The Best Ski Town in the world.

 Banff, CanadaBest For: Hardy skiers and snowboarders of all abilities who love big views, wild panoramas, and bighorn sheep on the front lawn.

 The only town on this list located inside a national park, Banff  also happens to be one of the most cosmopolitan. Typically teeming with  visitors from many continents, downtown is a warren of international  eateries, tourist shops, and museums, all surrounded by pristine  mountain peaks stabbing thousands of feet into the sky. It’s one of the  few places on Earth where you can walk out of a hip nightclub and two  blocks later bump into a grazing bull elk (seriously, keep an eye out,  they’re all over the place). Historic hotels and mountain hot springs  add to the ambiance of frontier luxury.

  The runs of small but steep Mount Norquay, home of the one of the oldest chairlifts in North America, are visible from town. A larger and more well-rounded area, Sunshine Village—which  is neither a village nor particularly sunny—sits on the Continental  Divide and features the most reliable snow in the area. It also has the  freeride area Delirium Dive, which harbors the kind of dizzyingly steep  and rugged terrain you rarely find in-bounds in ski areas (transceivers,  shovels, partners required). Lake Louise is second in size to only Whistler among Canadian  ski areas and features some of the world’s most scenic skiing and  snowboarding. Shuttle buses are available from town to all three areas.  Be prepared for cold temperatures in mid-winter.

 Ask a Local: David Spence is a lifetime Banff local, former  ski racing coach, and self-described “professional ski bum.” Here are  his recommendations.

 Best Digs: The Banff Aspen Lodge has great rates and a free skiers breakfast. Since winter is actually Banff's low season, skiers can access the five-star Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel for three-star prices. 

Best Eats: Tommy's Neighbourhood Pub is the best spot in town for a burger and beer. Castello's Ristorante at the Fairmont Banff Springs has the best lamb in town. 

Best After-Ski Party Spot: With over 30 bars and restaurants,  Banff is the type of town where you barhop. Every place is different,  and they’re all within three blocks.

 Best Rest-Day Activity: An Ice Walk with Discover Banff Tours makes for an amazing day, a true bucket-list event. 

collected from: Nat Gio.