Can you drive to the viewpoints instead of taking the chairlift?

No. The main viewpoints at the top of the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift cannot be reached by public vehicle. The scenic overlooks, summit area, and the historic Cliffhouse Bistro are accessible only by riding the sightseeing chairlift or as part of authorized operations.

You can drive to the Mt. Norquay base area, where there is parking, visitor facilities, and access to the chairlift. However, the public road does not continue to the summit or the upper sightseeing area.

The chairlift is designed to be part of the experience. As you ascend, you'll enjoy continuously changing views of the forest, cliffs, Bow Valley, and surrounding mountains that you simply cannot experience by driving. The ride itself is one of the highlights of a visit.

If your goal is to enjoy the panoramic viewpoints, wildlife watching, photography, or dine at the Cliffhouse Bistro, you'll need to take the chairlift to reach the upper mountain.

There are scenic viewpoints that are accessible by car elsewhere around Banff, including:
Surprise Corner
Vermilion Lakes
Lake Minnewanka
Two Jack Lake
Bow Falls
Hoodoos Viewpoint
Mount Norquay Lookout on the access road

These are excellent stops if you prefer to stay with your vehicle, but they offer a different perspective than the alpine views from the top of the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift. The summit provides a much higher vantage point and a true mountaintop experience that cannot be reached by public road. Book the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing ChairliftBooking the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift includes All taxes, fees and handling charges. Banff Gondola Home