Banff: Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Johnston Canyon Tour

Exploring the natural beauty of Canada has never been easier with the Banff: Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Johnston Canyon Tour. Priced at $69 per person and lasting 11 hours, this guided day trip offers a comprehensive look at some of Banff National Park’s most iconic sights. The tour departs from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore, making it a flexible option for travelers staying in these popular locations.

This tour delivers a well-rounded experience, combining scenic drives, breathtaking lakes, and a lively walk through Banff Town. A highlight is the inclusion of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, both famous for their stunning alpine scenery and vibrant waters. Visitors also get to explore Johnston Canyon with its impressive waterfalls and even enjoy winter ice walks with free crampon rentals. While the price is attractive, it’s important to note that meals are not included, so bringing snacks or lunch is recommended.

If you’re eager to see multiple lakes, enjoy a mix of nature and town, and prefer a guided experience that covers logistics, this tour is a solid choice. The positive reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, spectacular scenery, and great value—making it an appealing option for those wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $69 per person covers a full day of sightseeing.
• Guided tour includes pickup and drop-off from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, with roundtrip transportation.
• Visit major attractions: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, and Johnston Canyon.
• Includes a National Park Pass and a local guide to enhance the experience.
• Winter and summer variations: Moraine Lake is visited from June 1 to October 14; in cooler months, Lake Minnewanka and other lakes are explored instead.
• Hiking options at Johnston Canyon include ice walks with free crampons.
• No meals included, so plan accordingly for breaks.
• Reviews highlight the friendly guides, beautiful lakes, and good value for the price.

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Discover Banff National Park’s Best Lakes and Canyons

This tour centers on Banff National Park, a place renowned for its mountain scenery and pristine lakes. You begin with a scenic drive from your pick-up point, heading toward Lake Louise, where glacier-fed waters reflect rugged peaks. The photo opportunities here are plentiful, with the lake’s quiet beauty perfect for capturing memories.

Next, the tour continues to Moraine Lake, famous for its turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. From June 1 to October 14, Moraine Lake is the main destination, offering ample time for photos and short walks. During the cooler months, from October 15 to May 31, the focus shifts to lakes like Lake Minnewanka, Johnson Lake, and Two Jack Lake, which are equally scenic.

The visit to Johnston Canyon provides an adventurous element, with picturesque waterfalls and trail hikes. In winter, ice walks with free crampon rentals make this stop especially memorable, giving an up-close view of frozen cascades and rugged canyon walls.

How the Transportation and Pickups Are Organized

The tour starts early, with pickups available at several key locations: Delta Hotel Calgary Downtown at 8:00 AM, Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa at 9:50 AM, and the Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre at 9:30 AM. Travelers can select roundtrip transportation in a van or private car, depending on their preference.

Once onboard, the transportation is comfortable, and the group size tends to be manageable, ensuring personalized attention from the local guide. This setup removes the stress of driving and parking, allowing guests to fully relax and enjoy the stunning views.

Exploring Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Detail

Lake Louise is renowned for its crystal-clear waters fed by glaciers, surrounded by towering peaks and a historic chateau. The scenic photos at the lakeshore are a highlight, and the brief stop provides enough time for a few photos and some gentle exploration.

Moraine Lake offers a different but equally striking experience, with mountain peaks like the Ten Peaks rising sharply behind the lake. Visitors often spend time walking along the shoreline or capturing the famous photos of the valley of the ten peaks. It’s a perfect spot for a quick hike or simply soaking in the scenery.

In the off-season, the focus shifts to Lake Minnewanka, Johnson Lake, and Two Jack Lake, which deliver equally impressive mountain views and are less crowded during cooler months.

Johnston Canyon: Waterfalls and Ice Walks

Johnston Canyon is a highlight that offers more than just views. The trail features dramatic waterfalls and narrow canyon walls, making it a popular walking destination. The icewalks available from October 15 to May 31 are especially praised, with free crampon rentals included.

The hiking trail varies in length and difficulty, but the main attraction is the spectacular waterfalls and frozen cascades during winter. The guided ice walks provide a unique perspective on the canyon’s natural formations, adding an adventurous element to the tour.

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The Town of Banff and Scenic Passes

A visit to Banff Town during this tour allows travelers to explore its historic streets and local culture. The tour passes by Vermilion Lakes, providing a scenic view of the surrounding mountains and allowing for quick photo stops.

The National Park Pass included in the trip grants access to all the parks and lakes visited, ensuring a smooth experience without additional fees. The local guide offers insights into the area’s history and natural features, enhancing the overall visit.

Timing, Pacing, and Physical Considerations

This tour lasts 11 hours, with a typical start around 8:00 AM and return in the evening. The pacing is designed to balance sightseeing, walking, and photo stops, with enough time at each major location.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, especially if visiting during cooler months or for early mornings. The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old, and individuals should be prepared for moderate walking.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, allowing for planning without immediate payment. Pickup is included from key locations, easing transportation concerns.

The tour does not include meals, so planning for food or snacks is advised. It’s a full-day adventure designed for those who want to maximize their time in Banff without the hassle of self-driving or navigating.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The positive reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, with mentions of guides like Gurry, Harry, Ross, Sharan, and Guru. Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary, stunning scenery, and great value for money.

Most reviews emphasize that the guides take extra care, including taking photos and sharing local stories. The scenery at lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is described as breathtaking, and the ice walks at Johnston Canyon are a unique experience that adds to the tour’s appeal.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits first-time visitors to Banff who want a rundown of the park’s highlights in a single day. It is ideal for travelers who prefer guided logistics and want to avoid the complexities of self-driving. The tour is especially recommended for those interested in photography, nature walks, and mountain scenery.

Given the duration and activities included, it’s best for active travelers prepared for moderate walking and outdoor conditions. It offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, walking, and cultural exploration—perfect for those looking to make the most of their time in the Canadian Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, roundtrip transportation in either a van or private car is included, along with pickup and drop-off at designated locations.

What lakes are visited during the tour?
In summer, the tour visits Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake. In winter, Lake Minnewanka, Johnson Lake, and Two Jack Lake are featured instead.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour includes a stop at Banff Downtown for lunch and snacks.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes and a jacket. Additional items like water, snacks, or camera gear are also useful.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, and reserve now, pay later options are available for flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It is not recommended for individuals over 95 years old due to the physical activities involved.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts 11 hours, making it a full-day outing packed with sightseeing.

Are guides knowledgeable about the area?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the local guides for their friendliness and expertise, ensuring visitors learn about the sights beyond just viewing them.

This full-day guided tour offers a practical way to see some of Banff’s most famous lakes and canyons, combining natural beauty with expert guidance. It provides excellent value, memorable scenery, and a chance to explore the Canadian Rockies comfortably and confidently.

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