Banff Gondola Hot Springs Bow Falls and Three Lakes tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Calgary to experience some of Banff’s most iconic sights, this tour promises a well-rounded look at the area’s natural beauty. It’s designed for travelers who want to pack in multiple highlights without the hassle of planning every detail on their own. While it’s not the cheapest option, the combination of views, relaxing stops, and guided insights makes it a solid choice, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the Rockies.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances popular sights—like Bow Falls and Lake Minnewanka—with unique experiences such as riding the Banff Gondola and unwinding at the hot springs. Plus, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and friendly, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the day. One thing to keep in mind is that certain attractions, like the gondola and hot springs, aren’t included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

A potential consideration is the length of the day; it’s around 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a full schedule. If you’re traveling with children or prefer more flexibility, you might want to see if smaller or private tours better fit your needs. This tour tends to attract outdoor lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Banff in a single day.

Key Points

• Well-organized itinerary combines scenic viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls, and relaxation spots.
• Guides receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.
• Additional costs like gondola and hot springs tickets are separate, so plan your budget.
• Timing at each stop generally allows for good exploration without feeling rushed.
• Group size is limited to 26 travelers, maintaining a comfortable experience.
• Ideal for those with a full day to spend exploring Banff’s highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

The Banff Gondola Experience

Starting with the Banff Gondola, you’ll enjoy a gentle 8-minute ride up Sulphur Mountain. The views from the top are what many travelers come for—panoramic vistas of Banff and the surrounding Rockies unfold as you ascend. From the summit, you can explore the area, take photos, or relax at the Sky Bistro, which offers a spot to soak in the scenery over a coffee or snack.

This part of the tour is especially popular, with visitors raving about the spectacular outlooks. One reviewer noted, “The gondola ride was smooth, and the time at the top was adequate for photos and taking in the views,” which is a pretty common sentiment. Keep in mind that gondola tickets aren’t included in the base price ($74.23), and they cost around CA$103.00 per person—so if this ride is a must-do for you, be prepared for the extra expense.

Relaxing at Banff Upper Hot Springs

After the gondola, the tour makes a stop at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. This natural hot spring is a favorite for unwinding after outdoor adventures, thanks to its warm, mineral-rich waters and stunning mountain vistas. The experience usually lasts about an hour, giving enough time to soak and enjoy the scenery.

Reviews highlight the relaxing nature of this stop, with one traveler saying, ”It’s perfect for unwinding and taking in the mountain views.” However, note that hot springs admission isn’t included in the tour price. The experience is more about relaxation than excitement, but it’s an excellent way to recharge before the next stops.

Iconic Bow Falls

A quick visit to Bow Falls is next—a wide, powerful waterfall just a kilometer from downtown Banff. It’s an easy walk from the town and offers ample opportunities for photos and short walks along the river. The falls are a classic scene, often featured in photographs of the area, and a favorite among visitors for their accessibility and natural beauty.

Most reviewers mention that this stop is brief—around 15 minutes—but enough to snap some photos and get a sense of the area’s rugged charm. It’s a free stop, making it a great value addition to the day.

Exploring Banff Town

A stop at Banff Avenue gives travelers a chance to stroll through the charming mountain town. With its quaint shops, cafes, and galleries, it’s a good place for a quick walk, some souvenir shopping, or just soaking up the local vibe. The tour allocates about 1.5 hours here, which is plenty for a leisurely exploration.

Reviewers appreciate the friendly atmosphere, noting that guides often share interesting tidbits about the town’s history and culture. It’s a nice break in the day—an opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or browse local crafts.

Scenic Lakes: Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake

The journey then takes you to Lake Minnewanka, a stunning glacial lake known for its deep blue waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, enough for photos, perhaps a quick walk, or simply soaking in the landscape.

Some travelers have expressed how much they loved visiting this lake—one said, “It’s one of the most beautiful spots I’ve seen in the Rockies,” and it’s easy to see why. Motorized boats are allowed here, so if you’re into boating, this is a great opportunity to get out on the water.

Next, a brief stop at Two Jack Lake offers a peaceful setting with views of Mount Rundle. It’s perfect for a quick photo or a short paddle if you’re feeling adventurous. With just 15 minutes here, it’s more about a snapshot than an extensive exploration.

Final Photo at Banff Sign

The last stop is at the Banff Sign, a must for that iconic photo with the mountains in the background. It’s a quick, 10-minute stop, but it’s a great way to wrap up your day and capture memories.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews lean heavily positive. Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with comments like “Sanjeet and Arun made the trip memorable,” and “The guides were very helpful and engaging.” Many mention that the stops are well-timed, with enough opportunity to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

The highlight for most is the spectacular scenery—the lakes, waterfalls, and mountain views—paired with the ease of having everything organized for them. One traveler called it “a long day but worth every minute,” emphasizing how much was packed into a single trip.

However, the one less favorable review was quite rare, describing the experience as “the worst tour ever,” though details are scant. It’s worth remembering that, like any group tour, experiences can vary depending on the guide and weather conditions.

Analyzing the Value

At around $74.23, the base price for this tour is reasonable considering the number of stops and sights included. However, the extra costs for gondola and hot springs tickets bump the total up, so if those experiences are a priority, budget for around $177 in total. This might seem steep, but the convenience of having multiple attractions organized into a single day can be worth it for many.

The tour’s 8-hour duration is perfect if you want to see a lot without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s not suitable if you prefer a more leisurely pace or if you want complete flexibility to linger at each site.

The small group size (maximum of 26 people) means it’s not too crowded, and you get the chance to ask questions and interact with the guides. The included bottled water and comfortable transportation also add to the overall experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is well-suited to travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Banff in a single day. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights, stunning vistas, and a variety of activities—without the stress of logistics. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and are eager to see lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and enjoy some relaxing hot springs, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s also a good pick for first-time visitors or those short on time, as it provides a broad overview of the area’s highlights. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy outdoor scenery and don’t mind a long day, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This Banff tour offers an appealing mix of scenic views and relaxing experiences. It’s a solid choice if you want to cover multiple popular spots without the hassle of organizing your own transportation and scheduling. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the overall vibe.

While not the cheapest option, the value lies in the convenience and the chance to see a lot in a single day. Keep in mind the additional expenses for gondola and hot springs tickets, and decide if those are worth it for your trip. If you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure with friendly guides and varied stops, this tour can serve as a memorable highlight of your trip to Banff.

FAQ

Are gondola tickets included in the tour price?
No, the gondola tickets are not included. They cost around CA$103.00 per person, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want to ride Sulphur Mountain.

Is the hot springs visit part of the tour?
The stop at Banff Upper Hot Springs is included in the itinerary, but the admission fee isn’t. You might want to bring extra cash if you plan to soak.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, making it suitable for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What kind of transportation is used?
The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, which helps keep everyone comfortable during the long day.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This flexibility is helpful if weather or other factors shift your plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider your child’s comfort with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What size are the groups?
The maximum group size is 26 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Are there any special requirements or restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. You should check the weather and dress accordingly, especially if visiting outdoor sites.

To sum it up, if you’re after a comprehensive, well-guided day exploring Banff’s most photogenic spots, this tour offers a good balance of scenery, relaxation, and convenience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to make the most of a single day in the Rockies without the hassle of organizing multiple activities on their own. Just be prepared for the extra costs if you want to experience the gondola and hot springs firsthand!