Wildlife Grazers on Sulphur Mountain

Sulphur Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife grazers.

Wildlife Grazers on Sulphur Mountain

Sulphur Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife, and grazing animals are often spotted on its slopes and summit area. The mountain's natural environment, with its alpine meadows and forested areas, provides habitat and food sources for several grazing species.

Bighorn Sheep

Bighorn sheep are one of the most common grazing animals seen on Sulphur Mountain. They are well-adapted to the rocky terrain and can often be found grazing in meadows or on open slopes. With their large, curled horns, they're a favorite sight for visitors. Bighorn sheep feed on grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers found in the alpine environment, and they're frequently seen near the Banff Gondola summit area.

Mountain Goats

Although less common than bighorn sheep, mountain goats are also found on Sulphur Mountain. These white-coated grazers are incredibly agile and often spotted on steeper, rocky areas. They primarily graze on alpine grasses, mosses, and low shrubs, which they find on rocky slopes and high ridges.

Mule Deer and White-Tailed Deer

Deer are typically seen in the lower forested areas of Sulphur Mountain, especially along trails leading up to the summit. Mule deer and white-tailed deer are common in Banff National Park, and they often come to the mountain's meadows and edges to graze on grasses, shrubs, and tree leaves. Early morning and late evening are the best times to spot them.

Hoary Marmots

Known as “whistle pigs” due to their high-pitched warning calls, hoary marmots are large ground squirrels that are commonly seen on Sulphur Mountain. While not true grazers, they do forage on grasses, flowers, and herbs in the alpine meadows. Marmots are most active in summer, as they spend the warmer months eating and storing food before their long winter hibernation.

Pikas

These small, rabbit-like creatures are frequent inhabitants of the rocky areas on Sulphur Mountain. Like marmots, pikas aren't traditional grazers, but they forage for grasses, flowers, and other vegetation. Pikas are known for creating “haypiles” of dried plants, which they store to survive the winter. Spotting a pika on the rocks is a treat, as they are quick and often heard before they're seen.

Elk

Elk are typically found at lower elevations in Banff, but they occasionally wander up Sulphur Mountain, especially in early summer or autumn. While less likely to be seen at the summit, they may be spotted grazing in forested areas or along trails lower down the mountain. Elk feed on grasses, shrubs, and tree bark, and they can often be seen near the base of the mountain around dawn or dusk.

Wildlife Etiquette on Sulphur Mountain

When observing grazing animals on Sulphur Mountain, it's essential to follow wildlife safety guidelines to ensure both your safety and the animals' well-being.

Maintain Distance

Always keep a safe distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them. Use binoculars or zoom lenses for close-up views.

Do Not Feed Wildlife

Feeding animals disrupts their natural foraging habits and can make them dependent on human food.

Stay on Designated Trails

Sticking to trails minimizes habitat disruption and helps protect the mountain's ecosystem.

Observe Quietly

Avoid loud noises to prevent startling wildlife, allowing them to continue grazing naturally.

The opportunity to see grazing animals on Sulphur Mountain enhances the natural beauty of the experience, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of Banff National Park.

More to See at the Top of Sulphur Mountain Inside Banff Gondola

Banff Gondola Ride Reviews

Best views in Banff

Kelsey_M
Great way to get amazing Banff views. My daughter loved every minute. All staff were friendly and welcoming. Would go again!

We love it

Thu_H
We love it! The services are excellent. We love the view of the mountains on the rooftops. It was unforgettable evening!

Amazing view and smooth...

Shailaja_M
Amazing view and smooth ride. Easy pickup and drop off. We loved the experience and would highly recommend the gondola ride.

Best views in town

Sophia_C
The gondola ride itself was fun, but what really gives you your money's worth is the boardwalk/visitor’s center at the top. The views from the boardwalk were incredible. The visitors center has great background info and interactive exhibits. The outdoor observation deck has giant pop-up spheres that can be used to enjoy a cup of coffee/tea from the cafe outdoors - or for respite from the chilly wind. Could easily spend all day at the top.

Must Do In Banff

Frank_P
The views were stunning and the boardwalk was so much fun. Highly recommend this experience. Must do when in Banff.