Scenic Views · Alberta
Mount Norquay Lookout
A drive-up lookout on Mount Norquay Road above Banff, with a panoramic view of the town, the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks. Bighorn sheep often graze the slope; no hiking needed.
What visitors say
The Mount Norquay lookout, often called the Green Spot, is a grassy slope partway up the switchbacks of Mount Norquay Road, about ten minutes from downtown Banff. From the edge you see the whole townsite laid out below, with the Bow River winding through the valley and mountains on every side. Reviewers describe it as one of the best views of Banff that doesn't need a hike.
Parking is right beside the viewpoint, so it suits anyone with limited mobility or little time. It's quieter than most Banff stops, and several visitors had it nearly to themselves in the morning or off-season. The view faces east, so you won't see the sun set here, but the evening light on the peaks is still worth staying for.
Wildlife is a regular bonus. Bighorn sheep graze the slope and sometimes come quite close if people stay quiet, and deer and birds are common along the road. Keep your distance and don't feed or approach the sheep. The road continues up to the Norquay ski area.
Watch for sheep on the road and take the sharp switchbacks slowly. Wildfire smoke can flatten the view in summer. One visitor found a group camping and cooking at the lookout; camping isn't permitted outside designated campgrounds in the park.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 1,284 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.