Surprise Corner and How To Get There
6 Minutes in normal traffic 10 minutes
Surprise Corner
- Surprise Corner From Highway 1 – Trans Canada Highway
Driving West on Highway 1 – Trans Canada Highway take the second exit
- Exit left off off of Highway 1
Exit left off of Highway 1 onto Mt. Norquay Road towards the Town of Banff
- Follow this street
In short, you will soon pass the famous “Banff” sign, be careful if you choose to park and take photos. Park at the arena facility on the left.
- Keep following!
Mt. Norquay Road will automatically turn into Gopher Street, then into Lynx Street and then into Bear Street. Just follow the street with no sharp turns and you’ll be fine.
- Take a Left
Shortly, when you reach a “T” intersection take a left. At this point you are on Bear Street and at the intersection the Library is on the right and the Post Office is on your left.
- Straight through intersection
After the left turn at the “T” intersection you will approach an intersection with traffic lights in a few seconds. So travel safely straight through the intersection and you are now presently on Buffalo Street.
NEXT
Across the intersection you will see the CIBC bank. You are now minutes away from Surprise Corner. - Get ready to park
On the right you will soon see a deep valley with the Bow River below. A sharp left bend in the road is coming. Carefully continue straight and there are parking spots there. If they are full wait a few minutes, visitors usually don’t stay too long in this case.
- Viewing Deck
Carefully cross the road onto the steps leading up to the large viewing deck. Be careful as as a result it can be slippery if the steps are wet or as well as snowy.
- Take your photos!
There are many angles of the famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel surrounded by forest on Sulphur Mountain, on this occasion don’t be in a rush.
- Best part
To conclude, this is FREE! … enjoy your memories! On the whole it is an excellent experience.
FAQs for Banff National Park
Do I need a Park Pass if I am not stopping in Banff National Park?
No. You only need a Park Pass if you are stopping in Banff National Park. Accordingly, if you are simply driving through and not stopping no pass is required.
Is Banff Canada’s first National Park?
Yes. It was established in 1885 and furthermore was the birthplace of Canada’ vast National Park system.
Is Banff a town in addition to a National Park?
Yes. the Town of Banff in addition to being within Banff National Park.
How long does it take to drive to Banff on the Trans Canada Highway?
In general it takes about 1.5 hours to drive to Banff from Calgary.
When is the best time to visit Banff?
Banff is beautiful all year round. At any rate it often depends on the activities you would like to take part in. For example Skiing and Snowboarding in the Winter as well as Hiking and Biking in the Summer etc.
Are there places to stay in Banff?
Yes. There are around 45 hotels in Banff to choose from.
Are there places to eat in Banff?
Yes. There are well over 100 dining venues in Banff to choose from.
What is the main industry in Banff?
Tourism is Banff’s main industry.
Is Banff open since Covid?
Yes. Banff businesses are open and abide by the provincial and federal regulations regarding Covid procedures and protocols
Can I see wildlife in Banff?
Yes. You can commonly see elk, goats, ground squirrels as well as deer and more. But please remember to keep a distance and don’t touch or feed animals. They are wild and this is their natural habitat and safety is of primary concern. There are wildlife tours you can take that will not only safely take you to see wildlife, but also teach you about each species through an interpretive guide.
What is high season in Banff?
Summer is the high season in Banff as compared to Winter or the shoulder seasons. Be that is it may, every month in Banff is beautiful.
If I am not stopping in Banff National Park, but am continuing on to Jasper, do I need a Park Pass!
Yes. To travel on Highway 93 North to Jasper you will need a Park Pass.
What is there to do in Banff?
Sightseeing tours and activities are the most efficient way to experience Banff and its’ special places. Start by having a look at Banff Tours to give you an idea of what is available.
How high is the Town of Banff?
The town of Banff sits at an altitude of 4,537 feet (1,383 metres).
Is July a good month to visit Banff?
July is typically a very nice Summer month in Banff. With no guarantee of weather at anytime, it is likely you will experience warm temperatures, little rainfall and nice vacation conditions.
