What is the Cliffhouse Bistro?

The Cliffhouse Bistro is a historic mountaintop restaurant located at the top of the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift. Perched high above the Bow Valley, it offers visitors the chance to enjoy a meal or drink while surrounded by panoramic views of Banff National Park. Combining alpine history, mountain scenery, and casual dining, it is one of the most distinctive dining experiences in the Canadian Rockies.

Originally built in 1956, the Cliffhouse was Canada's first North American-style ski lodge. During the early years of skiing at Mt. Norquay, it served as a warming hut and gathering place for skiers who reached the summit by chairlift. Over the decades, it became an iconic landmark before eventually being restored and reopened as a summer bistro, preserving much of its historic charm while offering modern amenities.

Today, the Cliffhouse Bistro welcomes sightseeing visitors throughout the summer season. Its menu typically features fresh sandwiches, gourmet soups, salads, charcuterie, desserts, and a selection of hot and cold beverages. The emphasis is on relaxed mountain dining rather than formal fine dining, making it an ideal stop during a sightseeing visit.

The outdoor patio is one of the bistro's biggest attractions. Guests can enjoy lunch, coffee, or a refreshing drink while looking out across the Bow Valley toward Banff and the surrounding mountain ranges. On clear days, the scenery stretches for many kilometres, creating one of the most memorable dining backdrops in the region.

Inside, the Cliffhouse has a warm, rustic atmosphere with large windows that frame the mountain landscape. Historic photographs and architectural details celebrate Mt. Norquay's rich skiing heritage, giving visitors a sense of the area's history while they dine.

Many visitors choose to spend extra time at the summit specifically because of the Cliffhouse Bistro. Rather than simply riding the chairlift up and back down, they enjoy a leisurely meal, take photographs from the nearby viewpoints, and soak in the peaceful alpine setting. The combination of history, scenery, and mountain hospitality makes the Cliffhouse much more than just a restaurant-it's an experience that has become one of the highlights of visiting Mt. Norquay.

Because of its popularity, especially during weekends and peak summer months, the patio and dining area can become busy around lunchtime. Visiting earlier in the day or later in the afternoon often provides a quieter atmosphere and even better opportunities to enjoy the spectacular mountain views. Book the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing ChairliftBooking the Mt. Norquay Sightseeing Chairlift includes All taxes, fees and handling charges. Banff Gondola Home