Going up the Banff Gondola was one of the highlights of my trip. It’s a popular attraction for good reason - it's easily accessible, scenic all the way through, and surprisingly packed with things to do at the top. 

Banff Gondola

This is one of my highly-recommended activities in Banff. You get the full mountain experience without needing to break a sweat, plus there’s great food, stunning views, and plenty of space to just slow down and enjoy it all.


How to Get to the Banff Gondola from Banff Town

If you’re driving, it’s a quick trip from Banff town. Just head down Mountain Avenue and follow the sign or Google Maps. There’s a parking lot at the base of the gondola station. It can get full during peak hours, so going early or booking your slot ahead of time is a good idea.

Banff Gondola
what to see during the gondola ride

For those without a car, like me, there’s a free shuttle that runs from Banff town, but only if you book your gondola tickets online in advance. Otherwise, you can still take the same shuttle by paying a small fare, which is around CAD2 one-way. It’s a short ride and really convenient if you’re staying in town.

What to Expect During the Banff Gondola Ride and on Sulphur Mountain

The gondola ride takes about eight minutes, steadily climbing up Sulphur Mountain in a fully enclosed glass cabin. Some parts of the ride get pretty steep, which only adds to the thrill. The views are already impressive on the way up, especially if you’re lucky with the weather. It’s smooth and fairly quiet too, so even if you’re not great with heights, it doesn’t feel intimidating.

Banff Gondola
one of the steep sections of the ride

At the top, you’ll arrive at a multi-level building with floor-to-ceiling windows, viewing platforms, and a range of activities. The exhibit hall has plenty of information about Banff and the Canadian Rockies, plus a stamp-collecting activity that kids and a few adults were enjoying. This was a great way to get a free souvenir. 

There’s also a café and a full-service restaurant called Sky Bistro, both offering amazing views along with food and drinks. I didn’t eat there, but I checked out the menu and it's definitely more of a treat-yourself kind of stop. The top floor has an open-air terrace with lounge chairs facing the mountains, which was one of my favourite spots to just sit and take it all in. 

Banff Gondola
view from the top-floor terrace

If you’re up for a little hike, there’s a wooden boardwalk that leads from the building to Sanson’s Peak. It’s a short and easy walk with panoramic views all around, perfect if you want a bit of movement without doing a full hike. There’s also the option to hike all the way up from the base and take the gondola down for half the price.

Banff Gondola
the boardwalk going to Sanson's Peak

It’s worth noting that the whole site is designed to be as accessible and family-friendly as possible. Even if you’re not hiking or doing any of the activities, simply spending time at the top is an experience on its own.

Banff Gondola
the view from Sanson's Peak

Where to Get Tickets for the Banff Gondola

Tickets can be booked online or at the base, but I’d recommend doing it online via Klook. Not only do you get access to the free shuttle, but you also avoid queues and can often pick a discounted time slot. During peak season, slots fill up fast.

Prices range depending on the time of day and season, but expect to pay between CAD55 to CAD80 for adults. Children’s tickets are cheaper, and Alberta residents can get a discount through the Pursuit Rewards program, so it’s worth signing up if you’re eligible.

Banff Gondola
view of Banff Town from Sulphur Mountain


It’s definitely on the pricier side for a short ride, but the overall experience felt worth it. The views are some of the best in Banff, and there are plenty of things to do at the top. If you’re spending time in town, this is one of those experiences that really makes you appreciate just how epic the Canadian Rockies are.