Snow Tubing In Banff. For Anyone Who's Ever Wanted to Sit Down and Slide Real Fast
Look, we're not all cut out for skiing. Maybe the idea of balancing on sticks going 50 km/h down an icy mountain isn't your idea of vacation fun. Or maybe you've tried snowboarding and spent more time with your face in the snow than on your feet. If that's you, first, same. And second, have you considered the winter magic that is snow tubing?
Snow tubing is winter's great equalizer. No lessons. No expensive gear. No ski lift anxiety. Just grab a giant inflatable donut, plop yourself in the centre, and let gravity do the rest.
If you're heading to Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore or even Jasper this winter and wondering where to experience this snow-slinging fun, we've got you covered. Let's slide right in.
What is Snow Tubing Anyway?
Snow tubing is basically sliding down a snowy hill on a rubber tube while screaming with joy – or fear, but mostly joy. Think water park ride, but colder and with more layers. You don't need skills, training, or coordination. All you need is a good tube, some warm clothes, and a willingness to laugh so hard your cheeks hurt.
It's family-friendly, but make no mistake – adults have just as much fun. Possibly more. Because there's something deeply satisfying about watching your usually serious partner wipe out in slow motion.
Where to Go Snow Tubing in Banff National Park
Banff National Park is home to three ski resorts, but only two of them offer tubing. Here's what you need to know.
Mount Norquay: Banff's Biggest and Boldest Tube Park
If you're staying in Banff, Mount Norquay is your closest and most exciting snow tubing destination. Just a 10 to 15-minute drive from the townsite, it's home to the largest tube park in Banff National Park. Translation: it's fast, it's fun, and it's got variety.
Norquay offers six tubing lanes – each with its own quirks. Some are twisty, others are built for speed, and one is only for the vertically-challenged (kids under 5 feet tall). Some require group rides to get the weight just right. And yes, sometimes the staff will spin you for extra thrills. You didn't ask, but you're getting it anyway.
There's even a magic carpet lift to haul you back up to the top, so your legs can stay just as lazy as your technique.
Tubing is available in three sessions:
- Morning: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Afternoon: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Night: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Fridays and Saturdays from December 26 to March 14.)
Prices are around $49 for adults and $30 for kids aged 4 to 12. That's a decent price to feel like a human cannonball.
Age/Height Requirements: Must be 4 years old and at least 42 inches tall. No ski boots allowed (you'll want warm winter boots anyway), and helmets are optional but recommended.
Lake Louise Ski Resort: Big Views, Smooth Rides
Lake Louise offers a mellower vibe with its Sunny Tube Park. It's smaller – just two or three lanes depending on conditions – but it's a great option for families with young kids or those who like their thrills with a side of serenity.
Located just five minutes from the village of Lake Louise and about 40 minutes from Banff, this park doesn't require pre-booked time slots. Just show up, grab a tube, and slide your heart out.
The runs are smooth and straight – none of Norquay's wild curves here – but that means faster turnaround time, especially if you walk up the hill instead of using the learning-area magic carpet.
Prices are similar to Norquay, around $42 for adults and $24 for kids aged 6 to 12. Kids 3 to 5 are free with a ticket (still required). Helmets are mandatory for kids under 12 and encouraged for everyone else – especially if you're still recovering from the last time you tried adulting.
Fun fact: If you already have a Lake Louise season pass, the tube park is free. Consider this a reward for all those days you pretended you liked moguls.
So… What About Canmore?
Great question. While Canmore doesn't have an official tube park of its own (yet – somebody get on that, please), it's the perfect launchpad for both Norquay and Lake Louise. Plus, it's a laid-back, scenic town with great coffee, cool restaurants, and that small-town energy that makes you consider buying a flannel and never leaving.
If you're lucky, you might find locals sliding down smaller community hills with sleds or tubes. But for the real deal, you'll need to drive.
Still, the drive is short, the views are amazing, and Canmore accommodations often offer better value than Banff. It's a win-win.
And Jasper?
Jasper's Marmot Basin doesn't offer snow tubing, which is tragic, really. But you can still find some good old-fashioned toboggan hills in town. Places like Centennial Park are fair game if you bring your own gear. So, pack a tube or sled, channel your inner child, and find a hill to conquer.
Jasper might not have an official tubing park, but it more than makes up for it with its chill vibes, wildlife cameos, and a general sense of “yeah, we're cool with whatever.”
Snow Tubing Near Banff (If You're Willing to Venture)
Nakiska Ski Resort (Kananaskis)
Located in Kananaskis Country, Nakiska's Wanidu Tube Park has three lanes of snowy fun. It's a good option if you're coming from Calgary or Canmore. Kids must be at least 3 years old and 42 inches tall. Tickets give you two hours of ride time from the first scan, and prices start around $30.95 for kids and $41.95 for adults.
No helmets required, but bring one if you like your teeth where they are.
Winsport (Calgary)
Yes, Calgary has a tubing park. The Servus Tube Park at Winsport is a great pick for day-trippers or those easing into mountain life. With eight lanes, it's surprisingly robust. Kids need to be at least 36 inches to ride with an adult; 42 inches to ride alone.
It's only open on select weekends, so check ahead. Price? Tickets for 2025/26 go on sale on Dec 3, but last season were $25.
What to Wear for Snow Tubing in the Rockies
Tubing is not a high-effort sport, but you'll still want to dress like you're prepping for a snowball war. Layers are your friend.
Here's your tubing outfit checklist:
- Waterproof jacket and snow pants
- Warm winter boots (no ski boots, please)
- Helmet (especially for kids or those with a wobbly sense of balance)
- Sunglasses or goggles (snow glare is sneaky)
- Warm mittens
- Toque for style points
If you plan to walk up the hill at Lake Louise, you'll warm up quickly. Otherwise, standing around on a magic carpet isn't the best workout – dress warm.
When to Go: Best Times for Fewer Crowds
If your idea of fun does not involve standing in long lines while freezing, plan to go tubing midweek. Weekends – especially if it's sunny or there's fresh snow – are a magnet for locals, tourists, and every child under 12 within 100 kilometres.
Mornings are usually quieter, but afternoons are warmer, so pick your battle. If you're bundled up and patient, go anytime and enjoy the people-watching between runs.
Après-Tubing: What to Do Next
Tubing sessions are usually two to three hours. So, what's next?
- At Norquay: Snowshoe the Upper Stoney Loop or head back to Banff for skating or hot chocolate.
- At Lake Louise: Go skating on the lake, hike to Fairview Lookout, or just plop yourself in a café and relive your best wipeouts.
- In Canmore: Reward yourself with local craft beer or pastries. You earned it.
- In Jasper: Catch the sunset in the national park. Bonus points if you spot elk on the way.
And if you're sore from laughing – or just want to soak – it's hard to beat a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Final Thoughts
Snow tubing in the Rockies is pure, uncomplicated joy. No ski pass? No problem. No technique? Even better. It's the one winter sport where you can scream all the way down the hill and still look like you know what you're doing.
So whether you're team Norquay, loyal to Lake Louise, or adventuring in Jasper, just grab a tube and let the mountains do the rest. Your only job? Have a blast.
FAQs: Snow Tubing in Banff and Beyond
Where can I go snow tubing in Banff?
Mount Norquay has the biggest and best tube park in Banff, just minutes from town.
Is there snow tubing at Lake Louise?
Yes! The Sunny Tube Park at Lake Louise Ski Resort is smaller but still full of fun.
Can I go snow tubing in Canmore?
Canmore doesn't have a formal tube park, but it's a great base to reach Norquay or Lake Louise.
What about Jasper?
No official tubing hills, but there are community sledding spots if you bring your own tube.
How much does snow tubing in Banff cost?
Around $30 to $50, depending on the location and age. Lake Louise offers free access with a season pass.
Do I need to book in advance?
Definitely for Norquay – especially weekends. Lake Louise is more flexible.
What should I wear?
Dress warm and waterproof. Snow pants, winter boots, gloves, a helmet and a big ol' smile.