Banff/Canmore Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Hike, Canoe or Sightsee

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience for $132.69 per person, lasting approximately 9 to 10 hours
• Two flexible options: spend more time at Moraine Lake or Lake Louise, or split your day evenly
• Convenient pick-up locations in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff, with comfortable transport in a 14-passenger van
• Access fees included for Moraine Lake, with optional canoe rentals at extra cost
• Travel through wildlife corridors where sightings of bears, elk, wolves, and other animals are possible
• Expert local guides provide insightful commentary and helpful tips throughout the day

Exploring Banff’s Iconic Lakes with Flexible Timing

This guided tour offers a practical way to experience Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in a single day, combining scenic exploration with personalized timing. Priced at $132.69 per person, it lasts about 9 to 10 hours, making it ideal for visitors who want to see both lakes without the hassle of parking or long shuttle lines. The tour includes expedited access to the lakes, so no waiting in crowded lines or fighting for parking spots.

Travelers have two main itinerary options: spend 1.5 hours at Moraine Lake and 3.5 hours at Lake Louise, or 3 hours at Moraine Lake and 2 hours at Lake Louise. This flexibility means you can prioritize your preferred spots, hike the surrounding trails, rent a canoe, or simply soak in the scenery at your own pace.

Comfortable Transportation in a Small Group Setting

The tour departs from Canmore, Harvie Heights, or Banff at 8:00 AM, with pick-up windows tailored to each location. The journey is in a 14-passenger van equipped with panoramic windows, high roof, and air-conditioning, ensuring a comfortable ride. The small group size fosters direct interaction with the knowledgeable local guides, who share stories, tips, and wildlife insights along the way.

Traveling through a wildlife corridor, the route offers chances to spot animals like bears, wolves, elk, and deer. The guides emphasize safety and observation, making this a more engaging experience than typical bus tours with large crowds.

Highlights of Moraine Lake and Its Pristine Beauty

Moraine Lake is often regarded as the most photographed lake in the Canadian Rockies, thanks to its striking turquoise waters and rugged valley backdrop. The tour includes admission fee for access, and visitors have about 1.5 to 3 hours to enjoy activities such as hiking, photography, or relaxing by the shore.

The guide provides helpful suggestions for hikes, including the possibility of reaching the Big Beehive, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. The tour also offers an optional canoe rental at Moraine Lake, with cost approximately $160 per hour per canoe, accommodating up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children.

Discovering Lake Louise’s Vastness and Activities

Lake Louise presents a different kind of scenic grandeur. With 3.5 hours for some groups or 2 hours for others, visitors can explore the lakeside, hike around the area, or rent a canoe. The lake’s expansive waters are perfect for paddling, and canoes can typically hold up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children.

One notable activity is visiting the Lake Agnes Tea House, accessible via a trail from Lake Louise, offering a cozy spot to enjoy tea and biscuits. Many groups find that having extra time at Lake Louise allows for a more leisurely experience, including a walk along the lake’s shoreline or additional hikes.

Wildlife Spotting and Scenic Travel

An important feature of this tour is the wildlife corridor traveled en route between the lakes. The area is home to animals such as bears, wolves, cougars, elk, and deer, making wildlife sightings a real possibility. The guides keep a watchful eye and offer tips for capturing photos of any animals seen, adding a layer of excitement to the day.

The route offers breathtaking views of Vermilion Lakes and Mt Rundle, providing a scenic backdrop that enhances the overall experience. The itinerary emphasizes a balance of sightseeing, wildlife observation, and relaxed exploration.

Expert Guides and Local Knowledge

The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and personable approach, often providing stories and helpful tips about the parks, hiking options, and wildlife. Guides like Corey, Yannick, Radek, and Lenka consistently receive high praise for their friendly demeanor and depth of local expertise.

Their tips help visitors make the most of their time at each location, whether by recommending hikes, best photo spots, or explaining the natural features of the lakes. Umbrellas are provided in case of rain, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.

Ease of Access and Logistics

The tour’s pick-up points are conveniently located near most accommodations, with options in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff. All pick-ups occur between 8:00 and 8:45 AM, so travelers should be ready a few minutes earlier. The white Ford Transit van with the Canmore Travel logo easily identifies the departure vehicle.

The Moraine Lake access fee is included in the price, but canoe rentals are extra and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The docks are managed by the hotels, and rental costs are approximately $160 per hour per canoe.

Timing and Flexibility for a Personalized Experience

The tour’s flexible timing options allow for customized experiences—whether you want to spend more time hiking or relaxing at one lake, or prefer a quick visit to maximize your day. The small group size ensures you’re not rushed, and guides can adjust the itinerary to suit your interests.

The starting time at 8:00 AM allows for early access to avoid crowds, especially at Moraine Lake, which is renowned for its popularity. This timing, combined with expedited entry, makes it easier to enjoy the lakes without long lines or parking frustrations.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants are encouraged to bring snacks and water, as the day involves substantial walking and exploration. The tour is accessible for most travelers, but those with heavy strollers or inflatable stand-up paddleboards should contact the provider in advance to confirm space availability.

The tour requires an electronic waiver, which must be signed at least 24 hours prior. Cancellation policies are flexible, offering full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour

This tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive, stress-free day visiting Banff’s most famous lakes with flexible timing and small group intimacy. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in photography particularly appreciate the expert guides and scenic route. It’s perfect for anyone seeking expedited access without the hassle of parking or large tour groups.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Scenic Banff Experience

The Banff/Canmore Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Hike, Canoe or Sightsee tour provides an efficient way to see two of Canada’s most iconic lakes in a single day. Its flexible itinerary, comfortable transportation, and expert local guides stand out as key advantages. The inclusion of Moraine Lake access fee and option to rent canoes add value, although canoe rentals are extra.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowds, enjoy personalized attention, and explore at their own pace. The combination of scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and professional guidance makes it a solid choice for a memorable day in the Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with options to adjust time at each lake and the flexibility to hike or relax.

What should I bring for the day?
Bringing snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Umbrellas are provided in case of rain, and sturdy shoes are advised for hikes.

Can I rent a canoe at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake?
Canoe rentals are available at both lakes, operated on a first-come, first-served basis, costing approximately $160 per hour per canoe.

What is included in the tour price?
The admission fee for Moraine Lake is included, along with transportation, local guides, and pick-up/drop-off services. Canoe rentals are not included.

How early should I be ready for pick-up?
Passengers should be prepared 10 minutes before their scheduled pick-up window, which starts at 8:00 AM in Canmore and Harvie Heights, or 8:30-8:45 AM in Banff.

Can I customize the amount of time spent at each lake?
Yes, the tour offers two main timing options, allowing you to prioritize either Moraine Lake or Lake Louise, or split your time evenly.

What if I want to explore more beyond the lakes?
You can hike to additional spots like the Lake Agnes Tea House or Big Beehive if you have extra time, but this would depend on the timing and your personal pace.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized attention from guides.