury Beds® and high speed wireless Internet.

Surrounded by the Canadian Rockies makes Banff Rocky Mountain Resort an ideal destination for your winter vacation. Located on eight acres of private parkland, the resort takes you away from the hustle-bustle of the cities and lets you truly indulge in a magical winter wonderland that's full of stunning views and endless activities. You're only minutes away from some of Banff's best slopes at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and the Lake Louise Ski Area. Beginners, or those in need of a little review, can head over to the Caribou Snow School which offers lessons to help you navigate the hills. When you're ready to unwind for the day, the resort's indoor pool and hot tub will help you warm up and relax. An onsite sauna is also available to get the chill off your bones! Afterward, you can settle down for a delicious meal at the onsite Pepper's Grill, or head back up to your room to catch a movie on your flat-screen television!

Address

1029 Banff Avenue Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1A2

Highlights

The Mountain Health and Fitness Club is located onsite and offers you a place to keep in shape on your winter vacation. The club is equipped with free weights, a ten-station universal gym, aerobic machines, strength training, exercise balls, resistance tubing and skipping ropes, and a sauna.

Related Onsite Offerings

Accommodations at Banff Rocky Mountain Resort range from junior suites to their spacious Wolf Condos. Most units are equipped with fireplaces, flat-screen televisions, and wireless internet, while some even offer full kitchens. They even offer pet-friendly lodging!

Centrally located in Lake Louse, Alberta, Mountaineer Lodge maintains fantastic value just a stone's throw away from pristine skiing and snowboarding access.

Right off the bat, Mountaineer Lodge includes a continental breakfast buffet, free parking and wireless internet, as well as a convenient shuttle to the Lake Louise Ski Resort at no additional charge. Adding to that is the atmosphere of Lake Louise that evokes beautiful images of majestic wilderness and rugged mountain skylines. Aside from the easy access to the slopes, you will also not have to worry about storing your equipment, as the hotel has its own storage room and ski waxing room so your skis and snowboards will be kept safe and you will be able to prep your equipment before heading out. Flat-screen televisions and pillow-top mattresses in all rooms and suites will pile on the value you’ll receive when you stay here for your ski vacation!

Address

101 Village Road, Lake Louise, Alberta Canada

Getting there

From Calgery: Take the 16th Ave W exit out of the city, 16th Ave W becomes Trans-Canada Hwy 1 upon exiting the city. Continue on Trans-Canada Hwy 1 to the Lake Louise exit. Turn left towards town of Lake Louise. Turn left at first 4-way stop onto Village Road, follow to Mountaineer Lodge.

Related Onsite Offerings

After a day on the slopes, retreat back to Mountaineer Lodge’s steam room or indoor hot tub to refresh and wind down the day in comfort.

Surrounded by the Canadian Rockies but still close to all the excitement of downtown Banff is what makes Charlton’s Banff an ideal home-base for your winter vacation. Here, you just minutes away from the Big 3: Mount Norquay, The Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village. These three magnificent ski resorts provide you with everything you expect in a ski getaway—plus so much more. With nearly 8,000 acres of terrain across the three resorts, there’s plenty of space to explore. Sunshine Village features 115 runs, Mont Norquay offers 60, and Lake Louise, 145. Each destination provides runs for every level, so you don’t have to worry about if you’re a beginner or be disappointed in the challenge if you’re an expert. When you’re not hitting the slopes on your skis or board, you will find tons of other winter activities to keep you entertained. The kids are especially sure to love a day of snow-tubing down the hills, but you can also enjoy an afternoon of cross-country skiing along miles of trails, or bask in the majestic mountain views on a sightseeing gondola ride!

Address

513 Banff Avenue Banff, Alberta T1L 1B4 Canada

Highlights

After a day of adventure on the slopes, return to the luxurious Charlton's Banff and relax. The indoor pool and hot tub let you soothe your tired muscles, while the onsite restaurant provides you with a delicious meal to the end the day. The next morning you can start things off right with their complimentary continental breakfast!

Related Onsite Offerings

The resort offers onsite ski storage so you don't have to worry about lugging your gear back and forth to your room everyday!

Discoveries can be made through careful experimentation and research or they occur when something unexpected is noticed. Luckily for us, railroad workers took note of a hot spring at the base of Sulphur Mountain in 1883 and thus began the history of the lush Canadian region we now know as Banff.

Another precious find that has bubbled up to the surface is Royal Canadian Lodge. Our #1 spot prides itself on being a quintessential Canadian ski lodge, and we have to agree it fits the part. An impressive Rundle rock fireplace greets you in the lobby while halls adorned in Canadian artwork lead you to the Grotto Spa. Soft lighting, natural rock and ceramic tile add to the tranquil ambiance. Soothe your senses in the eucalyptus steam room or with a lavender, rosemary and orange citrus infused spa ritual. Every bold adventurer needs a hearty meal. You won’t have to travel far to find the Evergreen Restaurant for just such an occasion. A plate of contemporary Canadian cuisine, a glass of fine wine and a bowl of house made ice cream will lift your weary wanderer’s spirits and ready you for another wintry Banff day.

Address

459 Banff Ave., Banff, Alberta, Canada T1L 1B4

Related activities

Explore the winter wonderland of Banff with the Ski Big 3 Package. This Royal Canadian Lodge package offers one night’s accommodation, tri-area lift passes, ski shuttles and a voucher for the Evergreen Restaurant.

Related Onsite Offerings

Star and end your day with convenient room amenities including complimentary wireless Internet, coffee maker, tea kettle, fridge, daily newspaper, evening turn-down service, plush bathrobes and more.