So you thought we were just about skiing, huh? Think again, friends. This year sees an almighty shift in the caliber of summer activities on offer in Banff-Lake Louise. Here are the highlights.

Mt. Norquay – Brand New Via Ferrata

New sightseeing attractions don’t come around that often in Banff National Park. But when they do, boy are they worth the wait.

Mt. Norquay leads the pack this summer with a brand new Via Ferrata. ‘Via what’ you say? Italian for Iron Path, the Via Ferrata is a cable assisted hiking/rock climbing activity that’s open to anyone with a head for heights and an appreciation for the outdoors.

Taking you to the cliffs above the ski area, you’re lead by a certified guide and assisted by a fixed anchoring system of cables, ladders and a suspension bridge. The exposure is real, but so is the safety. At the top you’re rewarded with some of the most unique and stunning views of Banff.

Plus friends and family who are not up for the climb can enjoy the view from the historic Cliff House, including food and beverages.

Click here for more Via Ferrata Details.

Lake Louise Ski Resort Summer Sightseeing

The Lake Louise Ski Resort has officially opened its summer operations! Open daily for sightseeing, dining and grizzly bear watching, guests can enjoy the slopes in summer. The highly praised Wildlife Interpretation Centre located at the mid-mountain Whitehorn Lodge also provides excellent insight into the balance between man and the unique nature of Banff National Park.

A pit stop for food at the Lodge of the Ten Peaks is highly recommended.

BONUS – Anyone with a 2013-14 Big3 Season Pass can ride the sightseeing lift for half price AND get $5 off breakfast/lunch buffets. Win.

See here for more details on summer sightseeing a the Lake Louise Ski Resort.

Sunshine Village, Sunshine Meadows

Visitors should also check out the incredible Sunshine Meadows day hike. Tours are operated through White Mountain Adventures who offer hikes that have been voted by Lonely Planet as some of the best in North America. We might be biased, but we’d have to agree. The easily accessible, unobstructed views of some of Canada’s most pristine and immense scenery is something all visitors to Banff National Park should see.

Accessible via shuttle from the base of Sunshine Village, the transport takes you to the trail head atop the ski resort. Pack snacks, water and your camera.

Read the full details via our summer sightseeing page or pop down the Banff Ski Hub on Banff Avenue during your trip.