Experience Nightrise at the Banff Gondola.

I was excited to get out and experience Nightrise at the Banff Gondola.  These pictures do not even do it justice. It is always exciting when we get to experience our glorious backyard in a way we have not before.  Of course Banff, Alberta is known as one of the most picturesque places in Canada. Every year the National Park gets millions of visitors. Whether its summer, Winter, Fall or Spring there is a constant list of activities to fill your itinerary.

What is the Banff Gondola?

The perfect winter evening activity for all ages and abilities is one that I was intrigued to experience.  Nightrise at the Banff gondola boasts multi sensory art installations. Connecting you with the summit of Sulphur Mountain (Mînî Rhuwîn) through the Four Wonders. Interact with Cosmic Ray projections on the lower terrace. Bask in shimmering light at the second floor’s Diamond Dust station. Explore Alpenglow — a digital art tribute to the mountains on the fourth floor. Then continue to the top floor patio and listen to the view with Frosted Waves.

To experience the adventure:

Once the sun dips below the vast peaks of the Rockies, its time to make your way to Sulfur Mountain (Banff Gondola) located on the South of Banff. For the optimal experience check the sun set times and book accordingly. The ROAM public transport bus is a brilliant option to avoid parking and traffic issues. It has multiple times for your easiest convenience. Click here for a link to the route times. There is the option to drive to the Gondola but please be aware parking is limited.

Take the Gondola to the summit!

The gondola’s ascent up Sulphur Mountain sets Nightrise into motion. Music, narration and original soundscapes fill the gondola cabin as you soar more than 2,000 feet in the air. Look out at the mountain views on the way to the top and watch as daylight dims and night rises. Remember to book your tickets for the gondola in advance to avoid disappointment.

Once at the top:

Step onto the summit, where wonder awaits. Cosmic Rays (Apenene Garharhagach), Diamond Dust (Wiyapta Ptach), Alpenglow (Aîthîya Eya) and Frosted Waves (Yowatha) make up the Four Wonders — immersive stations of light, sound and projections spread throughout the summit building. There is a gorgeous boardwalk that give you the opportunity to take an evening stroll among the mountain tops. Remember to pack warm winter cloths and dress for cold weather.\

Work up an appetite:

Complete your evening with an unforgettable mountaintop meal before or after experiencing Nightrise. Reserve a table at Sky Bistro for elevated Canadian cuisine. Or, save a spot at Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen, the Banff Gondola’s buffet-style restaurant. For an extra delight, visit the Belvedere Rooftop Bar for a Nightrise-themed nightcap.

Interested in other Banff winter activities? Check out our Blog-7 Months of World Renowned Skiing. 

The pictures below give you a sneak peak of what to expect throughout this truly magical experience.