Mount Norquay Ski Resort - green trees on white snow covered mountain during daytime
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Mount Norquay Ski Resort

4.5
·3k reviews·Banff, Canada

Ski resort in Banff National Park offering tubing, night riding, and dining with spectacular mountain views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Shorter tubing lines

CrowdLow
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Mount Norquay Ski Resort - green trees on white snow covered mountain during daytime

Mount Norquay Ski Resort

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Shorter tubing lines

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ski resort in Banff National Park offering tubing, night riding, and dining with spectacular mountain views.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"Alberta's longest tube park offers thrills for all ages with stunning Banff views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tubing Slots Ahead

Tubing slots sell out! Pre-purchase your tickets online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

🚗 Free Banff Shuttle

A free shuttle runs hourly from Banff town to the resort, making access easy and convenient.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alberta's Longest Snow Tube Park

Alberta's Longest Snow Tube Park

Mount Norquay Ski Resort

Experience thrilling high-speed rides down Alberta's longest tube lanes, perfect for all ages.

Instagram+2
Night Riding

Night Riding

Mount Norquay Ski Resort

As the only SkiBig3 resort offering night riding, experience the mountain after dark for a unique adventure.

TikTok
Cliffhouse Bistro Dining

Cliffhouse Bistro Dining

Top of the Sightseeing Chairlift

Enjoy breathtaking Banff views from 7,000 feet while dining at the historic Cliffhouse Bistro.

Instagram
Sightseeing Chairlift

Sightseeing Chairlift

Mount Norquay Ski Resort

Ride the chairlift for stunning panoramic views of Banff National Park, accessible year-round.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Tubing Fun

Snow tubing at Mount Norquay is a hit for all ages, but lines can get long, especially during peak times like Christmas break. Consider booking an off-peak time slot or arriving early to maximize your rides and minimize wait times. Reddit

Skiing for All Levels

While Mount Norquay is great for beginners and intermediate skiers with its variety of green and blue runs, experienced skiers might find it less challenging. It's an ideal spot for progression and family ski days. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Shorter tubing lines
Crowd
Low
When
Early ski season (Dec)
Why
Fewer crowds, fresh snow
Crowd
Low
When
Late ski season (April)
Why
Snowing while tubing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

For mountain number 2 on our SkiBig3 adventure we were able to explore Mt Norquay. Not only did we see it during the day but we were also able to experience it at night as they are the only SkiBig3 Resort that offers night riding.  Mt. Norquay was a surprising mountain. At first glance it looks very small but thankfully, with the help of our guide Carlo, we were able to see the vast greatness of t...
@rowleyadventures
5.5K likes • 118K views

🎯 Book Tubing Slots Ahead

Tubing slots sell out! Pre-purchase your tickets online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

🚗 Free Banff Shuttle

A free shuttle runs hourly from Banff town to the resort, making access easy and convenient. Reddit

You are doing winter ALL WRONG 🛷 Snow tubing is THE BEST WAY to enjoy winter!!! And this is coming from a Canadian! 📍Mount Norquay Ski Resort, Banff It isn’t just a ski hill! It is also home to Alberta’s longest snow tube park! These things RIP down the hill! And you have the option to go down with your partner, alone, or even add a spin to shake things up! ❄️ Are you adding this to your Banf...
toritheetourist
40 likes • 2.2K views
For fantastic dining with a view, ride the Mount Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift to the Cliffhouse Bistro! 📍Cliff House Bistro, Norquay Ski Resort Perched on the side of Mount Norquay at 2,103 metres / 7,000 feet, Cliffhouse Bistro has one of the best views in Banff. Mount Norquay’s Sightseeing Chairlift is one of Banff’s hidden gems, just a short drive from downtown, with picture-perfect views a...
allspicesoflife
652 likes • 6.1K views

🪖 Consider Helmets for Tubing

Tubing lanes can be icy and fast; helmets are recommended, especially for younger riders. Reddit

⛷️ Great for Beginners

Ideal for new skiers and snowboarders, with gentle slopes and affordable rentals. Reddit

This is what a family ski day at @mtnorquay looks like with timestamps: When we were planning our trip to @skibig3 to visit and ski each of the resorts in Banff National Park, we were looking forward to spending a day at Mount Norquay Ski Resort! Each of the SkiBig3 resorts are special and unique, but we loved that Mount Norquay was so close to downtown Banff so we could have a full day of adven...
brooke.froelich
147 likes • 11K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tubing Slots Ahead

Tubing slots sell out! Pre-purchase your tickets online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

🚗 Free Banff Shuttle

A free shuttle runs hourly from Banff town to the resort, making access easy and convenient. Reddit

🪖 Consider Helmets for Tubing

Tubing lanes can be icy and fast; helmets are recommended, especially for younger riders. Reddit

⛷️ Great for Beginners

Ideal for new skiers and snowboarders, with gentle slopes and affordable rentals. Reddit

📸 Stunning Mountain Views

Capture incredible photos from the chairlift and the Cliffhouse Bistro. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mount Norquay is praised for its beginner-friendly ski slopes, affordable rentals, and the thrilling snow tubing park, which is a hit with all ages. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the free shuttle from Banff and the stunning mountain views, especially from the Cliffhouse Bistro. However, long lines for tubing during peak times and potentially less challenging terrain for advanced skiers are noted drawbacks.

"We went there in preparation for skiing at Sunshine Village after the weekend. (See my other review on my profile)

This Ski resort is more aimed at New skiiers, a variety of green slopes which help you progress into blue slopes. You can also do Tubing onsite, ski rentals are affordable and also food is too!

Would return"

Chill Guy

"Went tubing while staying in Banff and it was awesome!! We got to still see snow in mid to late April and not only was it covered in snow but we actually got to see it snowing while we were there! The staff are super kind and friendly, and were very helpful since we had a small issue with the lockers (nothing major! it was fixed quickly)

The tubing itself was super fun and I would absolutely recommend it for all ages, our group had kids from around 4-6 all the way to 50+ y/o adults! Its unlimited rides until your time block ends!

There is also a free bus around every hour that takes you from right outside Banff Park Lodge all the way to Mt Norquay, either to the Tubing area or the skiing/snowboarding area and all the way back!"

Alex Gerling

"Went snow tubing during the afternoon time stop (1pm-4pm). The time slot was sold out so there were a lot of people at the time. Found the lineup at the bottom of the hill to be the biggest bottleneck. As a result the full round trip from the start of the line to the bottom of the hill after the slide down was about 30 min each round.

They tried to open more sections down the hill but we're limited by the speed of the conveyor up the hill.

Highly recommend but aim for a time slot where less people would be attending to shorten the round times."

Dennis

What People Like

Beginner-friendly slopes
Longest snow tube park
Affordable rentals

What People Dislike

Long tubing lines
Less challenging for experts

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mount Norquay offers a convenient free shuttle service that runs hourly from various pick-up points in Banff town, including the Banff Park Lodge. This makes it easy to access the resort without a car. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the resort. However, during peak times, it can fill up quickly. The free shuttle is a great alternative if you're staying in Banff. Reddit

Mount Norquay is located just northwest of the town of Banff, making it very accessible. It's a short drive or shuttle ride away. Instagram

Yes, during the summer months, Mount Norquay offers activities like sightseeing chairlift rides, providing stunning views of Banff National Park. Instagram

Winter driving conditions in Banff can be challenging. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for snow and ice, and always check road reports before heading out. The free shuttle is a safer option if you're not comfortable driving in winter conditions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Snow tubing at Mount Norquay is typically sold in time slots, and prices can vary. It's highly recommended to check their official website for current pricing and to book your desired time slot in advance, as they often sell out. InstagramReddit

Yes, lift tickets are required for skiing and snowboarding at Mount Norquay. You can purchase these online in advance or at the resort. Consider multi-resort passes if you plan to ski at other SkiBig3 resorts. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as children, seniors, or students. It's best to check the Mount Norquay website or contact them directly for any ongoing promotions or package deals. Reddit

Operating hours vary depending on the season and activity. The ski season typically runs from early December to mid-April, while tubing hours are specific to booked time slots. Summer operations for the sightseeing chairlift also have their own schedule. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Yes, ski and snowboard rentals are available on-site at Mount Norquay. Reviews suggest that rentals are affordable, making it convenient for visitors who don't have their own gear. Reddit

🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience

Mount Norquay is known for being beginner-friendly, offering a good variety of green runs for new skiers and snowboarders. It also has blue runs for intermediate levels, making it a great place for progression. Reddit

While Mount Norquay is excellent for learning and progression, experienced skiers might find it less challenging compared to larger resorts. It's often recommended as a good warm-up or for a more relaxed day. Reddit

The snow tubing park features Alberta's longest tube lanes, offering high-speed thrills for all ages. You can ride solo or with a partner. A magic carpet lift takes you back up the hill. Instagram+1

Yes, Mount Norquay is unique as it's the only SkiBig3 resort that offers night riding, providing a different experience of the mountain after dark. TikTok

The views from Mount Norquay are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Banff National Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The Cliffhouse Bistro provides an exceptional vantage point. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Mount Norquay has dining options. The Cliffhouse Bistro, located at the top of the sightseeing chairlift, offers a unique dining experience with incredible views. There are also snacks available on-site. Instagram

The Cliffhouse Bistro offers a dining experience with a focus on enjoying the mountain views. While specific menus can change, it's known for providing a memorable meal at a high elevation. Instagram

Food prices at ski resorts can generally be on the higher side. Reviews mention that food is available for purchase on-site, and ski rentals are affordable. It's always a good idea to check current menus and prices online if budget is a concern. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, most ski resorts allow visitors to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. However, for full meals, utilizing the on-site dining options is usually the intended experience. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options at the Cliffhouse Bistro or other on-site facilities is not readily available. It's recommended to contact Mount Norquay directly to inquire about vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary accommodations. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The top of the sightseeing chairlift and the Cliffhouse Bistro offer incredible panoramic views of Banff National Park, making them prime photography locations. Instagram+1

Night skiing at Mount Norquay offers a unique photographic opportunity with the illuminated slopes and the dark mountain landscape. Be prepared for low-light conditions and consider using a tripod for sharper images. TikTok

For daytime shots, a standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens will work well. For low-light conditions during night skiing or for capturing expansive landscapes, a wide-angle lens and a tripod are beneficial. TikTokInstagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed at Mount Norquay. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits or prior authorization. Always check the resort's policies if you plan on extensive professional shoots. Instagram

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for landscape photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but the panoramic views are still impressive. Night skiing provides a unique, atmospheric setting. TikTokInstagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mount Norquay is a fantastic destination for families. The snow tubing park is a huge hit, offering thrills for kids and adults alike, with Alberta's longest lanes providing extra excitement. Instagram+1 The resort's ski terrain is also very beginner-friendly, making it an excellent place for children to learn to ski or snowboard. Reddit The availability of affordable ski rentals and on-site facilities like restrooms and snack purchases adds to the convenience for families. Reddit

Consider booking tubing slots in advance as they can sell out quickly. InstagramReddit For safety, especially on the faster tubing lanes, bringing helmets for the kids is a good idea. Reddit The free shuttle service from Banff town also makes getting to the resort stress-free for families. Reddit

🏂 Budget Travelers

Mount Norquay can be a more budget-friendly option compared to some of the larger resorts in the area. Reviews mention that ski rentals are affordable, and the resort offers a free shuttle service from Banff town, saving on transportation costs. Reddit While dining at the Cliffhouse Bistro might be a splurge, there are other on-site snack options, and bringing your own snacks can help manage food expenses. Reddit

For tubing, booking time slots in advance is crucial, and while prices can add up for a group, the unlimited rides within your slot offer good value. InstagramReddit If you're looking to ski or snowboard without breaking the bank, Mount Norquay's focus on beginner terrain and its proximity to Banff make it an accessible and cost-effective choice for a day of winter fun. Reddit

💑 Couples

For couples seeking a romantic mountain experience, Mount Norquay offers unique opportunities. Enjoy a scenic ride on the sightseeing chairlift, especially during sunset, for breathtaking views of Banff. Instagram+1 Consider a special dinner at the Cliffhouse Bistro, where you can savor a meal with unparalleled panoramic vistas, creating a memorable evening. Instagram

If you're looking for some playful fun, the snow tubing park provides an exhilarating activity to share, with the option to ride together down the lanes. Instagram For those who enjoy winter sports, the resort's accessible slopes offer a relaxed environment for a day of skiing or snowboarding side-by-side. Reddit The unique offering of night riding also presents a chance for a distinctive evening adventure together. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Snow Tubing

Mount Norquay is renowned for hosting Alberta's longest snow tube park, offering an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. Instagram+1 The park features multiple lanes where you can race down the mountain on an inflatable tube. A magic carpet lift efficiently transports you back to the top, allowing for continuous fun. Reviews highlight that the tubing is a fantastic activity for families, with children as young as four and adults well into their fifties enjoying the rides. Reddit

While the tubing is a major draw, it's important to be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak times like holidays or weekends. Some visitors have noted that the lines at the bottom of the hill can be a bottleneck, leading to round trips of about 30 minutes. Reddit To maximize your fun and minimize wait times, booking an off-peak time slot or arriving early is highly recommended. Additionally, some reviewers suggest that the lanes can become quite icy and fast, leading to speeds of up to 70 km/h, so wearing helmets is a good safety precaution, particularly for younger participants. Reddit

Skiing and Snowboarding at Norquay

Mount Norquay Ski Resort is a popular choice for those new to skiing and snowboarding, as well as families looking for a more relaxed mountain experience. Reddit The resort boasts a good selection of green runs, making it an ideal place for beginners to learn and build confidence. As skiers progress, they can transition to the available blue runs. This focus on accessible terrain makes Mount Norquay a great stepping stone for developing winter sports skills. Reddit

While it caters well to beginners and intermediates, seasoned skiers and snowboarders might find the terrain less challenging compared to larger, more advanced resorts. However, Mount Norquay offers a unique advantage: it's the only resort within the SkiBig3 that provides night riding. TikTok This allows visitors to experience the thrill of skiing under the lights, adding a distinct dimension to their visit. Furthermore, the resort offers affordable ski rentals and is conveniently located close to downtown Banff, making it an accessible option for a day of winter recreation. Reddit

Dining with a View: The Cliffhouse Bistro

For an unforgettable dining experience, ride the Mount Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift to the historic Cliffhouse Bistro. Instagram Perched at an elevation of 7,000 feet, this unique establishment offers some of the most spectacular views in Banff National Park. Instagram+1 The bistro provides a perfect setting to enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and the town of Banff below. It's a destination that combines culinary enjoyment with unparalleled natural beauty.

The Cliffhouse Bistro is more than just a place to eat; it's an integral part of the Mount Norquay experience. Whether you're visiting during the ski season or the summer months, the chairlift ride itself offers stunning scenery. Instagram Dining here provides a moment of tranquility and awe, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies. While specific menu details can vary, the emphasis is on the overall experience – enjoying delicious food with an extraordinary backdrop. Instagram

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