Canadians Welcome Influx of American Skiers to Banff

Jay Peak also sees surge in visitors, plans new high-speed lifts

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:25pm

A bold, geometric illustration depicting the towering, snow-capped mountains of the Canadian Rockies, rendered in sweeping gradients of blues and whites that evoke the grandeur of the landscape.The Canadian Rockies beckon American skiers with their majestic peaks and world-class slopes.Park City Today

As the 2026 winter season approaches, ski destinations in Canada and the northeastern United States are reporting a significant increase in American visitors, particularly to Banff National Park in Alberta and Jay Peak Resort in Vermont. Industry leaders cite the appeal of the Canadian Rockies and improvements at Jay Peak as driving factors behind the travel trends.

Why it matters

The surge in American skiers visiting Canadian resorts like Banff highlights the continued appeal of international travel for winter sports, even as domestic U.S. ski areas have invested heavily in upgrades and expansions. The growth at Jay Peak also demonstrates how strategic lift infrastructure improvements can boost a resort's popularity.

The details

Banff National Park, renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and abundant wildlife, has seen a notable influx of American visitors planning ski trips this winter. Industry analysts attribute this trend to the allure of the Canadian Rockies, as well as the relative strength of the U.S. dollar against the Canadian currency. Meanwhile, Jay Peak Resort in Vermont has also experienced a spike in American skiers, which the resort's president, Steve Wright, credits to recent investments in high-speed detachable lifts and other on-mountain upgrades.

  • The 2026 winter ski season is approaching.
  • American visitors have been flocking to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada in recent months.
  • Jay Peak Resort in Vermont has also seen a surge in American skiers this year.

The players

Banff National Park

A renowned national park in the Canadian Rockies known for its stunning mountain scenery and abundant wildlife.

Jay Peak Resort

A ski resort located in Vermont that has recently invested in high-speed detachable lifts and other on-mountain upgrades.

Steve Wright

The president of Jay Peak Resort.

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What they’re saying

“We will be adding more high speed detachable lifts”

— Steve Wright, President

The takeaway

The influx of American skiers to Canadian resorts like Banff and the surge in visitors to Jay Peak Resort demonstrate the continued appeal of international travel for winter sports enthusiasts, as well as the importance of strategic infrastructure investments in boosting a resort's popularity.