Are there guided hikes?

Yes. Sunshine Meadows offers guided-or more specifically, hosted-hiking experiences during the summer season. These are a good option for visitors who want to explore the meadows while learning about the landscape rather than hiking entirely on their own.

The main option is a 2-hour Hosted Trail Walk. You meet your trail host at the Interpretive Centre, ride the Standish Chairlift, and then walk from the top of Standish Mountain to the Standish Viewing Deck. The host discusses the surrounding mountains, wildlife, alpine environment, and the area's history.

The walk then continues through the Sunshine Meadows area toward Rock Isle Lake, eventually returning to Sunshine Village. This provides a relatively manageable introduction to the area rather than a strenuous backcountry hike.

For the 2026 summer season, hosted walks operate from July 6 through September 20. Groups are limited to 12 guests per host, reservations are highly recommended, and participants must be at least 6 years old. The hosted-walk package includes the sightseeing gondola and Standish Chairlift.

The guided option is particularly worthwhile for first-time visitors, families, and people unfamiliar with alpine hiking, because you get interpretation of the scenery and wildlife while following an established route. You can also explore Sunshine Meadows independently if you prefer to hike at your own pace. 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