Snow tubing is one of the simplest, most joyful winter activities in Banff — no skill required, no lessons needed, just grab an inflated tube, ride the magic carpet to the top, and slide down a groomed hill laughing all the way. It's perfect for families, groups, and anyone who wants winter fun without the learning curve of skiing.
Mt. Norquay Tube Park
The premier tubing destination in the Banff area is the tube park at Mt. Norquay, just 6 minutes from downtown Banff. It's a purpose-built facility with multiple lanes, a magic carpet lift, and professional grooming.
What to Expect
- Multiple lanes: Several groomed lanes of varying speed — from gentle slopes for young children to faster runs for thrill-seekers
- Magic carpet: A conveyor belt carries you and your tube back to the top. No hiking required
- Sessions: Tubing is sold in 1-hour time blocks. One hour is usually enough — you'll get 8–12 runs depending on the line
- Night tubing: On select evenings, the tube park opens under lights for a magical after-dark experience
Pricing & Booking
- Approximately $30–40 CAD per person for a 1-hour session
- Children under 3 are free (must ride with an adult)
- Advance booking is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays
- Sessions fill up fast during Christmas break and February school holidays
Minimum Requirements
- No age minimum (toddlers ride with a parent on the same tube)
- No experience or fitness required
- You must be able to hold onto the tube handles
What to Wear
Dressing properly makes the difference between fun and misery:
- Waterproof snow pants: Essential. Regular jeans will get soaked and cold
- Winter jacket: Waterproof and warm. You'll be sitting on snow
- Warm gloves or mittens: Waterproof. You'll be gripping a cold tube
- Winter boots: Waterproof with good grip. You'll walk on packed snow
- Toque/beanie: Warmth for your head. Helmets are optional but recommended for children
- Neck warmer or balaclava: Wind chill on the slide can be intense
Tips for the Best Tubing Experience
- Book the first session: Fewer crowds, freshly groomed lanes, and the best conditions
- Try night tubing: The illuminated lanes and mountain setting make evening sessions extra special
- Lean back: Leaning back in the tube increases speed. Sitting upright or leaning forward slows you down
- Go with a group: Staff often let groups link tubes for a convoy run — more fun and more laughter
- Arrive early: Check in 15 minutes before your session to get fitted with a tube and oriented
Other Tubing Options Near Banff
While Mt. Norquay is the main option, there are alternatives:
- Canmore tubing: The Canmore Nordic Centre occasionally offers tubing events during winter festivals
- Lake Louise: Some accommodations near Lake Louise have informal tubing hills on their properties
- Natural hills: Some visitors bring their own tubes to Cascade Ponds or other flat areas, but be cautious — natural hills aren't groomed and may have hidden hazards
Combining Tubing with Other Activities
A great Banff winter day might look like:
- Morning: Easy hike or snowshoe at Johnson Lake
- Late morning: Tubing session at Mt. Norquay
- Lunch: At the Norquay lodge or back in town
- Afternoon: Banff Upper Hot Springs to warm up
- Evening: Dinner on Banff Avenue
Book your Banff winter stay on Expedia. Add winter activities and guided tours for a complete experience.