Can I hike up and ride down?

Yes. One of the most popular ways to experience the Banff Gondola is to hike up Sulphur Mountain and ride the gondola back down. This option lets you enjoy the mountain trail on the ascent while giving your legs a break on the return.

The Sulphur Mountain Trail begins near the Banff Gondola base and climbs approximately 5.5 kilometres to the summit, gaining about 700 metres (2,300 feet) in elevation. Most hikers take between 2 and 3 hours to reach the top, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views.

The trail is well maintained and follows a series of gradual switchbacks through a forest of lodgepole pine and spruce. Because of the switchbacks, the climb is steady rather than extremely steep, making it one of Banff's most accessible summit hikes for visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.

As you climb higher, occasional openings in the trees reveal spectacular views of Banff, the Bow Valley, Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, Tunnel Mountain, and the surrounding peaks. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and birds are sometimes seen along the trail, so it's important to stay alert and carry bear spray.

Once you reach the summit, you can spend as much time as you like exploring the boardwalk to Sanson's Peak, visiting the interpretive exhibits, relaxing on the observation decks, enjoying a meal or coffee, or simply taking in the panoramic mountain views before boarding the gondola.

Many hikers prefer this option because it combines the satisfaction of reaching the summit under their own power with the comfort of a scenic ride back to the base. It also saves time compared to hiking both directions and is much easier on your knees after the long descent.

If you choose to hike up and ride down, remember that you need a one-way downhill gondola ticket. These are available specifically for hikers who reach the summit on foot.

For many visitors, hiking up and riding down offers the best of both experiences-a rewarding mountain hike followed by a relaxing aerial journey back to the valley floor. Book Banff Gondola Ride AdmissionBooking the Banff Gondola Ride Admission includes All taxes, fees and handling charges. Banff Gondola Home