Banff Gondola Hot Springs Bow Falls and Three Lakes tour

Our review of the Banff Gondola Hot Springs Bow Falls and Three Lakes tour offers a practical look at one of the most popular ways to experience the stunning Canadian Rockies from Calgary. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and solid value make it an attractive option for travelers eager to see Banff’s highlights without the hassle of planning every stop themselves.

What we love most about this experience are the panoramic gondola views from Sulphur Mountain and the relaxing soak at Banff Upper Hot Springs—two iconic experiences that really define the area’s appeal. Plus, the chance to visit three breathtaking lakes in one day provides plenty of memorable photo opportunities and outdoor activities.

A possible consideration is that gondola and hot springs tickets are not included in the base price, adding extra expense. For travelers who prefer a fully inclusive experience, this might be a small inconvenience. However, for those eager to customize their visit or enjoy flexibility, it offers a degree of independence.

This tour suits outdoor enthusiasts, scenic lovers, and those who appreciate well-organized day trips with a bit of adventure and relaxation combined. It’s ideal for visitors who want an overview of Banff’s top sights without spending days exploring on their own.

Key Points

• Excellent value for a full-day tour that covers multiple iconic Banff sites.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with helpful insights and friendly service.
• Flexible options for hot springs and gondola tickets allow for personalized experiences.
• Beautiful scenery including lakes, waterfalls, and mountain vistas.
• Balanced pacing with enough time at each stop to enjoy and photograph.
• Group size limited to 26 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This day-long adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse of Banff’s natural beauty, with a mix of scenic rides, tranquil waters, and stunning vistas. The tour is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights efficiently, with the guidance of knowledgeable hosts who make the journey informative and enjoyable.

The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps things comfortable as you cover distances between stops. The group size is capped at 26, striking a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. Since the tour is mobile ticketed, you can keep your tickets handy for smooth access at each attraction.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is the variety of stops. From the Banff Gondola offering sweeping views of the Rockies, to soaking in the mineral-rich waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs, each experience adds a different dimension to your day. The easy access to Bow Falls and the charming Banff Downtown adds a relaxed, local feel to the trip.

Itinerary Breakdown

Banff Gondola: Panoramic Views from Sulphur Mountain

The highlight for many travelers, the Banff Gondola whisks you up Sulphur Mountain in about 8 minutes. The ride itself offers a visual feast with sweeping vistas of Banff, the surrounding peaks, and the town below. Once at the top, you’re free to explore the Sky Bistro for a bite or simply stroll the observation decks.

While admission isn’t included in the base price—costing around CA$103—most agree that the gondola ride is worth the extra. Several reviews highlight the helpfulness of guides in coordinating this part of the trip smoothly, ensuring you get the most out of your time at the summit.

Banff Upper Hot Springs: A Relaxing Retreat

A true highlight for many, the Banff Upper Hot Springs offers warm, mineral-rich waters with magnificent mountain views. After a day of outdoor sightseeing, this is a perfect way to unwind. Expect about an hour at this stop, plenty of time to soak and enjoy the scenery.

The admission isn’t included in the tour, but many find it well worth the CA$103 fee. Reviewers have praised the relaxing atmosphere and the beautiful mountain backdrop—a perfect way to soothe tired legs after hikes or sightseeing.

Bow Falls: Easy Access and Great Photo Ops

Just a short 15-minute stop, Bow Falls is a photographer’s dream and an easy walk from downtown Banff. The wide waterfall spills into the Bow River, creating a dramatic scene. It’s a free attraction, but you’ll likely want your camera ready for some memorable shots.

Many travelers appreciated that the stop was short but satisfying, with some noting it’s a great place for a quick walk and photos, especially since accessibility is straightforward.

Banff Downtown: The Charm of a Mountain Town

Spending about 1.5 hours wandering Banff’s streets allows you to soak in the local atmosphere—boutique shops, cozy cafes, and scenic vistas. It’s a well-placed break in the tour that lets you stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or pick up souvenirs.

Reviewers value this part for its relaxed pace and the chance to explore a vibrant mountain town surrounded by stunning scenery.

Lake Minnewanka: A Jewel of Banff

Located just 10 km from Banff, Lake Minnewanka is a showstopper with its shimmering waters against rugged mountain backdrops. The tour offers about 30 minutes here, enough for photos, a quick walk, or just soaking in the tranquility.

Visitors have praised the lake’s vast, mirror-like surface and the scenic views that make it perfect for photography or a peaceful moment. Many travelers plan a return, as one reviewer mentioned returning the next day to enjoy its beauty further.

Two Jack Lake: Peaceful and Picturesque

Another nearby lake, Two Jack Lake offers stunning views of Mount Rundle and a calm setting for easy hikes, kayaking, or picnics. The 15-minute stop provides a peaceful break from the busy day, and many agree it’s a highlight for its serene atmosphere and striking scenery.

The Iconic Banff Sign

Concluding with the classic Banff sign makes for a perfect photo finale. The short 10-minute stop is a fun, recognizable snapshot of your trip, now more accessible and safer than ever.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

The cost for this tour is approximately $74.23 per person, which, when considering the number of stops and the guided nature, offers good value. However, remember that gondola and hot springs tickets cost extra—CA$103 each—so budget accordingly.

The tour includes bottled water and comfortable transportation, but lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose a picnic or dine in Banff town. The group size of up to 26 travelers means you’re not lost in a crowd but still part of a lively group.

The duration is around 8 hours**, making it a full day but not overly exhausting. The timing and pacing are designed to give you ample time at each stop without feeling rushed—reviews confirm this balance is well maintained.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, with one noting that Arun and Sanjeet provided knowledgeable, friendly service that made the experience memorable. Many mention the stunning scenery—from lakes to waterfalls—and appreciate the good communication from the tour operators.

Several reviews highlight the flexibility and consideration of guides, especially when some in the group chose not to participate in certain activities, like the hot springs.

The value for money emerges as a common theme—many feel that the tour offers a rundown of Banff’s highlights for a reasonable price, especially when considering the stunning views and memorable stops.

The Downsides: What to Keep in Mind

A significant extra expense is the CA$103 hot springs admission, which isn’t included in the base price. For travelers on a tight budget, this adds to the overall cost, but many agree the soak is a worthwhile treat.

The gondola tickets are also extra, so if you’re eager for that experience, be prepared to pay more. Some reviews mention that the hot springs weren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but those who enjoyed it found it a perfect way to relax after a busy day.

Lastly, weather can influence the experience—since the tour relies on the scenic beauty of the outdoors, poor weather might limit some activities or views, but the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to weather conditions.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers eager to see Banff’s most famous sights without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of the area’s highlights, from lakes and waterfalls to panoramic mountain views. The group size and guided nature ensure you get insider knowledge along with the convenience of transportation.

Travelers who appreciate a mix of relaxing experiences, like hot springs, combined with breathtaking scenery, will find this tour offers excellent value. However, those wanting a completely all-inclusive experience with fewer extra costs might prefer to book gondola and hot springs tickets separately or look for private options.

In summary, this tour strikes a good balance between adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing, making it a solid choice for many visitors wanting a memorable day in Banff.

FAQ

Are gondola tickets included in the tour price?
No, the gondola tickets cost around CA$103 and are not included in the base tour price. You can purchase tickets separately at the gondola station.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you should plan to bring your own or buy something during your free time in Banff.

Can I skip the hot springs?
Yes, if you or your group prefer not to visit the hot springs, guides are accommodating, and you can enjoy the other stops.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 26 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is the hot springs worth the extra cost?
Many travelers find the hot springs a highlight and worth the CA$103 admission fee to relax after a day of sightseeing, but it’s optional.

This detailed tour review hopes to help you decide if this full-day Banff experience suits your travel plans. Whether you’re after spectacular views, a relaxing soak, or a quick taste of mountain town life, this tour offers a balanced and reasonably priced way to enjoy some of Canada’s most beautiful scenery.