Snow gently covered Sunshine Village in Banff National Park on Thursday. CTV
In a rare turn of events, snow fell on Sunshine Village in Banff National Park this week—right in the middle of July. Visitors and locals were shocked when white flakes appeared on Goat’s Eye Mountain, a part of the popular ski resort known for winter sports.
Snowfall Caught on Camera
The surprising scene was captured live on Sunshine Village’s webcam at exactly 12:26 p.m. on Thursday, July 10. The resort shared the image on its social media with the caption, “Meanwhile, on top of Goat’s Eye… Yep, this is a live shot.” Many people who follow the resort’s updates were both amazed and amused.
Although the calendar shows it’s deep summer, the weather in the mountains doesn’t always follow the rules. Sunshine Village, sitting at a higher elevation, often sees unpredictable conditions—even in warmer months.
Weather Forecast Said Otherwise
According to the national weather service, Banff was expected to have a high of 15°C that day. The forecast only predicted a 30 percent chance of showers—certainly not snow. However, in areas like Goat’s Eye Mountain, where temperatures drop more than in town, snow becomes possible when clouds roll in.
Snow in July is rare but not unheard of in the Rockies. High-altitude places like Sunshine Village can receive snow even in the summer months, depending on temperature dips and moisture levels. Still, for many, it was a surreal sight—especially those hoping for a dry hike or sunny day.
Locals React to the Weather Twist
Many residents and visitors commented online about the surprising snowfall. Some joked about bringing back their ski gear, while others were simply thrilled by the unexpected change in scenery. A few hikers and mountain bikers were caught off guard by the slippery trails but took it in stride, knowing the area’s weather is famously unpredictable.
One Banff local said, “You never really put away your snow boots when you live here.”
Nature’s Reminder
This snowfall serves as a reminder of how quickly mountain weather can shift. Whether you’re planning to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the views, it’s always smart to prepare for anything—yes, even snow in July.
Sunshine Village, popular in both summer and winter, now adds another reason for people to visit—just in case they want to witness a snowy July afternoon.
