Staying at Sunshine Village: A Mountaintop Hotel in Banff National Park
If you are looking for a unique, family friendly, stay in Banff National Park, you will love Sunshine Mountain Lodge at Banff Sunshine Village. We stayed here in late September for larch season and it was such a fun and romantic stay. From mountain views, hikes starting literally at your doorstep, to soaking in the huge hot tub and enjoying mountaintop dining, you can’t beat this as the perfect hotel stay in Banff.
This was our first time staying in a hotel you have to take a gondola to, and that was a huge part of the appeal. At 7,100 feet, it’s Banff’s only mountaintop hotel. Getting to stay ON the mountain is an amazing experience in both summer and winter, and one you need to have when you visit Banff next.
In the summer, you have easy access to so many hiking trails in Sunshine Meadows, wildflowers in late July and August, and some of the best larch hikes near Banff in September. And in the winter, Sunshine Mountain Lodge is ski-in, ski-out, and gets you first tracks before other skiers take the gondola up in the morning.
After a wonderful two night stay at the start of fall, we would 100% stay here again. And we can’t wait to check out the lodge in the winter during ski season.
→ Planning a trip to Banff? Make sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Banff and the Canadian Rockies for everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip. You can also check out our full guide on where to stay in Banff and Canmore for more hotel and campground options in the area.
Mountain views and easy mountain access right from the lodge
Sunshine Mountain Lodge at a Glance
Location: Sunshine Village ski resort and summer gondola is inside Banff National Park, Alberta. It’s about a 20-minute drive from downtown Banff and roughly 99 miles (160 km) from Calgary International Airport.
Elevation: 7,100 feet (2,164 m)
Access: By gondola only, though guests have access to a shuttle later in the evening. You check in at the base, and staff deliver your luggage to your room while you ride the gondola up, which takes about 20 minutes. Summer gondola hours are 8 AM to 6 PM daily.
Gondola passes: Included for hotel guests for the duration of your stay. You will get your passes when you check in at the base, and need to keep them with you for gondola and chair lift access.
Best for: Hikers, larch and wildflower season, couples, and families. It’s also ski-in, ski-out in winter, so perfect for skiers and snowboarders.
When we stayed: Late September 2026, during the start of larch season.
Price range: From $525 CAD/night in summer, and $299 CAD/night in winter (plus resort fee).
Our verdict: This is the most unique place to stay in Banff, with Sunshine Meadows hiking right outside your door and none of the crowds you’ll see in downtown Banff.
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Sunshine Mountain Lodge, but all opinions and any reviews in this post are our own. It may also contain affiliate links, which earn us a small commission should you book a hotel or make a purchase by clicking on one of our links (at no extra cost to you). We appreciate your support, these links help us keep this blog up and running and free to you!
Table of Contents
Views from the Standish Express Chairlift
Why Sunshine Mountain Lodge is One of the Most Unique Hotels in Banff
Yes, we said it, Sunshine Mountain Lodge is one of the most unique places to stay in Banff. Not only do you get to stay, play, and dine on the mountain, but you also get to take the gondola up to your room. And once you’re at Banff Sunshine Village, your stay as a lodge guest includes unlimited access to both the gondola and the Standish Express chairlift, where you’ll get epic views from the Standish Viewing Deck without even having to hike.
We also really loved being away from the crowds in downtown Banff. You get a quieter, more romantic experience, perfect for couples and special occasions. It’s even a great place to stay before or after backpacking to Mount Assiniboine, since one of the main routes to Og Lake and Lake Magog starts right at Sunshine Meadows via Citadel Pass.
Wake Up in Sunshine Meadows (Before the Day Crowds Arrive)
A huge perk of staying at the lodge is also the fact that you get to wake up in the mountains of Banff National Park. We watched the sunrise from our room, and got to hit the trails to Rock Isle Lake before any other hikers, since the gondola didn’t start running until after sunrise in September. And during ski season, you’ll easily get first tracks and can get the first chair before other skiers arrive.
Who Sunshine Mountain Lodge Is (and Isn’t) For
If you love hiking and being out in nature, but also like coming back to a hot tub and a real bed at the end of the day, this lodge stay was made for you. Staying at Sunshine Mountain Lodge gives you all the comforts of a luxury hotel, with trails, huge mountain views, restaurants, and a cozy café right outside your door.
It’s an especially great fit if you’re:
A hiker who wants to be on the trail early. You can be walking through Sunshine Meadows before the first day-trippers ride up the gondola.
Visiting for larch or wildflower season. The meadows are at their best then, and you’ll be sleeping right in the middle of them.
A couple looking for a special Banff getaway. It feels a world away from the busy townsite.
A family with kids who love the outdoors. Easy trails, s’mores, movie nights, and ranger walks keep everyone busy.
That said, it isn’t the right stay for everyone. This isn’t a budget hotel. You’re paying a premium for the mountaintop location, but that’s what makes it so special.
It’s probably not the best fit for you if:
You want to explore downtown Banff in the evenings. The gondola runs on a set schedule, so a night out in town takes some planning.
You want lots of dining options. You’ll have a few on-mountain restaurant choices and a cafe, but not the variety you’d find in town.
You’re traveling with a pet. The lodge doesn’t allow pets.
You’re on a budget. The luxury stay in a premium location comes at a luxury price. Staying in Banff or Canmore and riding the gondola up for the day will save you a lot.
Sunshine Mountain Creekside Lodge and Gondola
Where Is Sunshine Mountain Lodge? Location and Getting There
Sunshine Mountain Lodge is located in Banff National Park, Alberta, about 20 minutes from downtown Banff. The hotel sits at the top of the Sunshine Village gondola, and you get to take the gondola up to get to your room.
Distance from Banff, Canmore, and Calgary
The gondola base is just off the Trans-Canada Highway, about a 20-minute drive west of the Banff townsite. That makes it easy to pair your stay with a few nights in town or other stops in the park.
From Banff: 20-30 minutes
From Canmore: About 35 minutes
From Lake Louise: About 40 minutes
From Calgary International Airport (YYC): 2 hours
Since the lodge is inside Banff National Park, you’ll need a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily pass for your vehicle.
Guest Services and Check-in at the base Creekside Lodge
Checking In at the Gondola Base
Your stay starts with checking in at the desk at the bottom of the mountain in the Sunshine Village base area. Once you arrive, head to the lodge check-in desk inside of Creekside Lodge. There you’ll get your complimentary gondola tickets for the duration of your stay and a parking pass.
If you you have a lot of luggage, or just don’t want to carry it on your gondola ride, you can hand off your luggage to the concierge for them to drive it up to the lodge. They will then deliver it to your room in about 90 minutes.
After you’ve checked in at the base, head to the gondola loading and enjoy a beautiful 20-minute gondola ride up through the forest to Banff Sunshine Village. Once off the gondola, it’s a short to the lodge where you will check in at the front desk and get your room keys.
Bring a warm layer for the gondola ride up, even in summer. It’s often noticeably cooler at the top of Sunshine Meadows than it is in the parking lot.
Gondola Hours and Late Arrivals
The lodge is only reachable by gondola or hotel shuttle. In summer, the gondola runs from 8 AM to 6 PM daily, so plan to arrive before the gondola closes.
If you are planning on arriving after 6 PM, let the hotel know in advance, they can arrange a private vehicle to drive you up to the lodge. They told us they needed 24 hour advance notice to have a shuttle ready when we arrived.
Sunshine Village Lodge guest parking near the gondola base
Parking at Sunshine Village
As a hotel guests, you will get a parking pass at check-in, and your car stays at the base parking area for your whole stay. If you want to head into Banff for dinner or go for a hike in a different part of the national park, you can let the hotel know and they will arrange a private vehicle to drive you from the mountain base to the lodge if you get back after the gondola closes.
Parking and the Free Shuttle from Banff
If you’d rather skip the drive to the base, Sunshine Village runs a free daily summer shuttle from the Town of Banff, with no reservation needed. Pickups are at several hotels around town.
In 2026 it ran from June 20 to September 20, so if you’re coming for peak larch season in late September, plan on driving.
What’s Included with Your Sunshine Mountain Lodge Stay
Staying at Sunshine Mountain Lodge is better than your typical hotel stay. There are a lot more perks to your on-mountain experience than just a beautiful view. Your stay includes unlimited access to the Sunshine Village gondola and Standish Express chairlift, a huge outdoor hot tub with a cozy sauna, spa access, a fitness center, and easy access to on-site restaurants.
There are also family-friendly activities like s’mores making and movie nights, and even the option for a guided walk through Sunshine Meadows to learn more about the history of the area and its flora and fauna.
Hotel Gondola Passes for Your Whole Stay
With your lodge stay, you will get gondola passes that work for both the main gondola and the Standish Express chairlift (next to the hotel). We loved that we could come and go from the mountain throughout our stay and ride the chairlift to the Sunshine Meadows Viewing Deck. Unlimited and unschedule rides is a great way to keep your visit flexible.
Hot Tub, Sauna, and Fitness Room
After a full day outside on the trails, the lodge offers one of the biggest outdoor hot tubs in Banff, plus a co-ed sauna to soothe your sore muscles. We loved the easy access and all-day hours for both, and soaking in an on-mountain hot tub with views of the surrounding peaks is hard to beat.
The fitness center has the usual cardio machines (treadmill, elliptical, and rower), yoga mats, and an area to stretch, in case you have a little extra energy during your stay.
Our Sunshine Mountain Lodge Review: The Rooms and What We Loved
We absolutely loved our two night stay at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge in late September, and honestly can’t recommend it enough! From the moment we checked in, we felt so comfortable in our corner suite and the easy hiking access was amazing.
Prior to our stay, we spent four days backpacking in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, and it was such a treat to be able to hike out from our last campsite via Citadel Pass, directly to the lodge. It was such a pleasure to get a nice room, have a good meal, and relax in the hot tub after three very chilly nights in the backcountry.
So if you’re backpacking in the area, we definitely recommend booking a night or two at Sunshine Mountain Lodge after your trip. We talked to another couple on the trail who were doing the same.
What We Loved Most About Staying on the Mountain
In all the years we’ve spent visiting Banff, this was our first time staying at Sunshine Village, and we will definitely be back. The highlights of the stay for us were our cozy room with beautiful mountain views, the two-hour ranger-led walk through Sunshine Meadows we did to learn about the area, and hiking up to the top of Mount Standish for sunset and having it all to ourselves. We also loved being away from the crowds of downtown Banff in such a beautiful setting.
Soaking in the Outdoor Hot Tub After a Day on the Trails
We’ve definitely already talked up the hot tub, but it really was such a treat to have such a large outdoor hot tub at the lodge. Even with other people soaking at night, there was plenty of room for everyone to have their own space, and it was a very relaxing experience. We can only imagine how magical this hot tub must be in the winter after a long day of skiing at Banff Sunshine.
Hiking along the first mile of the Citadel Pass Trail
Best Hikes from Sunshine Mountain Lodge (Right from Your Doorstep)
Our favorite thing about staying at Sunshine Mountain Lodge is that you can walk out the front door and be on the trail in minutes. Within a short hike from the lodge you’re surrounded by alpine meadows, larch trees, and beautiful lakes, along with views across the Continental Divide.
The best part is how much you can see without a long approach. For big views with no hiking required, the Mount Standish chairlift takes you straight to a viewing platform overlooking the whole Sunshine Meadows area. Chairlift tickets are included with your gondola tickets and hotel stay.
If you want a classic half-day hike, the Sunshine Meadows Loop links Rock Isle, Grizzly and Larix Lakes and is packed with wildflowers in summer and golden larches in September. And for a bigger day, Citadel Pass is our top pick. It takes you deep into the alpine to a pass on the edge of Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, and it’s one of the most scenic day hikes in Banff.
Planning to hike in Banff? Here’s what to pack for day hikes.
Overview of Sunshine Mountain trails. Mount Standish via Chairlift (purple), Sunshine Meadows Loop (red), Healy Pass (orange) and Citadel Pass (blue).
Sunshine Meadows Hikes at a Glance
| Trail | Distance & Elevation | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Standish via Chairlift | Distance 3.2 km (2 mi) Elev. Gain 30 m (98 ft) Duration 1 - 1.5 hrs | Easy | Take the Standish Express chair up and walk back down to the lodge. Big Sunshine Meadows views with almost all downhill walking. |
| Sunshine Meadows Loop | Distance 11 km (6.8 mi) Loop Elev. Gain 427 m (1,400 ft) Duration 3 - 5 hrs | Moderate+ | Alpine lakes, wildflowers and larches in a half day. It covers all the popular spots from the Monarch viewpoint to Larix, Grizzly and Rock Isle Lakes |
| Rock Isle Lake Loop | Distance 7.4 km (4.6 mi) Loop Elev. Gain 191 m (627 ft) Duration 2 - 3 hrs | Moderate | A modified version of the Sunshine Meadows Loop that takes the Standish Chairlift at the beginning. Skips Monarch viewpoint but keeps Larix, Grizzly and Rock Isle Lakes |
| Healy Pass | Distance 18.3 km (11.4 mi) Out and Back Elev. Gain 714 m (2,341 ft) Duration 6 - 8 hrs | Strenuous | Larch meadows and big views over the Egypt Lake area. |
| Citadel Pass Trail ★ Top Pick | Distance 18.5 km (11.5 mi) Out and Back Elev. Gain 655 m (2,150 ft) Duration 6 - 8 hrs | Moderate+ | Full-day alpine hike to the edge of Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. Alpine meadows and epic mountain views from the pass. |
Sunset views from the Standish Viewpoint
Mount Standish via Chairlift
Distance 3.2 km (2 mi) | Elevation Gain 30 m (98 ft)
This is the easiest way to get an amazing view without much hiking. Ride the Standish chairlift up, then walk the short, mostly flat trail to the viewing platform.
The viewing platform is a great photo spot and place to enjoy your view epic views of the mountains in the distance. You can look out over the meadows, Rock Isle Lake and, on a clear day, you may even see the pointed summit of Mount Assiniboine.
We choose to go on a two hour hosted trail walk, where a trail host guided us up the Standish chairlift telling us about the natural history of the area, the ski resort, and Banff National Park. Then we hiked down as a group learning more about the flora and fauna in the meadows. It was a great add-on to the hike. It’s a great option for families, anyone short on time, or a mellow first afternoon after you check in.
Sunshine Meadows Loop
Distance 11 km (6.8 mi) | Elevation Gain 427 m (1400 ft)
This is the best half-day loop of the area and skips the chairlift ride and opts for more sights and more exercise. From the lodge, the loop climbs gently into the meadows and passes Rock Isle Lake, Grizzly Lake and Larix Lake, with plenty of spots to stop for photos along the way.
The Rock Isle Lake viewpoint is one of the most photographed spots at Sunshine Mountain, and the whole loop is lined with wildflowers in July and August and larches in mid to late September. It’s easy to stretch into a relaxed half day and still be back at the lodge for dinner.
Rock Isle Lake at sunset
Rock Isle Lake Loop
Distance 7.4 km (4.6 mi) | Elevation Gain 191 m (627 ft)
This is a short and modified version of the Sunshine Meadows loop that opts to take the Standish Express Chairlift and then visits Rock Isle, Grizzly and Larix Lakes.
It cuts out ~3.5km (2.2 mi) and 236 m (773 ft) of gain and skips the climb from the Lodge to the Monarch Viewpoint. This is a great compromise if you’re looking for some decent mileage, alpine lakes and mountain views but don’t want to spend a large portion of your day on the trail.
Peak fall colors on the way to Healy Pass
Healy Pass via Simpson Pass (Best Larch Hike from the Lodge)
Distance 18.3 km (11.4 mi) | Elevation Gain 714 m gain (2340 ft)
Healy Pass is one of the best larch hikes in Banff, and starting from Sunshine Village means you skip the long forested climb up from the base parking lot that is also a popular option. It’s also an amazing wildflower hike in the summer as well.
After departing the lodge and hiking up to Simpson Pass, the trail drops down in to alpine meadows before a gradual climb up to Healy Pass. In mid to late September the meadows are packed with golden larches. From the top you get big views over Egypt Lake, the Pharaoh Peaks and the Monarch.
Looking down at Howard Douglas Lake with Citadel Pass in the distance
Citadel Pass Trail (Our Top Pick)
Distance 18.5 km (11.5 mi) | Elevation Gain 655 m gain (2150 ft)
Citadel Pass was the highlight of our stay. The trail rolls through open alpine meadows, past Howard Douglas Lake, and up to a high pass with huge views over Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. It’s long, but most of the elevation gain is gradual, so it feels more like a big day of alpine wandering than a steep grind. Pack plenty of food and water, start early, and plan on a full day.
Upper Village and Gondola views from the Lodge
Best Time to Stay at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
The lodge is open only during summer and winter operations when the Sunshine Village gondola is running. Exact dates change depending on the snowpack, but the summer season typically runs from late June to late September, and the winter ski season runs from November to May. It’s worth noting that the lodge closes during the fall and spring shoulder seasons, so plan your trip accordingly.
In summer, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see. Wildflowers in Sunshine Meadows usually peak from mid-July to mid-August, while golden larches take over in mid-to-late September. We stayed in mid to late September for larch season, and since the lodge closes shortly after the larches peak, those last couple of weeks book up fast. Reserve your room early if you’re planning a larch trip.
We haven’t had the chance to stay at the lodge during the winter season yet, but the ski-in, ski-out access seems like an absolute dream. Waking up to mountain views and the chance for first tracks at Banff Sunshine is an amazing perk.
Our pick for when to stay: Mid-to-late September for larches and fewer crowds, or late July for wildflowers.
| Season | Best For | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Early Summer Late June | Wildflowers | Meadows burst into bloom as the snow melts out. Snow can linger on higher trails like Citadel and Healy Pass, and bugs are at their worst. |
| Mid-Summer August | Long Days | Warm weather, long days and snow-free trails for big hikes. The busiest time of year, so start early or stay at the lodge to beat the crowds. |
| Late Summer Mid – Late September | Larch Season | Golden larches across the meadows, Healy Pass and Citadel Pass. Cold mornings and early snow are possible, and the gondola closes around September 20. |
| Winter November – May | Ski Season | Ski-in, ski-out stays at the only on-mountain hotel in Banff National Park, plus guided snowshoeing in the meadows. |
Timing shifts every year with the snowpack. Wildflower and larch season can run a week or two earlier or later, so check recent trail reports before your trip.
Alpine Larch tree needles during the fall
Wildflower Season vs. Larch Season at Sunshine Village
The Sunshine Village summer gondola season is short, typically running from late June to late September, and each part of it feels like a different trip. In July, the meadows are covered in wildflowers, and in August you get long days and snow-free trails for bigger hikes like Citadel Pass. Our favorite time is mid-to-late September, when the larches turn gold across Sunshine Meadows and Healy Pass. Here’s a quick breakdown of each season to help you pick the right time for your trip.
When the Larches Turn Gold at Sunshine Meadows
Our favorite time to visit Sunshine Meadows is definitely the fall. Mid-to-late September is typically when the alpine shrubs turn brilliant red and orange and the larch needles shift from green to bright gold. During our visit in 2026, the larches at Sunshine Meadows started turning around September 18.
This was our fourth fall chasing larches in Banff, and we plan our travels around this window every year so we can capture and enjoy it. Beyond the colors, fall brings cooler temperatures, great hiking conditions, and cozy evenings at the lodge. That said, if you’re heading out on the trail this time of year, be prepared for cold mountain winds, snow flurries, and freezing rain.
Why Staying Overnight Beats a Day Trip in Late September
Sure, you can take the gondola up for a day trip to Sunshine Meadows, but staying overnight at the lodge gets you a lot more time on the trails, which really matters during larch season, when the days are getting shorter. We’ve day hiked up to Healy Pass multiple times, but getting to stay on the mountain and hike right from the lodge was so special.
Staying overnight also gets you sunrise and sunset access to some of the best trails and viewpoints, like our sunset hike up Mount Standish, without any other hikers, since the gondola doesn’t run before sunrise or close to sunset.
When the Lodge Closes for Summer Season
The Sunshine summer gondola only runs for a short window each year, so it’s worth planning your visit around it. For 2026, the gondola ran daily from late June to September 20th. That timing lines up nicely with peak wildflower season in late July and the larches turning gold in mid to late September.
Sunshine Village Gondola
The Sunshine Village Summer Gondola: What to Know
The Sunshine Village gondola is the largest in Banff National Park, with roomy cabins that each hold up to eight people. Gondola tickets also include the Standish Express Chairlift. The summer gondola season typically runs from late June through late September, with the gondola operating from 8 AM to 6 PM daily.
The ride from the base up to Sunshine Village takes around 20 minutes. Be sure to keep your ticket on hand throughout your visit, since you need it to ride both up and down. If you’re staying at the lodge, your gondola access is included for your whole stay.
Sunshine Village Gondola lower loading area
Gondola and Standish Chairlift Ticket Prices for Non-Hotel Guests
| Ticket | Ages | Price | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 18+ | $70 | Includes the gondola and Standish Chairlift |
| Senior | 65+ | $65 | Includes the gondola and Standish Chairlift |
| Youth | 13 - 17 | $36 | Includes the gondola and Standish Chairlift |
| Child | 6 - 12 | $20 | Includes the gondola and Standish Chairlift |
| Toddler | 0 - 5 | Free | No ticket needed for little ones |
| Family | All | $180 | Best value for families riding together |
| Sunshine Mountain Lodge Guests | All | Included | Gondola access is included with your stay |
Prices are in CAD plus GST for the summer sightseeing season (Late June – Late September in 2026). Confirm current rates and buy tickets on the Banff Sunshine website before your trip.
Upscale dining at Chimney Corner Lounge
Restaurants at Sunshine Mountain Lodge: What to Expect from On-Mountain Dining
There are several restaurants and a café at Sunshine Village, so you don’t need to head down to Banff to get a good meal. From an upscale dining experience at the Eagle’s Nest dining room to your typical pub fare, there’s something for everyone (and every family). There are even a couple of options for breakfast, including a quick grab-and-go café and coffee shop, or a sit-down breakfast buffet at Chimney Corner.
We tried several of the restaurants during our stay, and Mad Trapper’s Saloon was our favorite for fast service, good bar food, and a relaxed atmosphere. We liked it so much, we went twice. Their nachos are huge and amazing after a hike.
Restaurants at Sunshine Village
Chimney Corner Lounge: This is where we ate dinner during our stay, a cozy spot on the lodge’s second floor with big windows, wood-burning fireplaces and a patio. As vegetarians, unfortunately our choices were limited to a gnochii and pasta dish (which they didn’t have available that evening). They also serve breakfast, including a breakfast buffet, so it’s an easy way to fuel up before a big hiking day.
Mad Trapper’s: Our favourite for a casual meal after a hike, set in the historic original 1928 lodge with smoked meats, comfort food and a great cozy vibe. It’s a ski lodge meets sports bar feel. We love the nachos after a long day on the trail.
Java Lift: Coffee and quick breakfast items like pastries and croissants, along with grab-and-go lunches that are perfect to throw in your pack on hiking days.
Guided nature hikes
Family-Friendly Activities at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
Though we stayed as a couple, Sunshine Mountain Lodge is one of the best family-friendly hotels in Banff. The lodge really caters to kids, with s’mores making, movie nights, a game room, guided ranger walks through Sunshine Meadows, and easy, family-friendly hikes like the short loop to Rock Isle Lake.
Plus, what kid won’t love getting to ride the gondola and an open-air chairlift?!
Must-Do Family Activities at Sunshine Village
Weekly Movie Nights for Lodge Guests
Free family movie nights for lodge guests, an easy way to wind down after a day on the trails, Check the lodge’s weekly activity schedule at check-in for the night and the film
Nightly S’mores by the Fire
S’mores around the outdoor fire every evening, one of the best parts of staying on the mountain. A great way to meet other guests while the kids roast marshmallows. Bring a warm layer, since evenings at Sunshine get chilly even in summer
Guided Ranger Walks in Sunshine Meadows
The one-hour guided walk where rangers point out wildflowers, wildlife and the area’s history along the way. Perfect for families who want an easy, informative introduction to the meadows. This isn’t normally our thing to go on guided walks but really enjoyed the details and thoughtful walk with our guide.
Sunshine Village map of nearby trails and viewpoints
Tips for Visiting with Kids
Take it slow on day one. Sunshine Village sits at about 2,164 m (7,100 ft), so plan a mellow first afternoon and keep everyone drinking water.
Pack layers. Weather changes fast up here, so bring a warm jacket, a rain shell, hats and gloves, even in August.
Bring sun protection. There’s very little shade in the meadows, and the sun is stronger at altitude.
Start with easy trails. The Standish Chairlift and viewing deck and the shorter lake loops around Rock Isle Lake are great for shorter outings.
Carry snacks and bear spray. Grab trail snacks at Java Lift before heading out, and keep bear spray handy, since bears are often seen in the area.
Stay on the trail. The meadows are fragile, so make it a game to spot wildflowers without stepping on them.
Charcuterie board at Sunshine Mountain Lodge
Sunshine Mountain Lodge FAQs
Can you drive to Sunshine Mountain Lodge?
No. You drive to the Sunshine Village base area, about 20 minutes from the town of Banff, check in there, and ride the gondola up to the lodge. Staff bring your luggage up separately, so just keep your essentials and a warm layer with you on the ride.
Is the gondola included with a Sunshine Mountain Lodge stay?
Yes. Gondola access is included with your stay, so you don’t need to buy separate sightseeing tickets. Lodge guests also get the included one-hour guided ranger walk in Sunshine Meadows.
What time does the last gondola go up in summer?
The summer gondola runs daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You must arrange a vehicle through the hotel at least 24 hours in advance to access it outside those hours. Plan to arrive at the base with plenty of time before 6 p.m., especially if you’re driving in from Calgary.
Is Sunshine Mountain Lodge open in summer?
Yes. The lodge is open during the summer gondola season, which ran from July 6 to September 20 in 2026. Dates change each year with the snow, so check Banff Sunshine’s website before you book.
Are there restaurants at Sunshine Village in summer?
Yes. You can choose from Eagle’s Nest for a sit-down dinner, Chimney Corner Lounge for breakfast and dinner, Mad Trapper’s for casual meals, and Java Lift for coffee and grab-and-go food.
Is Sunshine Mountain Lodge good for families?
Yes, it’s one of the most family-friendly places to stay in Banff. Kids can enjoy movie nights, s’mores by the fire and guided ranger walks, and easy trails like the Standish viewing deck and Rock Isle Lake start right outside the door.
When is the best time to see larches at Sunshine Meadows?
The larches usually turn gold from mid to late September, with peak colour often around the third week of the month. Timing shifts a bit every year, and the summer gondola closes around September 20, so aim for mid-September to catch the larches while the lodge and gondola are still running.
Where else should I stay in Banff National Park?
If you want to be close to restaurants and shops, stay in the town of Banff. Lake Louise is a great base for Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway, and Canmore, just outside the park, often has better prices.
Sunshine Mountain Lodge and Standish Express chairlift
Is Sunshine Mountain Lodge Worth It? Our Final Verdict
Yes! If you’re looking for a unique hotel stay in Banff, Sunshine Mountain Lodge is absolutely worth booking for a night or two.
It’s not the cheapest place to stay in Banff, but waking up on the mountain with Sunshine Meadows right outside your door is an experience you can’t get anywhere else. It’s such a fun place to stay, and the rooms are cozy, comfortable, and have stunning views.
As hikers, we absolutely loved our stay here and know you will too. Whether you’re visiting in summer for hiking and big mountain views, or in winter for ski season, this lodge is one of the best options for lodging in Banff National Park. We can’t wait to come back in the winter and share even more about what it’s like to stay and ski on the mountain.
Still deciding where to stay? Check out our guide to where to stay in Banff and Canmore for more hotel and campground options.
Moraine Lake
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