Summer Operations at Nakiska 2027

In the summer of 2026, Nakiska will start building the foundation for adventure—creating everything needed for an exciting lineup of activities launching in summer 2027. Here’s what we have planned:

McElhanney’s trail design team helped to create the mountain bike and hiking trails. All of the trails are designed with the guidance of former pro mountain biker and now master trail designer Matt Hadley. Based out of Canmore, Matt and the McElhanney team are using top industry practices from the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), and the Whistler Trail Standards.

For construction, Brady Starr from Golden, BC will build the hiking trails and the advanced technical mountain bike line. Jeff Cook will lead the Lifetime Outdoor Inc. team in building the remaining mountain bike trails and skills development area. Jeff’s work will feature family flow and intermediate options.

When Nakiska opens in summer 2027, it will be Alberta’s only mountain resort offering lift‑serviced mountain biking—an unforgettable alpine experience just under an hour from Calgary.

After reviewing mountain coaster options worldwide, Nakiska partnered with trusted leaders Doppelmayr Canada and Sunkid to create an experience for the whole family. Designed by Sunkid’s top European ride designer in fall 2025, the 970‑metre track offers fun for all ages—whether you ride hands‑free or sit back and enjoy the views together.

The mountain coaster will operate in both summer and winter, so if skiing or mountain biking isn’t for you, there is still something to enjoy.

Next summer you’ll be able to use the existing parking and amenities offered in the Nakiska Day Lodge. From there the existing Silver Chairlift will be used for the family interpretive tour, hiking, mountain biking and sightseeing. The mountain coaster will operate out of the winter tubing area out in front of the Nakiska Day Lodge.

If the resort activities don't suit your interests, the parking lots provide convenient access to the nearby hiking and walking trails. You can visit the popular and family friendly Troll Falls walk, plus the hiking trails into Ribbon Creek and the Kananaskis Village. For the more adventurous Centennial Ridge and Skogan Pass are close by.

Gear up for adventure in the mountains as Nakiska unveils Alberta’s very first Mountain Coaster!

Mountain coasters, sometimes called alpine coasters, combine the excitement of riding an urban amusement park roller coaster with the off-the-charts outdoor alpine backdrop, and put the rider in control of the speed. Sliding down a gravity-assisted ride at Nakiska Ski Area will take you through forests, and you will feel the thrill of racing down the slopes at your own pace.

Here is what makes mountain coasters so hip and cool:

You decide the speed: you have the controls in your hand: You grip the hand-operated brakes and choose your own adventure. Race down the track at top speed or ease off to soak in the natural surroundings.

It's in the Mountains: Forget artificial backdrops. Here, you wind through real forests, cut across the open ski slopes, and carve your way back and forth to the bottom.

Excitement for everyone: Mountain coasters offer a rush, but unlike theme park roller coasters, you are in control, making them perfect for families.