Lake Louise holds a special place in the World Cup alpine skiing calendar as the traditional season opener for speed events. Located in Banff National Park, this Canadian venue offers a unique combination of challenging racing and spectacular natural beauty.
Season Opener
For decades, Lake Louise has kicked off the World Cup speed season. Athletes travel from Europe to the Canadian Rockies for the first major downhill and super-G races of the winter, making it a much-anticipated destination each year.
The early-season timing means snow conditions can vary, but organizers consistently deliver quality racing surfaces.
The Course
The downhill course descends through the stunning mountain terrain of Banff National Park. Wide-open sections allow for incredible speeds, while technical passages test athletes' precision.
Champions like Sofia Goggia, Mikaela Shiffrin, and Cornelia Hütter have conquered this North American classic.
The Setting
The turquoise waters of Lake Louise, set against snow-capped peaks, create one of the most photographed scenes in all of skiing. The natural beauty alone makes attending races here a memorable experience.
Wildlife
Racing in a national park means wildlife sightings are possible. Athletes and spectators occasionally spot bears, elk, and other Rocky Mountain wildlife - adding to the venue's unique character.
North American Skiing
Lake Louise represents the best of North American ski racing. Canadian and American fans turn out to support their athletes and enjoy the start of the World Cup season.
Getting There
The venue is about 180 km west of Calgary International Airport. The drive through the Rocky Mountains is spectacular and part of the Lake Louise experience.