Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park, Canada's first and most famous protected wilderness area. Established in 1885, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America. The day's journey takes you through dramatic canyons, alongside cascading waterfalls, and offers numerous viewpoints of the towering Canadian Rockies. Experience both natural wonders and charming mountain town culture as you explore this iconic alpine destination.
Journey Highlights
- Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola (Optional$$): Ascend Sulphur Mountain on a state-of-the-art aerial gondola to an elevation of 2,281 meters, offering breathtaking 360° views of six mountain ranges and the Bow Valley below. (Approx. 90min. stop)
* If closed, it will be replaced with Mt. Norquay Viewpoint and Vermilion Lakes. - Johnston Canyon or Marble Canyon:
●⠀Johnston Canyon: Explore this dramatic limestone canyon with its series of catwalks, tunnels and bridges that provide access to the lower and upper waterfalls amid pristine forest surroundings. (Approx. 60min. stop)
●⠀Marble Canyon: A stunning natural landmark located in Kootenay National Park. Known for its striking marble rock formations, the canyon features crystal-clear turquoise waters flowing through deep and narrow gorges. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along well-maintained trails. (Approx. 30min. stop)
*Note: This stop is not selectable and depends on the route and conditions of the day. - Bow Falls: Witness these impressive rapids where the Bow River dramatically cascades down a wide limestone ledge, a natural wonder that gained fame as a filming location for "The River of No Return" in the 1950s. (Approx. 15min. stop)
- Surprise Corner: Discover one of the most iconic viewpoints in Banff, offering a perfect vantage point for photographing the majestic "Castle in the Rockies" – the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel against its mountain backdrop. (Approx. 15min. stop)
- Hoodoos Viewpoint: Marvel at these unique geological formations – tall spires of rock created through erosion where harder rock caps protect the softer sedimentary rock beneath, creating distinctive pillar-like formations. (Approx. 15min. stop)
- Banff Town: Enjoy free time in this charming alpine community – the largest town within a Canadian national park – with its array of shops, galleries, cafés and restaurants nestled among stunning mountain scenery. (Approx. 90min. stop)