Article content

CALGARY — The “via ferrata,” or “iron road,” is a series of ladders, bridges and cables that will soon be bored into the side of a Banff mountain to help amateurs seek the high-flying thrills once reserved for only the most committed climbers.

Other changes to Banff are coming too: Federal Environment Minister Peter Kent approved construction plans last week; they include new ski runs and the modification of a terrain park. Mount Norquay will also open its upper teahouse and observation deck to summer sightseeing.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Mountain of change in store as Canada's national parks aim to attract mass-tourism Back to video

Banff, the first of Canada’s national parks and its crown jewel today, is leading the charge on a sea change nationally: Parks Canada, facing budget cuts, wants more people in the parks, and more revenue.

Across the country, parks have welcomed or approved more commercial or mass-tourism friendly amenities; There will be a death-defying skywalk in Alberta, permanent tent-like cabins in Quebec and Manitoba, a ban on hang-gliding is on the verge of being lifted in Banff, a new mountain biking trail has just been opened in New Brunswick, and the popular past-time geo-caching is being welcomed in just about every park.