Up to 14 guests Private Tour: Lake Louis Moraine and Icefield

Discover the Beauty of the Rocky Mountains on a Private Day Trip from Calgary

This private tour offers an opportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking sights in the Rockies, all in one day. Priced at $1,027.55 per group (up to 14 guests), it provides a luxurious and flexible way to explore three stunning lakes—Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake—alongside two national parks and the Columbia Icefield. The 11-hour journey covers around 600 km, making it a comprehensive sightseeing experience with pick-up and drop-off included at designated locations in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff. A small group, in a VIP 14-seater air-conditioned vehicle, ensures personalized attention and ample freedom to explore each stop at your own pace.

This tour is ideal for those seeking convenience, exclusivity, and stunning scenery, especially if they appreciate flexible exploration within a luxury vehicle. However, it requires a full day’s commitment and some walking at certain stops, but the carefully curated itinerary guarantees some of the most spectacular views in the Canadian Rockies.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 14 guests with pickup in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff
• 11-hour experience covering approximately 600 km of scenic routes
• Visits to six lakes and two national parks, including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake
• Optional Columbia Icefield excursion with glacier walk (additional cost)
• Flexible exploration in a small, air-conditioned VIP vehicle
• All national park entrance fees included, but meals and personal expenses are extra

The Flexibility of a Private Small Group Experience

This tour stands out by offering the comfort and exclusivity of a private vehicle designed for up to 14 guests. The air-conditioned 14-seater keeps the journey pleasant, even on warmer days, and the private nature means you avoid crowded group tours. The pickup service from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff makes logistics straightforward, allowing travelers to start the day smoothly at 8:00 AM.

The small group size encourages a more personalized experience, with the professional guide leading the way. The guide provides insights during the stops and ensures everyone can explore at their own pace, making this tour suitable for families, couples, or small groups of friends seeking an intimate adventure.

Exploring the Lakes: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake

The highlight stops include three of the most iconic lakes in the Rockies, with ample time to enjoy each. Lake Louise is renowned as the “Jewel of the Rockies,” known for its crystal-clear waters and majestic mountain backdrop. The landscape here is especially mesmerizing due to the glacial rock flour suspended in the water, creating its famous turquoise hue.

Moraine Lake is a globally recognized photo spot, famous for its gemstone-blue color. It was featured on Canadian currency and remains a favorite for its stunning mountain reflections and moraine ridges. Visitors spend about one hour here, enough time for photos and a short walk.

Emerald Lake adds to the visual treat with its deep green tones and tranquil setting. While not included in the admission tickets since the focus is on Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake provides a quieter alternative for nature lovers and is part of the itinerary.

The Unique Charm of Castle Mountain and Bow Lake

Between the lakes, the tour includes Castle Mountain, known for its castle-like shape and towering height. The steep contours make it an impressive sight, and the 10-minute stop allows for quick photos of this striking peak.

Bow Lake, sourced from the Bow Glacier, offers stunning views of surrounding mountains and glacier formations. It’s less crowded but equally beautiful, with a 30-minute stop that lets visitors soak in its serene atmosphere and take photos of the pristine waters.

Peyto Lake: The Iconic Maple-Leaf Shape

Next, the tour visits Peyto Lake, famous for its sapphire-blue waters and maple-leaf-shaped outline. This 15-minute stop rewards travelers with a breathtaking panoramic view over the lake, framed by mountain peaks and lush forests. It’s an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos of the Rockies.

The Columbia Icefield Adventure and Optional Glacier Walk

The Columbia Icefield is a major highlight, where visitors can take a ride on the Ice Explorer (snow coach) to reach the Athabasca Glacier (additional cost). The 3-hour stop at the Icefield includes walking on the glacier, offering a close-up experience of one of the most impressive glaciers in North America.

While the Ice Explorer ride and glacier walk are not included in the tour price, the opportunity to stand on the glacier and see the immense ice formations is a defining part of this experience. The skywalk provides a unique vantage point for viewing the glacier and surrounding mountains.

Practicalities: Logistics and Comfort

The meeting point is at 305 Centre St S, Calgary, with the tour starting at 8:00 AM. The drop-off is back at the same location, ensuring convenience for travelers staying in Calgary.

The 11-hour itinerary covers approximately 600 km, making it a full-day commitment but one that is well-paced. The tour includes national park entrance fees, but meals and personal expenses are not covered, so travelers should bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, adding flexibility and peace of mind.

Unique Features of This Private Tour

What truly sets this experience apart is the combination of privacy, flexibility, and comprehensive sightseeing. The small group allows more personalized attention, and the professional guide ensures you gain insights into the scenery and history of each stop.

The tour’s focus on classic Rocky Mountain attractions, combined with the luxury of a private vehicle, makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to avoid crowds while still visiting the most famous sites. Plus, with national park fees included, the overall value is attractive for such a curated experience.

Suitable Audience and Considerations

This tour appeals most to those who value comfort and flexibility and are prepared for a full day of sightseeing. It’s ideal for families, small groups, or couples seeking a luxury private adventure with the convenience of hotel pickup.

Potential limitations include the cost per group, which may be significant for solo travelers, and the long hours of travel and walking at stops. Also, the additional cost for the glacier ride and other optional activities should be considered separately.

Columbia Icefield and Additional Activities

The Columbia Icefield excursion offers a chance to walk on a glacier, which many find highly memorable. While the Ice Explorer and glacier walk are not included in the price, they are optional extras that enhance the experience. The skywalk provides spectacular views of the icefield and the surrounding peaks.

Travelers interested in more adventure can opt for these upgrades, but should plan for the additional costs and time.

Final Thoughts on the Private Rockies Experience

This private tour from Calgary delivers a comprehensive scenic overview of the Rockies’ most famous lakes and landscapes in a single day. Its small group size and luxury vehicle ensure a comfortable, personalized experience, making it ideal for those seeking luxury and convenience.

While the price reflects the private nature and extensive itinerary, the inclusion of national park fees and the flexibility make it a strong value for travelers eager to see the Rockies without the hassle of organizing multiple stops independently.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and iconic scenery, and who are prepared for a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The professional guide service, national park entrance fees, and air-conditioned 14-seater vehicle are included.
Are meals provided?
No, meals and personal expenses are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the day.
Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking at stops, so it may not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility.
Is the Columbia Icefield trip optional?
Yes, the ride on the Ice Explorer and glacier walk are additional costs and not included in the basic tour.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 11 hours.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.