Understanding Ski Run Difficulty at Sunshine Village

Whether you're strapping into skis for the first time or hunting for your next adrenaline rush, understanding ski run difficulty ratings is essential for making the most of your time on the mountain. At Sunshine Village, our runs are marked using a universally recognized system of shapes and colors: green circles, blue squares, black diamonds, and double black diamonds. Each symbol represents a level of terrain difficulty, helping guests choose runs that suit their ability, confidence, and skiing style.

With terrain that spans gentle meadows, legendary alpine bowls, and steep tree-lined chutes, Sunshine Village has something for every skier and snowboarder. Here’s a breakdown of the rating system, and some iconic Sunshine runs to help guide your next adventure.

Green Circle: Easy Does It

Green circle runs are the gentlest slopes on the mountain, ideal for beginners or those looking to cruise at a comfortable pace. These runs feature wide trails, low-angle pitches, and smooth snow surfaces that are perfect for learning the basics or enjoying a relaxing ride. Typically runs ranked Green have a slope of 8% to 20%. At Banff Sunshine, our cat team works to groom all our green runs nightly to ensure the trails are beginner friendly.

One of Sunshine Villages standout green runs is Meadow Park, located off the Wawa chairlift. This trail offers a wide, rolling pitch that’s ideal for building confidence. The open terrain provides ample space to practice turns and get a feel for the snow. And as a bonus, skiers are treated to a stunning view of Delirium Dive, one of the resort’s most legendary expert zones. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and inspiration.

Blue Square: Stepping Up the Challenge

Intermediate skiers and riders looking to progress will find plenty of excitement on Banff Sunshine’s blue square runs. These trails offer a step up in difficulty, with steeper pitches, longer descents, and the opportunity to step up your carving and speed. Often groomed and easily accessible, they require more control and skill than green runs. Most blue runs fall between a slope gradient of 20% to 40%.

A must-ski blue at Sunshine Village is World Cup Downhill, which begins at the top of the Great Divide chair. With a consistent pitch and wide-open layout, it’s a favorite among confident skiers. The run also offers panoramic views of Twin Cairns ridge and Monarch Mountain, making it as visually rewarding, as it is fun to ski. Aptly named in honor of hosting the women's FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in 1985, World Cup Downhill carries a legacy of speed and competition—perfect for intermediate skiers ready to push themselves.

Black Diamond: For the Seasoned Skier

Black diamond runs are designed for advanced skiers and snowboarders who are comfortable with steeper, more technical terrain. These trails may include natural obstacles, tighter turns, and changing snow conditions, demanding strong technique and focus. The slope of black diamond runs is typically greater that 40%. At Sunshine Village, our steepest groomed run is Fall Line of Goat’s Eye Express.

OS Pitch is a Sunshine Village classic, running directly beneath the Super Angel LX chairlift. With its steep gradient and sparse tree coverage, this run provides a challenging descent that rewards precision and control. The visible location under the lift also makes it a go-to spot for showing off your skills—or scouting lines from above before dropping in.

Double Black Diamond: Expert Terrain Only

Double black diamond trails are the most demanding slopes on the mountain, reserved for experts with strong technical skills and backcountry awareness. These runs can include steep pitches, tight tree sections, cliffs, chutes, and sometimes variable or marginal snow conditions. Proper equipment, experience, and caution are essential. Double Black’s at Banff Sunshine are typically not groomed throughout the season.

Hell’s Kitchen, located off the Goat’s Eye chair, is one of the resort’s premier double black diamond runs. This trail lives up to its fiery name with a steep, tree lined descent featuring cliff bands, choke points, and complex terrain that funnels riders into tight lines. Conditions can be unpredictable, and the run often requires quick decisions and absolute control. For expert skiers looking for a serious test, Hell’s Kitchen delivers in full force.

Ski Smart, Ride Right

While the symbol system provides a helpful guide, it’s important to remember that difficulty ratings are relative to each mountain. A blue run at one resort may feel like a black at another. Snow conditions, weather, and visibility can all affect how a run feels on any given day.

At Sunshine Village, we encourage all guests to ski and ride within their limits, warm up on easier runs, and progress gradually. If you’re unsure about a trail, feel free to ask one of our friendly staff or ski patrol for guidance.

Something for Everyone

From the easy-going slopes of Meadow Park to the intense challenge of Hell’s Kitchen, Sunshine Village is home to a full spectrum of ski terrain. Whether you're enjoying a mellow morning with the family or chasing steeps with your crew, there's a perfect run waiting for you.

So grab your trail map, set your sights on the terrain that suits you, and experience all the excitement, beauty, and variety that Sunshine Village has to offer—one turn at a time.