Private Lake Louise, Moraine, Minnewanka Tour from Banff Canmore

Explore Banff’s Most Famous Lakes in Comfort and Style

This private tour from Banff and Canmore, offered by MOLARI Adventure Touring Co., takes you on an 8-hour journey through some of the most stunning lakes in Banff National Park. Priced at $397.56 per person, the experience emphasizes personalized service with door-to-door transport in an air-conditioned vehicle for groups up to 11 participants. It’s an ideal choice for those who want an active but comfortable day exploring Banff’s natural beauty, with guided commentary from a local, certified guide.

The tour features multiple stops at Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and a historic visit to the Bankhead ghost town. Every location is carefully chosen to avoid crowds and offer quieter, more scenic perspectives. Travel is smooth and flexible, with pickup from your preferred location in Banff or Canmore, making this a convenient option for visitors seeking a comprehensive yet intimate experience of Banff’s highlights.

Key Points

• Private, guided 8-hour tour exploring Banff’s top lakes and historic sites
• Includes visits to Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Bankhead ghost town
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with door-to-door pickup
• Field lunch and refreshments provided, with parking and permits included
• Trail difficulty is easy, with options like hiking poles and microspikes available if needed
• Perfect for active discovery in a small group environment

Starting Point and Logistics for a Seamless Day

The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickup arranged from your preferred location in Banff or Canmore. The private nature of the tour means your group is the only one participating, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the approximately 8-hour journey that covers a lot of ground in a single day.

The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with most clothing and footwear suitable for easy walking and light hikes. Make sure to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and dress in layers appropriate for changing weather, especially in winter. The guide provides hiking poles and microspikes if conditions require, and a waiver is needed before departure.

Visiting Bankhead Ghost Town: A Historic Intro

The tour kicks off with a brief walk through the Bankhead ghost town, a site that offers a striking contrast to the natural lakes to follow. The 1 km walk reveals remnants of an early 20th-century coal mining operation, giving a glimpse into Banff’s past. This stop takes around 30 minutes, with admission included.

The ghost town is a quiet, historical site that adds depth to the day, providing a gritty, tangible link to the area’s industrial roots. It’s a manageable walk suitable for most, and the ruins make for interesting photos or a quick exploration.

Discover the Vastness of Lake Minnewanka

Next, the group heads to Lake Minnewanka, where the focus is on scenic lakeshore walks along less crowded paths. The 1 hour 15 minutes spent here includes a walk from the parking lot to Stewart Canyon bridge, covering 3.2 km along the lakeshore. The trail is flat and easy, offering open views of the lake and surrounding peaks.

This stop is perfect for those who enjoy nature walks with panoramic vistas but prefer to avoid the busier areas of Minnewanka. The admission is included, and the focus remains on quiet, scenic landscapes away from the crowds.

Iconic Views at Lake Louise’s Quiet Vantage Points

At Lake Louise, travelers get a closer look at the lake’s famous basin. The group moves along the shoreline to explore less crowded vantage points that showcase the Victoria Glacier and surrounding peaks. The visit lasts around 1 hour 15 minutes, and admission is free.

The focus here is on scenic vistas rather than busy viewpoints, making it a peaceful experience. You’ll see the famous chateau from afar and appreciate the size of the lake without the typical crowds, especially if visiting outside peak hours.

Moraine Lake’s Stunning Rockpile and Lakeshore Walk

One of the tour’s highlights is Moraine Lake, where a 2.5 km lakeshore walk and a short climb (about 350 meters each way) up to the Rockpile provide the best views of the turquoise-blue lake and Ten Ponds valley. The Rockpile offers a breathtaking panoramic of the surrounding peaks and is a must-see spot.

This stop lasts around 1 hour 15 minutes, with admission included. The views from the Rockpile are often described as some of the most striking in Banff, and since the tour emphasizes quieter spots, you’ll avoid the large crowds typical of Moraine Lake in peak season.

Transitioning via Bow Valley Parkway for a Relaxed Return

On the way back toward Banff, the route shifts to the Bow Valley Parkway, a quieter alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway. This scenic drive offers different perspectives of the valley and mountains, adding a relaxing touch to the journey and providing additional opportunities for photos.

The route is curated to avoid busy roads, giving a more peaceful farewell to the day’s exploration. The small group setting enhances the relaxed atmosphere, making the return trip both scenic and comfortable.

Included Amenities and Equipment

The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing door-to-door pickup and drop-off. A field lunch, along with refreshments and water refills, keeps everyone energized through the day. The necessary park passes and permits, including access to Moraine Lake, are all handled in advance.

Travelers are provided with hiking poles and microspikes/ice cleats if winter conditions call for it. The USB-A charging ports in the van help keep devices powered, and parking is included at all stops.

What’s Not Included and Important Tips

Participant travel insurance and personal expenses like souvenirs or extra snacks are not included. Travelers should bring their own small daypack, sun protection, and reusable water bottle. Since the tour involves easy walks, it’s accessible to most, but sturdy footwear is recommended.

Children under 6 years need a child seat (not provided), so plan accordingly. The waiver must be signed by all guests before departure. The non-refundable booking policy emphasizes the importance of confirming plans in advance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This private tour is ideal for visitors seeking a personalized, relaxed exploration of Banff’s most iconic lakes and a touch of local history. It’s especially suited for those who prefer easy walks and quiet viewpoints over crowded spots. The inclusion of a historic ghost town and scenic drives adds variety, making it suitable for families, couples, and small groups.

The small group size ensures more personal attention from the guide and the opportunity to ask questions about the landscapes and history. Travelers looking for a comfortable, well-organized day with flexible pickup options will find this tour very convenient.

The Sum Up: A Thoughtful Balance of Nature and Comfort

The Private Lake Louise, Moraine, Minnewanka Tour offers a comprehensive look at Banff’s most famous lakes, with personalized service and a focus on quiet, scenic spots. The included field lunch, local guide, and easy trails make it a practical choice for those wanting a full but relaxed day in the park.

While it’s more expensive than some group tours, the private nature and tailored experience justify the price for many. The tour’s emphasis on less crowded viewpoints and flexible logistics make it especially appealing during peak seasons. It suits active visitors who enjoy scenic walks and want to learn from a local guide while avoiding the busy tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers private transport, park passes, admission fees to Moraine Lake, a field lunch, refreshments, and guidance from a local, certified guide.

Can I join this tour if I am not staying in Banff or Canmore?
Yes, provided you are able to arrange pickup from your location in Banff or Canmore, as the tour starts at 9:00 am with door-to-door service.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children under 6 need a child seat (not provided). Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and dress in layers for comfort.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a small daypack, sun protection, reusable water bottle, and appropriate clothing. The guide supplies hiking poles and microspikes if needed.

Is the tour refundable?
No, the booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed, so be sure to plan carefully before booking.