Adventure and Nature Playground at Sundance Park in Banff, Alberta

Type of Project

The Adventure and Nature Playground at Sundance Park represents the final phase of the Town of Banff’s ten-year plan to renovate its recreational spaces. This new space, twice the size of the previous one, blends seamlessly into the national park's natural landscape while supporting children’s physical, cognitive, and social development through a nature-based play approach.

Techno Metal Post Calgary was tasked with installing over 100 piles to support various play structures in the park, including climbing towers, slides, zip lines, and observation areas. The goal was to provide solid, durable foundations that were suited to local soil conditions.

Location

100 Birch Avenue, Banff, Alberta, Canada

Challenges

The main challenge was the soil's low bearing capacity, made up mostly of clayey silt. A decision was made to use helical piles as a foundation solution. Their ability to transfer loads to more stable silt and clay layers ensures reliable support without major excavation.

Other Technical Factors:

• Installing during the winter season
• Limiting noise and vibration in urban areas
• Using multi-helix piles for better load distribution, with diameters up to 20 inches (50 cm)

Solution

Foundation type used: Techno Metal Post’s helical piles

Total number of piles: 103

Average depth: ± 2.9 m (9 ft 6 in)

Load-bearing capacity: Between 1,000 and 12,500 lb per pile

Installation time: Less than 10 days

On-site team: 2 people

Equipment used: EM1

Installation torque: Variable depending on loads and local conditions

Techno Metal Post's method enabled quick, clean, and quiet installation, making it well-suited to a sensitive natural environment such as Banff National Park.

Results / Conclusion

Thanks to the helical pile installation, the playground structures now have a reliable, durable, and environmentally friendly foundation. The project was completed efficiently despite winter conditions and soil conditions, demonstrating the flexibility and performance of Techno Metal Post systems.

The project represents both a logistical and a community success: an inclusive space inspired by nature, promoting free play, creativity, and a closer relationship between youths and the environment.

The outcome for the playground features (1,700 m² / 18,300 ft²):

• 5 slides, including a 10 m (33 ft) spiral slide
• 3 spruce climbing towers
• Tunnel and climbing structure made from fallen tree trunks
• Observation tower and 5 tree towers
• Golden eagle's nest with a giant egg
• Rocks, beams, and balance logs
• 2 zip lines, each 10 m long
• 2 listening pods for quiet games
• Multiple swing sets

Additional Information & External Links

• Year the helical piles were installed: 2023
• Project completion: 2025
• Client: City of Banff
• General contractor: Heavy Experience

https://banff.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1779

https://banff.ca/1275/Adventure-and-Nature-Playground

https://www.heavyexperience.com/