If you’re considering skiing at Lake Louise with kids, you’re in for something special. Our family spent a few days there this winter, and it was one of the highlights of our season. Lake Louise is a ski resort that works well for both new and experienced skiers. Plus, the views are incredible. You can even see the iconic Lake Louise from the chairlifts.
In this Lake Louise ski review, we’ll walk you through what it was like to ski here as a family. We’ll also share a few other fun things to do off the slopes because not every day needs to be about skiing.
If you plan to visit Banff National Park in the winter or spring, Lake Louise Ski Resort is worth a closer look and should be added to your Banff itinerary.
Our Family’s Lake Louise Ski Review
After four years of living near the Canadian Rockies, we finally made it to Ski Louise, and honestly, it was better than we expected. It wasn’t our first time skiing in the Rockies, though. We had the chance to go to Mt. Norquay (the smallest ski resort in Banff, but one that we really enjoy), Panorama Mountain Resort in Invermere and Fairmont Hot Spring Ski Area in the Columbia Valley. They were all great places to ski with the kids and great stops along the Powder Highway in BC.
But now that the kids are more confident and experienced (still learning), Lake Louise seems like a great place to ski.
Right from the start, the views took our breath away. Mountains completely surround you, and on a clear day, you can even spot the frozen surface of the iconic Lake Louise in the distance.
We were there on a busy weekend (the parking lot was already full just after 8AM), but it didn’t feel crowded once we were on the mountain. The resort’s layout really helps spread people out, which makes skiing with kids feel a lot less stressful. All the runs we did were wide enough.
Our kids had a two-hour private ski lesson, hands-down the best investment of the trip. They started the day a little nervous, but by the end of their lesson, they were skiing with way more confidence and actually enjoying it. Seeing that shift was a highlight of the weekend. Plus, my husband and I got a rare mini-date on the slopes while they were with their instructor. It was definitely a win-win.
We stuck to the green runs this time and loved exploring the resort’s backside. Pika and Pine Cone Way were two of our favourites. They were both scenic, mellow, and perfect for families. The Ptarmigan chairlift that takes you back up from the back side made us a little nervous. It stopped several times on the way up, which wasn’t our favourite moment!
Overall, it was one of those weekends where you have to pinch yourself. The snow was great, the kids had fun, and we all came home talking about when we can go back.
What You Need to Know About Lake Louise Ski Resort
Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest in Canada and it was voted Canada’s Best Ski Resort! Once you visit, it’s easy to see why families and all skiers love it.
The layout is simple to navigate, with a main base area and three main mountain faces: the Front Side, the Back Bowls, and the Larch area. Most of the beginner terrain is right off the base, which makes it easy to ski with kids in Lake Louise.
How to Get to Lake Louise Ski Resort
Lake Lousie Ski Resort in located in Banff National Park in the hamlet of Lake Louise. It’s about 45 minutes from the town of Banff and a short drive from Lake Louise Village.
There’s free parking at the resort, but it can fill up fast on weekends. Arrive early if you’re driving. If you’re staying in one of the hotels in Lake Louise Village or nearby Banff, the FREE ski shuttle is a great option and drops you off right at the base.
🎿 Lake Louise Ski Resort Quick Facts
- Ski Season: from early November to early May (around November 6 to May 6… that is a full 6 months of skiing)
- Skiable Terrain: Over 4,200 acres of space to explore
- Vertical Drop: 991 meters (3,250 feet)
- Lifts: 12 lifts, including the Grizzly Express Gondola, Glacier Express Chair, and Summit Quad
- Runs: 164 named trails for all levels — from easy greens to challenging double black diamonds
- Snowfall: Gets an average of 5.2 meters (17.1 feet) of snow each season
- Terrain Ability Level: Beginner (25%), Intermediate 45%(), Advanced (30%)
- Village Base Elevation: 1,646 meters (5,400 feet) — with panoramic mountain views
How High Is Lake Louise?
One thing to keep in mind: Lake Louise is at a high elevation. The base is around 1,646 meters (5,400 feet), and the summit is 2,637 meters (8,650 feet). If you’re coming from sea level, take it easy on your first day to adjust.
How Much Does It Cost to Ski at the Lake Louise Ski Resort?
Skiing in the Canadian Rockies (or skiing generally) is not cheap. The ski resort has a dynamic pricing, but here are the price range:
- Adult: between $149 and $169
- Youth: between $115 and $130
- Child: between $57 and $64
- Under 5 years old: FREE
Is it Worth Taking a Ski Lesson?
If your kids (or you!) are new to skiing, the Lake Louise lessons are well worth it.
The instructors are friendly, patient, and know how to keep things fun. There are group and private options, and the base area has a great learning zone that’s safe and easy to access.
Our kids took a two-hour private lesson with instructor Marcus, and it was so worth it. They gained so much confidence and were so much more stable on their skis. We could go up the gondola in the afternoon, which we couldn’t have done without the lessons. It feels like they gained a full season of ski experience in just a two-hour ski lesson.
More Than Skiing With Kids at Lake Louise: Other Family Activities
Even if you don’t ski all day, there’s still plenty to do at Lake Louise. We took some time off the slopes to try a few extra activities, which turned out to be just as fun as skiing.
Tubing Hill Fun
The Sunny Tube Park is next to the beginner area, making it super easy to get to. You don’t need any special gear, just snow boots and your warm layers. It’s a great option for kids who want a break from skiing or for parents who’d rather slide than ski.
Our kids loved racing each other down, and since the tubes are provided and there’s a magic carpet to take you back up, it’s an easy way to spend an hour or two.
Sightseeing Gondola
The Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola runs all winter, and it’s a must-do if you’re looking for views without having to ski. You can ride the same Grizzly Express Gondola used by skiers but without the skis. The ride takes you up to nearly 2,100 meters, with stunning views of the mountains, the valley, and even Lake Louise itself in the distance. Tickets are available at the main lodge, and it’s best to go on a clear day for the best photos. Keep your eyes open—wildlife sightings are possible even in winter!
Ski Lake Louise offers a family package with unlimited access to the snow tubing area for the day AND sightseeing gondola tickets for the entire family for CA$ 145. It’s a good alternative to the Banff Gondola.
Why Lake Louise Is a Great Family Ski Destination
Lake Louise isn’t just about the skiing—it’s about the full experience. The views alone are worth the trip. Even if someone in your group doesn’t ski, the snowy peaks, frozen lakes, and wide-open spaces make it feel like a true winter escape.
The resort has a friendly, laid-back vibe that makes families feel welcome (Fernie in BC is another great option for a family ski trip). From the beginner runs to the tubing park and sightseeing gondola, there’s something for everyone, no matter their age or skill level.
We loved that you could mix up your days: ski on one day, then spend another day tubing or just relaxing with hot chocolate. It kept the trip fun without feeling rushed or exhausting.
Plus, Lake Louise is easy to combine with a visit to Banff. You can spend a day exploring the town, visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs, or check out nearby hikes like Johnston Canyon. It turns a ski trip into a full winter holiday.
🏨 Where to Stay on Your Family Ski Trip to Lake Louise?
If you’re planning a ski trip with kids, staying somewhere comfortable (and fun!) makes all the difference. There are many options in Banff, but I would recommend staying in Lake Louise. It’s nice to be close after a long day of skiing and also not have to wake up an hour early to drive from Banff to Lake Louise.
We stayed at the Lake Louise Inn, and it was the perfect home base for our family.
Here’s what we loved at the Lake Louise Inn:
- Indoor pool with three different hot tubs: perfect for relaxing after a big day on the slopes
- Apartment-style room with a Murphy bed, full kitchen, and separate bedroom, it gave us the space and flexibility families need
- Complimentary s’mores bar and live music: a cozy way to wind down at night. We roasted marshmallows by the fire (a big hit with the kids)
- On-site dining at Timberwolf Pizza & Pasta Café: the pasta was delicious, the pizza hit the spot, and the French 75 cocktail was a fun treat for me.
The Lake Louise Inn is just a short drive or free shuttle ride from the ski resort, and it’s a great mix of convenience, comfort, and atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Our kids are still talking about their big family ski day at Lake Louise. Booking a two-hour private lesson made a huge difference. Watching how much more confident they were after just one session was incredible.
Their first run of the day was full of nerves, but by the afternoon, they were cruising down the hill with smiles on their faces.
The views were unreal, and we were lucky to have perfect snow conditions during our stay. It all came together for a trip we won’t forget anytime soon.
Would we go again? Absolutely. We’re already talking about our next visit and what runs we’ll try next time. Thank you so much, Ski Lake Louise, for hosting us this ski season.
If you’re looking for a winter destination that combines great skiing, stunning scenery, and fun for the whole family, Lake Louise should be on your list. Whether it’s your first time on skis or just time for a new adventure, this spot delivers.
