Is the Banff Gondola Worth it? 7 Important Tips to Know

Last Updated on May 6, 2024 by Deanne

Banff is a beautiful mountain town in the Canadian Rockies boasting stunning landscapes and majestic mountain peaks. Among these peaks, Sulphur Mountain stands out not only for its breathtaking views but also for the experience of ascending to its summit via the Banff Gondola. From the top you can see sweeping views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff. But the ticket to the top isn’t cheap. And what if the weather is less than ideal – is the Banff gondola worth it then?

Consider the following factors when deciding if it’s worth it for you. Then, if you decide to ride the gondola, continue reading as we list 7 important tips to make sure your Banff gondola adventure is smooth and enjoyable.

(For help planning your Banff itinerary, check out: Best Banff and Jasper Itinerary (plus Yoho!)

Convenience

Scenic mountain views abound in Banff, but the panoramas from high on Sulphur Mountain provide a unique perspective. While you can embark on a challenging hike up the steep mountain, the gondola is more convenient and accessible to all ages and fitness levels. The gondola’s comfortable cabins ascend 2,292 feet in 8 minutes taking you to an elevation of 7,486 feet.

If you’re staying in the town of Banff, it’s easy to access the gondola – as it’s just a 10-minute drive from downtown. You can also take a Roam Transit bus or a Banff gondola shuttle.

(Planning to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise during your trip? Check out these 15 tips for seeing Banff lakes.)

Things to do on Sulphur Mountain

Once you arrive at the Sulphur Mountain summit there are a variety of things to do. Above all, is taking in the unparalleled panoramas. You can also stroll the boardwalk, dine in your choice of restaurants, browse the gift shop, and explore interpretive exhibits.

Banff gondola prices

Banff gondola ticket prices vary depending on the day of the week (weekends can be more expensive than weekdays) and how much in advance you buy your ticket. Gondola prices slightly increase as the date gets closer, but on average an adult roundtrip ticket costs around $45-$50 USD.

Sulphur Mountain Weather

Weather can greatly affect your Banff gondola experience. Like all mountains, Sulphur Mountain weather at the summit can change frequently and be very different than the weather down at the base. It’s possible you may get to the top and not be able to see anything through the clouds. It’s a chance you take when sightseeing in the mountains, but checking the forecast in advance is always a good idea.

Read on for more tips to make your Banff gondola adventure memorable and hassle-free.

(Need some hiking inspiration during your Banff trip? Check out our article on hiking in the Canadian Rockies.)

7 Tips to know before you go

TIP #1: Buy gondola tickets in advance.

Since Banff gondola prices increase as the date gets closer and there’s a chance your ideal time slot could fill up, it’s best to buy your gondola tickets in advance. Plus, you’ll avoid long lines giving you more time to enjoy the summit.

Tickets are nonrefundable, but according to their website changes can be made online up to 48 hours before your visit and possibly within 48 hours if you call them.

TIP #2: Make dining reservations in advance.

Dining at the top of Sulphur Mountain is a fun way to maximize the Banff Gondola experience. Sky Bistro offers a fine dining option while Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen is a casual, buffet restaurant serving a variety of entrees like salmon, brisket, soup, and pizza.

Booking a table in advance is necessary during peak tourist times especially for Sky Bistro. Reservations are available 30 days in advance, and we highly recommend making your reservation on the first day your preferred date becomes available.

TIP #3: Avoid parking hassles by taking the Banff gondola shuttle.

The gondola parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during the peak summer months. Consider taking the free Banff gondola shuttle that runs from downtown Banff every 40 minutes in summer and early fall. Check the Banff Gondola website for current schedules and pick-up locations.

It’s also easy to take the bus from downtown to the gondola base. Route 1 on the Roam Transit Bus runs regularly with stops along Banff Avenue. Visit roamtransit.com for more information.

TIP #4: Check the Banff gondola webcam.

Since Sulphur mountain weather is always changing, it’s handy to be able to check the Banff gondola webcam to see what the summit view is like on the day you plan to ride. Keep in mind, however, that even when the sky isn’t perfectly clear, you still may get good views.

When we went, it was cold, windy, and cloudy. At dinner, the big Canadian flag was whipping in the wind right outside the window we were seated by. The clouds made us skeptical about seeing a beautiful Sulphur Mountain sunset. But after dinner the clouds lifted just enough to let the bright yellow and orange hues show through for a superb sunset high above Banff.

Which brings us to tip #5…

TIP #5: Go for the sunset.

While Sulpher Mountain provides stunning views of the surrounding scenery, catching a Banff sunset from the summit is even more memorable. The way the mountain sky accents the towering peaks with a fiery orange glow is awe-inspiring. Take a look:

(For another colorful sky in Banff, visit Moraine Lake at sunrise.)

TIP #6: Dress in layers.

Mountain weather is fickle. Dress in layers even in the summer. Temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than at the base. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny days, and a warm hat, gloves, and a winter jacket for colder months.

TIP #7: Plan your time.

Allow at least two hours for your visit. Explore the interpretive center, walk the scenic boardwalk, enjoy various hiking trails and viewpoints, and take lots of pictures!

Is the Banff gondola worth it?

If you appreciate beautiful scenery and want to see Banff from a bird’s-eye view, the Banff gondola can be a fantastic experience. In our opinion the Banff gondola is worth it for the unrivaled Rocky Mountain views and unique adventure it provides.