MountainLIFE

Via Ferrata at Mt Norquay

Connect, explore and play in Banff’s MountainLIFE programs. MountainLIFE is designed for adults aged 31 and up that want to connect with their peers, get outdoors and enjoy mountain life to the fullest. 

Note: Banff residents may only register for one course of each type per year (i.e. one ice climbing and one Avalanche Safety Training). 

To register for a program or class:

Registration opens March 14 at 8 a.m.

Upcoming Programs

Advanced Glacier Travel Skills
On this one-day advanced glacier skills course you will experience and learn how to enhance your glacier travel skills. Topics will include advanced skills for roping up, route finding and crevasse rescue techniques. This course will meet at the Wilcox Campground near the Columbia Icefields. Technical equipment is provided. Transportation is included. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $200 +GST
Banff Resident - $80+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $40+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $60+GST
Wednesday, June 19, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Register Online

Guided Hike Plain of Six Glaciers
On this guided hike you will experience the beautiful scenery and dramatic landscape of the Rocky Mountains. The Plain of Six Glaciers hike showcases a stunning collection of impressive peaks and glaciers. Hiking from Lake Louise to the historic Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House participants will learn about wildlife safety, best practices for hiking and more. Transportation provided. This program is generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $100+GST
Banff Resident - $40+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $20+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $30+GST
Thursday, June 27, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Register Online

Multi-pitch Climbing
Progressing from single pitch to multi-pitch sport climbing is a dream of many climbers. This course will provide you will the skills to successfully climb  multi-pitch routes. You will learn rope management, what gear is essential and how to use it, communication, belay systems and more. Transportation provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $350+GST
Banff Resident- $160 +GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $80+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $120+GST
Wednesday, July 3 & Thursday, July 4, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online

Guided Scramble Mount Niblock
Scrambling is a form of mountaineering for ascending steep terrain using your hands to assist in holds and balance. It is often terrain that falls between hiking and rock climbing. On this guided day you will scramble up a local summit learning techniques and skills for effective scrambling in the Canadian Rockies. Transportation provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $250+GST
Banff Resident - $80+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $40+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $60+GST
Wednesday, July 24, 6 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online 

Standup Paddleboarding
Join a Paddle Canada certified instructor in an introduction to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) session. The class will cover all the basics of getting on and off the water, controlling your board, paddle strokes, required safety equipment and more. Stand-up paddleboarding equipment is provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $90+GST
Banff Resident - $45+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $25+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $35 +GST
Thursday, July 25, 6 – 8 p.m. Register Online

Mt Temple Scramble
Heading out early for this strenuous full day scramble trip you, other locals and a certified guide will attempt to summit one of the highest peaks in the area. The day starts with a hike along Moraine Lake followed by hiking inclines into Larch Valley, then up again to Sentinel Pass. From there you will make your way to the summit of Mount Temple where your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes far below. Transportation included. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $275+GST
Banff Resident - $160+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $80+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $120 +GST
Saturday, August 24, 5 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online

Rock Climbing
In this one-day course you will learn the basics of outdoor rock climbing with the help of an ACMG certified guide in a small group setting. In the hands-on course you will learn how to use various rock-climbing gear, ropes and belay systems. With the help of your guide you will try various beginner level top rope rock climbs at the day’s destination. You will experience a day full of learning, fun and adventure! Technical equipment and transportation provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $200+GST
Banff Resident - $80+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $40+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $60+GST
Sunday, August 25, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online

Via Ferrata
Are you ready for the 180m Via Ferrata adventure in the David Thompson Corridor. On this ACMG guided trip you will hike to the base of the Mt. Stelfox before climbing the protected route. Participants will wear a harness that is attached to steel cables secured to the mountain to climb to the summit. Once you arrive on the summit enjoy the spectacular views of Abraham Lake before hiking back down. Technical equipment provided. Transportation is provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
Cost: $200+GST
Banff Resident: $80+GST
    Banff Access Tier 1 - $40+GST
    Banff Access Tier 2 - $60+GST
Tuesday, July 16, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Register Online
Sunday, September 22, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online