Mount Norquay climbs 3.7 miles (5.9 km) at an average of 5.6% from the junction of Mount Norquay Road and Juniper Way, just north of the Trans-Canada Highway (4,557 ft / 1,389 m), to the Mount Norquay ski area (5,614 ft / 1,711 m). That’s 1,086 ft (331 m) of climbing: not a big climb, but it’s the most convenient paved climb from the town of Banff and a good way to stretch your legs on a trip through the Canadian Rockies.
What the climb is like
The road zigzags up the mountainside through six hairpins at a moderate grade, with a few steeper kicks: the hardest quarter mile (400 m) hits 11.6% according to PJAMM, and the steepest 100 m reach 10.9% according to Climbfinder. At the top is the base of the ski area.
The two databases agree almost to the yard: Climbfinder gives 3.7 miles (6 km) and 1,086 ft (331 m), with the top at 5,627 ft (1,715 m); PJAMM, 3.7 miles (5.9 km) and 1,086 ft (331 m), finishing at 5,614 ft (1,711 m).
When to go, park pass and altitude
The best time is June to September. The road is inside Banff National Park, so you need a Parks Canada pass: CA$12.25 per adult per day, or the annual Discovery Pass at CA$83.50, which also covers the rest of Canada’s national parks, including Mount Revelstoke.
Banff already sits at about 4,600 ft (1,400 m). The altitude on this climb won’t cause problems, but if you plan to ride the area’s high mountain roads, like Highwood Pass (7,238 ft / 2,206 m), a few days in Banff will help you acclimatize. The park has wildlife, including bears and elk: keep your distance and take care on the descents.
What gearing to use
A 34x28 is all you need. At 3 W/kg (watts per kilo of body weight) and 159 lb (72 kg), you’ll ride about 8.7 mph (14 km/h) on 6%: with a 34x28 that’s about 90 rpm. Check your combinations in the gear calculator. If you’re after a long climb in western Canada, Mount Revelstoke is more than 15 miles (25 km) long.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to bike up Mount Norquay?
A 159 lb (72 kg) rider on a 21 lb (9.5 kg) bike takes about 24 min at 3 W/kg (216 W), 28 min at 2.5 W/kg and 19 min at 4 W/kg. Work out your own time with your weight and power in the calculator on this page.
Do you have to pay to ride up Mount Norquay?
The road is inside Banff National Park, where you need a Parks Canada pass: CA$12.25 per adult per day, or the annual Discovery Pass at CA$83.50.