Banff Ski Sampler

Banff Ski Sampler Alberta, Canada / March 15-22, 2009

Banff National Park was established in 1885 as Canada’s first national park (third in the world) and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by unparalleled beauty, Banff town-site is small and convenient, with restaurants, shopping and activities within easy walking distance of our accommodation for the week – the Banff Caribou Lodge.

The Caribou Lodge exudes a warm, casual Rocky Mountain ambience with its massive fieldstone fireplace, hand-hewn timbers, ranch-style furniture and welcoming staff. The hotel’s amenities are extensive and include an on-site restaurant, complimentary shuttle service, and a full-service health and fitness spa with yoga classes offered twice weekly.

Our week will begin with a welcome dinner at the Caribou Lodge to give you time to relax before our exciting week of skiing, dining and other activities. During dinner, a representative from SkiBig3 will give resort orientations and be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Speaking of SkiBig3, Banff has not only one, but three separate ski areas! Lake Louise, Sunshine Village and Ski Norquay provide more than 7,700 acres of skiable terrain and over 270 trails offering skiers of any ability countless challenges. With wide-open bowls and tree-lined glades, dry champagne powder and meticulously groomed slopes, skiers enjoy a wide variety of skiing options.

Your Tri-Area Lift Ticket is your passport to this winter wonderland, giving you the flexibility to spend your time on the slopes of your choice. We will of course, have a guided ski day and orientation for Lake Louise and Sunshine Village.

Lake Louise is Canada’s single largest ski area and enjoys the honor of prestigious Gold Medals from Ski Magazine in Scenery, Terrain, Challenge and Value. Sunshine Village is located at the top of the Continental Divide, high above the hustle and bustle of the valley below. Wide-open cruising runs with an incredible view of two provinces, Sunshine Village offers an unforgettable skiing experience. Ski Norquay, opened in 1926, encompasses a wide variety of terrain ranging from gentle beginner runs to heart-pounding double blacks. This week will be filled with an abundance of choices to suit every taste.

Speaking of taste, no trip to Banff would be complete without an outing to the legendary Chateau Lake Louise and the Fairmont Banff Springs. These two cherished Banff icons offer world-class dining along with the most incredible scenery imaginable. The fairytale vistas, combined with the companionship of your fellow OTHGI members and countless choices on the slopes are sure to create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. We hope you’ll join us as we discover the wonders of Banff and the Canadian Rockies.