Sulphur Mountain Trail
A sustained forest climb to the gondola summit complex and Sanson Peak.
Route overview
Climb to the gondola summit, optionally visit Sanson Peak and descend on foot.
Long switchbacks rise steadily to the upper gondola terminal, where hikers can add the official boardwalk to Sanson Peak. Do not assume a paid gondola descent will be available; retain energy and equipment for the full walk down.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Banff National Park, Alberta
- Distance
- 9.6 km round trip plus optional 1 km summit boardwalk
- Typical duration
- 4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 655 m
- Best season
- Summer to autumn; winter only after avalanche and ice assessment
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No hiking permit; park entry required
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Steep grade, ice, altitude, fast weather and avalanche risk in snow season
Highlights
Sulphur Mountain, Sanson Peak, Banff panorama
Why find a buddy
A partner supports pacing and prevents unsafe reliance on gondola transport.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.