Why is it called Mount Norquay?
Canada, north-america
5.8 km
1,720 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in Banff National Park, Alberta, ready for a quick jaunt up Mount Norquay. This mountain, named after a Manitoba premier, is calling your name!
The Mt Norquay Scenic Drive is a fully paved road that snakes its way up to the Norquay Ski resort. It's only 5.8 km (3.6 miles), but don't let that fool you. You'll climb 318 meters with an average gradient of 5.48% plus tackle six seriously sharp hairpin turns (watch out for loose gravel!).
Now, a secret for the adventurous: there's a super steep, unpaved service road north of the resort that climbs even higher, but that's a story for another day!
Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! The views are incredible, especially of the town of Banff nestled in the valley. Sure, fog can happen, but catch it right, and you might see some alpenglow. Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer and bighorn sheep along the way. The best lookout is said to be at the meadow at the end of the road, but remember: this is grizzly country, so be aware!
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 5.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,720 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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