Banff Highlights: Moraine Lake, Lake Louise and beyond

This full-day Banff tour from Calgary offers an accessible way to experience some of the most iconic sights in Banff National Park, all for $103.09 per person. Lasting approximately 9 to 11 hours, this guided trip features summer access to Moraine Lake, which is only reachable by shuttle, making it a unique highlight. The tour also includes time in Banff town for shopping and dining, as well as a visit to Lake Louise and several scenic stops along the way.

The tour is designed for those who want to see Banff’s top attractions without the hassle of organizing transportation or park entry. It’s especially ideal for visitors short on time but eager to take in the landscape’s breathtaking beauty. With an impressive rating of 5.0 from 143 reviews and 97% recommended, this experience stands out as a reliable choice. However, note that lunch is not included, and the tour has a maximum group size of 25, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• Summer access to Moraine Lake is included, which is only possible via shuttle bus.
• The tour covers key sites such as Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Bow Falls, and Hoodoos Trail.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, making the trip both scenic and informative.
• Includes Parks Canada entry and hiking spikes in winter, adding convenience.
• Time in Banff town allows for eating, shopping, or exploring on your own.
• The tour departs from Calgary and runs around $103.09, with most bookings made 45 days in advance.

Access to Moraine Lake by Shuttle Bus

Moraine Lake’s location in Banff National Park makes it notoriously difficult to visit during the busy summer months, as only shuttle buses are permitted to access the site. This tour simplifies the process by including the shuttle ticket, saving you from navigating the often crowded parking areas. The breathtaking views of the lake’s crystalline waters and towering surrounding peaks are a true highlight, making this access a key advantage.

Since the shuttle is the only way to reach Moraine Lake in summer, booking this tour ensures you won’t miss out on this iconic destination. Peak times can be crowded, but the organized schedule helps streamline your visit. Outside of summer, the tour offers a different experience with a short hike to Johnston Canyon’s lower falls, exploring icy waterfalls in colder seasons.

Scenic Stops: Mount Norquay Lookout and Bow Valley Parkway

The tour begins at the Mount Norquay Lookout, where your guide leads you to a vantage point with sweeping views of the Canadian Rockies. This spot delivers an immediate sense of the grandeur that surrounds Banff and offers some of the most impressive panoramas in the region. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a serene start to the day’s adventures.

On the way to Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway provides a quick stop to admire the rocky mountain scenery and the flow of the Bow River. This brief stop allows for some scenic photos and provides a sense of the rugged landscape that makes Banff so distinctive. The drive itself is smooth, with the guide sharing insights about the area’s natural features.

Lake Louise: The Glacier-fed Jewel

Your first major stop is at Lake Louise, where you have approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to take in the stunning turquoise waters. This area is the last point inside Banff National Park before heading back, so visitors often spend their time walking along the shoreline or browsing the shops nearby.

Lake Louise’s vivid color and surrounding mountain peaks make it one of the most photographed spots in Canada. The tour allows ample time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or grab a quick snack before continuing to other highlights. Since Lake Louise can be crowded, the timing helps balance sightseeing with avoiding the busiest periods.

Johnston Canyon: Ice and Waterfalls in Different Seasons

During colder months, the tour replaces summer activities with a visit to Johnston Canyon, where visitors explore a trail leading to frozen waterfalls and icy canyon walls. The 1 hour and 30 minutes spent here provides a chance to hike along the scenic trail, which offers breathtaking views of winter’s icy artistry.

In summer, the canyon also offers scenic walks and views of waterfalls, but the winter visit is especially notable for its frozen formations. The inclusion of hiking spikes in winter ensures safety and comfort on icy paths, making this stop accessible and enjoyable year-round.

Exploring Banff Town and Bow Falls

With around 1 hour in Banff town, visitors can walk along Banff Avenue, browse local shops, or enjoy a meal. The town’s lively atmosphere complements the outdoors-focused day with cafes, galleries, and souvenir stores. The guide provides time for some independent exploration, making this stop flexible.

Later, the tour includes Bow Falls, a small but powerful waterfall cascading near the Banff Springs Hotel. The 30-minute stop provides excellent photo opportunities of the waterfall and the surrounding scenery, showcasing the natural power of the Rockies.

Hoodoos Trail and Unique Geology

The Hoodoos Trail offers a walk through striking geological formations called hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock shaped by centuries of erosion. This 30-minute stop highlights the area’s unique landscape, with impressive formations that add variety to the scenic stops. It’s a good choice for those interested in geology or looking for a quick walk with dramatic views.

Tour Logistics and Features

This tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort throughout the long day of sightseeing. All entry fees to Parks Canada are included, along with parking fees, which simplifies planning. For winter trips, hiking spikes are provided to ensure safe walks on icy trails.

The tour is limited to 25 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience. Most travelers can participate, with good accessibility and near public transportation options for pickup and drop-off. The flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Review Highlights and Guide Quality

Guide names like Aziz and Habib receive high praise for their knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful approach. Reviews frequently mention the guides’ storytelling skills, their ability to take great photos, and their attentiveness to guests’ needs. Their expertise significantly enhances the overall experience, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

Some reviews note that the vehicle used is a Ford Transit designed for up to 14 passengers, which may feel cramped if the group is larger. However, many guests appreciate the smaller group size for a more intimate and flexible experience.

The Experience at a Glance

This full-day tour from Calgary offers a well-rounded experience of Banff’s most famous sights, with the convenience of included shuttle transportation and park entry. The stops are carefully selected to showcase both the scenery and the town’s charm, with a mix of outdoor activities and leisure time.

While lunch is not included, there are plenty of options in Banff town, and the trip’s structure ensures you see key highlights efficiently. The tour’s high ratings and positive reviews reflect the professionalism of guides and the quality of the overall experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour best suits those who want a comprehensive day trip with minimal planning, especially if visiting during summer to access Moraine Lake easily. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Banff’s top sites firsthand in a comfortable, guided setting.

Keep in mind, the long day involves some walking and driving, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full schedule. The small-group format makes it a friendly choice for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a more personalized adventure.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of dining options available in Banff town for you to enjoy during your free time.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour is designed for summer access to Moraine Lake, but in winter, it offers a visit to Johnston Canyon with icy waterfalls and hiking spikes for safety.

How big is the group on this tour?
The maximum group size is 25 guests, ensuring a more personal experience with less crowding.

What are the main highlights of the stops?
Key stops include Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Bow Falls, Banff town, and the Hoodoos Trail, each offering stunning scenery and unique features.

Are park entry fees included?
Yes, Parks Canada entry tickets are included, simplifying the visit and avoiding additional charges.

This Banff Highlights tour offers a reliable, scenic, and well-organized way to explore the best of Banff National Park from Calgary. Its combination of breathtaking views, expert guides, and convenient logistics makes it a worthwhile choice for those eager to experience Banff’s natural beauty in one day.