Winter Wonders: Hiking Sulphur Mountain and Riding the Banff Gondola
If you want to experience one of Canada’s most breathtaking views, you must experience the Banff Gondola. Located over 7,500 feet above sea level, the Banff gondola reveals a spectacular 360° panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park and the townsite below.
The vistas stretch as far as the eye can see, and you can spend hours at Sulphur Mountain’s peak simply enjoying the view. The Banff gondola is one of Banff Adventures’ top-selling activities because it is a must-see for anybody visiting the Rockies for the first time.
Continue reading to learn how to make the most of your Rocky Mountains visit with Banff Adventures!
History of the Banff Gondola
Since 1959, the Banff gondola has been attracting visitors worldwide, exposing thousands of visitors to the natural wonders of Banff National Park and the Rockies. In the 8-minute ride to the upper terminal, you’ll be treated to the grandeur of the Canadian wilderness from a 2,000ft birds-eye view.
Once you’ve reached the summit, we highly recommend getting a bite to eat at the Sky Bistro, Banff’s world-class mountain-top restaurant! Take your time and stroll along the rooftop deck and mountain boardwalk to indulge in the truly endless views. Up top, there is also an indoor interpretive centre and theatre to learn more about Banff National Park’s rich history.
The hiker's reward
For the more daring winter adventurers, the well-worn trail up to Sulphur Mountain’s peak is a moderate 5.8-kilometre (3.6-mile) hike through the forest. Even in the winter, Sulphur Mountain’s trail is still manageable for most people with the right equipment.
Hikers who decide to tackle this wintery climb are rewarded with a free trip down the mountain in the gondola! Get your steps in, embrace the natural beauty of the Rockies, and take a well-earned rest at the peak before heading back down via the Banff gondola.
The hike takes 2.5 to 4 hours, and the gondola is a swift 8-minute ride back down, so if your legs are jello after the hike, don’t worry! You won’t be stuck on the mountain peak.
Winter Hiking Wardrobe
Anything you wear skiing will be appropriate for hiking Sulphur Mountain in winter! Ensure you have proper winter boots to keep your toes warm and ice cleats for enhanced traction on the slippery winter trails. If you don’t own a pair of ice cleats or winter boots, don’t worry— Banff Adventures offers daily winter equipment rentals at a very affordable rate.
Check the Parks Canada Trail Conditions before any outdoor excursion to ensure you are adequately equipped for the winter trail conditions.
Banff Gondola After Dark: Nightrise
The splendour of the Banff gondola is exquisite in the daytime, but riding the Banff gondola after dark is a true bucket-list experience. Nightrise is an immersive after-hours experience that reveals the magic of these sacred mountains through beautiful sound, light and projections.
The Nightrise event celebrates the radiance of night, hahebi ne, honouring the traditional gathering place of the Stoney Nakoda People since time immemorial. Tickets for this incredible are available until March 31st, 2024– you don’t want to miss it.
Ready for your winter adventure
Contact Banff Adventures today to book your next winter adventure in Banff National Park.
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