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Banff Sightseeing Chairlift

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Starts atCA$ 47US$ 36€ 31£ 27A$ 51
Duration: Open Ticket
Age: 2+
Departure: Throughout the day
Season: Jun-Oct

Guaranteed departure. This tour runs as scheduled with no minimum group size — book with confidence, it won’t be cancelled for low numbers.

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Overview

It’s more than just a chairlift ride, this scenic ride into the sky takes you up to almost 7,000 feet over a natural grizzly and black bear habitat. Enjoy spectacular views looking down into the Town of Banff and across Spray and Bow Valleys with the stunning jagged edges of Mt Rundle as a feature for all your photos.

At the top relax over a snack or meal, craft brews or a glass of wine at the historic Cliffhouse Bistro while dining at 6,900 feet, keep your eyes out for bighorn sheep and ground squirrels and take a walk along the interpretive walkway overlooking the Bow Valley. Located just a ten minute drive from downtown Banff!

Highlights

The best parts of the tour for most people include the following:

Ride to 7,000 feet at Mount Norquay
Ride to 7,000 feet at Mount Norquay
Mountain top dining and facilities
Mountain top dining and facilities

Tour Details

Tour Duration
Open Ticket
Departure Time
Throughout the day
Age Required
2+
Season
Jun-Oct
Transport Options
Meet at Banff Mt Norquay (North America Lodge) Free Banff Mt Norquay Shuttle Bus

Included

  • 8-minute chairlift ride over a natural habitat for bears
  • Breathtaking views of the Bow Valley and Mount Rundle
  • Access to the historic Cliffhouse Bistro
  • Interpretive walkway at the top
  • Free shuttle bus from downtown Banff

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the meeting point?+
The North American Lodge at Mount Norquay is located on Mt Norquay Road in Banff, only a ten minute drive from downtown Banff. Detailed driving instructions will be provided in your booking confirmation and there is ample car parking available. Guests can also take advantage of the free shuttle bus that runs hourly from Banff.
When does the free shuttle bus run?+
The free shuttle bus runs throughout the day from Banff with several pick-up locations. You can view the Norquay Shuttle Schedule here .
When does the chairlift operate?+
During the summer, the chairlift runs from 9am to 6pm, with the last ride down at 6:30pm. In the fall, the chairlift runs from 10am to 6pm, with the last ride down at 6:30pm. Please refer to your booking confirmation for seasonal operating hours.
When is the last ride up the chairlift?+
During the summer, the chairlift runs from 9am to 6pm, with the last ride down at 6:30pm. In the fall, the chairlift runs from 10am to 6pm, with the last ride down at 6:30pm. Please refer to your booking confirmation for seasonal operating hours.
How long is the chairlift ride?+
The chairlift ride is approximately eight minutes each way. Plenty of time to spot some wildlife!
What's an open-air chairlift?+
Unlike an enclosed Gondola, an open-air chairlift allows you to ride up the mountain with your legs dangling freely below you. Each chair is outfitted with a safety bar so you aren’t in any danger of falling out.
What's at the top?+
Jaw dropping vistas, high-alpine dining in an avalanche proof restaurant, Cliffhouse Bistro, hand carved into the side of the mountain, breathtaking views of Banff and the Bow Valley, mountain climbing on the Via Ferrata, an interpretive walkway, and bighorn sheep.
What hiking trails are at Mt Norquay?+
There are two main trails from the Mt Norquay main car park. Stoney Squaw Mountain Distance: 4.2 km return Elevation Gain: 190m Time Required: 2 hours Difficulty: Moderate Hike through a beautiful lodgepole pine and spruce tree forest for a unique view of Cascade Mountain, and peaks of the Fairholme Range. During the ascent, hikers will enjoy unique views of Banff, Vermilion Lakes and surrounding mountain ranges. This trail is also popular for mountain biking. Cascade Amphitheatre Distance: 15.4 km return Elevation Gain: 640m Time Required: 4-6 hours Difficulty: Moderate The hike begins at the Mt. Norquay ski area, crosses a bridge over Forty Mile Creek, and then zigzags its way through the dense forest to Cascade Amphitheatre. As you emerge into the amphitheatre, impressively enclosed by limestone cliffs, keep your eyes out for wildflowers.
What is the cancellation policy?+
Sightseeing tickets are sold as non-transferable and non-refundable. Tickets are good to be used on any day during the summer season in which they were purchased.

Booking Terms

  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on the chairlift.
  • No infants under the age of 2 can ride the chairlift for safety reasons.
  • The maximum combined weight is 226kg (500lbs) per chair.
  • Photo ID may be required for identity verification.

What Our Guests Are Saying

Real, verified reviews from guests who explored the Canadian Rockies with us.

Banff Sightseeing Chairlift
From CA$ 47US$ 36€ 31£ 27A$ 51