Gondola to a 2,281-metre summit with 360° views over Banff and the Bow Valley.
What to Expect
The Banff Gondola climbs 698 metres up Sulphur Mountain to a summit boardwalk and interpretive centre at 2,281 metres, with a 360-degree panorama over Banff, the Bow Valley and a sea of Rocky Mountain peaks. A boardwalk traces the ridge to the Sanson's Peak meteorological station and the historic Cosmic Ray Station.
At the summit you'll find the Banff Skywalk, rooftop viewing decks, a restaurant and the Above Banff interpretive centre. Hikers can skip the gondola and climb the Sulphur Mountain switchback trail from the Upper Hot Springs — a steep but rewarding hour to the same summit.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round; the summit boardwalk is open in all seasons, with clearest views on crisp winter mornings and wildflowers along the trail in July.
Practical Tips
The gondola base is a 4-minute drive or shuttle from downtown Banff. Buy tickets online for a discount; ride at sunrise or sunset to avoid midday crowds. The Sulphur Mountain hiking trail starts at the Upper Hot Springs parking lot.
Where to Stay
Banff townsite offers everything from the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs castle to hostels and mid-range lodges, most within walking distance of downtown and the Bow River.
Book this experience
Tickets, tours and stays for your Banff trip — all in one place.
Half day · $$
Hikers, sightseers & mountain romantics
More things to do in Banff
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Interpretive boat cruise across Banff's largest glacial lake to submerged ruins and canyons.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Canada's highest operating hot springs, soaking at 37–40°C on Sulphur Mountain.
Johnston Canyon Hike
Suspended catwalks over waterfalls and a frozen blue-ice canyon in winter.