Each week in October, Sherpas Cinema and Banff Lake Louise Tourism have been posting a new episode of Sculpted in Time. They started off with a soulful profile of 88-year-old Edward Hunter who skis at Mt. Norquay every day.
>> See all the Sculpted in Time Episodes >>
Born in 1926, the same year Mt. Norquay was established, Eddie has been skiing Banff’s first ski resort for more than 80 years. In “The Wise Man” episode, Eddie narrates stunning scenes with poetic reflections of his personal connection with Banff National Park and Mt. Norquay. He takes us through his past and present, sharing the impact the mountains have had on his life and which he proudly passes onto his children.
We asked Eddie a few questions about his beloved Banff and Lake Louise:
When do you feel “at home” in Banff and Lake Louise?
I’m just programmed to be here. I look one way and see Cascade Mountain, and I look the other and see something blowing off the top of Mt. Rundle. I’m just not complete unless I’m in the valley below.
What makes Banff and Lake Louise different from other ski resorts?
Variety, lots of variety. Here especially with three distinct ski areas.
How would you describe Mt. Norquay to someone who’s never visited?
It’s got everything from beginner to extreme terrain, and the best part is it is close to town.
Watch The Wise Man, Episode 1 of Sculpted in Time
About Mt. Norquay
Mt. Norquay is located just five minutes from downtown Banff and is some what of a local secret. Don’t be fooled by the small size of Norquay. Tallying only 190 acres, this mountain skis much bigger than it appears. The terrain is evenly spread between all ability levels, so it’s easy to bring the kids and shoot off for a quick steep-and-deep run. When there’s a big storm, skiers flock to Lake Louise and Sunshine Village, leaving Mt. Norquay with plenty of powder stashes open for the taking.
Fun fact: the resort’s “adult” nickname is “hangover hill” as it’s the easiest place to take a few turns if you’re in the afternoon crowd.
The resort has a rich history; it opened in 1926 and became famous as the training ground of Olympic and World Cup athletes. These days, Norquay see skiers of all abilities at (nearly) all hours of the day; the ski area offers night skiing with a fully lit terrain park. , and with excellent beginner terrain, everyone will love this small, family-friendly resort.
If you’d like to follow The Wise Man to Mt. Norquay and Banff Lake Louise, learn more here or speak with one of our Mountain Travel Experts at 800-610-8911.
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