Surprise Corner Banff National Park

About Surprise Corner Banff National Park

Wonder what is Surprise Corner? The surprise is the ‘surprise’ picture postcard view of the Banff Spring Hotel with the Bow Falls in front which opens up before you, as you travel up the Tunnel mountain road.

What to do at Surprise Corner ?

Things to do at Surprise Corner

See the majestic Banff Springs Hotel with the snow capped mountains in the back ground and take picture postcard photographs.

Hike the Hoodoos trail or Bow river trail. Surprise Corner is the trail head for both the trails.

How to get to Surprise Corner ?

Surprise Corner Banff Location/Directions

The Surprise corner is a about a mile from the Banff town centre.

Travel up Buffalo Street toward Tunnel Mountain drive and come across the view.

There is a viewing platform across the parking lot.

GPS coordinates : 51.167316, -115.559245

When to see the Surprise Corner?

Year Round, Daylight hours.

The viewing platform might be closed depending on icy conditions in winter.

How much time is required to visit ‘Surprise Corner’ ?

10 – 15 minutes. More if you decide to hike along the Bow river trail.

How much to visit Surprise Corner ?

Free with Banff National Park admission.

What about amenities, access and parking at the Surprise Corner ?

Wheel chair accessible.

Parking available for cars & RVs. See here for parking map.