What Ski Resort Opens First in Alberta?

Every year, the ski season in Alberta starts with the same question: which ski resort opens first? There are a few contenders, each of which offer something unique for skiers and snowboarders.

Sunshine Village, located near Lake Louise in Banff National Park, is often the first to open its slopes. This resort boasts early season terrain with a mix of natural and machine-made snow. Additionally, Sunshine Village offers one of the longest ski seasons in Alberta and has some of the best powder skiing in the province.

Marmot Basin, located near Jasper National Park, is another contender for Alberta’s earliest opening ski resort. Marmot Basin’s elevation helps to make it an ideal destination for early season skiing and snowboarding. The resort also features a variety of terrain parks and glades perfect for those looking to test their skills early in the season.

Mount Norquay, also located near Lake Louise, is a smaller ski area that is typically among the first to open its doors each year. Mount Norquay offers an excellent variety of terrain and is known for its friendly atmosphere and great terrain parks.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, located outside Golden BC, often claims the title of first-to-open in Alberta each year due to its high elevation and reliable snowfall. The resort features long groomed runs, steep chutes and plenty of tree skiing for those looking for a challenge early in the season.

Ultimately, it is difficult to say which ski resort will open first in Alberta as conditions vary year to year. Each resort has something unique to offer skiers and snowboarders looking for an early start on their winter fun!

Conclusion: While it can be difficult to predict which ski resort will open first in Alberta each year due to varying conditions, Sunshine Village, Marmot Basin, Mount Norquay and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort all have potential to be among the earliest-opening resorts offering great terrain options for early season skiers and snowboarders alike!

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Alex Wright