Find Your Favourite Way to Explore Mt. Norquay and Banff National Park This Summer
Warm weather is here, and with summer hitting the Rockies, it’s time to plan your ultimate getaway to Banff National Park in 2024! Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or an extended stay, Banff Adventures is proud to offer an all-access pass to excitement for adventurers of all ages and experience levels.
For over 25 years, we’ve welcomed guests to Canada’s biggest, wildest, backyard and are here to help you plan the Rocky Mountain escape you’ve always dreamed of. Below, we’ll cover just a few of the fun ways you can explore Banff National Park and the Bow Valley Region. Read on to learn more!
Welcome to the Wild
Banff National Park has something for everyone to explore. From famous peaks like Mt. Norquay, Ha Ling, Mt. Rundle and more, there are endless sights to see and new ways to experience the rugged terrain of the Canadian Rockies. Popular summer activities in and around Banff include:
Via Ferrata
Via Ferrata is Italian for “Iron Road”, and this thrilling adventure will have you “climbing” the mountainside along a protected and guided route that’s fixed directly to the mountain face! Get up close and personal with Mt. Norquay and follow your guide across ladders, bridges and more for an unforgettable time. Via Ferrata is a unique way to experience the region and learn more about the area in the process, as well as a great way to get your workout in for the day!*Note: For optimal safety and enjoyment, we do recommend a decent base fitness level, as well as the ability to focus and follow directions closely for everyone’s safety.
Learn more about Via Ferrata's quick faqs here!
Mountain Biking
Banff National Park is home to over 360km of cycling trails, each with unique views and thrills to be found. One of the most popular trails that will challenge even experienced riders can be found on Mt. Norquay. Despite being only 7km (one-way), this steep ride offers 12 switchbacks and 300m of elevation that keep your legs burning the whole time. Reward yourself by continuing on to Vermillion Lakes or ride back down to start the trek all over!
Can’t bring your bike with you? No problem! Banff Adventures offers gear rental for a wide variety of activities all year round, including mountain bikes (as well as helmets and other protective gear), canoes/kayaks, SUPs, and more!
View other popular biking trails here.
Wildlife Tours
For those who love all creatures, great and small, wildlife tours are a fantastic, family-friendly option that allows adventurers of all ages to experience the Rockies and learn about Alberta’s natural habitants. With both daytime and evening tours (certain animals prefer to come out after dusk) available, your guides will take you through some of the most popular spots in Banff, like the Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, Lake Minnewanka and more!
The Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lives. The gondola treats participants to a soaring ride all the way to the top of Mt. Sulphur. At the peak, you’ll find a world-class interpretive centre, fine dining courtesy of the Sky Bistro, live music during summer festivals and more. The Banff Gondola operates from 8 am-9 pm (last ride at 7:30 pm) from May 1-June 27 and 8 am-10 pm (last ride at 8:30 pm) from June 28-Sept. 4, giving you plenty of time to take the ride of a lifetime and snap some breathtaking photos along the way!
Note: we recommend bringing layers with you to the top of the mountain, even on hot days. Weather in the Rockies can be fickle, and wind at the peak, along with rain, can make the summit significantly cooler than at ground level. Sunscreen is also advisable, even on cloudy days.
Want even more fun? Check out our packages featuring the Banff Gondola!
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a favourite summer pastime for many, and a doubles as a great opportunity to sightsee around Banff in a new, exciting way. Our tours are appropriate for riders of all experience levels and suitable for children ages 8 and up. They range in duration from 1-4 hours, each treating you to views of different areas of the park. For those looking for a real Western feel, you can try our cowboy cookout, which includes a leisurely trail ride and delicious BBQ lunch or dinner cooked to perfection with an unbeatable setting around you!
See our packages featuring horseback riding for even more adventure!
Plan Your Ultimate Summer with Banff Adventures
No matter what your style of adventure is, Banff Adventures is here to help you plan the ultimate Rocky Mountain getaway this summer. Contact our team today to learn more!
News & Updates
Befriend Wolves this Winter at The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
4 Banff Tours for the Whole Family: Winter 2024/2025
