Banff: Banff Town, Gondola, and Johnston Canyon Day Tour

Banff is a stunning destination in the Canadian Rockies, and the "Banff: Banff Town, Gondola, and Johnston Canyon Day Tour" offers an exceptional opportunity to explore its natural wonders. This guided tour promises breathtaking views, enchanting waterfalls, and the charming streets of Banff town. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable day, this tour has something to captivate every visitor. Prepare to be swept away by the beauty of this one-of-a-kind destination.

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About Your Stay

This full-day tour takes visitors to Banff’s top attractions, including the Sulphur Mountain Gondola, Johnston Canyon, and Banff town center.
The tour price ranges from $67.06 to $83.83 per person and includes transportation, park fees, and an English-speaking guide.
The Sulphur Mountain Gondola offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies and features observation decks, hiking trails, and an Interpretive Centre.
Johnston Canyon’s dramatic limestone walls and cascading waterfalls are a main highlight, with a one-hour moderate hike along well-maintained trails.
Visitors have 1.5 hours of free time to explore Banff’s charming town center, with opportunities for shopping, dining, and visiting cultural attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Banff Day Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Banff National Park.

Priced from $83.83 to $67.06 per person, the tour lasts 8-10 hours and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking is flexible, with an option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes transportation, a national park fee, and an English-speaking guide.

Optional activities like the Sulphur Mountain Gondola come at an additional cost.

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Itinerary Highlights

This Banff Day Tour offers an exciting itinerary that showcases the region’s natural wonders.

The tour starts at either the Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel or the Banff Aspen Lodge before heading to the Sulphur Mountain Gondola, where guests can enjoy 360-degree views from an elevation of 2,281 meters.

Next, the group will explore the dramatic limestone walls of Johnston Canyon, including its impressive waterfalls.

The tour also includes visits to Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Hoodoos Viewpoint, providing opportunities to admire Banff’s iconic landmarks.

Finally, guests will have 1.5 hours of free time to explore Banff’s charming town center.

Sulphur Mountain Gondola

Although optional, the Sulphur Mountain Gondola offers visitors a chance to ascend 2,281 meters for panoramic 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies.

The 1.5-hour experience includes the gondola ride up and down the mountain. At the top, guests can explore the observation decks, hiking trails, and the Sulphur Mountain Interpretive Centre.

The gondola is an additional cost not included in the tour price. However, booking the gondola through the tour operator may provide a discounted rate and the convenience of skip-the-line access.

Johnston Canyon

Hiking through the dramatic limestone walls of Johnston Canyon is a main highlight of the Banff Day Tour.

Guests will spend an hour trekking along the canyon’s trails, taking in the cascading waterfalls and admiring the unique geological formations. The well-maintained paths provide easy access to several viewpoints, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the canyon’s natural beauty.

Though the hike requires some moderate effort, the stunning scenery makes it a rewarding experience. Johnston Canyon is a must-see attraction that showcases Banff’s incredible mountain landscapes.

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Bow Falls and Surprise Corner

After exploring the dramatic limestone walls of Johnston Canyon, the Banff Day Tour next takes visitors to the famous Bow Falls and the iconic Surprise Corner viewpoint.

Bow Falls is a 15-minute stop where guests can admire the powerful waterfall, a renowned filming location.

Then it’s off to Surprise Corner, another 15-minute stop. This iconic viewpoint provides a stunning panorama of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel nestled in the valley below.

Throughout these visits, the knowledgeable guide shares insights about the natural and cultural significance of these Banff landmarks.

There's plenty more to explore in Banff

Hoodoos Viewpoint

Next, the tour makes a 15-minute stop at the Hoodoos Viewpoint.

Hoodoos are unique rock formations created by erosion, with tall, thin spires of rock atop wider bases. At this viewpoint, guests can admire the striking hoodoos that dot the landscape.

The panoramic vistas showcase Banff’s rugged, mountainous terrain. Though a brief visit, it offers a glimpse into the diverse geological wonders of the region.

The panoramic vistas showcase Banff’s rugged, mountainous terrain, offering a glimpse into the diverse geological wonders of the region.

After taking in the scenery, the tour continues on to the final destination – the charming town of Banff, where guests can explore shops and cafes at their leisure.

Exploring Banff Town

The tour concludes with ample free time to explore the charming town of Banff. Guests can wander through the quaint streets, popping into local shops and cafes. There are ample opportunities to grab a bite, browse artisan goods, or simply soak in the scenic mountain views. The following table highlights some of the top attractions and activities in Banff Town:

| Attraction/Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Shopping | Unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops |

| Dining | Restaurants serving Canadian fare, international cuisine, and craft beer |

| Whyte Museum | Showcasing the history and culture of the Canadian Rockies |

| Banff Avenue | Main street lined with charming buildings and mountain vistas |

| Bow River | Scenic riverside trails perfect for strolling or cycling |

Tour Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information

The tour includes several key inclusions to enhance the overall experience. These include an English-speaking guide, transportation, the national park fee, and complimentary crampons for winter itineraries.

However, there are some exclusions to be aware of, such as optional admissions, personal expenses, and meals.

Plus, there are important restrictions – luggage is limited to one carry-on, pets aren’t allowed, and the tour may be impacted by weather conditions.

Meeting points vary by booking option, with pickups from downtown Calgary and Banff Aspen Lodge.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. Individuals can book the tour and join other travelers, as it operates with a small group format to provide a personalized experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities, though additional fees may apply. Customers can speak with the tour operator to discuss their preferences and see what options are available to personalize their Banff experience.

Does the Tour Provide Any Special Accommodations for Children?

The tour doesn’t offer special accommodations for children, but kids under 5 are free. The itinerary and activities should appeal to families, though the hike at Johnston Canyon may be difficult for young children.

Are Complimentary Snacks or Refreshments Provided During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide any complimentary snacks or refreshments. Guests are responsible for their own meals and drinks during the day-long excursion, though the tour guide can recommend dining options in Banff town.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is available in English only. Additional language options aren’t mentioned in the provided information. Guests should contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any language accommodations they may offer.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Banff: Banff Town, Gondola, and Johnston Canyon Day Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. From the Sulphur Mountain Gondola to the picturesque Johnston Canyon, this tour showcases the region’s natural beauty. With free time to explore Banff’s charming town, it’s an ideal way to fully take in the stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.