Hands down, Lake Louise is one of the most beautiful places on the planet to ski or snowboard. One moment you’re skiing through the clouds in pristine Banff National Park, and the next you’re breezing back up the mountain in crazy fast lifts. It’s truly the kind of place where you can choose your own adventure—whether you are a bunny hill lover or (literally) Lindsey Vonn—with 1,700 skiable hectares of terrain on both sides of the mountain to explore.

Of course, if you’re considering Lake Louise for your next winter getaway, you probably already know all this. What I have to share is much more important: what to do when you’re not out there shredding moguls or carving powder.

If you are an outdoors-woman (or man), who prefers to balance your rugged side with a healthy dose of laid-back après and dreams of ski days and spa days in equal measure, then read on.

Shopping as a Survival Tactic

First, let’s talk shopping. This is really a practical matter since it’s usually freezing outside in Lake Louise during the winter months, so no shame, my friend. Go get warm—and pick up some new base layers while you’re at it.

Whether you’re content to wander or are in need of new gear, stop by Sports Alpine or Wilson Mountain Sports. For a more serious shopping experience, head to Chateau Lake Louise to hit Chateau Mountain Sports and the other boutiques throughout the hotel. And if you’re really looking to turn it up a notch, an afternoon in Banff is worth the 45-minute drive to peruse the galleries, gear shops, and other ski town mainstays.

Because ‘After’ Sounds Better in French

We made it. Whether this is après ski or après shop, you’re going to need to refuel. For you party animals, Lake Louise might not have Ibiza-level nightlife options, but that just means less FOMO for you since you can experience the best spots in a long weekend.

On the resort, the Powder Keg is the perfect crowd-pleaser. There’s a little bit of everything on the menu, and drinks range from warm apple cider to a cold Moscow Mule. On fair-weather days, head to Banded Peak Base Camp to watch the truly dedicated finish their runs while you enjoy a well-earned beer and a piping bowl of chili.

If it’s ice bars and mountain views you seek, look no further than Chateau Lake Louise. You may reach the upper limits of your vacation budget quicker here, but the experience and Instagrammable views will be worth every Canadian dollar.

Treat Yourself (With No Clothes This Time)

Finally, the best part of any vacation is the spa. Whether you are a mom who deserves to relax on vacation too, or you’re planning a bachelorette party and need to check the requisite spa day off your list, I have your recommendation. Can you guess where? That’s right, we’re going back to Chateau.

A quick pro tip: When you’re booking your treatment(s), be sure to ask about access to the pool, steam room, and jacuzzi. They’re available to guests of the hotel, but the staff can make arrangements for day guests as well. It’s worth the extra inquiry if you’re truly invested in getting your zen on.

The spa at Chateau Lake Louise offers a variety of signature treatments, making it easier to choose the perfect experience. Their couples massage receives excellent reviews, the foot rescue massage is described as divine, and the glacier lift signature facial, customized to your skin's needs, provides a truly pampering experience. I think you’ll know where to find me!

Let’s go.

Ready to book a week in Lake Louise? Good; you won’t regret it. The Lodging Company is here to help you escape to the Canadian Rockies’ best-kept secret for all the snow your heart can handle—and a little R&R in between.