Banff: Gondola, Hot Springs, Bow falls & Three lakes tour

Thinking about visiting Banff and wondering what a day tour like this could offer? This full-day adventure in Alberta promises a mix of iconic sights, breathtaking scenery, and some relaxing moments — all for around $57 per person. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

What really catches our eye about this tour is how it balances nature exploration with a bit of mountain culture. We love that it includes a ride on the Banff Gondola for those panoramic mountain views, plus a soak at the Banff Hot Springs (even if it’s a pool, it’s still pretty charming). The tour also hits the lakes and waterfalls you’ve probably seen in photos but might not have had the time to visit on your own. The downside? The gondola ticket isn’t included, which could surprise some folks if they don’t read the fine print closely.

This tour is perfect if you want a rundown of Banff’s must-see spots without organizing each detail yourself. It’s suited for travelers looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and photo opportunities—all in one day. Keep in mind, it’s a long 10 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and some bus time.

Key Points

• Includes a variety of highlights: lakes, waterfalls, gondola, hot springs, and downtown Banff.
• Great value for money: for $57, you get transportation, guide, and multiple stops with sightseeing flexibility.
• Guides are praised: knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive.
• Preparation is key: gondola tickets are sold separately, so book ahead.
• Perfect for a quick but thorough taste of Banff: especially if you’re short on time.
• Not a fully inclusive tour: some attractions like the Lake Minnewanka boat cruise or gondola are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

When we first read about this tour, what jumped out was the promise of visiting Banff’s most photogenic spots in one day. And from what travelers say, it pretty much delivers. The trip kicks off early—pickups are available from Calgary hotels, with the guide giving you an overview of the day ahead.

Starting at Lake Louise

The journey begins with Lake Louise, one of the most recognizable spots in the Rockies. Often called the “Jewel of the Rockies,” it’s known for its turquoise glacier-fed waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the view is guaranteed to impress. Summer offers opportunities for photos and short walks along the lakeshore, while winter turns it into a frozen fairy tale scene.

Travelers like Lenie from Canada mentioned that they loved the lake’s beauty, noting that the scenery is just as mesmerizing in person as in photos. However, keep in mind that if you’re planning to do anything more than explore briefly, you might need to budget extra for activities like a boat cruise, which isn’t included.

Riding the Banff Gondola

Next up is the Banff Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain. This is a definite highlight—an exhilarating cable car experience that elevates you above the town for 360-degree views of six mountain ranges, Bow Valley, and Banff itself. From the summit, you can walk the Sanson Peak boardwalk or just soak in the vistas.

Many reviews praise the guide’s advice on timing, emphasizing that pre-booking gondola tickets is essential since they aren’t included in the tour fee. Some travelers, like those in the reviews, found the gondola a bit pricey but still worth it for the panoramic views. It’s a great chance for photos, and at the top, there are exhibits and benches for relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

Relaxing at Banff Hot Springs

After the mountain top, the tour moves to the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Although, note that as of the latest info, the hot springs are temporarily closed for maintenance. Still, previous visitors have enjoyed soaking in mineral-rich waters with mountain views—an ideal spot for a bit of downtime and rejuvenation. Those who’ve experienced it mention it’s more of a pool setting, but the natural mineral waters and mountain backdrop make it worthwhile.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Banff Town

A stroll through Banff Downtown is a must. The town offers charming shops, cafes, galleries, and a cozy mountain vibe. Travelers often mention how friendly and welcoming the town feels. It’s a nice chance to grab a snack, shop for souvenirs, or just enjoy the mountain air. The tour allows enough time here for exploration and photos.

Lakes, Waterfalls, and Photo Stops

One of the best parts of this tour is the variety of lake visits—specifically Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, and Johnson Lake.

• Lake Minnewanka is the largest in Banff National Park and offers spectacular views of its blue-green waters surrounded by peaks. According to reviews, boat tours are available if you want a different perspective, though they’re extra.
• Two Jack Lake offers peaceful shoreline views, perfect for photographers or just enjoying the scenery.
• Johnson Lake is noted as a tranquil spot, often favored for its calm waters.

Travelers like Margaret highlighted how much they appreciated the time to explore these lakes, and others appreciated the scenic stops like the Norquay lookout, even if it meant a slight delay.

Bow Falls and Surprise Corner

The tour also includes Bow Falls, a dramatic waterfall where the Bow River tumbles over a wide cascade. This spot is fantastic for photos and often praised for its natural power. A short drive takes you to Surprise Corner, a viewpoint where the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is framed perfectly with the Rockies behind it—one of those classic, iconic photos.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up with a return to Banff Town for a bit more sightseeing or shopping before heading back to Calgary. The full 10 hours fly by, thanks to the balance of attractions, stops, and commentary from the guides.

Practical Aspects and Tips

This tour offers round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes it comfortable for the long day. The group sizes are typically small enough for personal attention, and guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

You’ll want to book gondola tickets in advance because they aren’t included and tend to sell out during the busy summer months. The same goes for Hot Springs tickets, which are currently unavailable due to maintenance — so check availability beforehand if that experience is important to you.

The tour is open in English and includes a live guide, who keeps the group informed and entertained. Pickup options from Calgary hotels, Banff accommodations, and Canmore visitor centers make it convenient.

For those concerned about timing, reviews mention that the guide’s planning usually works well—though, occasionally, traffic or extra stops can cause slight delays. If you’re on a tight schedule, communicating your cruise or other reservations with the guide can help.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Based on multiple reviews, guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Harry, Guru, and Armaan for their friendly attitude and packed knowledge. Many reviewers mention that their guides went above and beyond—stopping for rainbows, accommodating requests, and ensuring everyone’s safety.

The scenery gets high marks, with travelers describing the lakes, waterfalls, and mountain views as unforgettable. Some mention how the trip feels like a good mix of relaxing and active, with plenty of opportunities for photos, short walks, and quiet moments.

The value for money is generally seen as good, especially when considering the included transportation and diverse stops. However, the extra cost for gondola and boat rides should be factored in, as these are not included.

A few travelers noted that the hot springs are just pools, and the ticket price can add up if you do all the extras, so budget accordingly. Still, considering the variety and quality of sights covered, many find it a worthwhile day trip.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid, well-rounded experience of Banff’s most iconic sights. If you’re after a convenient way to see a lot in one day, it hits the right notes. The guides’ professionalism and local knowledge stand out, making each stop more meaningful.

It’s especially good for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing, photo ops, and a bit of mountain culture without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Be prepared for a long day, and consider booking your gondola tickets early to avoid missing out.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a private, exclusive experience, it’s excellent value for those who want the highlights and are happy to share the journey with other travelers.

FAQ

Do I need to book gondola tickets separately?
Yes, gondola tickets are not included in the tour. It’s recommended to book them in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your preferred time slot.

Is the hot springs open?
Currently, the Hot Springs are closed for maintenance, so you might find this part of the experience unavailable at the moment. Keep an eye on updates if soaking in mineral waters is a priority.

What attractions are included in the price?
For $57, you get round-trip transportation, a guide, a national park pass, and several stops at lakes, waterfalls, and viewpoints. Additional activities like boat cruises and gondola rides are extra.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 10 hours, making it a long but manageable day full of sightseeing and exploring.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops are mostly outdoor and scenic, which could appeal to older children. Be mindful of the long hours and outdoor nature of many stops.

What is the group size like?
The reviews suggest the group sizes are small enough for personal attention, with guides attentive to individual needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for variable weather, camera, water, and perhaps a snack or two. Check if your gondola or boat tickets need to be booked separately.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, gondola tickets, boat cruises, and hot springs admission are not included in the base price and should be budgeted for separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

In the end, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Banff that balances natural beauty and cultural charm. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to see the highlights without stressing over logistics, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides to enrich the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: