Hiking

Via Ferrata

Exploring Banff

Banff National Park is best explored on foot, and our lower parking lot is a convenient trailhead for some of Banff’s best hikes.

Looking for more adventure? Take on the Via Ferrata or enjoy the views from the Sightseeing Chairlift. Afterwards, refuel with après hike bites and drinks at the Cliffhouse Bistro.

Please note there are no hiking trails within the ski resort, as it is a designated Wildlife Corridor. If you’re accessing nearby trails, please park behind the barricades near the start of Stoney Trail.

Shuttle Bus Service

We love our beautiful home in the heart of Banff National Park, and we aim to protect the habitat and wildlife that makes your visit so special.

This is why we provide a free, return, shuttle bus service from Banff for Norquay guests, and hikers looking to explore the trailheads around the ski resort. No need to book a seat, just hop on at one of our pick-up locations around Banff – and you’re on your way to Norquay!

Discover Nearby Trails

Upper Stoney Trail

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.

Image by Leigh McAdam, Hike Bike Travel

Cascade Amphitheatre

From the ski-area lodge, walk the gravel road all the way to the third chairlift (Mystic Express) where the single track trail starts. Allow a full day for a return trip through the forest, opening to a meadow surrounded by a natural amphitheatre. From the maintained trail, experienced scramblers with proper equipment can attempt the summit of Cascade Mountain.

Get route finding information in the Scrambler’s Guide to Cascade Mountain or at a Parks Canada visitor centre.

Cascade Amphitheatre

Make the most of your hiking trip. Please follow these tips to stay safe and help us protect our delicate alpine ecosystem.

Never hike alone.
Be prepared. Mountain weather changes frequently and suddenly, so carry extra clothing, including a rain jacket.
Check the weather forecast before your hike. Do not hike during thunderstorms.
Carry water, food, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a watch.
Observe all area closures. Stay on marked trails to prevent damage to the delicate alpine ecosystem.
Steep slopes, snow and ice fields are very dangerous. You may encounter various hazards such as cliffs, glaciers, crevasses, rock falls, avalanches and unstable surfaces.
Treat all wildlife with caution. Never feed or approach any wildlife, especially predators such as bears.
Carry bear spray while hiking. Although bear encounters are rare, we recommend carrying bear spray as a precaution. Bear spray is available for purchase at the North American Lodge at Norquay.
As the saying goes, please leave nothing but footprints. Do not leave any litter behind, and do not remove any plants or rocks.
Fires and camping are not permitted.