Jasper National Park Tour from Jasper to Banff

Discover the Beauty of Jasper to Banff in a Two-Day Guided Tour

This two-day guided motorcoach tour from Jasper to Banff offers a chance to see some of Canada’s most breathtaking scenery. Priced at $1,276.84 per person, the tour covers key highlights in the Canadian Rockies over approximately two days. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience spectacular waterfalls, glacial terrains, mountain panoramas, and famous lakes without the hassle of planning individual stops. With group discounts and a mobile ticket, this tour offers convenience and great value for those wanting a comprehensive Rockies experience in a short timeframe.

While the tour is designed to suit most travelers and features a maximum group size of 50, it involves some walking at stops like Maligne Canyon and Peyto Lake Trail. The tour’s structure ensures a balance of sightseeing, photo opportunities, and leisure, making it suitable for those who enjoy guided journeys with a focus on natural beauty. The only potential limitation is that the Columbia Icefield activity options (Ice Explorer or Skywalk) are not included in the base price, giving guests flexibility to choose their glacier adventure.

Key Points

• Two-day guided motorcoach tour from Jasper to Banff, covering must-see attractions in the Canadian Rockies
• Price of $1,276.84 per person with group discounts and mobile ticket availability
• Highlights include waterfalls, glaciers, mountain vistas, and iconic lakes such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• Stops at Maligne Canyon, Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, Sulphur Mountain, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake
• Optional glacier activities at Columbia Icefield, such as the Ice Explorer tour or Skywalk (admission not included)
• Start point at 607 Connaught Dr, Jasper at 8:00 am, ending at Banff
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, though some stops involve moderate walking; most activities are free of charge
• Weather-dependent cancellation policy with options for full refunds or rescheduling

Maligne Canyon: A Dramatic Start to the Adventure

The journey begins with a visit to Maligne Canyon, a striking natural formation carved by the Maligne River. The trail walk along the canyon offers two options: a short, easy loop or a more challenging route for those seeking a bit more adventure. The canyon’s rugged walls and water sounds create a powerful first impression of the Rockies’ raw beauty. The 45-minute walk is free of charge but demands comfortable footwear for some uneven terrain.

Athabasca Falls: Witness the Power of Water

Next, the tour stops at Athabasca Falls, where the thundering water and mist make for a sensory-rich experience. The 30-minute visit allows close-up views of water crashing over lava rock and the chance to explore the hanging valley carved by glaciers. The site’s natural roar and spray make it a memorable stop, easily accessible and perfect for taking photos or simply marveling at nature’s force.

Sunwapta Falls and Lunch Break

Sunwapta Falls offers a scenic spot for a 45-minute break, including lunch while enjoying views of the powerful waterfall. This site provides a relaxed setting to refuel and appreciate the surrounding wilderness, often featuring a misty spray that adds to the atmosphere. It’s an ideal stop to stretch legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Columbia Icefield: Glacier Adventures or Skywalk

One of the tour’s centerpieces is the Columbia Icefield, a vast expanse of ice where visitors can choose between two activities: the Ice Explorer tour on the Athabasca Glacier or the Columbia Icefield Skywalk—a glass-floored platform offering dramatic views of the glacier below. Both options require an additional fee and are not included in the base price, giving flexibility to guests. The 2-hour time slot ensures enough time for either activity, or some may opt to do both if desired.

Peyto Lake and the Bow Summit Panorama

A short walk from the parking lot leads to the spectacular overlook of Peyto Lake, famous for its wolf-shaped appearance. The 20-minute stop provides a breathtaking view of the Mistaya Valleys and the colorful, glacier-fed waters of Peyto Lake. It’s a prime photo spot, often highlighted as a highlight of this tour.

Day Two: Banff’s Mountain Highlights

The second day begins with a ride on the Sulphur Mountain Gondola, which takes 8 minutes to reach the summit. The 1 hour 30 minutes at the top offers sweeping panoramic views of Bow Valley and Banff townsite. The admission fee for the gondola is not included, but the vistas from the top make this a top highlight.

Johnston Canyon: Walking on a Suspended Pathway

Next, the tour visits Johnston Canyon, famed for its suspended walkway that leads visitors along the canyon’s cliffs. The 1-hour stop provides ample time to enjoy the spectacular view of Lower Falls. The free admission makes this a popular, accessible stop where guests can enjoy a short walk and excellent scenery.

Lake Louise: Iconic Mountain Lake

Lake Louise is a 2.5 km long, 500 m wide lake that often appears in photographs of the Rockies. The 45-minute visit allows for sightseeing and, for the more adventurous, canoeing toward Victoria Glacier. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding peaks make it a visual highlight, especially for those craving a peaceful moment amid the mountains.

Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks

The tour concludes with a visit to Moraine Lake, where a short walk takes visitors to the rockpile lookout for the famous ‘twenty-dollar view’. Spending about 1 hour here provides time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the serenity of this iconic spot, often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Rockies.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour starts at 8:00 am from 607 Connaught Dr, Jasper. It ends at Banff, specifically at the Banff Aspen Lodge / Irwins Mountain Inn. The group size is limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. The group discounts and mobile tickets add convenience, making check-in smooth and straightforward.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Most activities on the tour are free of charge, aside from optional glacier activities. The stops involve moderate walking, and some sites like Maligne Canyon and Peyto Lake require comfortable footwear. The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling policy if poor weather causes cancellations. Travelers should prepare for varying mountain weather conditions and dress appropriately.

Final Thoughts on the Jasper to Banff Tour

This guided two-day adventure provides an efficient way to experience the best of the Canadian Rockies in a short period. It combines spectacular sightseeing, easy walks, and the chance to see famous lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain vistas. The optional glacier activities add an extra layer of excitement, though they come at an additional cost. The high rating of 5.0 based on one review underscores the tour’s potential to impress those seeking a well-organized, scenic journey through Jasper and Banff.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their Rockies experience without extensive planning, especially those who enjoy guided tours with a focus on nature’s grandeur. The combination of comfort, convenience, and jaw-dropping views makes it a compelling option for visitors eager to explore the highlights of Canada’s mountain landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $1,276.84 per person.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Maligne Canyon, Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, Sulphur Mountain, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake.

Are meals included?
Lunch is provided at Sunwapta Falls. Other meals are not included.

Can I participate in glacier tours?
Yes, you can choose between the Ice Explorer tour or Skywalk at the Columbia Icefield. Both are not included in the base price.

What is the starting point and time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am from 607 Connaught Dr, Jasper.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve moderate walking. It’s best suited for guests comfortable with walking short distances.

What is the weather cancellation policy?
The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers.

Is there a discount available?
Group discounts are offered, making it a good option for larger parties.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by Key West Travel & Tours.