Photo Via Dmitry Molchanov/Shutterstock
Temperatures are dropping, and if you’re anything like us, you’re already dreaming of ski season again.
The good news is you won’t have to wait long to hit the slopes, with ski resorts across Alberta preparing to open for the 2026-27 season.
Some resorts hope to open as early as November, so if you’re already planning your first day on the mountain, here’s when resorts across the province are expected to open for the season.
Sitting high in the Canadian Rockies, Banff Sunshine Village has over 3,300 acres of terrain, with over 120 runs across three mountains. It’s also home to the Mountain Lodge, where you can stay right on the slopes instead of driving back down to the mountain at the end of the day. Sunshine is planning to open on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026.
When: Opens Friday, Nov. 6, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: 1 Sunshine Access Rd., Banff National Park, Alta.
Cost: Opening-day lift-ticket prices to be announced
Lake Louise is one of Alberta’s biggest ski areas, with more than 4,200 acres of terrain spread across the mountain. That means there are plenty of runs to choose from whether you’re still getting comfortable on skis or looking for steeper routes. The resort kicks off its season on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026.
When: Opens Friday, Nov. 6, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: 1 Whitehorn Rd., Lake Louise, Alta.
Cost: Opening-day lift-ticket prices to be announced.
Just outside Banff, Mt. Norquay is a smaller ski area with downhill runs, a terrain park, and night skiing on select evenings. It’s also home to a snow tubing area, so if you’re not keen on skiing, you can spend a day sledding down the hill. Norquay is planning to welcome skiers back to the mountain on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026.
When: Opens Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: 2 Mt. Norquay Rd., Banff, Alta.
Cost: Opening-day lift-ticket prices to be announced.
Want to get back on the slopes without driving all the way to Banff? Nakiska Ski Resort is located in Kananaskis and is set to open on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026. The hill has more than 70 trails, including plenty of intermediate runs for skiers looking to build confidence.
When: Opens Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 2 Mt. Shark Rd., Kananaskis, Alta.
Cost: Opening-day lift-ticket prices to be announced.
You don’t need to head to the Rockies to find a ski hill with plenty to do. Located in Red Deer, Canyon Ski Resort offers 22 runs and 80 acres of skiable terrain, plus six lifts and a superpipe for anyone looking to work on their tricks. The resort also has a snow tube park with groomed lanes. its own lift and is set to open on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026.
When: Opens Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 38433 Range Rd. 264A, Red Deer County, Alta.
Cost: Opening-day lift-ticket prices to be announced
If you’re heading to Jasper this winter, Marmot Basin opens Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, with more than 1,700 acres of skiable terrain spread across four mountain faces. The resort offers runs for all skill levels and ski and snowboard lessons if you’re just getting started.
When: Opens Friday, Nov. 13, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 1 Marmot Rd., Jasper, Alta.
Cost: Opening-day lift-ticket prices to be announced
In southwestern Alberta near Pincher Creek, Castle Mountain Resort is known for its steep terrain and abundant snowfall. The mountain offers groomed runs and more challenging terrain, making it a great choice for anyone looking for something beyond the larger Banff-area resorts. Castle Mountain is tentatively planning to open on Friday, Dec. 4, depending on snow and weather conditions.
When: Opens Friday, Dec. 4, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: HWY-774, Pincher Creek No. 9, Alta.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the ticket type and date
Opening dates can change depending on weather conditions, so it’s worth checking your chosen resort’s website closer to the opening date before you go.
So, which resort are you hitting first this winter?
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