which is the best gondola ride for scenery if we were only to take 1 and its between sulpher mtn, lake louise, and jasper?

If you're willing to do a bit of a hike from the upper tram station to the top of the mountain, my vote goes to Jasper.

If you want a gondola that takes you to the top of the mountain, then I vote for Banff.

That said, if you skip one gondola because the supposedly best gondola is at the next town you'll be visiting, the mountain may be socked in by cloud when you get to that next town, and then you will have seen neither view.

Definitely Sulphur Mountain over Lake Louise. Have never done Jasper so can't comment on it.

jumping in here: Judy: thanks for that very simple and wise note abt "choosing"

Does anyone know, if you can view Grizzly bears, when you take the Gondola in Lake Louise?

When I was there in March, the Lake Louise ski school told me that they close off hiking up the mountain in the spring because of the bears, the best way to see them is on the gondola.

I would rather see them that way.

The gondola rides are such a great way to see panoramic views of each area. They are well worth the cost. I think you should do them all.

The ad in the area's Vistor Guide, proudly boasts that the Lake Louise Gondola is "HOME" of the Grizzly Bears. While there last week, we did not see one. Our preference was the Jasper Tram. The restaurant atop was surprisingly good, and the view ON A CLEAR DAY can't be beat. I'd go with Judy...depending upon which area you are in on a clear day...do it...you'll be happy at any of the 3...

Views from all 3- and yes, we saw a couple of grizzlies below the Lake Louise gondola:

http://www.worldisround.com/articles...5/photo60.html
http://www.worldisround.com/articles...5/photo61.html
http://www.worldisround.com/articles...5/photo59.html

Maria, your pictures are great. Thanks for sharing. We're going to Alberta/BC in September for 2 weeks and are really looking forward to seeing the beautiful scenery. If you have any tips to share, I'd appreciate them.