Banff

Banff Gondola

A short 5 minute drive from the town of Banff, enjoy a ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience the breathtaking panoramic 360 degree view of Banff National Park. The 4 passenger gondola transports visitors in 8 minutes to the view decks on top of Sulphur Mountain. Everyone enjoys the view! Take time for the walk to the Weather Station while photographing the scenery, wildlife, friends and family. A gift shop and restaurant ensure you have plenty of film and supplies. Dress warmly, even if it is warm at the Gondola Base.

You might also want to consider a visit to the Sulphur Mountain Hot Springs for a dip in the pools before returning back to Banff.

Elevation: 2,281meter (7,486 feet) above sea level.

2008 Operating Hours:

April 5 to May 30 - 8:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. 
May 31 to August 31 - 7:30 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
September 1 to October 13 - 8:30 A.M. to 6:30 P.M.

Offered By: Banff Gondola

Telephone: (403) 762-2523

http://www.banffgondola.com/

Cave & Basin Hot Springs

Three railway workers discovered warm water springs at this site on Sulphur Mountain in1883. This led to the establishment Canada's first National Park and the preservation of what is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can visit these special pools and learn about Banff's History while walking along interpretive boardwalks and trails.

2008 Operating Hours:

June 1 to August 31 - 9:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.

Offered By: Parks Canada

Telephone: (888) 773-8888
http://www.parkscanada.ca/

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

The Archives and Library of the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies was established in 1966 to collect and preserve historic documents and artifacts unique to the culture of Rocky Mountain life and its people.

Peter and Catheryn Whtye founded the Museum by donating the land and their private collection. Since this time many historians have contributed to the expansion of this collection. Their family members still live in the area.

The Whyte Museum hosts interesting walking tours through summer. The most popular of these is the Historic Banff Walk, which departs from the museum daily at 11:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M., taking around 90 minutes.

There are special evening presentations every 3rd Thursday of the month (some exceptions).

2008 Operation Hours:

10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Offered By: The Whyte Museum

Telephone: (403) 762-2291

http://www.whyte.org/

Golf Banff Springs Course

Renowned for its panoramic beauty, The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course is a captivating and challenging layout set in the heart of Canada's Rocky Mountains.

The course offers a breathtaking view in every direction and a magnificent layout that thrills every golfer fortunate enough to spend a day here. Amateurs and professionals alike are constantly amazed by its panoramic challenge. From the actual whole design to the optical illusions created by the surrounding mountains, this course will delight and tempt you.

Stanley Thompson, Canada's master golf course architect, used his expert talent when he designed the original 18 holes in 1928. The course winds along the Bow River under the snow-capped peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. In 1989, 9 holes were added, resulting in 27 holes of championship layout.

2008 Operation Hours:

May 15 to October 7 - 7:00 A.M. - 5:30 P.M.

Offered By: The Fairmont Banff Springs

Telephone: (403) 762-6801

www.banffsprings.com

Banff Horseback Adventure - Bow River Ride

Enjoy a 1 hour ride with the cowboys through the Cave & Basin, along the Bow River. The trail loops around a beautiful marsh trail, providing wonderful views of the surrounding mountains, Banff Recreation Grounds and Warner Stables.

2008 Operation Hours:

Mid-April to Mid-October

Departs daily every hour between 9:00 A.M. & 6:00 P.M.

Offered By: Holiday on Horseback
Telephone: (403) 762-4551

Toll Free: (800) 661-8352

http://www.horseback.com/

Kicking Horse Classic Whitewater Adventure

The Kicking Horse River provides a thrilling whitewater experience the adventurous vacationers. Travel 1 1/5 hours to the put in site. Transportation is available from Banff & Lake Louise or you may drive yourself.

Upon arrival to the Hydra private put in site, you will meet your river guides and be provided all the necessary rafting gear.

Once on the water, this unforgettable journey begins calmly and quietly, allowing rafters to familiarize themselves with the raft, their paddles and their guides' instructions. As the canyon narrows, the rapids of the mighty Kicking Horse begin a whitewater experience that will take each team of rafters paddling through up to class IV+ rapids, finishing 20 kilometers downstream!

You'll enjoy 2 hours of upper canyon rafting time followed by a delicious BBQ lunch.

2008 Operating Hours:

Mid-May to September

Banff - 8:15 A.M. or meet at the river at 9:45 A.M.

Offered By: Hydra River Guides
Telephone: (403) 762-4554

Toll Free: (800) 644-8888

www.raftbanff.com/

Fly Fishing

The Eastern slopes of southern Alberta are well known for Blue Ribbon Trout and breathtaking scenery. Whether it is for Big Brown and Rainbow Trout on the famous Bow River, or Cutthroat Trout high up in a spectacular alpine lake or stream, an experience can be designed to fit your needs.

These fly fishing trips are suitable for all skill levels. All the equipment you will need is supplied from quality rods, reels, lines and flies to waders and raingear. A picnic lunch and drinks are also provided.

The season starts in May with trips running into October. Fly fishing is at its best through the months of July and August.

Offered By: Tightline Adventures
Telephone: (403) 762-4548

www.tightlineadventures.com/

Alpine Helicopters - Royal Canadian Tour

On the perfect day, experience the thrill of being lifted by helicopter where views of the surrounding mountains take on a new perspective. View alpine meadows, pristine lakes and watch for mountain wildlife on this extraordinary 25 minute adventure.

Alpine Helicopters is located in Canmore, Alberta 20 minutes east of Banff.

2008 Operating Hours:

May 1 - Thanksgiving - 8:15 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

Offered By: Alpine Helicopters Ltd.

Telephone: (403) 678-4802

http://www.alpinehelicopters.com/

Alpine Helicopters

Royal Canadian Heli-Hike

Your journey will start with a 25 minute sight seeing tour, which takes you soaring over mountain ranges and delivers you to Mount Charles Stewart, where your hiking adventure begins. Lead by a qualified guide, you gain access to alpine meadows and ridges that can only be reached by helicopter. The duration of the hike depends entirely on the group's interest and abilities and will last 3 to 4 hours.

Alpine Helicopters is located in Canmore, Alberta, 20 minutes east of Banff.

2008 Operating Hours:

May 1 - Thanksgiving - 8:15 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
8:00 A.M. and 1:00 P.M. Departures - Reservations recommended.

Offered By: Alpine Helicopters Ltd.

Telephone: (403) 678-4802

http://www.alpinehelicopters.com/

Banff Carriage / Sleigh Ride

Steeped in tradition, carriage rides are a fun and romantic way to tour the town of Banff. Tours of Banff's picturesque townsite are available first come, first served and can be arranged at the Trail Rider store located at 132 Banff Avenue.

2008 Operating Hours:

10:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.

Offered By: Warner Stables & Spray River Corrals

Telephone: (403) 762-4551

Toll Free: (800) 661-8352

http://www.horseback.com/

Brewster Sightseeing

Columbia Icefields with
Ice Explorer

Duration: 9 Hours

Departs: 8:05 A.M.

Departs From: Banff Springs Hotel
Returns To: Banff Springs Hotel

Visit Lake Louise, the icon of the Canadian Rockies, before your spectacular journey along the Icefields Parkway. At Lake Louise stroll along its emerald green shores and enjoy the picture perfect view of the Victoria Glacier. After photographic stops at Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake, you head towards the impressive view at the Big Hill. On this guided tour learn about the unique ecosystem and the creation of the glaciers you experience on your way to the Columbia Icefield. After your ride on our all-terrain Ice Explorer, there is time to visit the Glacier Gallery, restaurant or gift shop at the Icefields Centre. Return to Banff in the late afternoon.

Brewster Sightseeing

Discover Banff with
Banff Gondola

Duration: 3 hours

Departs: 8:05 A.M.

Departs From: Banff Springs Hotel
Returns To: Banff Springs Hotel

The resort town of Banff is set amongst the towering mountains of Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade and Norquay. With a driver/guide learn about the natural attractions of the wind-shaped hoodoos and the Cave & Basin National Historic Site. Visit the classic viewpoint of Surprise Corner along Tunnel Mountain Drive. A gentle ride on the Banff Gondola in a four passenger car for 8-minutes takes you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for a 360 degree panoramic view of the Bow Valley. Join us as we share with you the story of how these majestic mountains, have shaped this unique community and the wonderful history of its people who live in this beautiful Townsite.

Brewster Sightseeing

Discover Lake Louise

Duration: 4 hours

Departs: 12:40 P.M.

Departs From: Banff Springs Hotel

Returns To: Banff Springs Hotel

Lake Louise, formed from the meltwaters of six glaciers, is the highlight of this round trip excursion. Journey in a Brewster luxury motorcoach past the waters of Vermilion Lakes to Johnston Canyon. Stroll through the lush trail along the canyon, relax by the lower falls or visit the quaint gift shop. As you pass by Castle Mountain you travel across a dividing point between the younger front ranges and the old main ranges of the Canadian Rockies. At Lake Louise there is plenty of time to stroll the lakeshore trails or explore the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. From here, the journey takes you to the picturesque setting of Moraine Lake prior to returning to Banff in the late afternoon.

Brewster Sightseeing

Mountain Lakes & Waterfalls

Duration: 9 hours

Departs: 8:20 A.M.

Departs From: Banff Springs Hotel

Returns To: Banff Springs Hotel

Explore the natural attractions of Lake Louise and Yoho National Park. With our experienced driver guide journey along the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon where time is provided for a short walk along the canyon. Learn about Castle Mountain while on your way to lunch (included). At Lake Louise, the "Jewel of the Canadian Rockies" you'll have time to stroll the shores and photograph the famous Victoria Glacier. In the afternoon see the incredibly blue Moraine Lake before crossing the Great Divide for a stop at the Spiral Tunnels viewpoint, where three lines of railway are laid at different elevations to cross the Kicking Horse River on four bridges. Marvel at Emerald Lake and then relax and wander around the trails at Takakkaw Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Canada before your return trip to Banff.

Brewster Sightseeing

Jasper to Banff with Ice Explorer

Duration: 8 hours

Depart: 8:00 A.M.

Departs From: Jasper Park Lodge

Returns To: Banff Springs Hotel

Built in 1940, the famous Icefields Parkway links Jasper and Banff National Parks along one of Canada's mountain roadways. Climbing from the low valleys to nearly treeline, experience three life zones, the montane, the subalpine and the alpine. Along the way make stops at major viewpoints of Athabasca Falls, Columbia Icefield, Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake. At the Icefields Centre you have time to visit the gift shop or the Glacier Gallery, snack at the restaurant, and ride on a Brewster Ice Explorer. On your way to Banff, experience the breathtaking waters of Lake Louise and the dominate Victoria Glacier.

Ice Explorer Ride

Everyone should take a day to explore the Icefields Parkway, the highway that connects Jasper and Lake Louise. This is where you will discover the Athabasca Glacier. Largest of all icefields in the Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield is guarded by 11 of the Rockies' 22 highest peaks. Here, perennial snow accumulates and turns to ice which flows to feed six major outlet glaciers, three of Canada's largest rivers and eventually three oceans. The ice straddles the Continental Divide, two provinces and two national parks. The ice is 365 meters (1,200 feet) thick - about the height of the Empire State Building.

You will travel onto the glacier in a specially designed "Ice Explorer" to a turnaround point atop 333 meters of ice. Be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket - it may snow at anytime during your 1.5 hour Ice Explorer ride! Tours depart every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the day.

2008 Operating Hours:

May 1 - May 31 - 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.

June 1 - August 31 - 9:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.

September 1 - September 30 - 9:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

Offered By: Brewster Sightseeing Tours

Telephone: (877) 423-7433

www.columbiaicefield.com/

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Your Ski Banff Lake Louise Sunshine lift ticket gives you the following benefits:

Unlimited use of all lifts at Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Mountain Resort as well as shuttle service from your hotel to all 3 areas. A 9 day lift pass is valid for use over 12 days.

Ski Norquay
Starting with the first ski runs cut in 1926, Mt. Norquay now encompasses a wide variety of terrain to suit everyone. Located 10 minutes from banff.

Lake Louise Mountain Resort
As Canada's largest single ski area, Lake Louise Mountain Resort offers four mountain faces, 4200 skiable acres, 139 named trails and a 6-person Gondola. Located 45 minutes from banff.

Sunshine Village
With the world's fastest gondola, over 3,300 acres of terrain on three mountains with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet (9.14 metres). Located 20 minutes from banff.

Youth Passes are for people between the ages of 13 and 17.
Child Passes are for people between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ski for free.

Transfer - Banff to the Calgary Airport

The Mountain Connector offered by SunDog Tours is a unique reliable, convenient and affordable service that guarantees a no fuss transportation option from Banff to the Calgary International Airport.

With 8 departures from Banff throughout the day the Mountain Connector allows you to sit back and enjoy the 2 hour journey from Banff to the Calgary Airport.

2008 Operation Hours

May 1 - November 30 - 11:45 A.M. - 9:00 P.M.

Offered by SunDog Tours

1-888-786-3641

www.sundogtours.com

Transfer - Calgary Airport to Banff

The Mountain Connector offered by Sun Dog Tours is a unique reliable, convenient and affordable service that guarantees extremely personalized, no fuss transportation to and from Calgary International Airport.

Customers arriving on flights between 8:30 A.M. - 9:30 P.M. will be met and directed to the next departure for Banff & Lake Louise. The drive from the Calgary Airport to Banff takes approximately 2 hours.

2008 Operating Hours

May 1 - November 30 - 9:15 A.M to 6:30 P.M.

Offered by SunDog Tours

1-888-786-3641

www.sundogtours.com

Brewster Sightseeing

Calgary Airport to Banff

2 hours

Departs: 12:30 P.M., 6:30 P.M.
Departs From: Calgary Airport

Sit back and enjoy the 2 hour journey from the Calgary International Airport to your Banff hotel. Ride in the comfort and safety of a luxury motorcoach with a knowledgeable driver/guide.

Brewster Sightseeing

Banff to Calgary Airport

2 hours

Departs: 8:30 A.M., 12:30 P.M., 4:00 P.M., 7:30 P.M.

Departs From: Banff

Sit back and enjoy the 2 hour journey from your hotel in Banff to the Calgary Airport or Downtown Calgary Hotels. Ride in the comfort and safety of a luxury motorcoach with a knowledgeable driver/guide.

Brewster Sightseeing

Jasper to Banff

5 hours

Departs: 1:00 P.M.
Departs From: Jasper

Sit back and enjoy the 5 hour express journey along the scenic Icefileds Parkway from your Jasper hotel to your hotel in Banff. Ride in the comfort and safety of a luxury motorcoach with a knowledgeable driver/guide.

Brewster Sightseeing

Lake Louise to Banff

1 hour

Departs: 6:45 A.M., 10:45 A.M., 5:15 P.M.

Departs From: Lake Louise

Sit back and enjoy the 1 hour journey from your Lake Louise hotel to your hotel in Banff. Ride in the comfort and safety of a luxury motorcoach with a knowledgeable driver/guide.

Transfer - Jasper to Banff

The Mountain Connector offered by Sun Dog Tours is a unique reliable, convenient and affordable service that guarantees a no fuss transportation option for travel between Jasper & Banff.

2007 / 2008 Winter Operating Hours

December 01, 2007 - April 27, 2008

Departs Jasper Hotels: 8:00 A.M. Daily / Arrives Banff Hotels: 12:15 P.M.

Transfer - Lake Louise to Banff

The Mountain Connector offered by Sun Dog Tours is a unique reliable, convenient and affordable service that guarantees a no fuss transportation option for travel between Lake Louise & Banff.

2007 / 2008 Winter Operating Hours

December 01, 2007 - April 27, 2008

Departs Lake Louise Hotels: 11:30 A.M. Daily / Arrives Banff Hotels: 12:15 P.M.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Lake Minnewanka lies in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park. View towering peaks, forests of pine and spruce, and wildlife such as Big Horn Sheep, Deer and Bears. Along the way guides will share stories about the areas Native history, geology and wildlife. The highlight of the tour is the Devil's Gap and the beautiful scenery surrounding this valley.

2008 Operating Hours:

May 12 to October 5 - 10:00 A.M., 12:00 P.M., 4:00 P.M. & 6:00 P.M.

Offered By: Minnewanka Tours

Telephone: (403) 762-3473

http://www.minnewankaboattours.com/

Mild Whitewater Adventure

The Kicking Horse River provides a thrilling whitewater experience the adventurous vacationers. Travel 1 1/5 hours to the put in site. Transportation is available from Banff & Lake Louise or you may drive yourself.

Upon arrival to the Hydra private put in site, you will meet your river guides and be provided all the necessary rafting gear.

The journey is about 1 hour on the river, after which a delicious BBQ lunch awaits. Ideal for children aged 5-11 years All rafters must be 5 years of age and weigh a minimum of 45 pounds.

Experience the thrills of a whitewater rafting adventure while enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Kicking Horse canyon. Tour includes licensed guides, gear, BBQ lunch & access to the private riverside facility.

2008 Operating Hours:

Mid-May to September

Banff - 8:00 A.M. or meet at the river at 9:30 A.M.

Offered By: Hydra River Guides
Telephone: (403) 762-4554

Toll Free: (800) 644-8888

http://www.raftbanff.com/