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Sulphur Mountain in Banff, Alberta

Sulphur Mountain, located in Banff National Park, is known for its hiking trails, natural beauty, and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies. The Banff Gondola is a cable car system that takes visitors from the base of Sulphur Mountain up to the summit.

Sulphur Mountain in Banff, Alberta
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Book Banff

Book Banff National Park Adventures and Attractions. Originally set aside to preserve sulphur hot springs for public use, Banff National Park's towering peaks and beautiful meadows make it among Canada's most incredible holiday areas.

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Banff Gondola Ride Admission

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Banff Gondola Ride up Sulphur Mountain

Ride the Banff Gondola to access the top of Sulphur Mountain, providing an easy and quick alternative to hiking. At the summit, there are interpretive areas, viewing platforms, restaurants, and boardwalk trails to explore.

Banff Gondola Ride up Sulphur Mountain
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Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Summit

A 1-kilometer boardwalk leads from the gondola terminal to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson's Peak.

Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Summit
Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Summit

Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Summit

Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Location

Sulphur Mountain is located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, near the town of Banff. The Banff Gondola base station is at 100 Mountain Avenue, just a few minutes' drive from downtown Banff.

Sulphur Mountain Elevation

The summit of Sulphur Mountain sits at an elevation of 2,281 meters (7,486 feet) above sea level.

Getting to Sulphur Mountain

Get to Sulphur Mountain By Gondola

The most popular way to reach the summit is via the Banff Gondola, which takes about 8 minutes and offers a comfortable, scenic ride with panoramic views.
The gondola base station is easily accessible by car, shuttle, or public transit (Roam Transit Route 1).

Hiking to Sulphur Mountain's Summit

The Sulphur Mountain Trail is a 5.5-kilometer (3.4-mile) hike with an elevation gain of 655 meters (2,150 feet). The Sulphur Mountain hiking trailhead is located near the Banff Upper Hot Springs parking lot. The hike takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace.

Sulphur Mountain Summit Features

Sulphur Mountain's Observation Decks

Multiple observation decks provide 360-degree views of the Bow Valley, the town of Banff, and iconic peaks like Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain.

Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Summit

A 1-kilometer boardwalk leads from the gondola terminal to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson's Peak. The boardwalk offers interpretive signs, history exhibits, and additional viewpoints.

Dining Options atop Sulphur Mountain

Sky Bistro

A fine dining restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing mountain views. Northern Lights Cafe: A casual café offering snacks, coffee, and light meals.

Sulphur Mountain's Interpretive Center

An interactive exhibit area that educates visitors on the geology, wildlife, and history of Sulphur Mountain and Banff National Park.

Sulphur Mountain Trail and Summit Details

Trail Length: 5.5 km (3.4 miles) one way.
Elevation Gain: 655 meters (2,150 feet).
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with a steady uphill climb.
Time Required: 1.5 to 3 hours for the hike up; shorter if taking the gondola

Best Season to Visit Sulphur Mountain

The trail and gondola are accessible year-round, but each season offers a unique Banff experience.
Summer/Fall: Ideal for hiking and clear views with warmer temperatures.
Winter: Snowy conditions make for a picturesque ride and summit experience; the trail is accessible with proper gear (e.g., microspikes).

Wildlife and Nature near Sulphur Mountain

The sulphur mountain is home to various wildlife, including deer, elk, and mountain goats. Bear sightings are possible, so carrying bear spray is recommended.

Sulphur Mountain Vegetation

Vegetation includes evergreen forests and alpine flora at higher elevations, offering beautiful sights throughout the seasons, from lush green in summer to golden fall foliage and snowy winter landscapes.

Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk Summit Notable Spots

Cosmic Ray Station

A National Historic Site of Canada, the station was built in the 1950s for scientific research and is accessible via the boardwalk.

Sanson's Peak

Named after Norman Sanson, who maintained a weather station at the summit for over 30 years. It provides one of the highest viewpoints on the mountain.

Events and Activities atop Sulphur Mountain

The Banff Gondola hosts special events like stargazing nights, sunset dinners, and holiday celebrations.

The Sulphur Mountain summit is a great spot for stargazing, as it has minimal light pollution. Sulphur Mountain offers a range of activities and experiences, from hiking and scenic gondola rides to exploring historical sites and enjoying fine dining, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies.

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Inside Sulphur Mountain and Banff Gondola


Sulphur Mountain via Banff Gondola Reviews

Sulphur Mountain Map

Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 2C0
Banff National Park
100 Mountain Avenue Banff, Alberta, Canada

Sulphur Mountain Contacts

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