Named for the hot springs found on its lower slopes, Sulphur Mountain offers a range of activities for families who love the outdoors. The Banff Gondola offers rides to and from the summit. However, parents and older kids who love to hike can opt to climb the 3.4-mile (5.5 kilometer) trail to the gondola station at the top of the mountain. Although adventurers will be going up 2,300 feet (700 meters) along the way; switchbacks make the climb relatively manageable in 2-5 hours, and the views from clearings are breathtaking. Once at the top, families will marvel at the views of the surrounding area from decks and the Summit Ridge interpretive boardwalk, enjoy learning about the area on the 1 kilometer Banff Skywalk that leads to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada and the historic Sanson's Peak Meteorological Station or take in a meal at one of the restaurants in the gondola station. Farther down the mountain, parents and kids can enjoy soaking in hot springs at Upper Hot Springs -- the pools are 100% mineral water and the highest hot springs in Canada. Whether families are looking for an exhilarating hike, a scenic ride on the gondola, a soak in hot mineral water or stunning views of the surrounding area, Sulphur Mountain is an essential part of a stay in Banff.