Where to Ski And Snowboard - August snow for Banff

August snow for Banff

28th August 2009, by Chris Gill

It might still be August, but tell that to the weather gods who delivered snowfall to Canada’s three Banff resorts a few days ago.

Banff National Park has enjoyed its first glimpse of winter, with a light covering of fresh snow on the slopes of Mt Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village.

The snow fell as the resorts announced their provisional opening dates and events for the new season ahead:

Mount Norquay will open weekends only from 31 October - kicking off with a Halloween party. The resort is usually the last of the three to open properly, scheduled this year for 5 December.

But it is Lake Louise that normally draws in the early crowds, when the World Cup races get going at the end of November. This year the men’s downhill events are planned for 28/29 November, with the women’s races taking place a week later.

And Sunshine Village - a resort that usually enjoys a very long season - plans to fire up the lifts on 11 November. If you prefer to stay up the mountain, rather than in Banff town, this resort has the welcoming Sunshine Mountain Lodge to try. This winter the Lodge will benefit from a luxury new wing extension, adding 30 eco-designed rooms.

In Europe, the weather has been a little too warm for the summer ski scene ... check out our glacier overview for more.