This really is a nice, touristy thing to do. The views are spectacular and the food is good. Be sure to check weather conditions to ensure the best views possible. You might as well buy the meal with the gondola ride. You could not get a comparable meal for the price of dining added to the ticket. (Check current pricing). At the time of this review the package deal was best. read more

I will be honest, I didn't want to get on this gondola the first time. I was 13 and my dad made me. Once I did, though, I was glad, the view was seriously amazing. I have never never forgotten this ( I've been back again as an adult, too) , and whenever someone tells me they are going to Banff, I tell them to do this, and reports back are good. Do it, You will be happy you did. read more

Northern lights bistro lunch exp. worth the price. The buffet has a decent selection of goods. View is absolutely amaaaaaaazing!! read more

Banff Gondola - Banff observation deck - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

This is definitely one of our trip's highlights.... I appreciated the cold, the snow, and definitely nature that i stopped noticing for a while...living in a Big City. The Gondola ride was cute. Kind of scary at first.. especially if you're with a boyfriend that rocks it just for the heck of it... The views are amazing...it was so picturesque. PS: you can actually get a breeze if you feel suffocated... crack open that window. As we got to the top, we walked the slippery, snowy steps all the way to the top of Sulphur Mountain... It was quite a walk.. especially with the wooden steps covered in ice... We of course did our share of vanity and touristy... we took pictures...LOTS OF PICTURES. panorama pictures... amazing.... It's cool to be friendly if you don't have a tripod... I suggest bringing a bottle of water... PS: we got lucky coming here in the month of December..as there wasn't so much fog the time we went.. But as soon as we were done... you could barely see anything. So definitely check the weather to get your trip's worth. read more

See all

Came here at around 7:30pm, not the best experience heading up the mountain pitch black. This is definitely an experience you want to do during the day time. I didn't expect the gondola ride to be so long actually. I bought a package of 3 attractions, and the Gondola was a part of it. Paying for admission itself would be way too pricey, not really worth it in my opinion. Once you're up there, there's a gift shop, small theatre, outdoor boardwalk, and a play area. You can pretty much experience everything in 40 minutes or less to be honest. Like I said, it's an experience you want to have during the day as you can see the mountain and the view better. Staff were nice though. Overall, it was a decent experience, but one I could have gone without. read more

So my friend and I decide to go on a Banff day-trip while I was visiting Calgary in late September. We decided to take the Sulphur Mountain Hike up and the Banff Gondola down. We asked the ticket sales office, because it was offseason, the down portion of gondola was free. From the parking lot, follow the signs to the base of the hike. It starts out on a wide path, then narrows into switchbacks thru the forest. The trail is a bit steep, but its only around 3.4 miles, so it's a quick hike, even if you allocate a break or two. As you climb, there's a spot that smells like Sulphur. The trail crosses under the gondolas a few times as well. As you get nearer to the top, the valley opens up below, and you are greeted with a stunning view. The whole town as well as Banff Springs Hotel are within view. The Gondola station marks the top of Sulphur Mtn. Inside the station, there is a snack shop as well as a gift shop. Also, at the top of the station, there is an outdoor 360 degree observation deck where you they have mileages to locations around the world. Once at the top, you can continue around 1/4 mile up to Sanson Peak, which is an historic Observatory. This mini-hike is crowded from tourists whom took the gondola up. It can get very windy here, so hang on to your hats. There are off-shoots to other hikes from here. The Gondola ride down is fast and enjoyable. Going down is kinda freaky, but scenic. There is a gift shop when you exit as well. Overall, a great hike and gondola, a must-do when in Banff. read more

So glad we did the gondola. The sunset festival is the main reason we went but so glad we went at that time. It looks like there is lots to do here at the top, but we just listened to the justice music, had a bite and a couple drinks. The sunset was perfect. read more

See all

"I'm On Top Of The World!" Is what I exclaimed in my head as the Banff Gondola reached its peak. I truly felt like I had never been higher, so high that my head was spinning, so high that my knees were weak, so high that I was giggling uncontrollably from excitement. And to think I achieved this level of "high" without the aid of drugs or alcohol, simply just by taking the Banff Gondola from base to beautiful peak all for the tidy sum of approximately $60CAD. For those who've never been on a Gondola, think of a fully enclosed Ski lift/chair with sliding doors and 2 x 2 seating. It all works on the same smooth mechanics as a chairlift (and I say that jokingly because there were some sketchy moments as we went up). Pro-Tip: Dress warm in the winter months, the eclosure of the Gondola merely protects you from the biting winds at that elevation but does very little to protect against the cold - my fingers and toes were numb by the top. Minor gripes aside, you pay big money and fight back frostbite for the spectacular mountain/wilderness views which in a word were - breathtaking. The higher you get the more colours you see, the larger the canvas gets, and the more in awe you are of your surroundings (and more aware of how far the drop is if all goes to shit). With the tourist centre and restaurants at the top, it's totally worth your time, so if you're visiting Banff, make this a part of your trip. read more

On a clear day the views from the Banff Gondola center atop the mountain are spectacular. Sure, it costs a bit more money than what you might want to pay at first, but realize they're charging you for the view, not just the ride up and back! When we went up on a cloudy September afternoon, we worried the views wouldn't be great. No need - weather changes so quickly in Banff that the clouds parted plenty of times to provide great views. Never mind that at one point it snowed - it's all part of the experience! Besides just walking around the upper terminal, take a boardwalk stroll over to the old weather station on Sanson Peak, where even greater views of the Bow valley and Rockies can be seen. read more

Banff Gondola - View from Banff Gondola - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

See all

You can't leave Banff without going to the top of Sulphur Mountain. The gondola is maybe a six minute ride and is absolutely spectacular. Once you get to the top of the gondola, you can walk a nice boardwalk to the summit. There are beautiful views in every direction. The weather up there is about 10 degrees cooler than down at the bottom, and it was very windy the day we were there. Just dress for the weather. There is a coffee shop, a buffet and an a la carte restaurant. Plan to stay up there a couple hours. If you eat at the Sky Bistro, try the carrot soup. It is out of this world! read more

Banff Gondola - Beautiful view of Banff from the gondola. - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

See all

Great experience. Starbucks in the lobby. The gondola is not only breathtaking but it's quaint, smooth, and fast. Each car fits four adults and they give you a blanket to share for the ride. Fabulous views. Would do it again in a heartbeat. read more

Banff Gondola - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

Amazingly gorgeous - make sure you go on a clear day so you can see all the views. Also recommend coming around 7 pm when its a tad cheaper and you get to see the sunset on the mountain. Highly recommend you come as its a don't miss destination. Bring a jacket - gets a bit chilly, especially if you're there closer to 9. read more

Review from Tripadvisor posting ------------------------------------------ It was cloudy by the time we drove here after breakfast. Immediately after purchasing our tickets, we went inside to line up for the gondola since our ticket time was in 5 mins. The tickets are a little expensive so don't be surprised when you see the amount. However, this was one of the 4-things-you-must-do for Brewster travels so we couldn't just skip it having to come all the way here. The wait for the gondola was super quick, if you think you can't survive the cold up there, there's also a Starbucks shop right at the entrance which you can grab before you go up. It started drizzling about halfway while we were on the gondola. You should definitely bring your camera. The view is something you don't wanna miss. If you're lucky, you'll also spot some hikers hiking the mountain as well. Upon arriving at the top, there's a restaurant, snacking area as well as a souvenir shop. The path is pretty straight forward. Just walk along the path and up the stairs you go. You'll be as high as a few clouds so you might even walk into one (which isn't the best as it will rain and it blocks off all the scenery). It did get cold up there so bring a heavier jacket or be sure to layer yourself up. The weather changes pretty drastically and quickly so test your luck with it and be prepared for sun and rain. read more

This is a necessary excursion when you're in Bannf. You will see the whole valley spread out majestically before you as you make the steep ascent up Sulfur Mountain in the comfort of your little gondola. The gondola drops you off into the visitor center with a discovery center that is more tailored to kids than adults. But be sure to check out the videos of the night sky they have there featuring the aurora borealis which you can't see on cloudy days (unfortunately that was the case when we were up here). The third floor boasts a cafe that affords you 360 degree vistas. Finally be sure to walk out on the board walk which is a little hike along the rim of the mountain with many photo ops. Tip on the board walk - don't over- exert yourself because of the thinner oxygen up there. read more

Banff Gondola - View of Bannf. - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

See all

Showed up today to ride the shuttle that's advertised. It's closed. So we are going to miss our upload time because we had to walk to a different place and pay for the roam bus. Also - the roam bus passes have to be purchased one at a time (that's not the gondolas fault). There was no indication the bus would be closed today. Please advertise this on your website. read more

Is it pricey? Yes. But, is it worth it? Yes. It's a beautiful view of Banff, but make sure to go on a clear day. In the summer, it can get a bit chilly but you also get tons of sun - just be prepared for all weather. You could hike up there as well, I'm sure the crowds/lines would be fewer too, but we really wanted the the Gondola views (and because we aren't in the best shape). read more

I have only been to Sulphur Mountain during the harsh winter, when the temperature is in the high negatives, and it's snowing heavily. However, you will never hear me complain. In fact, it makes the experience even more unforgettable. The view from the weather tower is hard to describe, but I think it is something everyone should experience at least once in their lives. I added some photos but they don't even begin to capture the feeling that comes with making it to the elevation of 7486 ft and seeing nature first hand. I always make sure to mail out my post cards from the gift shop because they add a special stamp that proves you really made it to the top! read more

See all

Great place to visit if you're going to Banff. $15 cheaper after 5pm. Amazing views when you get to the top, the boardwalk at the top is always great to walk around to get 360 degree views! Would 100% recommend!!! read more

Banff Gondola - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

When visiting Banff recently our gang enjoyed a fabulous gondola ride to the top of Sulfur Mountain during our Canadian adventure. Gondolas are fully enclosed, safe and hold 4 people; maybe 5 if you are small. It's a great ride up and down the mountain lasting about 8 minutes one way. You can see Bow Valley, the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Sulphur Springs and the Cascade Mountain Range from the lookout when you arrive. There is a discovery station, gift shop and bistro at the top if you are so inclined. We were given an exact time to get in line for our return ride and it worked like a charm. A must do when in the area. read more

We debated paying such a high price but were very glad we did do it, the views were fabulous. The restaurant up there didn't look too impressive and we were glad we didn't buy the combo deal. read more

All around an amazing experience! On our trip there were no lines and we were able to board the gondola right away (hotel booked tickets prior to arrival). We opted to do the Sky Bistro gondola package, which was well worth the price! The food and dinning experience was amazing, it's hard to beat their fantastic views. read more

Banff Gondola - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

This is a must do when in Banff! If you hike up to the top you can hitch a free ride down because they don't seem to check for any ticket stubs! It was a little too late in the day for us to hike up so we took the Gondola! We got to see some of the most beautiful views ever! When you get to the top you can hike further up Sulpher Mountain. All my pictures look like post cards!! read more

See all

Good fun place. Kids had fun playing in snow as well. Well kept. Wasn't very crowded when we visited. The walk up top to the top of the mountain is great fun. There is ample parking. Dress appropriately as it could get pretty windy and cold on the top. read more

Banff Gondola - Gondola - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

See all

We came here on a day when there's a wild fire so it was hazy. But it was still great to see Banff from top. Also I recommend getting a drink and food at the cafe there on the third floor and enjoy the beautiful view. read more

See all

$62CAD EACH may seem a little high, but I promise it's worth it. I do wish they had a seniors rate though. I'll start by telling you what really blew me away here. My mom has some breathing issues and right before we got in our gondola, she started having trouble breathing. We found her inhaler and she was fine to get in. But the staff working the bottom of the gondola asked her if she wanted some water when she got to the top. She said yet. And when we got to the top, the staff were so attentive. They new which car we were getting out of, and had water ready for her. They made sure she was okay, it was really appreciated. Even though it was foggy when we were up there, it was still gorgeous. We could see pretty far, and were able to check out all of the sights. The restaurant looked good, but we didn't eat. we didn't check out the movie that was playing either, but I'm sure it was great. read more

The gondola was a pleasant ride. The views from the gondola as well as the Banff Interpretive Centre and along the Boardwalk to the historic Sulphur Mountain weather station or observatory were spectacular. The signage along the Boardwalk tell all the stories and significance of the nearby mountains and surroundings. I highly recommend anyone to visit if they're in Banff. It's a MUST-VISIT! read more

We drove for about 1 hour for the gondola visit. When we got there they turned us around and told us that we couldn't get in because we didn't have tickets, they had to be purchased ahead of time, online. Not practical at all for travelers... we thought we could buy them at the gondola ticket office. read more

This place is seriously heaven on earth it's breath taking and wonderful. They have a lovely little bistro at the top and a cafe and a gift shop. It's a great trip for the family me and my boyfriend went and it was 138$ but totally worth it. If you are scared of heights I would suggest trying it out it's so amazing and staff are lovely. We got ham and potato salad which was fresh and lovely for 20$! Here is some pictures I captured. read more

See all

While it is definitely a tourist trap, you have to do this on a clear day. The views from the top of the mountain down into Banff are breathtaking. Be sure to dress for the climate change at the top!!! read more

Very disorganized!!!!!!! We had tickets to go down the mountain for 3pm. We specifically asked if we could go down early or if we had to stick to the exact time on ticket. We were told that ticket time was for us only and we could board at any time. We have been in line for 45 minutes now and honestly, they just called our time - 3pm - then changed their minds and called 2:50 again, on the off chance that stragglers didn't hear them. She just tried to explain crowd control to me - but here we are in another line up - no crowds just lines..... read more

If you want breath taking views and a top to-do activity in Banff then the Banff Gondola is the place to come. You will not regret it as I was really amazed of the beauty you can see all around you. We came here during winter season and it's really nice to see the blanket of white snow cover the national park. Their are plenty of gift shops as well as a deli's and restaurant; can't forget about the Starbucks as well. It's must to dress real warm since it's really cold during winter. Snow boots are a plus as well. You can literally do a few hours here or take half the day to explore at this site depending on your schedule and how long you'll be in Banff. read more

It is a very nice and exciting activity. The peripheral season can turn cold. I love it every time!

What a spectacular view! Riding up and down this gondola is just like assending to the heavens! It's quick (but not too quick), the staff is so friendly and very helpful to people I saw that had never been on a gondola before. They have a cafe up at the top and huge gift shop at the bottom. When you get to the top there are all sorts of vantage points for different views of all the different mountains and you can see the entire town of Banff. There are maps and info about the mountains, about the history and construction of the gondola. It really, really is a special and truly amazing experience. I have done the gondola twice now in the last 10 years, and I will make sure to do in again in another 5 or so.... Maybe next time I will only take it one way! That's right, you can either hike up or down and then just pay a one way fee to ride. Or for the super adventurous, hike up and down! But, then again, you would miss the fun of the gondola ride! read more

I hiked up Sulphur Mountain with my two cousins when I went to Calgary to visit them. It was amazing! I loved the view and fresh air. I think one of the great features that they have there is the gondola, which gives you rides to the top and back down. I saw many older people get to go up and see the fantastic view of Banff and nature. It was awesome! I wish Yosemite and other places had this system so that everyone gets a chance to see these beautiful sites. The only bummer was that the ride costs $16.95 one way and $35 two ways. I believe rides are free before 11AM and after 7PM but I am not sure of the exact times. Either way, I enjoyed the ride after a tiring hike up and I also got to snap some great photos on the ride down. I absolutely love Banff!! read more

See all

It's worth the wait and fee. The view is amazing and lots to explore. A def must is you visit Banff. read more

Banff Gondola - The view from the top. Sorry about the spoiler alert. - Parks Near Me - Banff, Alberta

This is a must do and must see if skies are clear. Gondola is pricey but you can hike up and take it for free coming down if you don't want to pay. We checked with hotel concierge who had a website showing it was clear up top and we went mid morning on a weekday in October and it was not crowded at all. The views at the top are breathtaking and there is a boardwalk that goes a km or so to the next peak and along the way and way back you will be stunned again and again at every angle. You are above clouds and see mountains lush in pines or snow capped in all directions as far as you can see! Starbucks and shop at the bottom if you need coffee or a snack afterward. Restrooms at top and bottom of gondola. But I can only sum it up as breathtaking! Phone photos look like they are from national geographic. read more

Totally worth it. The views are amazing and perfect for instagram, make sure to go on a good weather day. If you're visiting in winter, stay until 4-5pm for sunset. Beautiful colors of the mountains and area. read more

Beautiful summer day to come here for gorgeous views...views alone definitely are 5 stars...but for $42 per person and practically no facilities up on top because they are renovating and super long wait times up and even worse on the way down was disappointing. They really should have a slight discount for the renovation. You must go at least once to see it. So I'm glad that we went, but it just isn't as worth it to go for the lack of facilities up there for the time being. Bring something to drink and eat so you can stay up there longer and wear spf/jacket as the sun is very strong and can get hot as well as cold with the wind. Plus the mountain goats were so cute! read more

See all

Amazing vista viewpoints! The best view in Banff! You must walk up to the weather station to take a look at a different view form up high on Sulfur mountain! I'd love to hike it up and down one day! It sure would be good exercise! Price was a bit steep but sure a good group activity! read more

A very enjoyable adventure. The gondola ride up is fun and the view from top to bottom is spectacular. We enjoyed an excellent meal at the bistro and the cultural centre is fun for kids. It's a very expensive ticket, but certainly worth doing if you're in town for a couple of days. I ticked a star off for the enormous cost, and for the lack of signage which was apparently an excuse for the gondola staff to be rude to my children. Exit signs needed. read more