Banff Day Trip: Johnston Canyon, Fairmont Banff Springs, Gondola

Travel from Calgary to Banff National Park Pickup Locations & Times This tour offers 2 pickup locations in Calgary. Please select your preferred starting point when placing your booking. 07:30AM [NE Calgary] Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel — 07:45AM[Downtown Calgary] Bus station in front of the Harry Hays Building (across the street from the Delta Calgary Downtown Hotel), on 4th Ave SE — 07:45

Your adventure begins as our professional guide warmly welcomes you at the Elk + Avenue Hotel in the heart of Banff. With a friendly smile and a wealth of local knowledge, they’ll ensure you feel at ease from the very start. （Boarding in Calgary: approx. 1.5 hours to Banff; Boarding in Canmore: approx. 20 minutes to Banff.）

Travel to Banff National Park, where the day begins on Sulphur Mountain. Ride the Banff Gondola (Optional Add-on activity) for sweeping, high-alpine views—snow-capped peaks encircling a dramatic Rocky Mountain landscape. OPTIONAL ADD ON : Banff Gondola

SUMMER :Hoodoos are striking natural rock formations; tall, slender spires of sedimentary rock topped with harder caps that slow erosion, formed over thousands of years as wind and water wear away softer layers.

Bow Falls is a wide, powerful waterfall on the Bow River near Banff, known for its roaring flow, misty spray, and dramatic mountain backdrop. Unlike tall plunging falls, it spreads forcefully across the river, especially impressive in late spring and summer.

Surprise Corner for a postcard-perfect view of the river and the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. The view reveals exactly why this spot is known as Surprise Corner.

This iconic gem is nestled among the majestic Rocky Mountains with the clear Bow River at its feet. Step inside this castle-inspired landmark and enjoy lunch (Optional with additional fees). Guests may upgrade to a refined French-brasserie–style dining experience. NOTE : LUNCH STOP

SUMMER :Explore Johnston Canyon, one of the Rockies’ most beloved canyon walks. Follow elevated pathways to thundering waterfalls framed by limestone walls. If Johnston Canyon is closed due to maintenance or other unforeseen conditions, the visit will be replaced with Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake. WINTER :Start the day with an immersive hike through Johnston Canyon, where the well-maintained trails lead you along dramatic limestone cliffs to the breathtaking Lower and Upper Falls. This 2-hour adventure offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls and lush forests.

Drop off : After a day immersed in alpine grandeur, return to Banff/ Calgary, concluding a truly spectacular Rocky Mountains experience. Estimated return Banff : 6:00 - 7:00 PM Estimated return Calgary : 7:30 - 8:30 PM