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Activity Calgary, Canada

Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes

4.1 (14 reviews) 10 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes

About this activity

Start your journey from Calgary or Canmore with a scenic drive to Lake Minnewanka, a glacier-fed gem perfect for sightseeing, boat tours, or lakeside walks. Continue to peaceful Johnson Lake for a swim, picnic, or an easy loop trail walk surrounded by nature. Next, stop at Surprise Corner for breathtaking views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Bow River.

Visit the stunning Bow Falls, just minutes from downtown Banff, where the roaring waters offer a great photo opportunity. For an unforgettable view, take the optional Banff Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain. At the top, enjoy panoramic vistas, mountaintop dining, and short hiking trails.

Unwind at the Banff Upper Hot Springs in soothing mineral waters with mountain views. Then explore downtown Banff—browse shops, try local cuisine, or enjoy the alpine vibe along Banff Avenue.

Day Trips Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury 4WD Tours Car Tours Small Group Adventure Tours

At a glance

Duration
10 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 13 people
People per booking
1–13
Guide
English
Operated by
Banff Trip Planner Inc.

Ages: Infants (0–5 years) · Children (6–15 years) · Adults (16–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Water Bottle
  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Included: Admission fees: Admission Fee to Banff National Park

Not included

  • Not included: Meals
  • Not included: Lake Minnewanka Cruise ticket (Book Online for 10:30 AM time Slot)
  • Not included: Upper Hot Springs Tickets (Available Onsite only First Come First Serve Basis)
  • Not included: Personal expenses
  • Not included: Book Banff Gondola Tickets Online in Advance ( 2:10 PM Upload Time -3:30 Pm Download time)

Itinerary

  1. Lake Minnewanka

    one hour

    Lake Minnewanka is a beautiful glacial lake located just 10 km from Banff in Banff National Park. It offers activities like boating (motorized boats allowed), hiking scenic trails, picnicking, and in winter, ice skating and snowshoeing. The lake has a rich history, including a submerged old settlement and hydroelectric developments.

    Visitors enjoy stunning mountain views, easy access to trails, and picnic spots. Parking can fill up quickly in summer, so plan accordingly. Note : Lake Minnewanka Cruise is Not included in the Tour/Admission Ticket

  2. Two Jack Lake

    30 min

    Two Jack Lake, just 10 km from Banff, is a peaceful mountain lake known for beautiful views of Mount Rundle. It’s great for easy hikes, kayaking, swimming, and picnics.

    There are two nearby campgrounds with basic amenities—reservations are recommended. In winter, the lake freezes for ice skating and snowshoeing.

  3. Johnson Lake

    20 min

    Johnson Lake, located about 11 km from Banff, is a warm, peaceful lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, and easy hiking. It features a 2.8 km loop trail with beautiful views of nearby mountains. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and, in winter, ice skating. (Visit to this lake is Optional )

  4. Banff

    one hour

    Banff is a charming mountain town located in Banff National Park, Alberta. Surrounded by the stunning Canadian Rockies, it’s famous for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture.

    Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, hot springs, and exploring shops and restaurants. Banff offers year-round attractions, making it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

  5. Surprise Corner

    15 min

    Surprise Corner Viewpoint is one of the most famous scenic stops in Banff National Park. It offers a stunning postcard-style view of the historic Fairmont Banff Springs with the Bow River and surrounding mountains in the background.

  6. Bow Falls

    40 min

    Bow Falls is a beautiful, wide waterfall located just 1 km from downtown Banff on the Bow River. It’s easy to reach by foot, car, or public transit. Visitors enjoy scenic views, photography, and walking trails nearby. The falls are especially impressive during spring runoff and offer peaceful surroundings year-round.

  7. Banff Gondola

    2 hours Admission not included

    The Banff Gondola offers a scenic 8-minute ride up Sulphur Mountain, providing panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding Rockies. At the summit, visitors can enjoy the Sky Bistro for dining, explore the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, and learn about the area's history at the Interpretive Centre. The gondola is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are permitted.

  8. Banff Upper Hot Springs

    one hour Admission not included

    Banff Upper Hot Springs is a popular natural hot spring located near Banff town, offering warm, mineral-rich waters with stunning mountain views. It’s perfect for relaxing after outdoor activities. The facility includes change rooms, showers, and rentals for swimsuits and towels.

    Tickets are only available onsite and not included in the tour price

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Pickup Time: 9:30 AM – Moose Hotel & Suites (Banff) ▸ Wait near the hotel’s main entrance. ▸ The vehicle will stop briefly for boarding, so ensure you are visible to the driver. Your tour guide will greet you by name at the pickup point.

  • Pickup Time: 9:00 AM – Save-On-Foods, Canmore (Address: 950 Railway Ave #2, Canmore, AB T1W 1P4) ▸ Meet your guide in-front of Save-On-Foods parking lot near Tim Hortons

  • Pickup Time : 7:30 AM – Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown (Calgary) ▸ Meet your guide across the street (Passenger Loading Zone), Under Footbridge of Harry Hays Building.

End point

  • Pickup Time: 9:30 AM – Moose Hotel & Suites (Banff) ▸ Wait near the hotel’s main entrance. ▸ The vehicle will stop briefly for boarding, so ensure you are visible to the driver. Your tour guide will greet you by name at the pickup point.

  • Pickup Time: 9:00 AM – Save-On-Foods, Canmore (Address: 950 Railway Ave #2, Canmore, AB T1W 1P4) ▸ Meet your guide in-front of Save-On-Foods parking lot near Tim Hortons

  • Pickup Time : 7:30 AM – Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown (Calgary) ▸ Meet your guide across the street (Passenger Loading Zone), Under Footbridge of Harry Hays Building.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Specialized infant seats are available

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller ratings

4.1 out of 5 · 14 reviews
5
64%
4
7%
3
14%
2
7%
1
7%

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes

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