Lake Louise - Slope

The season runs from late November until early May. Despite being one of the largest ski areas in North America with one of the continent's biggest lift-served verticals, the altitude of the top and bottom of the lifts is not high. This means there isn't the risk of altitude-related health issues that sometimes affect visitors to ski areas in the Rockies further south, in Colorado for example.

Lake Louise's slopes are spread over four mountain faces, with a large proportion of the skiing below the treeline. On the main south face, there are some wonderful wide, fast runs, which intermediates will love. Or, if you're learning and don't want speedy skiers weaving round you, try Wiwaxy, a beginners-only run. More advanced skiers and boarders can follow in the skis of champions on the Men's Downhill or Ladies' Downhill courses.

Take the Top of the World six-seater chairlift, the Grizzly Express gondola or the Summit Platter to drop into the back bowls. Peering over the ridge reveals a multitude of thigh-burning vertiginous black and double-black runs. But less confident skiers need not fear – there are a handful of easy routes down too. Continue over to the Larch area for some fine cruisers and gladed runs.

Heli-skiing is also popular in the area, with companies operating within an hour of Lake Louise itself. There is a huge terrain park under the Glacier Express chairlift with over 30 features, including massive jumps, and a ski and boardercross circuit was recently added.

The ski and snowboard school runs private and group lessons for all levels. Equipment hire is available at the base.

The Banff resorts of Sunshine Village and smaller Mt. Norquay are also nearby (45 minutes and 50 minutes respectively) and are available along with Lake Louise on the tri-area lift ticket.