Cascade Amphitheatre
- Physical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
- Technical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.

The hike to the Cascade Amphitheatre is a popular hike near Banff. While the views once you get to Cascade Amphitheatre are great, the journey through the forest to get there can feel a bit long.
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Route Description for Cascade Amphitheatre
This is a popular hike, and for good reason, the views from the Cascade Amphitheatre are wonderful. There is also a lot of time in the trees, so it’s best to do this with some friends, where conversation means the time goes quickly.
From the Mount Norquay Ski Hill parking lot, follow the trail out past the main lodge and along a service road that goes by the base of the Cascade, Spirit and Mystic Express chairlifts.
The start of the trail is behind the Mystic Chairlift, and the first 2.0 km are gently downhill towards Forty Mile Creek. Unfortunately, this means that you will be hiking uphill on the way back!
Continue along the trail following signs for Cascade Amphitheatre. At the creek turn right and follow this trail for 2.4 km, until it branches. Take the path to the right, signposted to Cascade Amphitheatre and you will soon begin the switch-backed ascent to Cascade Amphitheater.
When you arrive at the Cascade Amphitheatre meadows, you’re greeted with an incredible view. From the meadows you can see the route to the summit of Cascade Mountain, a challenging scramble. The route generally follows the skyline of the cliffs forming the right-hand wall of the Amphitheatre.
After enjoying some time at the meadows, return the way you came.
Insider Hints for Cascade Amphitheatre
- This trail can be busy in summer, so it’s best to start early.
- Do not attempt to follow scramblers up Cascade Mountain. It is a challenging scramble.
Getting to the Cascade Amphitheatre Trailhead
From Banff, head across Highway 1 to the Mount Norquay Ski Area and park in the parking lot. The trail begins behind Mystic Chairlift.
Route Information
Cascade Amphitheatre Elevation Graph
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