Banff's epic mashup of galloping horses, freestyling skiing and outrageous fashion has become a signature Canadian Rockies event. This is one alpine party you don't want to miss.
Picture skiers pulled at breakneck speeds by riders on horseback before flying off massive launch ramps to flip and twist through the air. Meanwhile, you're in the Banff Avenue crowd, surrounded by folks from around the world dressed in their western- and après-inspired best. Sound like a dream? Not sure what any of this means? Keep reading to learn all about skijoring in Banff National Park.
Skijoring is a ski event in which winter athletes are pulled by animals (typically horses or dogs) or a motor vehicle around a snowy course often featuring jumps and other obstacles.
Modern skijoring's origins date back 1,000 years to people being pulled by sled dogs in Central Asia. By the early 20th century, equine skijoring had made its way into Switzerland, France and North America. Historical photos show horses towing enthusiastic skiers in Banff and Jasper National Park as early as the 1920s.
A century later, Skijor Canada says skijoring is one of the fastest growing winter sports in North America. Banff's skijoring event launched in 2020, and showcases the sport’s wild energy, daring athleticism and unforgettable fashion in the heart of town.
The Banff skijoring event takes place in downtown Banff as part of Banff & Lake Louise Tourism's SnowDays Festival.
Dates: Saturday, January 17 & Sunday, January 18
Time: 2:00 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: 200–300 block of Banff Avenue, with the High School Field as the main viewing area.
TIP: If you are driving into Banff for the event, park at the Banff Train Station. From there, downtown Banff is an 8–10 minute walk.
This is a popular event, so arrive early to get a good view. There are several bleachers set up along the route, along with plenty of standing room.
If you don’t manage to get a jump on the day for the perfect vantage point, don’t worry. Big screens display instant replays and interviews with the athletes.
Come for galloping steeds and flying skiers, stay for the over-the-top attire. Prepare yourself to be amazed by iconic skijor fashion. The vibe? Somewhere between cowboy-chic and retro-après, with endless room for interpretation.
Picking out your outfit is half the fun. Skijor fashion staples include:
A thrift shop or a grandparents’/parents’ closet can yield gold: vintage furs, well-worn cowboy hats and those one-piece snow suits of yore.
Don’t forget the practical side — this is January in Alberta, and temperatures can plunge well into the negatives. Stay warm with:
Our best rules for skijoring style: express yourself, stay warm and have fun!
Staying within walking distance is ideal. Elk + Avenue Hotel is the closest to the action — right alongside this year's route and kitty-corner to the viewing area. The Mount Royal Hotel is situated on Banff Avenue just down the street, with a rooftop hot tub to unwind in at the end of the day.
You can find great food at any price point in Banff. For mid-price point: Farm & Fire offers locally sourced, wood-fired fare; 3 Bears Brewery and Tavern offers a fun, laid back vibe with a big menu; and Brazen’s menu has unique takes on Canadian cuisine, plus a standout cocktail list. For something more upscale, try Bluebird Steakhouse, The Bison or book a mountaintop dinner at Sky Bistro.
TIP: Wherever you dine, reservations are a must. Plan ahead to avoid restaurant hopping in the cold.
Check out the Banff Lake Louise Tourism website to stay up to date on Banff’s Skijoring event, as well as all of the SnowDays Festival happenings. And be sure to book your room early to make the most of it all!
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