Cozy gondola, beautiful views from the mountain top, and excellent accommodations for lunch or lounging. However, aside from the views, a 10 minute iMAX-reel on Banff, and the lightly-interactive “museum”, there was nothing complimentary to the enormous price tag to ride the gondola. I would not ride this again at that price point.

Caught the Loam number one bus, last stop gondola. Park and ride. Starbucks available at base of gondola. Pre book your ticket and have up and down times. Gondola ride experience - ticket staff helpful, ride staff good at the bottom and the top. Groupings of 4 preferred but as I was alone, I had a whole cabin to myself. Upwards was a smooth ride. Top - go to 4th floor and work downwards. Fantastic views. Drinks, available, seating outside but no shade. 2nd floor Interpretation Centre great for kids too. Movie of Rockies every 15 minutes. Plenty of snow capped mountains. Well done. Watched twice. Outside has seating and more views. Souvenirs available. 2 hours went too fast but keep an eye on time for next journey. Down ride was a little scary at the start if you look down. Superimposed photos available at the bottom. Starting at $20+ Loam buses are regular for getting back to Banff. Pathway to top of next mountain should be attempted.

We really enjoyed this day! Obviously exciting going up to the top of the mountain in a gondola, but all the extra fun Christmas things they had was amazing! Santa was there, cookie decorating and ornament making. Cool Christmas cartoon and frozen maple treats. We walked the boardwalk and went all the way up to the top of Samson Peak. Breath taking views! My husband and both daughters (aged 9 & 15) really enjoyed this day. Amazing gift shop and also Starbucks service was great. Staff was very welcoming. Totally worth it!