
Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes
Traveler rating
4.1/5
Based on 14 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes worth booking?
Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes is a 10-hour experience in Canmore, Canada, from $78 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.1/5 rating across 14 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.1/5 (14)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $78 per person
Start your journey from Calgary or Canmore with a scenic drive to Lake Minnewanka, a glacier-fed gem perfect for sightseeing, boat tours, or lakeside walks. Continue to peaceful Johnson Lake for a swim, picnic, or an easy loop trail walk surrounded by nature. Next, stop at Surprise Corner for breathtaking views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Bow River. Visit the stunning Bow Falls, just minutes from downtown Banff, where the roaring waters offer a great photo opportunity. For an unforgettable view, take the optional Banff Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain. At the top, enjoy panoramic vistas, mountaintop dining, and short hiking trails. Unwind at the Banff Upper Hot Springs in soothing mineral waters with mountain views. Then explore downtown Banff—browse shops, try local cuisine, or enjoy the alpine vibe along Banff Avenue.
What you get
About this experience
Start your journey from Calgary or Canmore with a scenic drive to Lake Minnewanka, a glacier-fed gem perfect for sightseeing, boat tours, or lakeside walks. Continue to peaceful Johnson Lake for a swim, picnic, or an easy loop trail walk surrounded by nature. Next, stop at Surprise Corner for breathtaking views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Bow River. Visit the stunning Bow Falls, just minutes from downtown Banff, where the roaring waters offer a great photo opportunity. For an unforgettable view, take the optional Banff Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain. At the top, enjoy panoramic vistas, mountaintop dining, and short hiking trails. Unwind at the Banff Upper Hot Springs in soothing mineral waters with mountain views. Then explore downtown Banff—browse shops, try local cuisine, or enjoy the alpine vibe along Banff Avenue.
What's included
Included
- Water Bottle
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Admission fees
Not included
- Meals
- Lake Minnewanka Cruise ticket (Book Online for 10:30 AM time Slot)
- Upper Hot Springs Tickets (Available Onsite only First Come First Serve Basis)
- Personal expenses
- Book Banff Gondola Tickets Online in Advance ( 2:10 PM Upload Time -3:30 Pm Download time)
What you'll see and do
Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is a beautiful glacial lake located just 10 km from Banff in Banff National Park. It offers activities like boating (motorized boats allowed), hiking scenic trails, picnicking, and in winter, ice skating and snowshoeing. The lake has a rich history, including a submerged old settlement and hydroelectric developments. Visitors enjoy stunning mountain views, easy access to trails, and picnic spots. Parking can fill up quickly in summer, so plan accordingly. Note : Lake Minnewanka Cruise is Not included in the Tour/Admission Ticket
60 minutes here
Two Jack Lake
Two Jack Lake, just 10 km from Banff, is a peaceful mountain lake known for beautiful views of Mount Rundle. It’s great for easy hikes, kayaking, swimming, and picnics. There are two nearby campgrounds with basic amenities—reservations are recommended. In winter, the lake freezes for ice skating and snowshoeing.
30 minutes here
Johnson Lake
Johnson Lake, located about 11 km from Banff, is a warm, peaceful lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, and easy hiking. It features a 2.8 km loop trail with beautiful views of nearby mountains. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and, in winter, ice skating. (Visit to this lake is Optional )
20 minutes here
Banff
Banff is a charming mountain town located in Banff National Park, Alberta. Surrounded by the stunning Canadian Rockies, it’s famous for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, hot springs, and exploring shops and restaurants. Banff offers year-round attractions, making it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
60 minutes here
Surprise Corner
Surprise Corner Viewpoint is one of the most famous scenic stops in Banff National Park. It offers a stunning postcard-style view of the historic Fairmont Banff Springs with the Bow River and surrounding mountains in the background.
15 minutes here
Bow Falls
Bow Falls is a beautiful, wide waterfall located just 1 km from downtown Banff on the Bow River. It’s easy to reach by foot, car, or public transit. Visitors enjoy scenic views, photography, and walking trails nearby. The falls are especially impressive during spring runoff and offer peaceful surroundings year-round.
40 minutes here
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola offers a scenic 8-minute ride up Sulphur Mountain, providing panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding Rockies. At the summit, visitors can enjoy the Sky Bistro for dining, explore the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, and learn about the area's history at the Interpretive Centre. The gondola is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are permitted.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Banff Upper Hot Springs is a popular natural hot spring located near Banff town, offering warm, mineral-rich waters with stunning mountain views. It’s perfect for relaxing after outdoor activities. The facility includes change rooms, showers, and rentals for swimsuits and towels. Tickets are only available onsite and not included in the tour price
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Canmore
Pickup Time: 9:30 AM – Moose Hotel & Suites (Banff) ▸ Wait near the hotel’s main entrance. ▸ The vehicle will stop briefly for boarding, so ensure you are visible to the driver. Your tour guide will greet you by name at the pickup point.
Meeting point
Canmore
Pickup Time: 9:00 AM – Save-On-Foods, Canmore (Address: 950 Railway Ave #2, Canmore, AB T1W 1P4) ▸ Meet your guide in-front of Save-On-Foods parking lot near Tim Hortons
Meeting point
Canmore
Pickup Time : 7:30 AM – Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown (Calgary) ▸ Meet your guide across the street (Passenger Loading Zone), Under Footbridge of Harry Hays Building.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Pickup Time: 9:30 AM – Moose Hotel & Suites (Banff) ▸ Wait near the hotel’s main entrance. ▸ The vehicle will stop briefly for boarding, so ensure you are visible to the driver. Your tour guide will greet you by name at the pickup point.
Ends at
Pickup Time: 9:00 AM – Save-On-Foods, Canmore (Address: 950 Railway Ave #2, Canmore, AB T1W 1P4) ▸ Meet your guide in-front of Save-On-Foods parking lot near Tim Hortons
Ends at
Pickup Time : 7:30 AM – Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown (Calgary) ▸ Meet your guide across the street (Passenger Loading Zone), Under Footbridge of Harry Hays Building.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 13 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Banff Trip Planner Inc.
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 14 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
4 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
14 verified traveler reviews for Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The trip was good but...
The trip was good but almost all of us on the trip had different itineraries and although we got to almost everything that was on our itinerary we also ended up going to 3 lakes that we already had been to. Love seeing everything, but the weekend was crowded to see lakes we just saw, made the day longer and I would not have booked to see the same things we already saw. Our driver and guide was nice, but trip was not what I thought we paid for.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad you enjoyed the trip and found our guide helpful. We’re sorry the itinerary wasn’t exactly as expected. Due to Parks Canada closures and access restrictions, we sometimes have to adjust the itinerary and make alternative stops to ensure everyone still has a great experience. We truly appreciate your understanding.
via Viator
The Ultimate Banff Experience – Reunited with Mr. Daman!
We were thrilled to have Mr. Daman as our guide once again for the Banff Highlights Tour, and he delivered another perfection-level day! We started early with peaceful, mirror-like reflections at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, followed by the majestic Bow Falls and the classic viewpoint at Surprise Corner overlooking the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Riding the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain offered breathtaking 360-degree views, and relaxing afterward at the Banff Upper Hot Springs was pure bliss. Mr. Daman’s warm hospitality, punctuality, and local expertise capped off an incredible series of trips. Banff Trip Planner is truly top-tier!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the amazing review! 🏔️ We’re thrilled you enjoyed the Banff Highlights Tour and had another wonderful day with our Tour Guide. It’s great to hear you loved Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Bow Falls, the Banff Gondola, and Upper Hot Springs. We truly appreciate your continued support and kind words about Banff Trip Planner! 😊🇨🇦
via Tripadvisor
Banff lake tour
Mr. G was amazing. Took us to all the main sites. Felt a little rushed but we did fit everything in so that was nice.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm glad you enjoyed the tour with Mr. G and were able to see all the main sites. We appreciate your feedback about the pace—we do our best to fit in as much as possible while making the experience enjoyable. We hope to welcome you again for another adventure!
via Viator
This is a hassle free way...
This is a hassle free way to visit the Banff . Mr G gave took us to our destinations on scheduled time and guided us where to go and gave some brief history and information of the places we went to visit.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind review. We're glad you enjoyed your Banff tour and that Mr. G helped make your experience smooth and enjoyable. We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again soon!
via Viator
Recommended
It was great. Going with a tour meant each stop was timed, but we always had time to walk around for 30-40 minutes. I could have used more time for lunch, but otherwise I didn't feel rushed, even with all the stops. Overall it was a great way to experience Banff's natural beauty without dealing with logistics or driving. Loved the view while sitting in the hot springs!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We’re so glad you enjoyed the tour and had enough time to explore each stop comfortably. Happy to hear you loved the hot springs views and could relax without worrying about driving or logistics. We hope to see you again in Banff soon!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $78 to $119
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Banff Trip Planner Inc., who run 13 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.4.
See everything Banff Trip Planner Inc. runsWhy this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Canmore.
How much does Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes cost?
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Prices start at $78 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Canmore usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes take?
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Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Canmore is not rushed.
Is Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.1/5 across 14 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Canmore, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes?
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Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Canmore can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Canmore and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Canmore within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Canmore?
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On Outty we rank every Canmore experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Explore Banff, Moraine Lake, Louise, Johnston Canyon & Bow Falls, 8 Iconic Stops. 12 Comfy Seats. See Banff's Best in First Class., Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Tour from Calgary - Canmore - Banff. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Canmore?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Canmore?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes?
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Included: Water Bottle; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Admission fees. Not included: Meals; Lake Minnewanka Cruise ticket (Book Online for 10:30 AM time Slot); Upper Hot Springs Tickets (Available Onsite only First Come First Serve Basis); and Personal expenses. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes?
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Pickup Time: 9:30 AM – Moose Hotel & Suites (Banff) ▸ Wait near the hotel’s main entrance. ▸ The vehicle will stop briefly for boarding, so ensure you are visible to the driver. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes?
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Across 14 reviews averaging 4.1 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
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