Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour

Planning a day trip to Banff? Then you’ve probably come across the Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring, and Three Lakes Tour, offered by Banff & Jasper Travels. It’s a well-reviewed, full-day adventure designed for those who want to see some of the most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. From stunning mountain vistas to tranquil lakes, this tour promises a comprehensive taste of the Rockies—perfect for those short on time but eager to experience the best.

What we love about this experience is its blend of scenic diversity and expert guidance. First, the scenic boat tour on Lake Minnewanka offers a peaceful, water-based perspective of the mountains, while the Banff Gondola ride provides a bird’s-eye view that’s impossible to beat. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem dedicated to making the trip memorable, sharing insights and helping guests get the perfect photos.

A possible consideration is the additional costs for some attractions, like the gondola ticket and hot springs entry. While the tour’s base price includes transportation and park passes, travelers should budget extra for these experiences. This can be an issue if you’re traveling on a tight budget or expecting all experiences to be included upfront.

This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Banff, outdoor lovers who enjoy varied scenery, and those who want a hassle-free way to explore key highlights. It strikes a good balance of structured stops and free time, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo explorers.

Key Points

• Excellent guides enhance the experience with local insights and photo assistance.
• Diverse sights — lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints — ensure a well-rounded visit.
• Value for money — considering transportation, park passes, and multiple stops, it offers a lot for the price.
• Flexible options — optional add-ons like the gondola and hot springs can be tailored to your preferences.
• Small group feel adds intimacy and better access to photo opportunities.
• Long but rewarding—an 8-hour day packed with stunning natural sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The day begins with a convenient pickup from Calgary or Canmore (depending on your starting point). The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle transports you through scenic routes that immediately set the tone for the day. We appreciate the park pass included in the price, so there’s no surprise expense here—you’re ready for your mountain adventure.

Lake Minnewanka is often the first stop. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat cruise, which is one of the tour’s highlights. Reviewers praise the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views. One traveler raved, “We saw so many beautiful sights and even mountain goats and deer,” while another noted, “The boat tour was beyond words in its beauty.” Keep in mind, the boat cruise requires an extra ticket, not included in the base price, but many guests find it well worth the small additional expense.

Next, the tour moves to Johnson Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for a picnic or a quick swim. The loop trail around the lake offers several picturesque viewpoints and a relaxing environment to stretch your legs. Reviewers mention that this stop provides a calmer, more intimate experience amid nature, ideal for families or those wanting a quiet moment.

From there, it’s time for the famous Surprise Corner, which offers a breathtaking view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel—the castle in the Rockies. The surrounding Bow River adds to the postcard-perfect scene. It’s a quick stop but one that captures the iconic beauty of Banff and is frequently praised for its photo-worthy scenery.

Then, the tour proceeds to Bow Falls Viewpoint, a short walk from the town center. The roaring water and natural landscape make it a favorite among visitors. And it’s accessible, making it easy to enjoy even for those with limited mobility.

The Gondola ride on Sulphur Mountain is another hallmark of the trip. It offers panoramic views of the Rockies, hiking options at the summit, and a mountaintop restaurant. However, the gondola is closed for maintenance on some dates, so checking availability beforehand is wise. Several reviews highlight the spectacular vistas, with one reviewer calling it a “must-do for anyone visiting Banff.” Keep in mind, the gondola ticket is an extra fee (~CA$95), payable on-site, and some guests found that waiting in line or ticketing delays slightly impacted the schedule.

After descending from Sulphur Mountain, you’ll unwind at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. The mineral-rich waters with mountain views provide the perfect way to relax. The hot springs are a favorite for many, with reviews emphasizing the soothing experience after a day of sightseeing. However, it’s worth noting that the hot springs are closed for maintenance from late October to mid-November, so plan accordingly.

Finally, your day winds down exploring Banff Downtown. The vibrant streets are lined with shops, galleries, and eateries where you can sample local cuisine or pick up souvenirs. Many reviewers mention the lively atmosphere and friendly vibe—a fitting end to a day packed with adventure.

What to Expect: Practical Details and Traveler Insights

This tour is designed for comfort and convenience. Transportation is in a small, air-conditioned vehicle, creating a cozy atmosphere that encourages interaction and makes for easier photo stops. The guided experience means you’ll get insider knowledge about the sites, adding context beyond just pretty pictures.

The timing is carefully structured, with pickups starting at 7:30 AM in Calgary and later options in Canmore and Banff. The full 8-hour itinerary includes ample scenic stops; some, like Lake Minnewanka, involve additional expense for boat cruises, so budget accordingly. The guided nature means you won’t need to worry about navigation or parking, which can be tricky in Banff.

A recurring theme in reviews is the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Travelers consistently appreciate guides who are patient, informative, and eager to help with photos. One guest shared, “Inder, our guide, was very knowledgeable and took us to some hidden gems.” Several reviews mention how guides went above and beyond, such as helping with last-minute purchases or adjusting plans when attractions were temporarily closed.

The group size is small, which enhances the personal touch and allows for more flexible photo opportunities. This is especially appreciated by those who want to capture the scenery without feeling rushed.

As for value, the tour covers many iconic sites, includes park passes, and offers optional extras. When you factor in the cost of individual tickets for attractions like the gondola and boat cruise, the overall value increases. Many travelers mention that the experience feels like a good deal compared to organizing each stop independently, especially with the convenience of transportation and expert guidance.

The Experience’s Drawbacks and Considerations

While this tour offers a fantastic overview of Banff’s highlights, a few points are worth noting. The additional expenses for the gondola and hot springs can add up, so budget extra if these are must-do experiences for you. The gondola is not included in the base price, and tickets are purchased on-site.

The timing can be tight, especially if you want to spend more time at each stop. Some reviews suggest that waiting for tickets or attraction maintenance can cause minor delays, so flexibility is helpful.

Not everyone might enjoy the heights of Sulphur Mountain—if you’re afraid of heights, this ride might be less appealing. On top of that, if you have altitude sickness or high blood pressure, consult your doctor before booking. The tour’s length and walking involved might be strenuous for some, though most stops are accessible.

Weather is always a factor in the Rockies. If visiting during the maintenance closure in late October or early November, the gondola won’t be available, and you might need to adjust your plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day outing is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Banff’s scenery without the stress of planning each stop themselves. It suits first-timers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who appreciate guided insights. The small group size makes it especially appealing for couples and families seeking a more intimate experience.

If you’re short on time but eager to see lake vistas, mountain panoramas, and iconic landmarks, this tour offers a balanced, well-organized approach. It’s also value-oriented—considering the transportation, park passes, and multiple attractions included, many find it to be money well spent.

However, for travelers seeking more flexibility or specific activities like swimming at the lakes or longer hikes, this tour might feel somewhat rushed. Also, those with a strong preference for exploring independently might prefer self-guided touring.

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FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle is part of the package.

Are all attractions included in the price? No, some attractions like the Banff Gondola and Upper Hot Springs require extra tickets purchased on-site. The boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka also costs additionally.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and charged smartphone are recommended. The tour provides bottled water, but bringing snacks might be wise.

Is there a group size limit? The tour maintains a small group setting, making it more personal and flexible.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors? Generally yes, but consider any mobility or health concerns—especially with the gondola ride and walking at some stops.

What happens if the gondola is closed? The tour will still include all other stops, and you might be able to enjoy alternate scenery or activities.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Banff’s most stunning landscapes, all wrapped into a manageable 8-hour day. The combination of scenic boat rides, mountain vistas from Sulphur Mountain, relaxing hot springs, and iconic viewpoints makes it a fantastic choice for first-time visitors or those short on time. The guides’ warmth and expertise receive frequent praise, often transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

While some attractions require additional fees, the overall value—considering transportation, park passes, and multiple stops—is hard to beat. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that doesn’t sacrifice variety or scenic quality.

If you’re seeking a structured, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of unforgettable moments. Just remember to budget for extras and check availability if you’re eyeing the gondola during maintenance periods.

In essence, this tour is a smart pick for those who want to see the highlights of Banff with ease, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and have a knowledgeable guide along for the ride. Whether you’re a nature lover, a first-time visitor, or simply want a convenient way to tick off top sights, it offers good value and a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby