Going on the Gondola

Our last big day in Banff included an eight minute journey up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. These are small gondolas, and only hold 4 people at a time. On the way up, Sandy and Jerry were across from us. The gondola climbs from 2292 feet elevation to 7,486 feet, providing us with spectacular views along the way.

Jerry, Sandy and I decided to do the Banff Skywalk, and go across the summit to the Cosmic Ray Station at the top of the ridge across from us. The brochure stated it is an easy 1 km self guided boardwalk. What it doesn't tell you is that you have to go up and down at least 900 steps to go there and back! That meant that Don, Gary and Sherry had to pass on this adventure because they all have back/knee problems. At least, that is what they keep telling me!
Half way across, I stopped on one of the platforms and looked back at the visitor center.
As we reached the top level, we had magnificent views of Banff and the Bow River that can be seen snaking around the outskirts of town. We were blessed with great weather and sunshine that day. Even though it was warm enough for short sleeves at the bottom, a light jacket or sweater was needed at the top of the summit.
The building at the top of the ridge is the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada. It was completed in 1956, in preparation for the International Geophysical Year (1957-1958). Boy, I sure don't remember reading this in the paper at the time. Guess I was a bit too young for it to make an impression on me. And the rest of you probably weren't even born yet...maybe your parents weren't either!
This picture is proof that I made it to the top! I can't remember who took the picture, but it was either Sandy or Jerry.
Pictures over with, Jerry and Sandy start going back down the steps across the ridge. Down one side and up the other. It was good exercise for our calf muscles.
Time to head back down, and Sherry and Gary had the pleasure(?) of sharing the gondola with us. Don't worry, Gary, it is only an 8 minute ride. I'm just hoping he doesn't get motion sickness. I don't really want to be in a tight, enclosed place like this if someone got sick! Ugh!