Banff: Sightseeing Chairlift Ride High Above Banff

Imagine soaring nearly 7,000 feet above a landscape of jagged peaks and lush wilderness—all for just $34 per person. That’s exactly what you get with the Banff Sightseeing Chairlift Ride at Mt Norquay. For about 8-10 minutes, you’ll glide up the mountain on a chairlift, passing over prime grizzly bear habitat and offering some of the most spectacular views in the Rockies. After the ascent, you can relax at the historic Cliffhouse Bistro with mountain-side dining and perhaps a glimpse of wildlife like black bears, elk, or bighorn sheep.

What we love about this experience? First, the panoramic vistas from nearly 7,000 feet are genuinely jaw-dropping. You’ll see Banff’s charming town below and the rugged peaks of Mt Rundle stretching into the horizon—ideal for photography or just soaking it all in. Second, the chance to spot wildlife while riding—from black bears to deer—adds a special thrill, reminding you that you’re in truly wild country.

A potential consideration? The ride isn’t suited for those with mobility issues, and it’s a short trip, so if you’re looking for a long adventure, it might feel brief. However, for those craving a quick, scenic escape with excellent views and a touch of wildlife magic, this trip hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, accessible experience with unforgettable scenery, good company, and a chance to enjoy a mountain meal. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Banff who want a snapshot of the natural beauty with minimal hassle.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic sights of Banff, Mt Rundle, and surrounding peaks.
• Wildlife Encounters: Passes over habitats of grizzly bears, black bears, elk, and more.
• Accessible & Short: The ride is brief but packed with visual rewards; shuttle included makes it easy to access.
• Mountain Dining: The Cliffhouse Bistro provides high-altitude food with a view, making the experience more than just a ride.
• Affordable: At $34, it provides excellent value for such a scenic experience.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most ages, but not recommended for children under 2 or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Taking a seat on the Mt Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift feels like a special treat. After meeting at the designated parking lot—marked clearly with signs—you hop aboard the shuttle that transports you comfortably to the lift station. The short ride up the mountain is a visual delight, with interpretive panels along the way explaining flora and fauna you might see. The seating is open-air, so be prepared for the fresh mountain air and possibly a light breeze, especially at the top.

As the chairlift begins its ascent, the views unfold slowly but surely. We loved the way the landscape became more expansive with each passing minute. The sight of Banff’s town below, with its quaint buildings and winding streets, gives a clear sense of scale and how tiny it looks amid the towering peaks. The ride over the grizzly bear habitat is especially notable—you’re essentially riding above a wilderness teeming with life, which makes wildlife sightings at the top more likely and exciting.

Reaching the summit, you’ll find yourself at nearly 7,000 feet. The panoramic views here are the highlight—rugged peaks, deep valleys, and endless forest spread out as far as the eye can see. The interpretive panels help you identify the natural flora and fauna, adding an educational touch to the experience. Several reviewers mention how “beautiful” and “breathtaking” the scenery is, emphasizing the ride’s photogenic quality.

Once at the top, your ticket grants access to the Cliffhouse Bistro—a cozy, historic restaurant with outdoor seating. We loved the mountain-side dining experience; it’s a chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy the vistas with a good meal. Reviews consistently praise the high-quality food and the friendly staff, with some describing it as “of high quality,” making it clear that this isn’t just a quick snack but a proper meal.

Wildlife sightings are an unexpected bonus. You might spot black bears or bighorn sheep, which keep the ride lively. Several travelers mention seeing wildlife on the way up, and it’s this close connection to nature that makes the experience stand out.

The return trip is just as scenic, offering another chance to soak in the mountain views from above. The entire experience, from boarding to returning, lasts roughly 30-40 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy day exploring Banff.

The Value of the Experience

For $34, this scenic chairlift ride offers an excellent value, especially considering the stunning views and the wildlife encounters. It’s a short activity, but it packs a punch—giving you a high-altitude perspective you won’t get from ground level. Compared to larger, more expensive attractions, it’s an accessible way to enjoy the Canadian Rockies’ grandeur without a hefty price tag.

The shuttle service included in the price simplifies logistics, and the ability to use your ticket once during the season adds flexibility. Plus, the interpretive panels add an educational element, perfect for those who want to learn a little about the local environment.

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly staff and their helpfulness, which makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable. The ride’s brief duration means it’s ideal for families, casual travelers, or anyone who wants a quick yet memorable highlight of their trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Banff who want an accessible, easy way to see spectacular mountain scenery. It’s also great if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Rockies’ grandeur. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot animals from above and enjoy the natural habitat of grizzly bears and elk.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic outing with mountain views and delicious mountain-side dining, this tour fits the bill. It’s not suited for those with mobility issues or small children under 2, but for most others, it offers a memorable, picture-perfect moment in the heart of Banff National Park.

FAQs

How long is the chairlift ride?
The ride up lasts about 8-10 minutes, making it a quick but scenic journey to the summit.

What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket covers the chairlift ride, interpretive panels, and shuttle service to and from Banff.

Can I use my ticket more than once?
No, tickets are valid for one ride during the current summer season.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, it is suitable for most ages, but those under 2 or with mobility impairments might find it less accessible.

How high does the chairlift take you?
It ascends to nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, offering expansive views.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, and you can reserve and pay later.

Are food and drinks available at the top?
Yes, the Cliffhouse Bistro serves high-quality mountain-side dining, making it a perfect spot for lunch or a snack.

Are wildlife sightings common?
Yes, many reviews mention seeing black bears, bighorn sheep, and other animals along the ride or at the top.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

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Final Thoughts

The Banff Sightseeing Chairlift Ride at Mt Norquay offers a compact but immensely rewarding experience. It’s a chance to enjoy spectacular mountain panoramas, encounter local wildlife, and savor a mountain meal—all for a reasonable price. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a low-effort way to see the Rockies’ grandeur without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer eager for stunning scenery, or someone simply looking to tick off a memorable activity on your Banff itinerary, this ride delivers. Its short duration and accessible nature make it perfect for families, first-timers, or those with limited time but a desire for genuine natural beauty.

In the end, this experience reminds us that sometimes the best views come from standing still—on a chairlift, in awe of the sweeping vistas, and with a delicious mountain-side meal in hand. It’s a little slice of the Rockies, delivered with friendly service and a dash of wildlife excitement.

You can check availability for your dates here: