Why You Need to see Skijoring on Banff Ave

Horseback riding? That happens pretty much everywhere. Skiing? Yep, you've probably done that before.

But how about skiing while being pulled along by a horse?

It's called skijoring, and it's a spectacular event you'll be able to catch at Banff's SnowDays festival in January. In 2025, skijoring in Banff takes place on January 18 & 19 at 2 pm, directly on Banff Ave in the heart of downtown. Seats are on a first-come basis.

What is skijoring?

Skijoring is when a horse pulls a skier down a course or in the countryside. There are theories that the sport either started in China or Scandinavia, and it was even an exhibition event at the 1928 Winter Olympic Games in Switzerland.

There's a rich history of the sport in Alberta as a carnival event too, where adding horses to skiing brings a sense of cowboy style combined with mountain culture.

What will you see at Skijoring in Banff?

You'll witness riders launching off massive jumps, performing gravity-defying backflips, spins, and tricks that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Skilled horse riders race at incredible speeds, pulling fearless skiers behind them as they weave through challenging obstacles. The energy is electric, the excitement palpable.

The riders from Skijor Canada know how to put on a heart-pounding spectacle. From trick riding to thrilling maneuvers, the show delivers an unforgettable adrenaline rush as horses and riders zoom past, making you feel like you're part of the action. Skijoring in Banff isn't just an event—it's an exhilarating experience of skill, speed, and spectacle against one of the most stunning backdrops in the world!

There's skijoring style?

Albertan skijoring style is where Western heritage meets retro ski fashion, creating a bold and unique look you won’t find anywhere else. Picture riders in cowboy hats, fringed leather jackets, and classic cowboy boots, all paired with vibrant, vintage ski goggles and colourful snowsuits that pop against the snowy landscape. It's a wild blend of rodeo flair and alpine fun!

But it’s not just about the thrill of the race—there’s also a strong sense of fashion at skijoring in Banff. At the SnowDays festival, a lively fashion show takes center stage, where spectators flaunt their best skijoring-inspired outfits. With multiple prizes up for grabs, dressing to impress could win you more than just admiration from the crowd.

So, whether you're competing or cheering from the sidelines, don’t forget to bring your best style game—you just might walk away a winner!

When can you watch Skijoring in Banff?

Date: January 18 & 19, 2025

Time: 2 pm

Multiple teams from Skijor Canada will descend on the town as part of Banff SnowDays.

The event takes place on Banff Ave, and no tickets are required. Try to find a spot along the railing to be up close to the action, or find the perfect view from above from a restaurant balcony and enjoy a meal, drink and a show all in one.

If you can't make it to Banff Ave or you want a show with your meal, multiple pubs and restaurants in town will be live-streaming the event.

If you're already planning a winter visit to Banff, this is the perfect way to experience something unique and truly a part of Rocky Mountain culture.

Plan a trip around SnowDays

Banff is where winter means more, and there's so much to do in town throughout your trip, whether you're here for an impromptu visit or a planned voyage from abroad. SnowDays takes place in the last two weeks of January and the first week of February, and it's the perfect way to celebrate the magic of winter.

Skijoring is a great afternoon event to cap off a day of skiing at Mt. Norquay or a great morning event that can be capped off with a day in town, checking out the kids' PlayZone and snow sculptures built all around town.

In Lake Louise, you can go for a wild skate and check out a large ice castle - both directly on the world-famous lake.

Please note: This event is weather-dependent. Skijor Canada’s first priority is the safety of horses, riders, sliders, and spectators. In the event of adverse weather, including extreme cold or rain, Skijor Canada may need to modify or cancel all or part of the event. If that happens, we’ll provide the latest updates on our Facebook and Instagram or you can also contact our Visitor Services team directly via LiveChat.