Ski Season Arrives Early as Lake Louise Celebrates Second-Earliest Opening

Ski season has arrived in the Bow Valley earlier than expected, with Lake Louise Ski Resort welcoming skiers and snowboarders back to the slopes on Sunday, Nov. 1, five days ahead of schedule.

Thanks to cold October temperatures and around-the-clock snowmaking, the resort is celebrating its second-earliest opening in history and its earliest start in five years.

"SURPRISE! WE'RE OPENING EARLY!" the resort announced on social media, crediting cold October temperatures and its hardworking team for the early start.

Lake Louise is also believed to be the first ski area in Canada to open for the 2026-27 winter season, according to opening dates tracked by SnowAlert.

Other Bow Valley ski resorts aren't far behind. Banff Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay are both scheduled to open Friday, Nov. 6, while Nakiska Ski Area in Kananaskis has a projected opening date of Nov. 7.

What's open at Lake Louise?

For now, skiers and snowboarders can access Easy Street via the Juniper Express Chair, along with two small early-season terrain parks featuring jumps and rails.

The resort is offering more than 60 per cent off opening-day lift tickets, with discounted early-season pricing available for a limited time. Prices will increase as additional lifts open.

Lifts will operate daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., half an hour later than previous seasons. Ski lessons, equipment rentals, tuning services and several dining facilities are also available.

Visitors can expect additional terrain as conditions allow, including improvements made over the summer to Richardson's Ridge, new connecting runs and upgrades to the Top of the World Chair.

The resort says terrain will remain limited during the early season and encourages visitors to check its latest snow conditions before heading out.

"Dust off your gear, grab your friends, and get ready for another incredible winter at Lake Louise!" the resort wrote.