Planning a trip to Banff this spring or summer? There’s one small change you’ll want to know about: Parks Canada is planning to introduce paid parking to both the lower and upper parking lots of Sulphur Mountain.

This pilot project will run for three years beginning on May 15, 2026, and is designed to ease congestion in the area and make visiting this attraction easier.

But don’t panic! There are still plenty of ways to enjoy the mountain without breaking the bank. If you plan to arrive a little earlier or later in the evening, you can often grab a spot for free outside of the paid parking hours.

If you don’t feel like driving, shuttles and public transit are great alternatives that many visitors have already started to take advantage of. Carpooling with friends is another great way to keep things eco-friendly and save on parking.

Planning ahead is key. Consider ride-sharing, checking the transit schedules, or even hiking from a nearby spot for a little extra adventure.

Don’t let the parking fees stop you from visiting this amazing attraction and all the fun Sulphur Mountain has to offer.

Things to do at Sulphur Mountain

Sulphur Mountain isn’t just about the breathtaking views; it is home to many more amazing attractions.

For most, the highlight of this experience is the gondola ride, which takes you to the top of the mountain where you will be greeted by a 360-degree view of Banff.

Once you’re at the top, you can walk along the boardwalk trail, enjoy an easy hike and snap some incredible photos.

If you’ve mustered up an appetite after a full day of activities, head over to their Sky Bistro restaurant, grab a bite and then check out the interpretive centre where you can learn about the mountain’s history and the wildlife residing in it.

Fun fact, Sulphur Mountain also has a Starbucks with the highest elevation in Canada!

No matter how you choose to get there, Sulphur Mountain is a must-visit destination in Banff.

A little planning goes a long way, and with multiple ways to access the park, your mountain trip can still be relaxing.

Where: 100 Mountain Ave., Banff, Alta.

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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