Winter at The Lodge
Winter is magical at The Lodge.
Snow-blanketed peaks, crystalline-frozen lake, extraordinary snow-muted serenity. Winters at The Lodge are nothing short of spectacular. Disconnect and reconnect in a breathtaking and uniquely Canadian setting.
There is plenty of winter activity for everyone.
The winter season at The Lodge at Bow Lake offers experiences to suit every pace and preference.
For those seeking stillness, curl up by the fire with a warm drink and watch snow drift across the frozen lake. For those chasing alpine air, step outside to explore snowshoe trails, ice walks, snowy summits, or the nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort. After a day of adventure or quiet reflection, return home to the glow of The Lodge, where comfort, connection, and mountain calm meet beneath the stars.
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Tour the terrain
For experienced skiers, Bow Lake is the gateway to legendary backcountry terrain. From mellow tours to Bow Summit to more ambitious objectives on the Wapta Icefield, an alpine ski tour here is a chance to carve fresh tracks in pristine powder.
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Relax by a crackling fire
Grab a cozy spot next to one of The Lodge’s two enormous fireplaces and let time slow down as you listen to the crackle of the fire. The air outside may be crisp, but here it’s all glow and quiet comfort. A soft chair, a good book, drink, and the sound of logs settling — the perfect way to enjoy a winter’s day.
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Strap on your snowshoes
There is no shortage of places to snowshoe around The Lodge. From our back door, head across the frozen lake to Bow Summit, or adventure through the meadow behind Ram’s Pasture.
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Visit our winter sauna
Step from the cold into warmth that melts the world away. The Lodge’s rustic sauna offers quiet restoration after a day of snow and adventure. Watch winter’s calm unfold through frosted windows as heat and stillness wrap around you, a truly tranquil pause amid the Rockies’ frozen beauty.
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Hit the slopes at Lake Louise
Just a 30-minute drive from The Lodge, Lake Louise Ski Resort offers world-class downhill skiing and breathtaking mountain views. Spend your days carving through powder-covered slopes, then return to the warmth of The Lodge for fireside relaxation and the quiet beauty of Bow Lake in winter. Guests of The Lodge have access to exclusive lift ticket pricing at Lake Louise (discounted lift tickets are available for purchase when you book your stay).
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Experience majestic dark skies
One of our team’s favourite winter rituals is to bundle up, grab a headlamp, and step outside after dark. Far from city lights, Bow Lake’s skies are crystal clear; the stars brilliant overhead and the silence profound. You may just get lucky to witness the Aurora Borealis, too!
Your safety is our priority.
Backcountry winter activity warning
Backcountry winter touring is thrilling and adventurous; however, as exciting as it may seem, any winter activity in the backcountry also poses significant risks and challenges that could be life-threatening. These terrains are often unpredictable, unpaved, and remote, presenting hazards such as avalanches, strong winds, hidden rocks, treacherous terrains, and extreme weather conditions. It is, therefore, imperative to exercise caution and take all safety measures seriously while planning any backcountry winter activities.
All guests staying at The Lodge are required to read and agree to a waiver prior to arrival at The Lodge. The waiver applies to the stay at The Lodge, as well as all activities, including guided tours
It's advisable to go with an experienced backcountry guide or travel in a group. Guides take precautions; however, they cannot guarantee your safety. Often, solo participants face the highest risk of danger as it is harder to get help in case of an emergency. Touring the backcountry with a partner or a group helps to reduce the chances of accidents, making the tour more enjoyable and less risky.
As you prepare to embark on an exciting backcountry ski tour, it is of utmost importance that you read and agree to the risks and hazards associated with this activity. You will be required to read and agree to our waiver prior to staying at The Lodge. You can find a copy of the waiver here. Please read it carefully!
The Lodge uses certified Association of Canadian Mountain Guides and is a member of Avalanche Canada.
Your home base for winter adventure.
When the air gets cooler, and the summer tours disappear, snow covers the area and creates a magical oasis for exploration on snowshoes or skis.
You do not have to go far from The Lodge to get out and explore. Snowshoe and cross-country ski tracks leave right outside our front door. Seemingly endless kilometres of meadows and untouched snow lay at your feet, calling out for you to bundle up and embrace the season.
Savour winter together.
Share stories of the day's adventures around communal dining tables as you enjoy chef-crafted four-course dinners inspired by alpine traditions. Feel the warmth of new friendships: At Bow Lake, camaraderie is part of your winter experience.
A backcountry skier’s paradise
The Icefields Parkway is known as the Rocky Mountains' backcountry ski haven. Within 5 km of The Lodge, thousands of hectares of terrain await you. In fact, many well-known trails are literally right out our back door.
Whether you are new to backcountry skiing and looking to experience what everyone else seems to already know or a seasoned skier there is something for almost everyone. The mountains are a beautiful place; however, one needs to be aware that you are recreating in avalanche terrain. The Lodge operates guided ski touring weeks (see dates), or we can arrange a guide for you at a specific time of your choosing. Guides are your backcountry experts, and they add great value to your day in the mountains; whether seeking out that hidden stash or acting as your interpreter to the flora, fauna and geology, you will come away with far more knowledge about the Rockies than you went in with.
Note: Guides take precautions; however, they cannot guarantee your safety.
Adventuring is better when
you can see your breath.
Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, skating, or just relaxing, spending time in natural winter settings is scientifically proven to make us feel more alive. Just a 25-minute drive from Lake Louise, the two big fireplaces at The Lodge are the perfect comforting destination after a long day of invigorating winter adventuring. (We’ve also been known to recommend a well-earned Pisco Sour or glass of wine.)