Fresh Snow In Alberta Canada (24-Aug-09)

Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, August 24, 2009 - Is enjoying its first glimpse of winter

Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada is enjoying its first glimpse of winter – in August, with a summer snowfall blanketing the mountains.

This past week saw snow covering Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Area and SunshineVillage .

The announcement of tentative 2009 opening dates is adding to the excitement.

Mt. Norquay is planning to kick off the season with a Halloween party on October 31st and will then open at weekends only through to December 5th.

Lake Louise Ski Area is scheduled to open on November 6, with preparations well underway to again host the first, and Canada’s only, stop on the World Cup circuit. The Men’s races will take place on November 28 to 29, and the Women’s races on December 4 to 6.

Sunshine Village plans to open on November 11, with the newly-renovated Sunshine Mountain Lodge opening 30 new eco-luxurious rooms shortly after. The multimillion dollar wing replacement has not only added luxury to the Lodge, but also lowered the resort’s carbon footprint.

“We’re very excited for the upcoming season,” said Dan Markham, of Ski Banff-Lake Louise-Sunshine. “We’re hoping to yet again be the first resorts to open in Canada, with a great start to this Olympic season. We’ll be joining the world to enjoy the spirit and energy of the Games, cheering on our local athletes and celebrating our sport.”

http://www.skibanff.com