Sulphur Mountain
moderate Banff trail βœ“ Open

Sulphur Mountain

A well-graded switchback trail climbing to the Banff Gondola summit station with sweeping Bow Valley panoramas.

πŸ“ Distance 5.5 km one way + 0.5 km boardwalk
⬆️ Elevation Gain 655 m
⬇️ Elevation Loss 0 m
⏱️ Time 4 hrs
πŸ“… Season year-round
πŸ”οΈ Difficulty Moderate
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Trail Conditions Good conditions Updated 2026-06-14
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Parking 100 vehicles
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Typical Crowds Summer: high Β· Winter: medium

About This Trail

Ascending through dense forest via dozens of well-engineered switchbacks, the Sulphur Mountain trail delivers hikers to the gondola summit station at 2,281 metres. A boardwalk extends to the historic Cosmic Ray Station with 360-degree views of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the Spray River valley below. Those who prefer a one-way challenge can hike up and ride the gondola down, accessible via Roam Route 1.

Highlights

Summit boardwalk & Cosmic Ray StationSix mountain range panoramaOption to gondola down

Trailhead Information

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Starting Point

Upper Hot Springs parking

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Transit Accessible

Roam Route 1

Trail Location

Safety Tips

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Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bears are active throughout Banff National Park.

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Check trail conditions on the Parks Canada website before heading out.

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Tell someone your hiking plan β€” where you're going and when you expect to return.

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Bring layers. Mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer.

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Carry at least 1 litre of water per person. There are no water stations on most trails.

Check Latest Trail Conditions

Always check the official Parks Canada page for current conditions, closures, and advisories before heading out.

View on Parks Canada β†’