Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies and considering this Banff day tour, you’re probably eager to see some of the most iconic sights while enjoying a relaxed pace. This tour promises a bit of everything — stunning mountain views from the gondola, soothing hot springs, charming town strolls, and visits to multiple lakes and viewpoints. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Banff’s natural beauty and local charm.

From what I’ve gathered, the highlights include the breathtaking ride up Sulphur Mountain, panoramic views that make every camera happy, and a relaxing soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Plus, a chance to explore Banff town itself — with its cozy cafes and boutique shops — sounds ideal if you like a bit of local flavor alongside nature.

That said, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The tour’s price point is reasonable, but some reviews mention that the value can vary depending on your expectations around activities and logistics. Also, the itinerary may change unexpectedly, which can disrupt plans — something to keep in mind if you’re aiming for a strict schedule.

This tour should work well if you’re after a combination of scenic views, relaxing moments, and easy sightseeing in a group setting. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided experience without too much hassle, and who don’t mind a few surprises along the way.

Key Points

• Balanced experience with scenic views, relaxation, and town exploration
• Affordable price offering good value for a full day in Banff
• Guided tour with friendly, knowledgeable guides
• Itinerary flexibility: last-minute changes may occur
• Not a full or intensive tour—more of a sampler of Banff’s highlights
• Timing and group size: small group (max 14) for a more personalized feel

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This 10-hour tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 7:30 am, which means you’ll get a full day of exploring without feeling rushed. For many travelers, this timing is perfect for making the most of the daylight hours in the Rockies, especially during summer.

The Banff Gondola

First stop is the Banff Gondola, which whisks you up Sulphur Mountain. From the summit, you get panoramic views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town itself. It’s a highlight for many, offering photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Banff’s sprawling landscape. Keep in mind, the admission ticket isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget around CAD $60-75 if you want to go up — which many reviews suggest is worth it.

Travelers love the gondola ride’s spectacular vistas: “We loved the way the scenery unfolded at the top,” says one reviewer. It’s an experience that’s both exhilarating and peaceful, offering a new perspective on the surrounding mountains. The summit also has some walking paths and viewing platforms, perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the views.

Relaxing at Banff Upper Hot Springs

Next, the Banff Upper Hot Springs is a real treat if you like soaking in warm mineral waters surrounded by mountain scenery. It’s a nice way to unwind after the altitude hike. The admission isn’t included here either, generally costing about CAD $10-15, so plan for this if it appeals. Many visitors find the experience relaxing, with some noting that the view of the mountains while soaking is unbeatable.

However, a few reviews mention that this part of the tour can be a little crowded or busy during peak times, so your experience might vary depending on the day.

Exploring Banff Town

Then, there’s a leisurely stop in Banff itself, where you can wander along Banff Avenue, browse boutiques, or grab a coffee. It’s a laid-back chance to soak in the mountain town atmosphere, take photos at the Banff Town Sign, and enjoy some local flavor. This stop is just about 1 hour and 20 minutes, so it’s enough to get a feel for the town without rushing.

Lake Minnewanka and Other Lakes

The tour also includes visits to Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, and Johnson Lake — all gorgeous spots with lakeside views and opportunities for photos, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. Lake Minnewanka is the largest glacial lake in Banff, and many travelers enjoy its scenic boat cruise to Devil’s Gap (though this isn’t included in the price).

Two Jack Lake offers a more peaceful setting, with its striking emerald waters and Mount Rundle backdrop, perfect for a quick stroll or photo. Johnson Lake is noted for its relatively warmer waters, making it suitable for activities like swimming or paddling if you have your gear.

Bow Falls and Scenic Viewpoints

The tour makes stops at Bow Falls, a wide cascade along the Bow River, and Surprise Corner, which offers postcard-perfect views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel among the Rockies. These shorter stops mean you can enjoy impressive scenery without a long hike, making them popular photo spots.

The Final Touches

The last stops include the Banff Town Sign — a classic photo opportunity — and a quick visit to a scenic viewpoint, rounding out the day. It’s a good way to cap off a busy day of sightseeing.

The Logistics: What’s It Like on the Ground

This tour is operated by Canadian’s Rockies Tours, with a group size capped at 14, which helps keep things a bit more intimate. The air-conditioned vehicle and parking fees are included, plus bottled water to keep you refreshed. The tour is offered with pickup, which adds to the convenience, especially if you’re staying in Calgary or nearby.

The cost is roughly $73 CAD per person, which many consider reasonable given all the stops and the guided nature of the experience. Still, some reviews point out that admission fees for the hot springs and gondola are extra, which can add up if you’re planning to do all activities.

The Pros and Cons

What We Love

• Expert guides with deep local knowledge, making the experience engaging and informative.
• Stunning scenic views at each stop — from the gondola’s summit to lakes and viewpoints — these are image-worthy moments.
• Good value for a full-day tour that hits many of Banff’s highlights, especially if you prefer guided group travel over self-planning.
• Flexible stops allow for some personal exploration — a nice balance of guided and free time.

What Could Be Better

• Itinerary changes can happen last-minute, which might frustrate travelers with strict plans. Several reviews mention that last-minute switches to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake disrupted their plans.
• Admission costs are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.
• The hot springs can be crowded, and timing may vary based on the day.
• Some travelers felt the bus was a bit outdated or warm during hot days, and delays in pickup or waiting to gather other passengers can impact your day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Banff in one day, with the convenience of a guide handling logistics. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic viewpoints, light walking, and relaxing in hot springs without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s also good for those on a budget, as it offers multiple stops at a reasonable price, even factoring in extra admission costs.

However, if you’re hoping for a very personalized experience, or want to visit specific lakes like Moraine or Lake Louise without surprises, this tour might be less suitable. It’s also worth noting that if you’re sensitive to crowds, some stops might feel busier during peak season.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour provides a solid snapshot of Banff’s most photogenic spots and relaxing experiences. You’ll gain access to incredible views, enjoy a soothing soak, and get to explore Banff town — all with the comfort of a guided group.

It’s a good pick if you’re looking for value and variety without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple excursions. Keep in mind that last-minute itinerary changes and extra admission fees can affect your experience, so go into it with flexible expectations.

For travelers who love scenic views, friendly guides, and a well-rounded day in the mountains, this tour offers plenty to enjoy, especially if you’re hoping to sample a bit of everything Banff has to offer.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with parking fees covered, making logistics straightforward.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins around 7:30 am, giving you a full day of exploring.

Are admission fees included?
No, some activities like the gondola and hot springs have extra costs — expect roughly CAD $10-75 depending on the activity.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute changes might occur due to weather or logistics.

How big are the groups?
Group sizes are capped at 14 people, aiming for a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are generally accessible; just consider your children’s stamina and interest levels.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Banff town.

What about the hot springs crowds?
Some reviews mention that hot springs can be busy, especially during peak times.

Is the tour flexible if I want to skip certain stops?
Since it’s guided, there’s limited flexibility to skip stops, but the itinerary is fairly relaxed.

Will I see Moraine or Lake Louise?
Not on this specific itinerary, though reviews note they may be included unexpectedly if the tour changes last-minute.

If you’re after a balanced, well-organized day with scenic highlights and some relaxation in Banff, this tour does a decent job. Just stay flexible, budget a little extra for activities, and enjoy the ride through one of Canada’s most beautiful regions.