Via Ferrata at Norquay

A bit safer way of climbing, also performed with guides. You go up the mountain along a sort of ladders on the mountain wall.

Listing from Wikivoyage: Banff, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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Norquay
The closest mountain to the Banff townsite, and it is much used by the locals. It is unique in the area because you can pay for skiing by the hour, and night skiing is available on Fridays and Saturdays. There is a tube park for non-skiers (and non-boarders.) The ski season is a little shorter at Norquay, because it is at a lower altitude than Sunshine and Lake Louise, and snowfall is less consistent. The trails here lean more towards steep and difficult, although there is still plenty of easy terrain. Giv'er Grandi (formerly Excalibur, accessed via Mystic Express lift) is North America's steepest groomed piste. The lodge is not much good for breakfast; lunch and beer on the deck can't be beat however!
$61 for full-day adult ticket
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Mount Norquay Road
Look for bighorn sheep here, and if you are lucky, you may also spot a mountain goat along the cliffs.
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Vermilion Lakes
These three shallow lakes make a marvellous foreground to dramatic Mount Rundle in the background. Come at sunrise or sunset to see muskrat and beaver and get great lighting for photos.
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Fenland Trail
A very good spot for birdwatching all year, and you may also see beaver or muskrat in 40 Mile Creek. May be closed in spring due to calving elk. (Cow elk are very protective of calves.)