2-Day Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Columbia Icefield Rockies Tour

Planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies? If you’re looking for a straightforward way to see some of its most breathtaking sights without the hassle of planning every detail, a guided 2-day tour like this might be appealing. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on the info and reviews, here’s what you should know to decide if it’s right for you.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on highlighting iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, along with the impressive Columbia Icefield. Plus, the inclusion of a bilingual guide and the convenience of group discounts make it a potentially good value. On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned the price and booking issues, which are worth considering. This tour seems best suited for those wanting a comprehensive look at the Rockies with minimal planning, especially if you’re okay with a busy schedule and a group setting.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major sights in the Rockies over two days
• Guided tour with an experienced, bilingual guide enhances the learning experience
• Includes popular spots like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Columbia Icefield
• Group discounts and flexible mobile ticketing add convenience and affordability
• Price point is modest but consider what’s included and what’s not
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations and understanding the booking process

What to Expect from the Tour

This 2-day Rockies adventure is designed to take you through some of the most photogenic and awe-inspiring locations in Banff National Park and beyond. If you’re eager to tick off iconic sights with the guidance of knowledgeable locals, this could be a fit. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite packed, which means early mornings and a busy schedule are likely.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Calgary to the Icefields

The journey begins with a pickup from central Calgary, typically around 8:00 AM, so early risers should be prepared. The first stop is Bow Lake, often called the most visited lake on the Icefield Parkway. We love the idea that on calm mornings, you might see Crowfoot Mountain’s reflection shimmering on the lake’s mirror-like surface. It’s a peaceful spot that’s perfect for a quick photo or just soaking in the scenery.

Next up is the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre—the star of the day. This is a large ice sheet, and being in its presence is quite a humbling experience. It’s the largest ice mass south of the Arctic Circle in North America, with dozens of glaciers originating from here. The tour offers about 2.5 hours at this stop, giving you enough time to explore, learn about the glaciers, and maybe snap some epic shots. It’s also worth noting that an Ice Explorer is available for purchase, which adds an extra layer of adventure, but needs to be booked in advance.

The next stop is Peyto Lake, renowned for its changing colors—an absolute favorite for photographers. The vibrant, sometimes icy-blue waters seem to change hue as the seasons progress, giving every visit a fresh feel. We’re told the waves appear “frozen at the edge,” thanks to glacial minerals—a neat detail that helps explain the lake’s unique appearance.

The last stop of the day is Crowfoot Glacier. Named after its claw-like shape, this glacier has unfortunately shrunk due to climate change, with one of its “claws” melting away. Visitors get about 15 minutes here; it’s a quick but powerful reminder of environmental change.

Finally, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel—either the Banff Aspen Lodge or the Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel—with some optional drop-off options. Expect this day to be full but rewarding.

Day 2: From Banff back to Calgary with more highlights

The second day kicks off early again. The first stop is a hotel pickup, and then it’s off to more breathtaking spots. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise provides a famous photo opportunity—its stunning waters and mountain backdrop are instantly recognizable. You’ll have around 2 hours here, giving you time to walk around or just enjoy the view.

Next is the jewel of the trip: Moraine Lake. Surrounded by the Ten Peaks, its vivid turquoise waters are a must-see. Visitors often say the color changes throughout summer, depending on glacier melt, offering different photographic opportunities every time.

The tour then takes you into Yoho National Park, a name that means “awe and wonder” in Cree. A quick stop here gives a sense of the vastness and ruggedness of the Rockies. As an engineering highlight, the spiral tunnels of the train line are mentioned as a remarkable feat—these are some of the most bizarre railway structures you might see in a landscape setting.

Before wrapping up, you’ll visit Emerald Lake, famous for its striking greenish hue, and the Natural Bridge, carved by rushing water. These final stops provide a nice mix of natural beauty and geological wonder before heading back to Calgary.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Bilingual tour guide
• All applicable taxes and insurance
• Entrance fees to major sites like the Icefield Discovery Centre and Moraine Lake

Not Included:

• Personal expenses or meals
• The optional Ice Explorer (it’s a paid upgrade)
• Accommodation costs or checked luggage
• Calgary Airport drop-off (an extra fee, if needed)
• Service charges for guides and drivers (recommended CAD$15/day per guest)

Worth noting: The tour is priced at about $80.72 per person, which feels reasonable considering it covers major sights and includes a guide. But always factor in extras like the Ice Explorer or meals.

How the Experience Feels

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides play a big role in the experience. Travelers seem to appreciate knowledgeable guides who can share interesting tidbits about the scenery and history—something we value highly. However, some have mentioned issues with booking and additional charges, so clear communication before booking is key.

The scenery itself is undeniably stunning. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to photograph iconic views like Moraine Lake’s vivid blue waters and Peyto Lake’s spectacular shape. But be prepared for a busy schedule with little downtime. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced trip, this might feel rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to the Rockies who want a guided overview of key sights without the hassle of planning. If you’re a photo enthusiast, the stops at Peyto Lake and Moraine Lake alone are worth it. It’s also suitable for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the move and group settings.

However, if you prefer a more personalized or luxurious experience, or want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, you might find this tour a bit too structured or busy.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Rockies tour offers a solid overview of some of the most breathtaking sights in Banff National Park and the surrounding area. The inclusion of guides who can explain the scenery adds depth to your experience, and the stops at Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Columbia Icefield are hard to beat for their visual impact.

While the price is reasonable, be aware of extra costs like the Ice Explorer upgrade and potential booking hiccups, as some travelers experienced. The schedule is packed, so if you’re someone who values a relaxed pace, consider whether this fits your style.

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see the highlights with minimal planning, especially if you value guidance and group discounts. Just keep in mind it’s a busy, sometimes rushed experience—perfect for those who want a quick but memorable taste of the Rockies.

FAQs

• What is the price of this tour? It costs approximately $80.72 per person, which covers transportation, guides, and entry to key sites. Remember, extras like the Ice Explorer are optional and cost extra.
• How long is the tour? It’s a 2-day adventure, with each day lasting roughly a full day of sightseeing and travel.
• Are meals included? No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan for meals during stops.
• Is hotel pickup and drop-off available? Yes, pickups are from designated hotels, with options at Banff Aspen Lodge and Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel. Drop-off for the first day is at your hotel; on the second day, there are optional drop-off points.
• Can I buy the Ice Explorer? Yes, it’s available for purchase, but you need to book in advance.
• What are the main highlights of the tour? Expect visits to Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake.
• Is this tour suitable for children? The information doesn’t specify, but generally, it’s a full-day tour with many scenic stops, so consider your children’s stamina and interest level.
• What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, camera, sun protection, and perhaps water or snacks for breaks.
• How many people are on the tour? Up to 50 travelers, so it’s a group experience.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded look at the Canadian Rockies’ highlights, especially if you’re new to the area. It combines stunning views with the convenience of guided travel, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with busy schedules and group tours.