Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour

Discover Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring, and Three Lakes Tour – a Practical Guide

Are you dreaming of panoramic mountain views, soothing hot springs, and charming mountain towns? This full-day tour from Calgary offers just that — for a reasonable price of around $73.31 per person. With a scheduled start at 7:30 am and lasting approximately 10 hours, it packs in a lot of Banff’s best sights. Expect to visit the Banff Gondola, soak in the Upper Hot Springs, stroll through Banff town, and explore Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, Bow Falls, and some iconic viewpoints like Surprise Corner and the Banff Town Sign.

What we love about this trip? First, the expert guides who clearly know their way around the Rockies, making each stop informative and fun. Second, the stunning views at every turn — from mountain panoramas from Sulphur Mountain to serene lakes with Mount Rundle in the background. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the itinerary flexibility — some reviews mention last-minute changes that can throw off your plans.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Banff in a single day without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re after authentic scenery, friendly guides, and a well-curated route, this trip offers solid value. Keep in mind, though, admission to attractions like the gondola and hot springs is not included, so budget accordingly. Overall, it’s a good choice for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Key Points

• Value for money: At around $73, this tour provides access to many of Banff’s top sights, though some admission fees are extra.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides like Vikram and Inder enhance the trip with local insights.
• Scenic variety: From mountain vistas on Sulphur Mountain to tranquil lakes and waterfalls, the route offers diverse landscapes.
• Flexible stops: The itinerary includes plenty of photo opportunities and free time in Banff town.
• Potential changes: Some reviews mention last-minute itinerary shifts, so flexibility is key.
• Group size: Limited to 14 travelers, offering a more personal experience.

An Honest Breakdown of the Itinerary

Banff Gondola

Riding the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s summit is a highlight. You’ll ascend in a glass-enclosed gondola, enjoying sweeping views of six mountain ranges and the Bow Valley. Once at the top, you’ll have about 1 hour 20 minutes to explore. The panoramic vistas are breathtaking, and for many, this is the iconic image of Banff. It’s worth noting that admission isn’t included, which adds roughly $60–$75 CAD depending on when you visit.

While the scenery is spectacular, some reviewers mention that the gondola can be busy, especially during peak times, so be prepared for crowds and possibly longer wait times. Still, the view from Sulphur Mountain is a must-see, and we loved the way it makes you feel on top of the world.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Next, the tour takes you to the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak. Soaking in the natural mineral waters with mountain views all around is undeniably soothing. The experience lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes, and tickets are not included — expect to pay around $10–$15 CAD per person.

Reviews suggest that the hot springs are a perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing. The modern facilities help make it comfortable, but be prepared for possible crowds, especially in summer. For many, the combination of warm water and mountain vistas offers a peaceful break amid a busy day.

Exploring Banff Town

A stroll through Banff town gives you a taste of mountain charm, with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and historic landmarks. You’ll have about 1 hour 20 minutes here, giving you time to browse, grab a coffee, or take photos along Banff Avenue. It’s a lively, friendly town that reflects the relaxed mountain lifestyle.

Travelers frequently mention the charm of Banff’s streets and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs or enjoy local cuisine. This stop is flexible, so if you want more time to explore or shop, it’s worth mentioning to your guide.

Lake Minnewanka

Next, you venture to Lake Minnewanka, Banff’s largest glacial lake. The scenery here is stunning, and you can choose to go on a boat cruise to Devil’s Gap, rent a canoe or kayak, or simply enjoy a lakeside walk. The stop lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes, but note that admission isn’t included if you opt for boating or rentals.

Multiple reviews highlight how impressive the lake’s vastness and mountain backdrop are. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and many appreciate the chance to enjoy some outdoor activity, whether paddling or hiking along the shore.

Two Jack Lake and Johnson Lake

Two serene lakes follow, each about 30 minutes long. Two Jack Lake offers a picturesque setting with emerald waters and Mount Rundle. It’s perfect for photos or just relaxing on the shore. Johnson Lake is a favorite for swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking, thanks to its warmer waters and tranquil surroundings.

Both lakes give you a nice opportunity to breathe in nature and enjoy a peaceful moment. Reviewers have called Johnson Lake “serene” and “scenic,” making it clear these spots are well-loved for outdoor leisure.

Bow Falls and Surprise Corner

Next are two quick but iconic stops. Bow Falls is a wide cascade along the Bow River, just a short walk from downtown Banff. The falls might seem modest in height (around 30 feet), but their wide breadth and proximity to the town make for great photos.

Surprise Corner offers a panoramic view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, framed by the surrounding mountains. It’s a classic shot that captures the grandeur of Banff. Both stops last about 20–30 minutes and are free.

Banff Town Sign

Finally, the Banff Town Sign is a popular photo spot, marking your visit to this lovely mountain town. It’s a quick stop but a fun, quintessential photo opportunity to remember your trip.

Real Traveler Feedback and Insights

Many reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Vikram and Inder. One reviewer wrote, “The tour manager was very accommodative of our last-minute request,” showing that good guides can make or break the experience. Others appreciated the stunning scenery and the chance to enjoy Banff’s natural beauty in a single day.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some travelers faced last-minute itinerary changes — notably, one who was disappointed to be rerouted to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake instead of the original lakes they planned to visit. The disruption to plans and last-minute shifts could be a concern if you’re very particular about your itinerary.

Another point raised was the bus condition and the hot weather, which affected comfort, especially when the air conditioning wasn’t working well. Plus, a few reviews mention delays and extra stops for pickups, which can extend the day or reduce the time at each site.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle that holds up to 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience than larger buses. The small group size helps guides personalize the trip, answer questions, and manage the pace. It also means you’ll likely get to enjoy the scenery more comfortably.

Pricing and Admission Fees

While the tour price covers transportation, parking, bottled water, and taxes, important extras include admission fees for attractions like the gondola (roughly $60–$75 CAD) and hot springs (around $16.50 CAD). These costs add up, so budget accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re seeking a comprehensive, well-organized way to see many highlights of Banff in one day, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and want to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s a good pick for first-timers keen to get a broad overview without sacrificing scenic beauty.

However, if you’re particular about sticking to a strict itinerary or want to avoid last-minute changes, this might not be ideal. The group size and flexibility could be a concern for some. Also, if you’re keen on exploring more remote lakes or prefer self-guided adventures, you might want to plan some additional time independently.

The Bottom Line

This Banff tour offers a solid balance of scenic highlights, guided expertise, and convenience. The guides’ local knowledge helps you appreciate each location, and the diverse stops keep the day engaging. The price point is fair, considering the included attractions and transport, though some fees are extra.

The experience is best suited for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of planning every detail. It’s particularly appealing if you’re eager to capture the perfect photos and enjoy Banff’s top sights with friendly guides to enhance your understanding.

That said, be prepared for the possibility of itinerary adjustments and some crowds at popular sites. For travelers with flexible plans and a curiosity for mountain scenery, this tour is an accessible and enjoyable way to get a taste of the Canadian Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are admission fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price covers transportation and some services, but admission to attractions like the gondola and hot springs is extra.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting at 7:30 am, allowing plenty of time to see multiple highlights without feeling rushed.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which helps create a more personal experience.

Can I customize the itinerary or spend more time at certain stops?
This tour follows a set itinerary, but some stops like Banff town have flexible time. Last-minute itinerary changes have been reported, so flexibility is advised.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, it uses an air-conditioned vehicle, though some reviews mention that on hot days, the AC may not always work perfectly.

What are the main attractions I’ll see?
Expect to visit the Banff Gondola, Hot Springs, Banff town, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Banff Town Sign.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to experience the highlights of Banff in a single, well-organized day, this tour provides good value and expert guidance. While it’s not perfect — last-minute itinerary changes and some extra costs — it still offers a comprehensive glimpse of the Rockies’ beauty.

If you love stunning mountain views, enjoy relaxed outdoor moments, and want the convenience of a guided trip, this experience is worth considering. Just remember to set expectations about possible schedule adjustments, and plan to bring some extra cash for attraction fees.

Overall, it’s a practical and enjoyable way to get a broad taste of Banff’s best sights, especially if you value local insights and a friendly guide to help interpret the scenery.