Banff Day Tour Johnston Canyon and Banff Gondola from Calgary
Overview
Embark on signature journey from Calgary—your gateway to the mountains—into the breathtaking, UNESCO-listed Banff National Park. We plunge into the heart of the Rockies, beginning your exploration with the dramatic Johnston Canyon.
Here, guests are allotted 60 minutes to explore the stunning gorge, walking along catwalks built right into the canyon walls (seasonal alternative: Marble Canyon or Cave and Basin).
Returning to the town of Banff, you have the (optional) opportunity to ride the famous Banff Gondola for spectacular 360-degree panoramic views from Sulphur Mountain. The afternoon continues with essential viewing stops, including the churning cascades of Bow Falls, the iconic 'postcard' photo of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel at Surprise Corner, and the unique geological spires at the Hoodoos Viewpoint.
The day concludes with approximately 90 minutes of free time for you to shop, explore, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Banff before the tour concludes.
Gallery
What's Included
✓ Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Crampons (winter) - usage is weather dependent
- Professional Driver/Guide
✗ Not Included
- Meals
- Personal spending
- Service fee (recommended $15/person, cash for driver/guide)
- Travel Insurance
- Banff Gondola admission (optional)
Itinerary
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Stop 1
The first pickup point is in Calgary, Alberta, a vibrant, modern city that serves as the primary gateway to the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Nestled in the rolling foothills where the prairies meet the mountains, Calgary is known for its soaring skyline, friendly, dynamic atmosphere, and rich Western heritage, famously hosting the world-renowned Calgary Stampede. While this stop is primarily for pick-up, you will immediately sense the urban-meets-nature energy of "Cowtown." From this energetic city, we head directly west, leaving the prairies behind to embark on a stunning drive. Upon arrival in the town of Banff, we will pause briefly to pick up further passengers before commencing our full exploration deep into Banff National Park.
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Stop 2
Banff National Park, Canada's very first national park and a flagship component of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encompassing 6,641 square kilometers of unparalleled natural beauty, the park is famous worldwide for its: Majestic Peaks: Towering, jagged mountain ranges carved by ancient glaciers. Glacial Lakes: Iconic, shimmering turquoise waters, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, that owe their vibrant colour to fine glacial rock flour. Diverse Wildlife: Home to elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and both grizzly and black bears. The park offers a stunning combination of rugged wilderness and easily accessible adventure, providing a truly unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience.
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Stop 3
Johnston Canyon, one of the park’s most popular and rewarding hikes. Here, Johnston Creek has carved a dramatic gorge through limestone rock over thousands of years. We will have around 60 minutes for a mini self-guided tour of the canyon. You will walk along secure steel catwalks built right into the canyon walls, providing thrilling, up-close views of the rushing water below. Follow the well-maintained trail to the Lower Falls and Upper Falls, where powerful cascades tumble into the deep gorge. From November to April, access to Johnston Canyon can be challenging. During this period, we typically visit Marble Canyon in Kootenay National Park instead. Free crampons will be provided for your use. All stops are weather dependent. Alternative: If both Johnston Canyon and Marble Canyon are closed due to weather or park restrictions, this stop will be replaced by a visit to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada's National Parks.
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Stop 4
Following the descent from Johnston Canyon, we will head back toward the town of Banff for the optional opportunity to ascend Sulphur Mountain via the famous Banff Gondola. The Banff Gondola whisks you 700 metres up the mountain in just eight minutes, delivering you to a state-of-the-art summit building at 2,281 metres (7,486 ft) above sea level. From the top, you can enjoy: Panoramic Vistas: Sweeping 360-degree views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the entire town of Banff below. Summit Exploration: Walk the scenic Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk to Sanson's Peak and the historic Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site. Dining and Exhibits: Explore the interactive "Above Banff" Interpretive Centre or grab a drink or meal at one of the summit's high-altitude dining options. Note: Tickets for the Banff Gondola are not included and must be purchased separately. Please let us know in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot!
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Stop 5
Bow Falls, a short and powerful cascade located just minutes from the town center and nestled below the majestic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Though the drop is relatively shallow, the falls are impressive due to their sheer width as the Bow River tumbles over the rock ledge. It is one of the most accessible and popular viewpoints in the park, offering a dramatic contrast between the rushing water and the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. You will have the opportunity to take in the views from several vantage points along the paved pathways, providing excellent photo opportunities of the churning water, the surrounding peaks, and the historic hotel crowning the hillside above. This scenic spot gained extra fame for being featured in the 1953 Hollywood film The River of No Return, starring Marilyn Monroe.
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Stop 6
Surprise Corner, the iconic "postcard" viewpoint of Banff National Park. As you round the bend on Tunnel Mountain Road, you are treated to the dramatic, sudden sight (the surprise!) of the majestic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel—the "Castle in the Rockies"—framed perfectly by the Bow River and the surrounding mountains. It's an essential photo stop.
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Stop 7
A short distance from Surprise Corner, the Hoodoos Viewpoint offers a different, but equally stunning, panorama. Hoodoos are tall, thin sandstone rock spires that have been sculpted over centuries by wind and water erosion. They stand along the riverbanks, creating a striking geological contrast against the vast backdrop of the Bow Valley and peaks like Mount Rundle.
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Stop 8
We conclude the day's sightseeing back in the heart of Banff. You will be dropped off at the center of the downtown area. Enjoy approximately 90 minutes of free time to shop, explore, or relax. You can browse the many souvenir shops, art galleries, and outdoor stores, grab a coffee or treat, and soak in the vibrant, historical atmosphere of this picturesque mountain town.
Meeting & End Point
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Meeting Point
08:00AM Front door of Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel. Tour guide will contact prior to pick up.
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End Point
08:00AM Front door of Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel. Tour guide will contact prior to pick up.
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Good to Know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels