Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring and Three Lakes Tour

Travelers looking for a seamless way to see some of the most iconic sights of the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of planning each stop will find this Banff: Gondola, Hot Spring, and Three Lakes Tour a compelling choice. Offered by Banff & Jasper Travels, this eight-hour adventure packs in a variety of natural wonders, allowing you to soak in mountain vistas, lakes, and hot springs with the comfort of guided transportation.

What we love about this experience is its combination of stunning views and well-organized itinerary — especially the chance to ride the Banff Gondola and relax at the famous Hot Springs. The tour’s value for money shines through, given the diverse highlights covered in just a day. However, keep in mind that some activities, such as the gondola and boat cruise, are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of natural beauty, easy logistics, and local insights, this tour is well suited. It’s particularly ideal for those with limited time in the Rockies who still want a rich snapshot of what Banff and its surroundings have to offer.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining lakes, mountains, hot springs, and scenic rides
• Expert guides who provide informative commentary and personalized attention
• Great value for the price, considering transportation, park passes, and multiple stops
• Flexible options with optional activities like gondola rides and boat tours at extra cost
• Small group setting for a more intimate, engaging experience
• Ideal for time-conscious travelers seeking a rundown of Banff’s natural beauty

You can check availability for your dates here:

Transportation and Logistics

Starting from either Calgary or Canmore, the tour uses comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles to whisk you away on a scenic journey into the Rockies. The pickup times are well spaced out — 7:30 AM from Calgary, 9:00 AM from Canmore, and 9:30 AM from Banff — making it flexible to your travel plans. The group sizes tend to be small, which means you get more personalized attention, more chances for questions, and better photo opportunities.

Travel time from your pickup point to Banff is part of the adventure, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the landscape before the day’s main activities. The guide’s insights during transit are often praised, with some reviewers highlighting how they appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable guides like Inder, who often go above and beyond.

Lake Minnewanka: Scenic Boat and Beyond

Your first major stop is Lake Minnewanka, a highlight for many visitors. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat tour on the lake, which offers a peaceful way to see the surrounding mountains and possibly spot wildlife. As one reviewer describes, the boat cruise is a “great way to see the area in comfort,” and the lake’s calm waters reflect the towering peaks, creating picture-perfect moments.

While the boat cruise isn’t included in the booking price, it’s worth considering as it provides a different perspective of the landscape. The lake also offers options for fishing and hiking at your own expense, so if you’re feeling active or want some quiet time, there’s flexibility.

Johnson Lake: A Tranquil Retreat

Next, you’ll visit Johnson Lake, a beautiful spot perfect for picnics, swimming, and leisurely walks. With a loop trail around the lake, visitors often find it a peaceful oasis. The reviews mention how relaxing it is, with some noting that this stop provides a “peaceful escape” amid the more bustling stops.

The Viewpoint at Surprise Corner

A quick drive brings you to Surprise Corner, famed for its breathtaking views of the Banff Springs Hotel and Bow River. It’s a classic photo stop, and many travelers have shared how this spot made them feel like they were in a postcard. The scenery here captures the grandeur of the Rockies and is a favorite among those who love landscape photography.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bow Falls Viewpoint and Banff Downtown

Just a short walk from the town center, Bow Falls offers a powerful waterfall that’s easily accessible. Reviewers frequently praise the ease of this stop and how it’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the natural force of the falls.

Following these outdoor highlights, the tour often includes some free time in Banff Downtown. Here, you can browse shops, eateries, and galleries, enjoying the lively local atmosphere. It’s a great chance to try local cuisine or pick up souvenirs.

The Banff Gondola Experience

One of the tour’s marquee features is riding the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. The gondola ride offers panoramic views of the Rockies, and many reviews highlight it as a “not-to-be-missed” experience. At the top, you can explore hiking trails, visit the interpretive exhibits, and dine at the mountaintop restaurant, all while enjoying the vast mountain vistas.

However, it’s important to note that the gondola ticket isn’t included in the base price — currently around CA$95 — so you’ll want to budget for that extra. Some reviewers, like one who said the gondola “was an experience you wouldn’t want to miss,” consider it well worth the additional cost.

Hot Springs: Relaxing Mineral Waters

After a day of sightseeing, unwinding at the Banff Upper Hot Springs offers a perfect way to relax. The mineral-rich waters, set against the backdrop of the mountains, provide a soothing experience praised by many travelers. One reviewer simply said, “a perfect relaxation spot after a day of adventure.”

It’s worth mentioning that the hot springs are subject to seasonal closures — the facility is closed for maintenance from October 29 to 31 and November 4 to 15, reopening on November 16.

Exploring Banff Downtown

The tour wraps up with free time in Banff’s vibrant downtown area. Here, you can stroll along Banff Avenue, enjoy local restaurants, or browse art galleries. Many travelers appreciate the chance to soak in the town’s lively atmosphere and pick up souvenirs before heading back.

What’s Not Included and Extra Costs

While the tour includes round-trip transportation, a national park pass, a knowledgeable guide, and bottled water, some key activities are extra. The gondola ticket, hot springs admission, and the Lake Minnewanka boat cruise are not included in the $78 rate. Budgeting for these extras can enhance your experience but also adds to the overall cost.

The Value of This Tour

At $78 per person, this tour offers impressive value considering the diversity of sights and activities packed into a single day. Reviewers frequently mention that the guides are knowledgeable and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience. One reviewer raved, “Inder is a great guide and made sure to accommodate all of us,” emphasizing the small-group nature that allows for personalized attention.

Given the variety of stops—lakes, waterfalls, mountain views, hot springs—most travelers find they get a thorough taste of Banff’s natural beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The inclusion of park passes and transportation further simplifies logistics, making it an appealing option for travelers who want a hassle-free adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors looking for a rundown of Banff’s highlights. It also suits those with limited time but still want a deep dive into the Rockies’ scenic wonders. Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone craving a relaxing yet active day will find plenty to love.

However, if you’re afraid of heights, or have altitude sickness, keep in mind that some activities like the gondola might not suit you. Also, those seeking a very leisurely or unstructured day might prefer to explore independently.

For the price, this Banff tour delivers a well-rounded experience filled with spectacular vistas, relaxing stops, and insightful guides. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want maximum exposure to Banff’s natural beauty without the stress of planning every detail.

The combination of stunning lakes, mountain views, natural hot springs, and a scenic gondola ride offers a rich sample of the Rockies’ grandeur. The tour’s emphasis on personalized attention and expert guidance ensures you’ll feel both informed and cared for throughout the day.

If you’re after a memorable, value-packed day that covers many of Banff’s most iconic sights, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember to budget for the extras like gondola and boat cruise, and prepare for a full day of awe-inspiring scenery and relaxation.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation in a comfortable vehicle from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff.

Do I need to buy tickets for attractions separately? Yes, activities like the Banff Gondola, Hot Springs, and Lake Minnewanka boat cruise are paid on-site separately from the tour price.

How long is the tour? The full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours, with pickups starting early in the morning.

Can I join the tour if I’m staying in Calgary? Absolutely — the tour departs from Calgary, making it convenient for those based there.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors? The tour is generally friendly for most ages, though those with height or health issues should consider the gondola’s height and altitude.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, camera, food and drinks, and a charged smartphone are recommended. Avoid high heels, drones, and alcohol.

Are there any seasonal closures? Yes, the Banff Gondola is closed for maintenance from October 29-31 and November 4-15, reopening on November 16.

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

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, relaxation, and local insights — a dependable choice for making the most of a day in Banff.

You can check availability for your dates here: