Nakiska Ski Area in Alberta & Escape2ski provides info on; vertical drop 2412ft/735m, total trails 79, closest airport 68mi/108km, lifts 6, lodging & more.

The ski area is located on Mount Allan in Kananakis Country, Alberta. In 1983, the east face of Mount Allan was chosen as the site to develop a new resort to host many of the events for the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Alberta.

The name Nakiska comes from the Cree word meaning, meeting place. This was a perfect name for the resort as athletes and spectators would gather in a common area to participate and witness the spirit of Olympic competition on the world’s stage.

Nakiska Ski Area opened in 1986, two years prior to the start of the games and was host to ten alpine events, as well as, the demonstration sport, freestyle mogul skiing. With its proximity to Calgary, you can drive less and ski and snowboard more, making Nakiska Ski Area, truly Calgary’s closest mountain.

On the Slopes

• Nakiska Ski Area offers a variety of terrain to satisfy and challenge all ability levels. The natural terrain located near the base of the mountain; serviced by the dedicated Bronze Chair provides a great learning area for first timers or the novices practicing their skills.
• As you venture higher up the mountain the greater the challenge becomes. Here you will be presented with a good selection of intermediate, advanced and expert terrain, as well as, Monster Glades.
• Even though Nakiska Ski Area receives an average of 250cm/99in of snow each year, when Mother Nature is not so generous, Nakiska Ski resort has it covered with 95% of the trails connected to the snowmaking system.
• The Winter Sports School offers various options ranging from the children’s Mini Monsters (ages 3-4) program to group or private adult lessons, ladies only selections and programs for newcomers to the sport of skiing or snowboarding.
• Nakiska Ski Area hosts the Na.jib.Ska Rail Terrain Park complete with rails, boxes, jumps, other features, as well as, spectacular scenery. Also, for some additional adrenaline action, try the Skier/Boarder Cross Course. Access is via the Silver Chair Express. Note: a pass is required for entry into the park. Visit guest services for the latest prices and park pass options.
• Make sure you take a break from the slopes and visit the mid-mountain day lodge, not only has does it have great food options it has one of the best decks in the Rockies to relax and enjoy the sunshine, as well as, an incredible view of the Canadian Rockies and surrounding peaks of Kananaskis Country.

Off the Slopes

• While there are no mountainside accommodations at the Nakiska Ski Area, you’ll find several types of accommodation and dining choices located only 5 minutes away in Kananaskis Village.
• Looking for an alternative to a day on the slopes, then visit the Nakiska Tube Park, which is great for the entire family. Please note that there are height and age restriction for entry. Tickets are valid for 2 hours. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also options in the nearby Kananaskis Valley.
• Parents, need of a break from the kids to enjoy the slopes on your own, there is Day Care available from Thurs to Sun for ages 19 months to 6 years. Call the ski area to find out more.