Banff: Gondola Ride, Hot Springs & Bow Falls Day Tour

Lake Minnewanka, Banff Gondola ride, hot springs soak and Bow Falls in one day

You’ll feel glacier air on your skin at Lake Minnewanka, hear Bow Falls rumbling under your feet, ride high above Banff on the gondola, and finally unwind in mineral-rich hot springs with mountain views all around. This day trip blends wild beauty with small comforts—and leaves you thinking about those quiet moments long after you’ve left.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout, comfortable travel in an air-conditioned vehicle between stops like Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake, entry to the Banff Gondola with access for strollers or wheelchairs if needed, plus time to relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs before heading back into town for free time on Banff Avenue.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Banff Gondola, Lakes, Hot Springs

• Ride Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain
• Explore Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk
• Visit Interpretive Centre
• Relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs
• See Bow Falls viewpoint
• Lunch and shop on Banff Avenue
• Visit Lake Minnewanka
• Visit Two Jack Lake
• Photo stop at Banff sign

The Experience

You know that feeling when you open your eyes and there’s just blue everywhere? That was Lake Minnewanka for me—cold air on my cheeks, the lake so clear it almost hurt to look at. Our guide, Samir, handed out bottled water (he joked we’d need it for all the “oohs and ahhs”—he wasn’t wrong). There were these tiny birds hopping along the rocks; I tried to get a photo but they’re faster than they look. The mountains felt close enough to touch but also impossibly far away. I think I stood there longer than anyone else—just didn’t want to leave.

We stopped at Two Jack Lake next, which is quieter—almost like it’s hiding from the crowds. The light was different there, softer somehow. Then Surprise Corner (the name fits) with that sudden view of the Fairmont poking out between trees. At Bow Falls, you can hear the water before you see it—loud but kind of calming? It smells like wet stone and pine needles. I tried to take a selfie but only got half my face and a lot of spray. Not my best work.

The Banff Gondola was next—honestly, I’m not great with heights but eight minutes up Sulphur Mountain goes by fast when everyone’s laughing about whose ears pop first (mine did). At the top: wind in your hair, mountains everywhere, and people pointing out peaks I couldn’t pronounce. We had lunch in town after (Banff Avenue has way more shops than I expected), then finished up floating in Banff Upper Hot Springs. The steam fogged up my glasses instantly—I just sat back and listened to snippets of conversations in three different languages around me. Felt kind of universal, you know?

Top questions

How long is the Banff Gondola ride?

The Banff Gondola takes about 8 minutes each way to reach the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

Is lunch included on this Banff day tour?

No, lunch is not included but there’s a lunch break on Banff Avenue where you can choose where to eat.

Are swimsuits provided at Banff Upper Hot Springs?

You can rent swimsuits and towels at Banff Upper Hot Springs if needed.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels though some activities may not be recommended for travelers with certain health conditions.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

The tour includes bottled water and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle; check with your provider about specific pickup options.

How far is Lake Minnewanka from Banff town?

Lake Minnewanka is about 10 km from downtown Banff—roughly a 15-minute drive.

What should I bring for the hot springs?

Bring a swimsuit; towels and swimsuits are available for rent if you forget yours.