For the first time in 23 years, the local's favourite ski area, the mighty Mt. Norquay, will once again welcome summer adventure seekers. The North American Chair opened  for summer sightseeing this week and the first group of climbers will ascend the much anticipated Via Ferrata on Saturday , June 21st.

'Via what', you say? Italian for Iron Path, the Via Ferrata is a cable assisted hiking/rock climbing experience that is open to anyone aged 12 years or older who has a stomach for heights and an appreciation of the outdoors. Participants can choose either a 2 or 4 hour route and are led by certified guides as they climb ladders, cross a 30 metre (100 foot) suspension bridge and taken in breathtaking views of Banff from the cliffs above the ski area. Protected by a system of cables and fixed anchors, the exposure is real but so is the safety. No climbing experience is necessary either, if you climb a ladder, you can climb the Via Ferrata.

For those who prefer to spectate,  you can also take in a 15 minute open air ride up the North American Chair and experience legendary views of Banff and the Bow Valley along the new sightseeing pathway. Coming in July 2014, you will be able to relax mountainside and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat at the historic Cliffhouse Bistro. Diners will be able to savour the unique and inspired flavours of new executive chef, Morne Burger, who will bring his passion and belief in "good simple food" to life in this 1950's refurbished teahouse.

"This is a huge milestone for us at Mt. Norquay. Not only does it represent the culmination of many years or colloboration and partnership with  Parks Canada , it demonstrates the commitment and effort of all our stakeholders to ensure our business remains viable for years to come", says Mt. Norquay's General Manager, Andre Quenneville. "We're thrilled to be introducing new summer activities to Banff National Park, providing local and international visitors alike the opportunity to take in a new view and summer experience at Mt. Norquay".

Prices in CAD$ (not including GST) for the above activities are $139 or $169 for the 2 and 4 hour Via Ferrata Experience and $29.95, $14,95 and $9.95 for Adult, Youth and Child Sightseeing Tickets only. Kids 5 and under ride the North American Chair for free. You can book your tickets  online at  : http://summer.banffmountnorquay.com/plan-your-visit/

Summer operations are also happening at two other  local ski resorts. The Lake Louise Ski Resort has officially opened its summer sightseeing gondola where guests can admire the stunning surroundings, dine and Grizzly Bear Watch. Visitors should also check out the highly recommended Sunshine Meadows day hike (located at Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort) whichi s run by White Mountain Adventures and opens June 21st.

Visit www.SkiBig3.com for more information   and the latest updates straight from the resorts. For additional video formats, information, interviews and access to high resolution images please email Media@SkiBig3.com

For more media information please contact Ms. Nim Singh, Canadian Tourism Commission on 0207 389 9983 or singh.nim@ctc-cct.ca (not for publication)