**Next Year May Be a Disappointing Ski Season: A Summer Skiing Adventure at Sunshine Mountain Lodge**
As winter draws near, numerous ski fanatics are preparing for what might be a lackluster ski season next year. Given this uncertainty, we chose to take advantage of the opportunity and experience summer skiing at Sunshine Mountain Lodge in Banff, which remains open for summer skiing until July 5th. This exceptional chance enabled us to have a once-in-a-lifetime skiing experience during the summer.
### My Initial Trip to Banff Sunshine
Looking back on my initial trip to Banff Sunshine, I remember the thrill of driving up to the alpine meadows, only to discover the gondola was not in operation. That early summer excursion left me longing to return to soak in the beauty and excitement of Sunshine Village. Over the years, my partner Mike and I have made several return trips to relish the outstanding skiing for which Sunshine is renowned, especially its superior, dry, and fluffy snow.
This year, Sunshine Village declared a unique two-week summer skiing event from June 20th to July 5th, prompting us to prioritize hitting the slopes. Such summer skiing opportunities are rare, with the last one in 2022 only lasting six days, so we were keen to embrace this extraordinary chance.
### Summer Skiing at Banff Sunshine
At first, my expectations for summer skiing were modest, especially following a few rainy days leading up to our visit. However, the experience surpassed my expectations. The atmosphere was amazing, and despite the limited terrain available with only the Standish and Strawberry lifts in operation, the snow quality was unexpectedly good. The conditions felt more akin to early-season skiing rather than the slushy end-of-season type. Skiing in June was an exhilarating adventure, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time on the slopes.
### Why Choose Sunshine Mountain Lodge?
After evaluating various lodging options in Canmore and Banff, we decided to indulge in Sunshine Mountain Lodge for two primary reasons. First, its ski-in, ski-out accessibility allowed us to maximize our skiing experience without the inconvenience of daily drives to the base. Second, we found out that the cost of our stay included lift tickets for the entirety of our visit, making it an appealing choice.
### Where to Stay in Sunshine Village
Sunshine Mountain Lodge is the sole accommodation situated atop the mountain, nestled among three peaks: Standish, Lookout, and Goat’s Eye. The lodge offers stays year-round, granting unparalleled access to the slopes and breathtaking alpine views.
### Essential Information Before Arriving at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
Conveniently located at the base of the Standish Express chair lift, the lodge provides easy access to the slopes. Checking in is hassle-free, and the staff helps with luggage transport via the gondola, ensuring a smooth arrival process.
### The Gondola Experience at Banff Sunshine
Upon checking in, we rode the gondola up to the lodge. The journey offers stunning views and is efficiently managed, with staff assisting with ski gear. It’s important to be mindful of the gondola hours to prevent getting stranded, as return options to the lodge are limited.
### The Prime Rooms in Sunshine Mountain Lodge
We stayed in the recently refurbished West Wing, which included a balcony that overlooked the Standish Express lift, a king-size bed, and a snug fireplace. The room was bright and spacious, ideal for taking in the magnificent mountain scenery.
### Amenities Available at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
The lodge features a variety of amenities, such as slippers, bath salts, and eco-friendly toiletries. A delightful surprise was the inclusion of a fridge in our room, enabling us to keep drinks and snacks fresh. Although there is no microwave, the fridge is a welcome benefit for those wishing to enjoy refreshments in their accommodation.
### The Hot Tub at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
The lodge is home to Banff’s largest outdoor hot tub, offering a serene place to relax after a day on the slopes. Though we opted for a bath in our room, the hot tub is a favored option for those wanting to socialize.
### Evening Activities in Banff Sunshine
Staying on the mountain means fewer nightlife options, but the lodge provides a warm atmosphere with a bar and several dining choices. One highlight was the nightly s’mores by the outdoor fire pit, which added a delightful element to our evenings.
### Dining Opportunities in Banff Sunshine Village
Dining venues at Sunshine Village include Mad Trapper’s, The Coco Lab, Nikko Ramen, and Chimney Corner. While the food can vary in quality, we found the selections to be adequate for a ski resort.
### Tips for a Stay at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
1. **Bring Your Own Snacks**: As there are no grocery stores in the village, stock up on snacks before your arrival.
2. **Pack Water/Drinks**: Although the tap water is excellent, consider bringing your own beverages to enjoy on the balcony.
3. **Plan for