Calgary's nearby winter playground, Lake Louise Ski Resort, has kicked off the holiday season with a historic bang, shattering its December snowfall record. The resort, located in Banff National Park, opened its slopes to the public on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, just in time for Christmas, thanks to an unprecedented deluge of snow.
A Record-Breaking Winter Storm
The resort has been buried under a massive amount of snow this month, officially breaking its all-time record for total snowfall in December. This extraordinary base has allowed the ski area to open with exceptional conditions, fueling hopes for what could be the resort's whitest Christmas ever. A photo from the slopes, shared by Brent Chapman, showcases the deep, fresh powder that has blanketed the iconic Rocky Mountain landscape.
The timing of the opening and the record snowpack is a welcome development for winter sports enthusiasts and the local tourism economy, providing a perfect start to the critical holiday season. The heavy snowfall across the region is part of a broader weather pattern affecting much of Western Canada.
Western Cold and a Nationwide Weather Split
The record snow at Lake Louise aligns with a Christmas cold snap gripping Western Canada. Meanwhile, the rest of the country is experiencing a dramatic split in holiday weather. Ontario is bracing for potential freezing rain, while winter storm warnings have been issued for much of Newfoundland and Labrador as heavy snow and powerful winds target the coast.
This contrast highlights the diverse and often severe winter conditions Canadians face from coast to coast. The robust early-season conditions in the Rockies, however, signal a promising start to the ski and snowboard season for Alberta's world-renowned resorts.
Implications for the Season Ahead
The record-breaking December at Lake Louise sets a high bar for the 2025-2026 winter season. A deep and early snowpack not only extends the potential skiing season but also improves safety for off-piste exploration and provides a more resilient base against potential warm spells. For visitors and locals alike, it promises a holiday period filled with premier alpine experiences.
As families celebrate across the country, the team at Lake Louise Ski Resort is working through the holiday to manage the historic snowfall and ensure optimal conditions for guests seeking a classic Canadian Christmas on the mountains.
