If you’re planning a ski vacation in Banff and looking to elevate your experience, Sunshine Mountain Lodge deserves a spot at the top of your list. It’s Banff’s only ski-in/ski-out hotel—and it’s more than just convenient. It offers a luxurious, family-friendly escape high in the Canadian Rockies that feels like a secret alpine retreat.
Why Ski-In/Ski-Out Is the Ultimate Family Upgrade
For parents, skipping the morning hustle to the lifts is a game changer. Sunshine Mountain Lodge puts you directly on the slopes, eliminating parking lot chaos and maximizing family time. After the gondola shuts down for the day, lodge guests remain on-mountain, enjoying après-ski serenity and snow-covered adventures while the day-trippers head home.
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Getting There: The Gondola Arrival Experience
Your experience begins at the base of Sunshine Village, just 15 minutes from downtown Banff. Check in at the base area lodge, hand off your luggage, and board the gondola. The 20-minute ride offers breathtaking views as you ascend to 7,000 feet—setting the tone for the alpine experience to come. Luggage is transferred via a dedicated system, so you arrive hands-free and relaxed.
Room Options: Comfort with a View
Sunshine Mountain Lodge offers a range of accommodations tailored to families. The West Wing Loft Rooms are perfect for those seeking extra space, with a two-story layout ideal for families with older children. For smaller families, the West Wing Premier Room features a Murphy Bed and efficient layout.
Expect rustic alpine charm: cozy fireplaces, modern bathrooms, and smart storage solutions for ski gear. Our ground-floor room opened directly to the base area—perfect for kids eager to make snow angels right outside the door. Nightly rates range from $383 to $478 CAD.
Extra large hot tub at Sunshine Mountain Lodge 
Lodge Amenities: Elevated Extras for Families
- Private ski lockers: Every room includes a dedicated locker for your gear, located in a spacious lounge (complete with a pool table).
- Verde Day Spa: Massages and facials available with 24-hour advance booking.
- Dry sauna & gym: Co-ed cedar sauna and functional fitness space for morning stretches.
- Retail boutique: Pick up logoed gear, local souvenirs, or last-minute essentials.
- Slope-side hot tub: The outdoor hot tub is a scene-stealer—massive, family-friendly, and steps from the snow. Watching kids dash in and out for snow angels is après entertainment at its best.
Custom Cocktails at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
Dining: Family-Friendly and Elevated Options
- Chimney Corner: Open all day with hearty breakfast fare, soups, salads, and a kid-friendly menu. Tip: While espresso is lacking here, you can grab a quality cappuccino from Java Lift downstairs.
- Java Lift Coffee Bar: Perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up or après treat.
- Nikko Ramen: A new casual option at the base, ideal for lunch between runs.
- Eagle’s Nest: For an upscale dinner, this adjacent restaurant serves local specialties like bison and Alberta beef. Don’t miss the Berry Spritz cocktail.
- S’mores by the fire: Complimentary from 8–9 p.m. nightly—a sweet, low-key evening ritual.
After-Hours Activities
Once the gondola closes (usually at 5 p.m., or 10 p.m. on Fridays), the mountain is yours. Families can enjoy snowshoe tours, tobogganing, and themed events like hot tub bingo. Check the front desk for a schedule—some activities require reservations.
The Skiing: World-Class Terrain for Every Level
With 3,300+ acres across three mountains and 30+ feet of average annual snowfall, Sunshine Village offers incredible terrain. The highlight? Waking up, eating breakfast, and being the first on the lift. We enjoyed early access to the Super Angel Express lift and untouched powder—an unforgettable experience.
Altitude Awareness
Sunshine sits at over 7,000 feet, and altitude can be a factor. Consider starting your Banff holiday in town and finishing at Sunshine to acclimate. Symptoms like fatigue or headaches can affect sensitive travelers, so plan accordingly.
Trip Planning Tips
- Ideal length of stay: 2–3 nights at the lodge is perfect
- Pair with town time: Book 3–4 nights in Banff townsite before heading up
- What to pack: Warm layers for the gondola ride, slippers for the room, and swimwear for the hot tub.
Final Takeaway
Sunshine Mountain Lodge is a standout for families seeking ski luxury with minimal hassle. It’s an investment in convenience, comfort, and memory-making. From the gondola ride to the snow angels and s’mores, it’s a mountain stay that blends adventure with ease—something every stylish mom can appreciate.
If you’re planning a splurge-worthy winter escape, this is one destination that truly lives up to the altitude.
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
- Sunshine Village: A Perfect Family Ski Adventure in Banff
