With the recent kerfuffle over U.S.-Canada relations, I wondered if my spring ski trip to Banff would feel…awkward. Let me set your worries aside: Canadians remain as friendly and welcoming as ever—and no, I don’t endorse annexing Canada.
After a warm-up day at Mt. Norquay, it was time to experience the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies: Sunshine Village. While Lake Louise often gets the headlines, for a full ski experience, Sunshine Village stands out.
Arriving at Sunshine Village
The experience kicks off with a scenic 5km gondola ride. Starting at 5,194 feet, the eight-passenger gondolas climb to the Village Terminal at 7,486 feet. Painted in bright rainbow colors, the 165 cabins delight kids and parents alike (yes, snagging a favorite color is a thing).
Fun fact: the gondola can move 2,800 guests per hour and takes about 20 minutes to reach the village. Midway, it passes through four stations: Base, Curve, Goat’s Eye, and The Drive.
Tip: Some locals hop off early at Goat’s Eye to hit the steep terrain—but first-timers should ride straight to the Village.
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Sunshine Village by the Numbers
- Total Skiable Terrain: 3,358 acres
- Three Mountains: Goat’s Eye, Lookout Mountain, Mount Standish
- Elevation: 8,960′ summit, 5,450′ base
- Vertical Drop: 3,514′
- Snowfall: 30 feet annually (364 inches)
- Terrain Mix: 20% Beginner, 55% Intermediate, 25% Expert
- Lifts: 12, including two bubble lifts
Sunshine Mountain Lodge 
Exploring the Mountain
Goat’s Eye Mountain:
Starting from 9,200 feet, Goat’s Eye serves up steep blue and black groomers, glades, and thrilling chutes. The snow and trail conditions were excellent during our visit. Beginners can branch off from Goat’s Eye via Wolverine Express to easier terrain.
Lookout Mountain:
The vibrant heart of Sunshine Village. Here you’ll find the day lodge, rental shops, and ski school. The Great Divide lift famously lets you ski into two provinces—Alberta and British Columbia—on one run. For cold days, hop on the heated Angel Express bubble lift. Lookout is also home to lively terrain parks and stunning summit views.
Delirium Dive:
For experts only. Delirium Dive requires avalanche gear and a partner to enter. This hike-in free ride zone is for serious adventurers—hire a guide if it’s your first attempt.
Mount Standish:
Great for intermediates and those seeking playful, natural features. Be sure to grab a photo by the iconic Banff sign. Wawa Lift in this area also accesses solid intermediate and advanced terrain.
The Long Way Home:
There’s a long, flat Banff Avenue trail that skis out to the parking lot—better for kids with stamina or those wanting a gentle end-of-day cruise.
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Learning at Sunshine Village
Sunshine Village is impressively welcoming to beginners and young families.
- Tiny Tigers Program: Private one-hour lessons for ages 2–5 ($160 CAD). Lessons start at 9:30am.
- Group Lessons: Starting at age 3, 2.5-hour group lessons are $139 CAD and include a lift ticket.
- Daycare: Available for children 18 months and up. There’s even a mini conveyor belt for tiny skiers.
- Mountain Guides: Free daily tours are available for intermediate skiers and above. Meet at 11:45am in front of the Old Sunshine Lodge.
- Adaptive Programs: Rocky Mountain Adaptive Sport Center offers multi-week programs, lessons, and Paralympic development opportunities. Learn more here.
Terrain Parks: Five parks, including a beginner-friendly Kids Play Park.
Tofu at the Nikko Ramen
Where to Eat
Base Area (Creekside):
- Creekside Bar & Grill: Great for après with live music and a casual vibe.
- Java House: Grab coffee and pastries for a quick start.
Mid-Mountain (Goat’s Eye):
- BeaverTails: A must-stop for sweet, Canadian pastries on your ski-out.
Village Area:
- Trapper’s: Legendary lodge serving hearty ski fare since 1928. Great for families.
- Nikko Ramen: Modern, cozy ramen bowls—try the Agedashi Tofu ($10).
- Chimney Corner Lounge: Upscale dining with flat iron steak and cozy fireplaces—perfect for lingering.
Events You Won’t Want to Miss
Sunshine Village leans into its festive culture with weekly live music and family events.
- Sunshine Stampede (April): Country music, line dancing, barrel racing, and pancake breakfasts.
- Slush Cup (May 19): A lively season-ending tradition where skiers attempt to cross a freezing pond. Hilarious and family-friendly.
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Planning Your Trip
- Pass Access: Sunshine is on Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective.
- Lift & Lesson Deals: Book via SkiBig3.com for bundled savings.
- Spring Skiing: Consider the Spring Pass starting in March—it’s prime time for powder.
- Parking: No issues during our visit, but technically, a Banff National Park pass is required for all vehicles.
Recommended Itinerary:
Spend 2–3 nights at Sunshine Mountain Lodge for ski-in/ski-out convenience, then relocate to Banff for day trips to Norquay and Lake Louise.
Final Notes
Sunshine Village strikes a rare balance: it’s home to thrilling expert terrain yet remains incredibly family-friendly. Everything from the spotless facilities to the helpful staff reflects a commitment to creating an unforgettable experience. If you’re ready to introduce your family to a “big mountain” adventure, Sunshine Village is an outstanding place to start.
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More on SkiBig3
Read all about our visit to the other mountains on the pass.
- Lake Louise: A thrilling Canadian Rockies Experience
- Mount Norquay: The best Banff Ski Resort for Young Families Learning to Ski
