World Cup alpine ski racer and two-time Olympian Ken Read grew up skiing at Norquay. In fact, for three generations his family has spent time on the mountain perfecting their sport. Ken knows Norquay’s slopes, its history, and importance to Canadian ski culture. For Ken, Norquay’s 100-year vision and the hill’s evolution as a year-round sightseeing resort is essential to keeping
that legacy alive.

“From my Mom’s win in the Canadian Downhill Championship in 1948, to my days of training and racing to our three boys on their journey with the Banff Alpine Racers to representing our community with the Canadian Alpine Ski Team, we have cherished memories of early mornings with fresh snow or perfectly groomed slopes–great runs on iconic slopes with friends and family,” said Read.

“Norquay is an integral part of Banff’s history,” said Andre Quenneville, GM of Norquay. “Our vision is not just about protecting the ecological integrity of the resort over time—it’s about inspiring visitors to connect with nature and creating a lasting sense of responsibility to safeguard this landscape,” he added.

As Norquay nears its centennial in 2026, we’ve released our Norquay 100 Vision, which outlines our ambitious path to transform Banff’s oldest ski resort into a model of year-round sustainable tourism.

Norquay has been working with Parks Canada to enact this vision since 2006, and it includes:

• An elevated, wheelchair-accessible walkway that protects sensitive habitat
• An interpretive centre showcasing the montane environment, Norquay’s history, and the rich history of Indigenous Peoples in the Bow Valley
• An expanded visitor center with Energy-efficient infrastructure that supports sustainability for the next century
• The replacement of the North American chairlift with a gondola

One of the most significant steps in Norquay’s future is replacing the aging North American chairlift with a modern gondola connecting the Base Lodge to the Cliff House. This upgrade isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating year-round access to the high alpine for people of all abilities

The proposed sightseeing gondola will help ease congestion on Banff’s roads. In 2024, 6.7 million cars entered the Banff townsite, a 2.5% increase. The new Norquay gondola will provide an alternative to visiting the American-owned Sulphur Mountain Gondola, which requires cars to drive congested residential roads. Norquay offers easier access right off of Highway 1.

“The Norquay 100 Vision is so much more than the next phase of a ski hill,” said Read. “It’s about redefining what a mountain experience can be. Sustainability, accessibility, year-round adventure and tremendous opportunities for the next generations of athletes.”