4. Banff Sunshine – Best Ski Resort For Big Mountain Terrain
If you want to find a mountain with some seriously humbling terrain in-bounds then Banff Sunshine is the place to head. Jagged peaks loom high above alpine trees and the views are unparalleled. When you first arrive in the parking lot the mountain does not look like much as the base is simply a gondola station and one restaurant. In fact, to reach the true resort base guests must take a 15-minute gondola that delivers them into a sprawling resort that looks like it belongs in the Alps, not North America.
Banff Sunshine contains two expert only areas that require all riders and skiers to sign out with the ski patrol and carry an avalanche kit. Delirium Dive and Wild West areas feature massive cliff features, chutes, and some seriously steep terrain. Don’t let the expert terrain detract you from visiting the resort as it also has a plethora of groomed beginner and intermediate runs. A large portion of this in terrain that is open with few trees due to the elevation. The resort has something for everyone and the base area makes for a perfect central point to meet after skiing the surrounding peaks.
Reasons why we love Banff Sunshine
- Massive terrain
- Easy to get away from crowds
- Long season