Banff Via Ferrata

I first heard about the Via Ferrata while obsessively researching all things to do with Banff on Pinterest before my trip to Alberta last September. There is jaw dropping scenery everywhere you look in Banff, but I wanted to get more out of my vacation than just sightseeing, shopping and eating (not that there is anything wrong with sightseeing, shopping and eating. In fact I highly recommend you do that while you’re there).  I was looking for a way to get out of my comfort zone and truly experience the Rocky Mountains. Via Ferrata was exactly the type of active, challenging, heart pumping, breathtaking, exciting experience I was looking for. Just a short 2 minute drive outside of Banff the Via Ferrata experience takes place on the famous Mount Norquay .

What is Via Ferrata

To quote Mount Norquay’s website Via Ferrata is, “a trail or route‐making method used in the mountains to make passage easier and more secure. It’s done by a installing steel steps, handles, ladder rungs, and a steel cable in places where the trail steepens. Travellers are secured to the rock by wearing a harness that is always attached to the steel cable.”

The hike starts with a chairlift ride up to an elevation of 2090m/6857ft. From that point you get to literally climb a mountain! How awesome is that!

My fitness level is pretty average, I have a fear of heights and absolutely no mountain climbing experience and I found the climb challenging but totally manageable.  The guide I climbed with was super knowledgeable and I felt completely safe the entire time. There are a variety of climbs to choose from ranging from 2.5 hours up to 6 hours. I chose to do the 4 hour climb and for me it was the perfect amount of time. I never felt bored and I ended the day with a very rewarding sense of accomplishment.

What do you need to bring to hike Via Ferrata?

Light layers and waterproof shells are highly recommended. The weather is unpredictable in the mountains and choosing function over fashion when deciding what to wear will lead to a much more comfortable climbing experience.

Though I thought I was prepared when I arrived at Mount Norquay my guide ended up providing me (and the two other climbers) with water proof jackets and proper hiking boots for which I was very grateful. Your helmet, harness and other climbing equipment are also provided.

There are two things you MUST remember to bring with you for your climb, a camera and a water bottle! The climb is a workout and staying hydrated is important, and I promise that you will regret not bringing your camera with you. It’s a lot easier to brag to your friends about the climb when you have the photos to prove it!

What can you expect to see while climbing Mount Norquay?

I could spend hours trying to explain in writing how amazing the views are while climbing Mount Norquay. Instead I will invite you to check out some of my photos below.

Visiting Mount Norquays’ Instagram page will also give you a really good idea of what to expect.

How do I sign up?

Sign up and plan your climb by visiting Mount Norquay’s website.