Banff/Canmore- Moraine Lake & Louise-Morning or Sunset Tour

Discover the Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tours from Canmore, Alberta

This $129-per-person tour offers a convenient way to experience the iconic Moraine Lake and Lake Louise without the hassle of driving or waiting in long lines. With options for a morning or sunset journey, each lasting 6.5 to 7 hours, travelers get to see these famous sights at their most vibrant or most tranquil, respectively. The tours operate from Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff, providing easy pick-up locations that are mostly within a 15-minute walk from local accommodations.

What makes this tour stand out is its expedited access—no lineups, no multiple transfers, just more time to enjoy each location. The modern 14-passenger van, with large panoramic windows and air conditioning, ensures a comfortable journey through the Alberta wilderness. The guide remains with you throughout, sharing stories and insights about the area’s natural beauty and wildlife. A unique highlight is the wildlife corridor, where sightings of bears, elk, and deer are possible, adding an exciting element to the experience.

While the price, duration, and included perks make this tour attractive, it’s worth noting that meals are not included and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Still, the carefully planned timing allows for the best photos and peaceful moments at these renowned lakes, especially during the early morning or sunset, when crowds are fewer.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Convenient pick-up locations in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff with easy walking access
• Expedited access to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, skipping long lines
• Two options: a morning tour with 1.5 hours at each lake or a sunset tour with 1 hour at each
• Wildlife corridor included, offering chances to see bears, elk, and deer
• Comfortable transportation in a modern van with panoramic windows
• Full-day experience lasting around 6.5 to 7 hours for optimal sightseeing

How the Tour Begins: From Pick-Up to Arrival at the Lakes

This tour kicks off with pick-up from Canmore, Harvie Heights, or Banff, with most locations within a short walk of the departure point. The departure times are scheduled to arrive at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise at their most vibrant during the early morning or to enjoy the peaceful glow at sunset. A white Ford Transit van takes you directly to each destination, eliminating the need for multiple transfers or car rentals.

The timing of the morning tour starts around 8:00 AM, ensuring that visitors arrive when the lakes are at their brightest turquoise. The sunset option departs later, with the exact time depending on the date, allowing guests to witness the lakes in a more calm and less crowded setting.

Exploring Moraine Lake in the Morning or Sunset

At Moraine Lake, the main highlight is the vibrant turquoise water framed by the rocky peaks of the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The 1.5-hour visit during the morning allows ample time to explore the shoreline, take photos, and conquer the famous Rock Pile for panoramic views. During the sunset tour, the 1-hour stop offers a more serene atmosphere—often with the Rock Pile all to yourself, creating perfect conditions for quiet reflection and photography.

The Rock Pile is a notable vantage point that rewards visitors with sweeping views of the lake and mountains. Both options provide opportunities for walking and photo moments, with the early morning being the best time to capture the iconic scenery as seen in countless postcards.

Visiting Lake Louise: More Than Just a Photo Spot

Following Moraine Lake, the tour proceeds to Lake Louise, known for its stunning glacier-fed waters and the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Similar to Moraine, the time spent at Lake Louise is 1.5 hours during the morning or 1 hour at sunset. The shorter duration during the evening still allows for a taste of the lake’s tranquility, often with the crowd significantly reduced compared to peak daytime hours.

Guests have the chance to walk along the lakeshore, marvel at the glacially blue water, or revisit the famous photo spot in front of the Chateau. The less crowded atmosphere during sunset means that you can enjoy a more relaxed experience, often with fewer people at the Rock Pile and around the lakeside.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wildlife Sightings Along the Wildlife Corridor

A distinctive feature of this tour is the inclusion of a wildlife corridor—a route through natural habitat where bears, elk, and deer are often seen. While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, most tours report seeing animals during the journey. Traveling through this prime habitat adds an exciting layer of nature observation, especially during the early morning when animals are most active.

The guide provides insights into the local ecosystem, making the drive not just scenic but also educational. The wildlife corridor is a key part of the tour’s promise to deliver a more immersive experience beyond just the lakes.

The Comfort and Convenience of Modern Transportation

Transportation in a modern 14-passenger van ensures a comfortable ride with large panoramic windows and air conditioning. The guide/driver stays with the group for the entire trip, offering a personalized touch and local knowledge. This setup avoids the hassle of multiple transfers and waiting in lines, common with other tours.

Most pick-up locations are within a 1-5 minute walk from hotels and accommodations in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff, making the process simple and stress-free. Guests are advised to arrive 10 minutes early, and the tour includes the parking fee for Moraine Lake.

The Flexible Schedules: Morning and Sunset Options

This tour provides two different schedules to suit different preferences. The morning tour begins between 8:00 and 8:15 AM, arriving at the lakes just as they reach their most vibrant blue. The sunset tour varies depending on the season, with departure times provided at booking, designed to capture the lakes in the softer light of the evening.

Both options aim to maximize your time at the lakes, with the morning tour offering longer stays, and the sunset tour emphasizing peaceful, crowd-free moments. The schedule flexibility is a strong point, allowing travelers to choose the experience that best fits their plans.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes expedited access and no lineups, airport-style transportation, and a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the area. Also included is the entry fee for Moraine Lake, so no extra charges are needed at that site. The vehicle remains parked at the lot, allowing guests to leave belongings behind or return early if desired.

Travelers should bring appropriate clothing, especially if visiting during the early morning or sunset, when it can be cooler. Umbrellas are available free of charge in case of rain. Since meals are not provided, packing snacks or water bottles is advisable.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits those who value skip-the-line access and timed visits during the best lighting conditions. It’s ideal for small groups seeking a relaxed pace and the chance to see wildlife in a natural setting. The guided experience is perfect for visitors who want insights about the area without the hassle of self-driving or dealing with crowds.

Since the tour operates with a maximum of 14 guests, it maintains a personalized and intimate atmosphere. It’s especially well-suited for morning people and those interested in wildlife sightings and photography.

Final Thoughts on the Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tours

This Canmore-based tour offers a convenient, comfortable, and well-organized way to experience two of Alberta’s most famous lakes. The early morning option provides vibrant scenery and a chance to avoid crowds, while the sunset tour offers peaceful, crowd-free moments in the soft glow of the evening. Both include a wildlife corridor, adding an extra layer of excitement to the journey.

The value lies in skip-the-line access, small-group comfort, and expert guidance. The duration allows ample time at each site, though some may find the time at Lake Louise during the afternoon a bit short. This tour is perfect for visitors who want a stress-free and scenic adventure with the best chance for memorable photos and wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $129 per person, covering transportation, guided commentary, and entry fees for Moraine Lake.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 to 7 hours, including pick-up, travel, and sightseeing time.

What time does the morning tour start?
The morning tour departs between 8:00 and 8:15 AM from Canmore and Harvie Heights, with Banff pick-up 30 minutes later.

Can I join the sunset tour instead?
Yes, the sunset glow tour departs in the late afternoon or early evening, with exact times provided during booking, depending on the season.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings are not guaranteed, but traveling through a wildlife corridor increases the chances of seeing bears, elk, or deer.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the modern van features large panoramic windows, air conditioning, and plenty of space for a comfortable ride.

Are meals included?
No, meals or food are not included in the tour price, so bringing snacks is recommended.

How accessible are the pick-up points?
Most pick-up locations are within a 1-5 minute walk from accommodations in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff, making it easy to join the tour.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring appropriate clothing for weather conditions, water, camera, and umbrellas if needed, as these are complimentary.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby