Rock Climbing

Banff Via Ferrata and Rock Climbing

From scenic scrambles around Lake Louise to challenging multi-pitch ascents up Mt. Louis, the Canadian Rockies are an alpine playground for rock climbers. But it’s not just seasoned mountaineers who get to have all the fun.

Overlooking the town of Banff, Mount Norquay’s Via Ferrata (Italian for iron road) lets you scale a mountain — with zero mountaineering experience needed. In fact, the only thing you need is a sense of adventure and a head for heights.

With a certified guide leading the way, and all your safety gear included, you can tackle the route along three separate trails.

Up for a tougher challenge? A guided climb following the “Summiteer” route crosses a 3-wire suspension bridges across a gaping chasm, continuing to 2,450 meters at the East Summit. Harder on the legs? Yeah, it is. But dazzling 360-degree views at the top more than make up for the extra effort.

Highlights

• No mountaineering experience needed
• Climbers are secured to the rock with a harness and use fixed anchors, cables and ladders
• Experienced alpine guides lead the way
• All tours includes your safety equipment and helmet
• Stop for lunch at the historic Cliff House Bistro (once visited by Marilyn Monroe)

Via Ferrata Explorer – 2.5 Hours

Step out of your comfort zone and join your guide up on the mountain on the Explorer Route at the Banff Mt Norquay Via Ferrata. You'll be introduced to the equipment, ascend a few pitches, and cross the suspension bridge. This 2.5 hour loop is great for those who are slightly limited on time, or are looking for an introduction to Via Ferrata.

$149

per person

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Jun-Oct

9:00am, 10:00am, 3:00pm, 3:30pm

2.5 Hours

Via Ferrata Ridgewalker – 4 Hours

To get a greater feel of heights and exposure, try the full Via Ferrata experience and become a Ridgewalker! This route is a half-day excursion crosses the suspension bridge and heads up the Banff Mt Norquay cliffs, climbing Memorial, Sol and Vista buttresses. It's a great trip for families.

$199

per person

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Jun-Oct

8:30am, 10:00am, 1:00pm, 2:30pm

4 Hours

Via Ferrata Skyline – 5 Hours

The Skyline includes an exciting high traverse on a sheer rock wall and crosses an “airy” 55m suspension bridge. This is a brand-new route for 2017. The effort is amply rewarded at the top with outstanding panoramic views of Canada's iconic Rocky Mountain peaks. With Banff as a backdrop over 1000 metres below, walk the uber-scenic ridgecrest trail as it leads you back to the Cliffhouse Bistro to celebrate your mountaineering accomplishments.

$249

per person

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Jun-Oct

8:30am, 9:30am, 12:00pm

5 Hours

Via Ferrata Summiteer – 6 Hours

The longest of all 4 routes, the “Summiteer” is the pinnacle of Banff Mt Norquay’s Via Ferrata adventures. A continuation of the brand-new ‘Skyline’ route this 6-hour route traverses the alpine ridge, crossing an impressive couloir on a 3-wire suspension bridge to reach the summit pitch. Experience 360-degree views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains as you enjoy lunch on the East Summit of Mt Norquay. With Banff as a backdrop over 1000 metres below, walk the uber-scenic ridgecrest trail as it leads you back to the Cliffhouse Bistro to celebrate your mountaineering accomplishments. Lunch on the mountain and apres climbing platter and beverage at Cliffhouse Bistro is included.

$299

per person

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Jun-Oct

9:00am

6 Hours

Learn to Rock Climb

Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise provide some of the world's best climbing areas. Instructors are certified guides and leading edge climbers. Day or half day lessons are available for individuals or groups and cater to all abilities, so there is no need to worry if you are a first time climber. All climbing guides are trained and certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG). Private Rock Climbing is available - please call or email for details.

$135

per person

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8:30am

3 Hours

10+