Lake Louise Opens New Terrain

Lake Louise Ski Resort has marked a major moment in its evolution with the official opening of Richardson’s Ridge, a brand-new zone designed to give families, beginners, and progressing skiers more room to explore. Although the terrain quietly opened to the public on 17 December, thanks to exceptional early‑season snowfall, the resort hosted its formal grand opening celebration this week, months ahead of the original timeline.

The event unfolded under classic January conditions: crisp air, freshly groomed pistes, and 7 cm of new snow overnight, all set beneath clear blue skies. Guests, partners, and community members gathered at the base for a morning of festivities, beginning with welcome remarks from CEO Rich Burkley and Vice President Kim Locke. At 10:00 a.m., Lake Louise owner Charlie Locke and Parks Canada CEO Ron Hallman cut the ribbon, officially launching the resort’s newest expansion. Attendees then took the inaugural chairlift ride to sample the new views and enjoy a relaxed group lap on the freshly prepared runs.

Celebrations continued at Sawyer’s Nook at Temple Lodge, where Burkley hosted a reception featuring speeches from senior resort leaders, Travel Alberta, Parks Canada, and Locke himself, along with a poem reading by Bill Keeling. Across the morning, speakers highlighted the long-term vision behind Richardson’s Ridge and the persistence required to bring the project to life.

The ceremony concluded with a special presentation: the 2025 Jimmie Spencer Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Charlie Locke by Canadian Ski Council President and CEO Paul Pinchbeck. The award recognises individuals who have made an enduring contribution to the ski industry, something Locke has done both at Lake Louise and across Canada.

Richardson’s Ridge adds roughly 200 acres of new ski terrain, increasing the resort’s total by nearly 15%. Served by the new Richardson’s Ridge Express high‑speed quad, the area features five green and blue runs, plus naturally gladed sections ideal for gentle exploration. Built with accessibility and progression in mind, the zone offers wide, confidence‑building slopes and quiet pockets of forest, perfect for families, first‑timers, and anyone looking to develop their skills in a scenic, low‑pressure environment.

The project has been 15 years in the making and represents another milestone in the resort’s Long Range Plan. It also builds on a period of significant investment that has included the Summit Quad, West Bowl, the Juniper Express learning area, expanded staff housing, and the new Pipestone Express heated bubble chair. Together, these upgrades have reshaped the guest experience, offering more terrain variety, improved flow, and reduced lift queues.

For visitors heading to Banff and Lake Louise this winter, Richardson’s Ridge is a standout new addition. It take's the region's total terrain to 7,700 acres across three resorts, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay, all accessible in the single SkiBig3 lift ticket.