February marks the middle of the ski season in Banff National Park. How much snow has Banff gotten this season and how does that compare to the historical average? Notably, early snowfall this season, as observed across all three SkiBig3 resorts, hinted at a promising start. However, the subsequent months haven't maintained that momentum.

Current Season Snowfall vs. Historical Averages

As of February 22, 2025, here's a snapshot of the snowfall data for our major ski resorts. Both resorts' current snowfall is trailing behind its historical average. The current figures suggest a season with less snowfall than usual.

Ski Resort 

Season Total 

(Updated Feb 22/24)

Pct. of Normal

Total Seasonal Average 

Lake Louise 

122”

88%

201”

Sunshine Village 

114”

71%

228”

Source: Bestsnow.net

Monthly Snowfall Distribution

Like many parts of the world, it is typical to see varying snowfall totals in each month in the Rockies. For example, Sunshine Village boasts an average annual snowfall of approximately 228 inches (19 feet). This snowfall is distributed across an average of 7 months each season, providing an idea of when to expect the best snow. 

Monthly snowfall averages at Sunshine Village are as follows:

Month 

Average Snow Depth (Top)

November

36”

December

43”

January

36”

February

40”

March 

46”

April 

27”

May 

8”

These figures indicate that March typically boasts the highest snow depths, making it a prime month for skiing and snowboarding. Current numbers suggest that February has seen modest snowfall, with each resort receiving minimal fresh powder.

Source: sno.co.uk

Source: Snow-forecast.com

Looking Ahead

The Old Farmer's Almanac predicts for March 2025 in our region:

  • Temperature: -5°C (1°C below average)

  • Precipitation: 30mm (10mm above average)

This forecast indicates a colder and slightly wetter month, which could translate to more snowfall. 

Source: almanac.com

Embracing the Season

Despite the lower-than-average snowfall this season, our passion for mountain sports remains unwavering. At Chateau Mountain Sports, we're here to equip you with top-notch gear and insider knowledge to make the most of your adventures. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the trails, our team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect equipment to enhance your experience.

Remember, mountain conditions can change rapidly. Always check the latest weather and trail reports before heading out, and don't hesitate to reach out to us for the most current information and gear recommendations.

 

February 22, 2025