Description

Cascade Mountain is the huge pyramid rising north of Banff townsite.

The Cascade Amphitheatre, forming the backside of the mountain in relation to Banff, is a popular summer hike from Mount Norquay Ski Area.

Huge cliffs of an arcing ridgeline form the amphitheatre, and the route to Cascade’s summit follows this same ridge.

The ascent is mostly a hike, but careful route finding and light scrambling are required.

It’s best done in midsummer when free of snow, otherwise expect a much more serious route. Begin by taking the hiking trail to [Cascade Amphitheatre](https://fatmap.com/routeid/1935191/Cascade_Amphitheatre).

Soon after entering the amphitheatre, find the climbers trail through the trees to gain the east ridge.

Do not go through the steep cliffs near the base of this ridge, just keep angling around them until easier terrain appears.

Continue upward, staying on or to the right of the ridge crest, soon leaving the trees behind.

Ahead is First Peak, a sub-summit on the ridgeline.

It’s easiest to contour wide around the right side of this feature, though multiple worn paths will be visible.

Look for cairns and colored tape that mark the standard route. Next, the False Summit comes into view ahead.

Avoid the temptation to go straight over this feature, because vertical cliffs make up the other side.

Instead, make another wide contour to the right, again looking for markers to lead the way.

After passing the False Summit, work your way back up to the main ridgeline.

In places, you’ll encounter loose scree and short scrambles, but nothing too difficult if you stay on route. Once back on the main ridge, it’s a straightforward but long slog up loose scree to the summit.

Snow can linger well into the summer, so be prepared to turn back if you encounter unsafe conditions and aren’t well equipped. The panorama on top is of course incredible, but it’s rivaled by the views you’ll have on the entire descent.

To return, retrace the ascent route, paying careful attention so as not to lose the way. Sources: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/escalade-scrambling/cascade