Canada’s 25-26 Season Starts Early - Today

Banff Sunshine Village officially opened for the 2025–26 ski season today, Sunday 2nd November, becoming the first resort in Canada to launch winter operations.

The resort hadn’t planned to open until next weekend and today is thought to be the earliest ever opening in its long history. However increasingly heavy snowfall in recent weeks giving a fresh blanket of natural snow, along with low temperatures bringing ideal snowmaking conditions, meant to resort decided to go early.

It even reported 20cm (8”) of snowfall in the 24 hours up to opening.

The Strawberry Express Quad was the first lift to spin, offering access to seven beginner and intermediate runs. Sunshine’s operations team confirmed that snowmaking and recent snowfall had created a solid base, with additional terrain expected to open soon as conditions evolve.

“We’re thrilled to welcome guests back for another unforgettable season,” said Kendra Scurfield, Sunshine’s Director of Brand and Communications, adding, “There’s nothing quite like that first chair of the year, and we’re proud to lead the country in getting winter started.”

With a long season stretching to late May, Sunshine now looks set to clock up almost seven months of skiing in 25-26, one of the world’s longest.

Sunshine had initially planned to open on November 8th, with neighbouring Lake Louise expected to lead Canada’s ski season on the 7th. However, consistent snowfall throughout October—intensifying in the final week—allowed Sunshine to accelerate its timeline and welcome skiers earlier than anticipated.

“As it’s Halloween weekend we encourage you to wear your costume or show your love for Canada’s baseball team. We’ll be skiing around handing out vouchers to anyone we see in costume,” an online  statement from the centre requests.

Lake Louise plan a ski-in-denim day for their season opener on Friday.