Banff Sunshine Village — Attraction in Alberta

Good skiing, could use better signage

Overall - My third best ski resort in Banff, after Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay (some of you may disagree)

Good - The days I skied this year was like any skier's wish, we had fresh snow continuously for a few days. Being my first time in Banff I wanted to go check out Sunshine for all its hype. I like the skiing, the resort and the people. It was a really nice place to hang out. If you are new to ski, they have a magic carpet once you unload off of the gondola. The resort was 30 - 40% open with a variety of greens, blue and blacks. I skied only green and blue this year and had a great time.

Bad - Could use better signage. Been skiing in Colorado, I am so used to signs and crossing. I like to know where I am going (at least to some degree). But at Sunshine, the signage was a bit confusing, at first I thought it may be a common thing here (but Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay had proper signage). Signage is small and can be easily missed, especially during a white out (which I experienced).

Tips - If you plan on skiing at Sunshine, plan your route prior to hitting...

For summer visitors! We took the Sunshine Village gondola and the Standish chairlift to explore Rock Isle, Grizzly and Larix lake. Nice way to get way up there and then spend time going deeper into the woods. Very easy hike, took about 1.5 hours to do the loops between all three lakes. We also decided to walk down to the gondola and that was an extra 45mins.

Some strenuous parts uphill if you’re not in shape, but lots of benches to rest on. I would say bring a few layers, and do it at least in runners (Birks would be bold and probably too flimsy). Take snacks! You’re not allowed to leave the trail because of wildlife and flowers. But it’s got some incredibly scenic...

The lodges are disgusting. Should have pulled some covid checkers and put them on the janitorial team. Embarrassing.

So if your coming skiing remember to bring warm clothes, a vacuum and all required cleaning supplies.

On the plus. The hill is good. Quick lines....