Picturesque views over bright snow-covered mountaintops make this ascent to the summit of Sulphur Mountain a top trip.
Take a trip on the Banff Gondola to enjoy the fantastic panoramic views afforded by its glass cabin. Six different mountain ranges can be seen from the many viewing platforms at the Summit Complex, as well as plunging valleys and the town of Banff itself. There are also restaurants and a gift shop on site. The complex rises 2,281 metres above sea level.Open all year round, the gondola is only five minutes from Banff town. The summer season offers sunshine and the chance to see wild animals roaming the mountainside, while wintertime has a different kind of beauty to share, with dazzling snowy mountains and countryside. Be aware that temperatures can fall below zero in winter, and the wind is often strong, so make sure to dress appropriately for your trip. Even in summer the temperature at the summit is much lower than at the foot of the mountain. If it's a bit cold on the day you visit, retreat into one of the restaurants to enjoy the views at your leisure from the warmer environment inside.Venture along the 800-metre wooden walkway across the ridge to Sanson's Peak Meteorological Station for a quieter view over the landscape. This is also an excellent place for photos. The station is named in honour of the admirable Norman Sanson, who came up here every week for 30 years to record the weather in times before more modern technology was available.For more experienced climbers only, there is also a challenging rocky climb to the true summit of Sulphur Mountain.Banff Gondola is open all year round, except during planned maintenance. There are regular buses and taxis available to the bottom of the Banff Gondola route, and there's plenty of parking here too.