Surprise Corner Viewpoint is a pleasant little surprise tucked away which offers a great postcard view. It's just a quick detour from downtown, and gives you a great view of the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, with the dramatic backdrop of Sulphur Mountain and the Bow River flowing below.

You’ll find it by driving up Tunnel Mountain Road for just a minute or two from town. There’s a small parking area with a lookout platform, interpretive signage, and a short trail leading to an even better vantage point a little further up. The view is the best at sunrise or sunset. The parking lot fills up quick so you may need to wait a bit to get a spot.

There is no hiking required to get to the viewpoint. But if you’re in the mood to move, the Hoodoos Trail actually starts right here and takes you through forested ridges and river views all the way to the Hoodoos Viewpoint.