Banff- Mountain Views
There’s something magical about waking up, pulling back the curtains, and finding yourself surrounded by the Rocky Mountains in every direction. Having already travelled through and around these peaks on our journey from Vancouver to Banff, we decided it was time to stand on top of one. In Banff, the easiest way to do that, is to take the cable car up Sulphur Mountain.
We often use Get Your Guide (GYG) when planning trips — creating a wish list, refining our ideas, and booking the experiences we settle on. It’s a fantastic tool, in my opinion. Knowing how busy the Banff Gondola can get, we booked well in advance, aiming for a mid-morning ascent so we could enjoy lunch at the top before heading back down.
After breakfast, we caught the Roam Transit bus (Route 1) to the base of Sulphur Mountain — about a 15-minute ride from our hotel. The station was already bustling with visitors, confirming we’d chosen a popular time slot. Boarding ran exactly on schedule, and soon we were gliding smoothly up the mountain. The ride takes around eight minutes, delivering ever-expanding views until you step out into a full 360-degree panorama over Banff, Mount Rundle, and the surrounding wilderness.
I spotted a few hardy hikers making the climb on foot. I’m not sure exactly how long it takes- probably dependent on fitness and determination, but for me, I suspect it would be a multi-hour affair with plenty of ‘photo stops’.
At the summit, wooden boardwalks lead you along to Sanson’s Peak, the highest point. It’s an easy walk with jaw-dropping views in every direction. On this September morning, the weather was bright but dotted with patches of cloud, allowing us to see mile upon mile of the Canadian Rockies. It was one of those moments we’d dreamed of, so we lingered, soaking it all in. The air was noticeably cooler, and we were glad to have brought our lightweight down jackets and woolly hats- a reminder that mountain weather calls for layers, even on clear days.
The summit complex has plenty to explore — an interactive theatre, a gift shop, a coffee bar, and a choice of dining options. We’d pre-booked a table at Sky Bistro, and it was worth it. Sitting by the window at 2,200 metres elevation, with the Rockies sprawling out before us, made for a truly memorable lunch.
Eventually, we had to head down, as it was time to change hotels. We said a fond farewell to Hotel Canoe & Suites and moved to Buffalo Mountain Lodge on Tunnel Mountain Road. Nestled among the trees, it offered a peaceful retreat just a short Roam Transit ride (Route 2, about six minutes) from downtown Banff. Our timber lodge-style room, complete with a balcony overlooking the forest, was quiet and well-equipped — so quiet, in fact, we never heard another guest during our stay. The lodge restaurant served hearty breakfasts with generous portions, and as always in Canada, the welcome was warm and genuine.
That evening, we returned to town for dinner at Melissa’s MisSteak on Banff Avenue, a spot recommended to us on social media. It lived up to the praise, and after a satisfying meal, we turned in early — the next day promised another highlight of our trip: the iconic Icefields Parkway drive to Jasper.
Tips:
- Purchase a Roam Transit local bus pass- Its well worth it.
- Pre-book the Gondola, as it’s popular and gets busy.
- Lunch at the Sky Bistro is a must, and try and reserve a window table.
- Ensure you have sufficient clothing. The temperature is a few degrees cooler on the summit and can change quickly.
- Get Your Guide in my opinion is an excellent app for planning and booking experiences.
Western Canada Grand Tour 