Getting the Best Views: Banff Gondola and Lake Louise Gondola

Planning a trip to Banff National Park? The unforgettable views and experiences can turn a regular vacation into a memorable adventure, but, understandably, hiking up a mountain isn't necessarily on everyone's bucket list whilst on holiday!

Riding a gondola is one of the the top-recommended 'must-do activities' when visiting Banff National Park. The Banff Gondola and the Lake Louise Gondola are the two most popular options, although Mt Norquay and Sunshine Village are also great options. Each gondola offers its own unique perspectives of Alberta's breathtaking landscapes, catering to different types of explorers.

In this post, we will highlight the details of the Banff and Lake Louise Gondolas, looking at pricing, parking convenience, activities at the summit, dining options, and of course, the magnificent views. Whether you choose one or both, this guide will help you make the most of your experience!

What are the Banff and Lake Louise Gondolas?

Banff Gondola, located in Banff National Park, is just a short 10-minute drive from Banff Town. Ascending Sulphur Mountain to an elevation of 2,281 meters (7,486 feet), the top of the Banff Gondola offers stunning views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff.

First summited in 1896 by meteorologist Norman Sanson, the peak now features a scenic boardwalk leading to the historic Sanson’s Peak Weather Station. Originally built in 1959 and renovated in 2016, the gondola features modern glass-enclosed cabins, making the ride even more comfortable in any weather condition as you ascend for the (approximately) 8-minute journey over the lush, green alpine forest below.

The Lake Louise Gondola, located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, ascends Mount Whitehorn over a 14-minute ride to 2,088 meters (6,850 feet). Originally built in 1959 as part of the development of the Lake Louise Ski Resort, the Lake Louise Gondola has undergone several upgrades over the years. The Lake Louise Gondola provides the option to ride either the open-air chairlift or enclosed gondola (we definitely recommend taking the chair-lift one way on a beautiful summer's day).

On a clear day, the top offers views of the stunning Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier, and surrounding mountain peaks in the distance. Known as one of the best places in North America to spot grizzly bears in the wild, the gondola ride offers a rare opportunity to see these majestic animals as you pass over the protected wildlife corridor or venture onto one of the many trails.

Pricing

The cost of a gondola ride can change based on the season and the package you select.

The Banff Gondola starts at approximately CAD 59 for adults and CAD 29 for children for the 2025 season. Prices may rise during peak tourist seasons or holidays, especially if opting for a combined ticket that includes other attractions. For instance, during the summer months, ticket sales can increase by nearly 25%.

Meanwhile, the Lake Louise Gondola offers competitive pricing, with 2025 adult tickets beginning at CAD 54 and children’s tickets at CAD 27. Prices here can also fluctuate significantly based on the time of year, often peaking during weekends in July and August.

Considering both pricing structures, the total cost can add up quickly, especially for families or groups looking to visit both locations.

Parking

Finding good parking can be quite difficult in busy tourist spots across Banff National Park, and each gondola has its own parking situation.

Lake Louise Gondola in Banff National Park

When visiting the Banff Gondola, you will find some parking available at the base. However, it gets filled very quickly during the peak summer season. Early birds who arrive before 9 AM often often have more chance of getting a space. If you plan to arrive after then, we strongly encourage you to use the public transport system from Banff Town. As the gondola is just a short distance from downtown Banff, public transit is a viable option, not having to spend hours on a bus to reach your destination.

The Lake Louise Gondola has much larger parking facilities, but again availability can be limited, especially on summer weekends when demand is high. The parking area is slightly farther from the gondola station, requiring up to a 10-minute walk to reach it, depending on where in the car-park you find available space. This car park is also used for visitors whom are catching a shuttle to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise. The Lake Louise Gondola can be a fantastic option if you also plan to visit these lakes on the same day.

Activities Available to Do at Both

Reaching the summits of the gondolas introduces a variety of activities suitable for various interests and skill levels.

At the Banff Gondola, the upper terminal features observation decks where visitors can take in panoramic views of the Bow Valley. For those inclined toward hiking, there are not many hikes but one popular option is the short hike along the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, a scenic, maintained 1km boardwalk that offers incredible views over the Bow Valley on a clear day. Along the boardwalk you will also find various lookout points and information panels. More seasoned hikers might enjoy the Sulphur Mountain Summit Trail, a more challenging and less popular trail. Other activities include the interpretive centre, which offers history and insight into Banff National Park.

On the other hand, the Lake Louise Gondola offers its own set of enticing activities. From the gondola's peak, you can simply head to the first viewing platform, immediately off of the Gondola, and be rewarded with stunning views. From up here you can also access trails like the Trail of the Great Bear, an interpretive walk where visitors can learn about the region's rich wildlife, including grizzly bears, which will lead you to the interpretive centre and a larger viewing deck with chairs to sit and enjoy the summer sun.

For those seeking a more challenging trek, the Ptarmigan Valley Viewpoint Trail provides a rewarding ascent with panoramic vistas of Mount Temple and the Bow Valley. The Kicking Horse Pass Viewpoint is another excellent option, offering stunning perspectives of the Continental Divide. These trails, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous hikes, allow visitors to experience the pristine beauty of the Canadian Rockies while enjoying the high-altitude landscapes unique to the Lake Louise area. Additionally, there are also downhill mountain biking trails that run through the area, catering to all experience levels.

Photographers will find abundant opportunities to capture the stunning landscape, with views over the Victoria Glacier and down the valley. As always, if you plan to head out on a trail, know your skills and abilities, carry bear spray and know bear safety, be aware of weather conditions and pack all necessary items into a day pack.

Dining

After your adventures, both gondolas offer dining options that complement their scenic settings.

At the Banff Gondola, the Sky Bistro is a highlight. This licensed restaurant serves gourmet meals with a stunning mountain backdrop. Popular menu items include elk burgers and bison short ribs, and reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during peak seasons. The bistro even boasts a wine list featuring over 80 local and international wines to make your dining experience all the more enjoyable.

For a more casual option, the Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen offers a buffet-style spread with a mix of Canadian comfort food and international flavours, ideal for families or groups. If you're looking for a quick bite, Castle Mountain Coffee serves freshly brewed coffee, tea, and baked goods, making it perfect for a grab-and-go snack. In the warmer months, the Peak Patio offers a relaxing outdoor setting with casual bites, craft beers, and cocktails, all while soaking in the incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. There is also a Starbucks available at the base of the gondola where you can grab a quick bite or coffee before or after you embark on the Gondola.

In contrast, the Lake Louise Gondola features the more casual Whitehorn Bistro, ideal for a quick meal. This spot offers hearty options like sandwiches and fresh salads, as well as local craft beers. Guests can grab a bite while enjoying amazing views, making it a perfect stop before or after hiking. We would recommend bringing a bite to enjoy on the viewing platforms or along the hiking trails.

Views from the Top of the Gondolas

The views from these gondolas are undoubtedly breathtaking, and they play a major role in the overall experience.

From the top of the Banff Gondola, the views during the summer are absolutely breathtaking, offering visitors a 360-degree panorama of the Canadian Rockies. From the summit of Sulphur Mountain, you can see the iconic Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, and the rugged peaks of the Bow Range, all surrounded by lush alpine meadows. The town of Banff lies below, nestled in the Bow Valley, while the Bow River winds its way through the valley floor. On clear days, the view stretches as far as the Kananaskis Range and the Fairholme Range, offering one of the most spectacular vistas in the Canadian Rockies. The combination of towering mountains, dense forests, and winding rivers creates a stunning backdrop for sightseeing, photography, and simply soaking in the natural beauty of Banff National Park.

In contrast, the Lake Louise Gondola showcases the stunning Lake Louise, famous for its bright turquoise waters. From the summit, the panoramic views extend across the Bow Valley, with its lush forests and meadows, and the towering cliffs of Mount Temple in the distance. The landscape is especially dramatic in the summer months when the wildflowers are in full bloom, adding splashes of colour, like vibrant purple fire-weed, to the already stunning scenery. Whether you’re admiring the crystal-clear lake below or soaking in the vast, untouched wilderness, the views from the top of the Lake Louise Gondola offer a truly unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful corners of Banff National Park.

Views over Banff Town from the Banff Gondola

Final Thoughts on Your Gondola Journey

Both the Banff Gondola and Lake Louise Gondola present unique experiences you won’t want to miss. The choice between them will largely depend on your interests in dining, activities, and the type of scenery you wish to enjoy.

If convenience, dining, and easy access to hikes appeal to you, the Banff Gondola may fit your bill perfectly. For those in search of tranquillity and challenging trails, the Lake Louise Gondola stands out as a fantastic choice.

As you organise your trip, consider experiencing both gondolas if possible. Doing so will help you fully appreciate the diverse beauty that Banff National Park has to offer. Whichever path you take, stunning views and memorable moments await!

You can also check out our visits to both locations on our YouTube channel.