Where is Tunnel Mountain Drive?
Canada, north-america
8.1 km
1,518 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising just outside the charming town of Banff, Alberta, right in the heart of Banff National Park. You're on Tunnel Mountain Drive, an 8.1 km (5.03 mile) paved ribbon of road that starts near Surprise Corner on Buffalo Street and ends up back on Banff Avenue.
This isn't just any drive; it hugs Tunnel Mountain itself, giving you amazing views as it twists and turns. Fair warning: this beauty is closed in the winter – it turns into a cross-country ski and snowshoe haven.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views of Bow Valley are incredible, with pristine fir and pine forests all around. Keep your eyes peeled – you might spot some wildlife like deer, elk, or even a bear! Plan for plenty of stops, especially for snapping photos. The downhill views are a cyclist's dream.
Now, a heads-up: Tunnel Mountain Drive gets steep in sections, with some ramps hitting an 11% gradient. It tops out at 1,518m (4,980ft) above sea level. It’s a slower road, popular with cyclists and hikers heading to the trails, so keep an eye out and share the road!
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 8.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,518 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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