On a recent trip to Alberta, for a Women’s Retreat, I was able to go on an amazing adventure with some of my greatest friends at Mt. Norquay. Located on a mountaintop near Banff, we were able to let our adventurous sides shine and conquer our fears on the Via Ferrata. If you all remember my blog post from Ouray, I went on a Via Ferrata adventure there as well!
What is a Via Ferrata?
For those new to the term, “Via Ferrata” is Italian for “iron way.” It’s a protected climbing route that uses a series of iron rungs, cables, and bridges to allow adventurers to traverse steep terrain while being securely attached to the mountain. This concept has been around for centuries in the European Alps, and now you can enjoy it at Mt. Norquay as well.
The Journey Begins
Your adventure starts at the base of Mt. Norquay, just a short drive from Banff. As you gear up, you’ll be provided with a harness, helmet, and via ferrata lanyards. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced climber; the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to assist adventurers of all skill levels.
The Ridgewalker Route
Our group opted for a slightly easier route known as the Ridgewalker. You first take the chairlift up to Cafe Bistro where you will go through a small practice course to make sure you understand how to clip in, use the rungs, etc. Then you take a short hike and get ready to clip in and go! This route lets you traverse a narrow path along the mountain’s spine, where we were treated to panoramic views of the Bow Valley, the town of Banff, and the surrounding peaks. This is a perfect spot for a selfie, but make sure your hands are steady; the vistas are breathtaking. I made sure to bring my Hangtime Koala phone harness or I don’t know how comfortable I would have been getting out my phone! We also went over a fun suspension bridge and some other small obstacles.
The Descent & Cliffhouse Bistro
After conquering the ridge and bridge, it’s time to make your way back down the mountain. The descent follows a different route, providing a fresh perspective of the landscape. Don’t forget to look for wildlife; you might spot mountain goats or marmots amidst the rocky terrain. We opted to grab a bite at the Cliffhouse Bistro and enjoy the views while coming down from our adrenaline rush.
Tips for Your Adventure:
- Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for traction.
- Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and sunscreen.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Listen to your experienced guides; safety is their top priority.
In Conclusion
The Mt. Norquay Via Ferrata offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself physically and mentally while immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Banff National Park. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-time adventurer, this iron way promises an experience that will leave you exhilarated and inspired.
So, gear up, embrace the thrill, and embark on an unforgettable journey along the Mt. Norquay Via Ferrata. The majestic Rockies await your conquering spirit!
Directions to Mt. Norquay
Getting to Mt. Norquay is relatively straightforward, whether you’re staying in Banff or nearby areas:
From Banff:
- Start in the town of Banff.
- Head northwest on Banff Avenue (Highway 1A) toward Mount Norquay Road.
- Follow Mount Norquay Road for approximately 10-15 minutes until you reach the Mt. Norquay ski resort area.
From Canmore:
- Begin in Canmore, Alberta.
- Head east on Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) toward Banff.
- Take the Banff National Park exit and continue on the Trans-Canada Highway.
- Take the exit onto Mount Norquay Road, which leads to the Mt. Norquay ski resort.
