Banff

Beautiful Banff National Park lies in the majestic Canadian Rockies. First established in 1885, it is Canada’s oldest national park, spanning 6,641 square km (2,564 square miles) of protected terrain and encompassing picturesque mountains, glaciers, meadows, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs and a wide array of stunning wild life. Nestled in between Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, Mount Norquay, Sulphur Mountain, and Tunnel Mountain, the town of Banff  offers attractions, festivals, arts, outdoor and so much more.

 The summmer season sees approx 4 million visitors to the area. However, winter is low season and skiing in Banff is very popular with three ski resorts nearby; Ski Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise ski resort just a short drive from hotels.

Nearby Tunnel Mountain is very popular for quick hikes; named Tunnel Mountain because surveyors initially wanted to make a tunnel for the Trans-Canada (Canadian Pacific) Railroad right through the mountain.

On the edge of town, the Banff Sightseeing Gondola ascends Sulphur Mountain (2,281 m / 7,484 ft) year round, where a boardwalk beginning from the upper terminal takes visitors to Sanson Peak.

This 8 minute ride takes you up to the summit, the upper terminal at the top of the mountain.  Enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and the town of Banff.  You can also take a short walk along the Banff Skywalk, a one kilometre trail, to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada and the historic Sanson’s Peak Meteorological Station to get even better views of the spectacular mountain vistas. Rocky Mountain sheep are a common sight here.

Sulphur Mountain is also the location of one of the most popular attractions in Banff  -the Banff Upper Hot Springs.