These beginner cross country ski trails in Banff and Lake Louise are all rated easy, with few hills to catch out learners like myself! The current pandemic has seen many craving time outside more than ever before! Cross country skiing has seen a huge leap in interest and with that in mind, here are my all time favorite beginner cross country ski trails in Banff and Lake Louise.
For anyone who knows me, knows I am not keen on speed and this includes downhills on my cross country skis! I hope the more I practice on these beginner cross country ski trails in Banff and Lake Louise, the more my confidence will grow and I’ll be hitting moderate trails before the end of the winter.
1.) Tunnel Mountain Winter Trails
Distance: 8km for all loops
Elevation: None
The Tunnel Mountain winter trails are the perfect spot to learn and practice your skills. They are mostly flat, ideal for beginners! Along with this most of the trails are looped and you can do as many or as few loops as you wish, so it’s fantastic if you are short on time. Find out more about the Tunnel Mountain Trails here.
2.) Great Divide Trail
Distance: 20km return
Elevation: 60m loss
The Great Divide Trail in Lake Louise follows the old 1A Highway and eventually comes out in Yoho National Park for those with the legs strength and time. For beginners though, from Lake Louise, the trail is wide and mostly flat, double trackset with a skate ski lane in the middle. Go as far as you like, just remember you have to have enough energy to ski back!
3.) Spray River West
Distance: 5.6km one way
Elevation: 105m gain and 70m loss
The Spray River West trail is one of the most popular cross country ski trails in Banff. It is rated as easy and has very little elevation change, making it suitable for all abilities. The trailhead is located just past the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, so it’s easily accessible by town, with a dedicated parking area as well as being just a short walk from the bus stop. The Spray River West trail is double trackset and follows the Spray River, mostly through the trees, with views opening up every so often. When you reach the bridge, it’s time for a snack and to turnaround.
4.) Lake Louise Loop
Distance: 4.1km loop
Elevation: 15m gain
Who wouldn’t want to ski alongside the stunning and picturesque Lake Louise, when it comes to views this trail wins hands down. Add on the fact that because you are skiing on or beside the lake at all times, the trail is completely flat, making it an excellent spot for beginner cross country skiers. The biggest downside is you definitely won’t be alone and may well be in many tourist pictures.
5.) Moraine Lake Road
Distance: 15.6km return
Elevation: 250m gain
The Moraine Lake Road is closed during winter due to avalanche risk across the road just before the lake. The road up until the avalanche path though gets double track set every year. It is, in my opinion, the most difficult route on this list, mostly due to a few of the long, winding hills. It takes a climb to get up these and then they can be a little dicey on the way down for those who are lacking confidence, like myself! The view however, is absolutely worth the hard work! Just remember that unless you have the knowledge and the skills, don’t venture past the track set portion of the road, as you quickly enter avalanche terrain.
With so many cross country ski trails in Banff and Lake Louise to choose from, you are spoilt for choice! But if, like me, you are just starting out, these are my tried and tested favorite beginner cross country ski trails in Banff and Lake Louise. I certainly haven’t done them all yet though, so expect an update before next winter and if you have any recommendations, let me know!
Renting Cross Country Skis in Banff and Lake Louise
There are a number of rental shops in Banff and Lake Louise for those who don’t have their own gear. Check out these places for all your needs.
In Banff there is Snowtips Bactrax and you can book online here as well as Banff Adventures, you can book with them here.
In Lake Louise you can rent from Wilson Mountain Sports and book online here.
