Are there grizzly bears?

Yes. Grizzly bears live in the broader Sunshine Village and Sunshine Meadows area. The surrounding mountains, forests, and alpine meadows form part of natural grizzly bear habitat in Banff National Park.

That does not mean you are likely to encounter a grizzly during a typical sightseeing visit. Sunshine Meadows can be busy during summer, and many visitors complete their gondola, Standish, and hiking experience without seeing a bear.

If you are hiking the Sunshine Meadows trails, however, treat it as bear country. Stay alert, make noise where visibility is limited, keep children close, never approach wildlife, and don't leave food or garbage behind. Carrying bear spray in an accessible location is sensible when hiking rather than keeping it buried inside your backpack.

If you do see a grizzly, give it plenty of space and never approach it for photographs. Follow any temporary trail closures, warnings, or wildlife restrictions posted by park or resort staff.

Grizzlies are an important part of the ecosystem, but for most visitors, marmots, ground squirrels, pikas, and birds are considerably more likely sightings around Sunshine Meadows than a grizzly bear. Book the Banff Sunshine Village Sightseeing Gondola & Standish ChairliftBooking the Banff Sunshine Village Sightseeing Gondola & Standish Chairlift Admission includes All taxes, fees and handling charges. Banff Gondola Home